Dual-Drive Actuator for High-Thrust and Rapid Ejection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing actuator devices for linear movement are inadequate for supporting objects against external forces and controlling their displacement during the forming process, as they either lack the necessary support or braking capabilities.
Innovation Solution
An actuator device comprising a first drive unit with a hydraulic piston and a second drive unit with a pneumatic piston, coupled through an impact element, allowing for position- and force-controlled movement of an actuator output element along a movement axis, enabling both high thrust forces and rapid movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single drive unit is used to eject shaped parts, then the device structure is simple, but it cannot provide both large release force and high-speed ejection movement
Solution Approach 1:
The ejecting device is divided into two separate drive units: a first drive unit (hydraulic cylinder with piston) that applies large release force, and a second drive unit (electric motor with rack and pinion) that provides high-speed ejection movement. This segmentation allows each unit to be optimized for its specific function, resolving the contradiction between structural simplicity and ejection performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The two drive units are coupled together to work in sequence on the same ejector pin. The first drive unit operates during the forming operation to apply release force, while the second drive unit operates during ejection to provide high-speed movement. This merging of two specialized systems achieves both large force and high speed capabilities that a single drive unit cannot provide.
2Force
If a hydraulic cylinder with narrow stroke is used for release force, then large force is achieved, but the stroke length is insufficient for complete ejection
Solution Approach 1:
The ejection process is segmented into two phases: the first drive unit (hydraulic cylinder) provides large force over a short stroke during the forming operation, and the second drive unit (electric motor system) provides continued movement over a longer stroke during the ejection phase. This segmentation allows the hydraulic system to be optimized for force while the electric system provides the necessary travel distance.
3Speed
If the actuator device is used only for ejection, then high-speed ejection is achieved, but it cannot support or brake objects during the forming process
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator device is designed with multi-functionality: the first drive unit can apply supporting force during the forming operation to prevent premature ejection, the same drive unit can apply braking force to control the speed of inserted workpieces, and both drive units together perform the high-speed ejection function. This universality allows a single device to perform multiple functions that previously required separate systems.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The device effectively supports and brakes objects during the forming process, ensuring controlled movement and high-speed ejection of shaped materials from forming dies, optimizing machine cycle rates and reducing mechanical wear.
Implementation Method 1
first hydraulic means for displacing the first piston (12) in the first piston chamber (11)
Implementation Method 2
second hydraulic or pneumatic means for displacing the second piston (22) in the second piston chamber (21)
Data Source
AI summary
An actuator device includes two drive units for an actuator output element. The first drive unit has a first piston chamber and a first piston displaceable therein and also first hydraulic means for displacing the piston. The second drive unit has a second piston chamber and a second piston displaceable therein and also second hydraulic or pneumatic means for displacing the piston. The second piston is joined to the actuator output element for conjoint movement therewith and can be coupled to the first piston for thrust, so that the second piston is displaceable in an outward direction by the first piston. The first drive unit is configured for a larger thrust force than the second drive unit, while the second drive unit is designed for a greater stroke speed than the first drive unit.