Glass Sheet Positioning with Laser Collimation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current glass sheet positioning methods for cutting machines are inefficient, particularly for diagonal cuts, due to bulky and complex handling units, high positioning errors, and safety risks when handling large or thick glass sheets, leading to increased operational time and risk of material damage.
Innovation Solution
A method that uses electronic position detection systems, suction cups, and manual handling assisted by electronic monitoring to precisely position glass sheets on a working plane, eliminating the need for manual marking and complex automated rotation systems, allowing for faster and safer processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a completely automated handling unit is used to perform diagonal cuts, then automation level increases, but the handling unit becomes overly bulky and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex automated mechanical handling units with a simplified system combining manual positioning with electronic detection and laser collimation. The electronic position detection system monitors glass sheet location, and the laser light fan provides visual alignment guidance, eliminating the need for bulky automated rotation mechanisms while achieving the same diagonal cutting capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary laser light fan system that bridges the gap between manual positioning and precise alignment. The laser provides real-time visual feedback to operators, enabling accurate diagonal cut positioning without requiring complex automated handling equipment
2Device complexity
If manual marking of endpoints is used, then device complexity is reduced, but positioning precision deteriorates due to high relative weight of positioning errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual marking with an electronic position detection system that uses sensors and laser collimation to identify and mark endpoints. This electronic approach eliminates human error in manual marking while keeping the overall system simple and easy to operate
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements real-time feedback through the electronic position detection system and laser light fan, which continuously monitor and guide the positioning process. This feedback mechanism ensures high precision in endpoint marking and cutting line alignment without requiring complex automated systems
3Measurement precision
If laser light fan collimation is used for alignment, then positioning precision improves, but the solution is only viable on open-structure machines with superstructures removed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adapts the laser collimation system to work with symmetrical machines by positioning the laser source asymmetrically relative to the cutting line. The laser is placed on one side and angled to project the cutting line across the glass sheet, allowing collimation to work effectively without requiring removal of superstructures
Solution Approach 2:
The patent positions the laser light fan at an angle rather than directly above the cutting line, using angular projection to achieve collimation. This dimensional adjustment allows the laser to penetrate or work around superstructures that would otherwise block direct overhead positioning
4Ease of operation
If transverses are sidelined for diagonal cut operations, then handling complexity during peak operations is reduced, but productivity decreases due to loss of time and increased risk of material damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables diagonal cutting to be performed immediately on glass sheets as they come off the main cutting line, without requiring them to be sidelined. The simplified handling system allows operators to quickly reposition and recut sheets in sequence, eliminating idle time and keeping the production flow continuous
Solution Approach 2:
The patent maintains continuous production flow by enabling diagonal cutting operations to occur immediately after initial cutting, without interruption or sidelining. The glass sheets move continuously through the process, and the simplified handling system ensures no time is lost in repositioning or waiting
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
This method achieves high precision and simplifies glass sheet handling, reducing operational time and minimizing the risk of damage, enabling immediate processing without the need for complex handling systems or additional personnel.
Implementation Method 1
a suction cup engagement member (12a) movable along said abutment plane (2)
Data Source
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AI summary
Described herein is a method for the positioning of a glass sheet on a working plane of a glass sheet working machine (1), the method including the steps of: - detection of the position of said glass sheet with respect to said working plane by means of a position detecting electronic system, - provision of a human-machine interface adapted to provide information relative to the position of the glass sheet, - manual displacement of said glass sheet by an operator along said working plane to bring it in a desired position, said manual displacement being assisted via a monitoring of the current position of the glass sheet by means of a position monitoring electronic system, and - signalling to the operator a condition of achievement of the desired position by means of said human-machine interface.