Edgefolding Device with Pivoting and Linear Drive
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing folding devices for decorative layers on workpieces require significant space and operational costs due to multiple actuating cylinders, and are inflexible for minor shape changes, often resulting in creases and detachment issues.
Innovation Solution
A compact folding device with a pivoting and linear drive system that initially pivots the folding stamp into an intermediate position to fold the decorative layer over the edge, followed by a linear movement to press it onto the workpiece, using integrated actuating cylinders and pivot drives, allowing for precise and crease-free folding.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple actuating cylinders are used to control the folding stamp, then the folding function is achieved, but the space requirement and operating costs increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple actuating cylinders into a single integrated actuating cylinder that performs both the pivoting motion and the linear pressing motion. This merging of functions reduces the number of separate components and minimizes the space required for the folding mechanism while maintaining the complete folding functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The single actuating cylinder is designed to perform multiple functions: it first pivots the folding stamp into the intermediate position, then presses it linearly onto the workpiece. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate actuators for each motion phase, reducing both space and cost.
2Reliability
If mechanical link control is used to translate linear movement into bending movement, then the folding action is achieved, but any shape changes require expensive rework or replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic control system where the pivoting and linear movements are coordinated through a programmable sequence rather than fixed mechanical linkages. This allows the folding stamp to adapt to different workpiece shapes through software control, eliminating the need for expensive mechanical rework when design changes occur.
3Device complexity
If the folding stamp is moved directly into the folding position, then the process is simplified, but the decorative layer develops creases and detachment issues
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediate position as a preliminary step before the final folding action. The folding stamp first pivots to this intermediate position to begin the fold, then proceeds with the linear pressing motion. This two-stage approach prevents creases and detachment by gradually forming the fold rather than applying force directly, thereby improving manufacturing precision without significantly increasing complexity.
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 solution enables reliable, compact, and cost-effective folding with precise control over complex contours, reducing creases and detachment, and facilitates easy adaptation to different decorative layers and workpiece shapes.
Implementation Method 1
the folding stamp is initially pivoted in an arcuate pivoting movement from the retracted position into an intermediate position. During this pivoting movement, the protruding decorative layer is folded over the edge of the workpiece.
Implementation Method 2
In a subsequent linear movement, the folding stamp is moved into the folding position. The folding stamp at least partially sweeps over the protruding decorative layer and thus presses it onto the edge of the workpiece.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a device and a method for folding over a protruding flexible decorative layer on a workpiece, wherein the workpiece is received and held in a holder, and for folding over the protruding decorative layer, at least one folding die is moved between a retraction position spaced apart from the workpiece and a folding position in which the protruding decorative layer is pressed against an edge of the workpiece. According to the invention, the folding die is pivoted from the retraction position to an intermediate position by means of a pivoting drive device, whereby the protruding decorative layer is folded over the edge of the workpiece. The folding die is then moved from the intermediate position to the folding position relative to the workpiece by means of a linear drive device, whereby the protruding decorative layer is pressed against the edge of the workpiece.