Continuous Furniture Panel Processing Apparatus with Mechanical Clamping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing machinery for processing furniture panels is limited by requiring dead times for loading and unloading, inability to machine all six faces simultaneously, and reliance on electric or pneumatic clamping systems, which hinders continuous operation and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A modular apparatus with a continuously operating transport system using linear motors and inclined rollers allows panels to be processed in a 'throughgoing' manner, enabling continuous operation without loading/unloading dead times, and mechanical clamping without electric or pneumatic actuators, while enabling simultaneous machining of multiple panels on all six faces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional dedicated machines with horizontal loading planes are used, then machining operations can be performed, but dead times for loading and unloading panels occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a continuous conveyor system where panels are transported through the machining apparatus without stopping. The conveyor maintains constant motion, allowing multiple panels to be processed in sequence without loading/unloading interruptions. This eliminates dead time by ensuring the useful action (machining) continues uninterrupted as panels move continuously through the apparatus.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic positioning of machining heads that can move independently along the conveyor path. The machining heads are positioned to match the speed and position of moving panels, allowing machining operations to be performed on panels while they are in motion on the conveyor, thereby eliminating the need to stop the conveyor for loading and unloading.
2Productivity
If traditional machining apparatus is used, then panels can be processed, but the apparatus size becomes large
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple machining operations (drilling, milling, routing) and multiple panel processing capabilities into a single integrated conveyor-based apparatus. Instead of using separate dedicated machines for each operation, all machining functions are merged into one continuous processing line, reducing the overall apparatus volume while maintaining simultaneous processing capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from horizontal loading plane architecture to a vertical/conveyor-based architecture. Panels are transported horizontally on the conveyor while machining heads approach from above or below, utilizing the vertical dimension for tool access. This dimensional change allows compact arrangement of machining stations along the conveyor path, reducing the apparatus footprint.
3Reliability
If electric or pneumatic clamping actuators are used, then panels can be clamped securely, but system complexity and reliability decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces electric or pneumatic clamping actuators with a purely mechanical clamping system. The mechanical clamps are actuated by the motion of the conveyor itself or by simple mechanical linkages, eliminating the need for complex electrical motors, pneumatic cylinders, cables, and control systems. This substitution improves reliability by removing failure-prone components while reducing system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical clamping system is designed to be self-actuating through the conveyor's own motion or gravity. As panels move along the conveyor, the mechanical clamps automatically engage and disengage without requiring external power sources or control systems. This self-service mechanism simplifies the clamping system while maintaining secure panel holding during machining operations.
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 apparatus achieves high machining efficiency by eliminating loading/unloading times, allowing simultaneous processing of multiple panels on all faces, and ensuring reliable, safe operation with reduced apparatus size, using mechanical clamping and a modular design adaptable to various furniture configurations.
Implementation Method 1
A modular apparatus with a continuously operating transport system using linear motors
Implementation Method 2
mechanical clamping without electric or pneumatic actuators
Data Source
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AI summary
An apparatus (1) for processing components (3) of furniture, furnishings and the like, said apparatus comprising an inclined roller assembly (2) bearing panels (3) to be processed, said panels (3) being movable independently from one another along said roller assembly (2), said apparatus (1) further comprising one or more movable structures (4), each supporting one or more processing heads (5), said apparatus processing each said panel in a throughgoing manner, that is each said panel enters and exits said apparatus always in the same processing direction, thereby operating in a continuous manner without dead times for loading and unloading each said panel; during the panel machining said structures (4) having a same motion as that of each said panel (3), thereby said panel may be processed or machined without being stopped.