Extrusion Tooling Unit Receiving Cage for Quick Component Exchange
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing extrusion machines require complex and time-consuming processes for tool component exchange and positioning, leading to inefficiencies and increased costs due to the need for precise alignment and additional fastening mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A tool unit with a receiving cage system that includes converging groove base surfaces and a support surface, allowing for the simple alignment and secure positioning of tool components without additional fasteners, enabling easy exchange and adjustment of tool parts during operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of repair
If the entire tool construct is removed for component exchange, then tool components can be replaced, but operational downtime increases and exchange complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tool construct is segmented into modular components (tool element, die, stripping element) that can be independently accessed and replaced. The receiving cage allows individual components to be removed and inserted separately without removing the entire tool assembly from the extrusion machine.
Solution Approach 2:
The receiving cage is pre-configured with receiving channels and groove base surfaces that guide and position tool components before they are fully installed. This preliminary positioning structure is prepared in advance to facilitate quick and accurate component exchange during operation.
2Manufacturing precision
If additional fastening mechanisms are used for tool components, then positioning precision improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The groove base surfaces are designed to automatically guide and position the stripping element through its own geometry (converging surfaces) rather than requiring external fastening mechanisms. The component self-aligns and secures itself through the predefined groove structure, eliminating the need for additional fasteners or complex positioning devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The groove base surfaces act as an intermediary structure between the stripping element and the receiving cage. These surfaces mediate the positioning function by providing a geometric interface that automatically aligns and secures the component without requiring direct fastening between the component and the cage structure.
3Manufacturing precision
If the stripping element is tightly fixed, then positioning accuracy improves, but ease of exchange deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The stripping element transitions between two states: during installation, it is loosely insertable through the receiving groove; during operation, it is tightly positioned by the converging groove base surfaces. This dynamic behavior allows the same structure to facilitate both easy exchange and precise positioning without contradiction.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a tooling unit (12) for an extrusion press (1) comprising a stripping element (51), a tooling element (49) with an expansion channel (50) for receiving the stripped extruded material (3), and a die (53). The tooling unit (12) includes a receiving cage (42) with a first and second receiving cage part (43, 44). In the first receiving cage part (43), the tooling element (49) is received in a receiving channel (48). In the second receiving cage part (44), a receiving space (52) facing the first receiving cage part (43) is formed, in which at least the die (53) is received and supported on a support surface (56). Both in the tool element (49) and in the first receiving cage part (43) a common receiving groove (62) with a first and second groove base surface (63, 64) is formed in which the stripping element (51) is loosely inserted and supported.The two groove base surfaces (63, 64) are designed to converge towards the second receiving cage part (44) arranged on the outlet side, with the scraper element (51) having first and second contact surfaces (65, 66) aligned in the opposite direction. The invention also relates to a method for changing a friction wheel (4).