Electromechanical Die Drive for Powder Press Synchronization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing powder presses lack precise control over the movement of the die, which affects the precision and efficiency of pellet production.

Innovation Solution

Combining a crank-driven upper punch with an electromechanically driven die using a torque motor and a coaxial threaded drive, synchronized by a control system that utilizes rotary encoders for precise positioning and a cooling mechanism to manage heat, along with a braking device to prevent unwanted rotations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If a hydraulic drive or traditional mechanical drive is used for the die, then the structure is simpler, but the control precision of die movement is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol precision of die movementVSAvoiddrive system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces traditional hydraulic or mechanical drive systems with an electromechanical drive system comprising a synchronous motor, belt drive, and lead screw mechanism. This substitution enables precise control of die movement through electrical control while maintaining mechanical advantage for force transmission, thereby resolving the contradiction between control precision and device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent incorporates position sensors and control circuits that provide feedback on die position and movement. The control system continuously monitors the actual position and compares it with the desired position, making real-time adjustments to motor control signals. This feedback mechanism ensures high control precision while managing the complexity through intelligent control algorithms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Manufacturing precision

If the die movement is not precisely synchronized with the upper punch, then the device complexity is reduced, but the pellet production precision deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepellet production precisionVSAvoidsynchronization system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses position sensors on both the die and upper punch, along with a control system that processes signals from both sensors to maintain precise synchronization. The control system calculates the required die position based on upper punch position and adjusts the die drive accordingly, ensuring coordinated movement for high-quality pellet production.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The control system serves multiple functions: it controls die movement, synchronizes with the upper punch, and adjusts parameters based on process requirements. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate synchronization devices, managing complexity while achieving precise pellet production.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Productivity

If high operating cycle frequencies are used, then the productivity increases, but the electric motor heating increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperating cycle frequencyVSAvoidelectric motor temperature
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSTemperature

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a duty cycle control strategy where the motor operates at high power during the pressing phase and then rests during the ejection and reloading phase. This continuous operation with periodic rest periods allows heat dissipation during low-demand intervals, enabling high productivity while managing thermal load on the electric motor.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

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

Enables precise synchronization of die movement with the upper punch, enhancing pellet production precision and efficiency by maintaining consistent torque and controlling thermal stress.

Implementation Method 1

an electromechanical drive, in particular with at least one torque motor (19), which generates a constant torque over almost the entire speed range

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic interaction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

the rotor of the electric motor is in direct drive connection with the threaded drive, in particular the threaded rod (20) of the threaded drive

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectThreaded drive mechanism: Screw

Implementation Method 3

cooling, in particular water cooling, is provided for the die drive, which prevents heating of the electric motor, especially at high operating cycle frequencies

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectWater cooling: Heat Exchanger

Implementation Method 4

a rotary encoder also detects the rotational speed of the electric motor

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectRotary encoder detection:

Implementation Method 5

possibly via a slip clutch that rotates under high load

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction slip: Friction

Data Source

PatentEP2844456B1Powder press
Publication Date: 2022.09.28 KOMAGE GELLNER MASCHFAB
  • EP2844456B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2844456B1 patent drawingFigure 2(a)~2(c)

AI summary

The invention relates to a press for producing pressed articles (28) from powder material (27) which is pressed by punches (12, 15) which act counter to one another in a die (17), having a receptacle (9) for a lower punch (15) which is stationary and is supported by a support frame (2), having a receptacle (11) for an upper punch (12), which receptacle (11) can be moved by crank-driven pull rods (7), and having a drive device for the die (17). According to the invention, the drive device for the die comprises at least one electromechanical drive (19-21).