Gripper Bar Positioning Device for Die-Cutting Machine Chain Stretch

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing gripper bar positioning devices in die-cutting machines suffer from accuracy issues due to chain deformation over time, requiring frequent adjustments and shutdowns, which reduces efficiency and increases labor costs, especially in multi-unit workstations where precise positioning is tedious and inaccurate.

Innovation Solution

The die-cutting machine incorporates a gripper bar positioning device with a front positioning module, rear positioning module, and stripping unit positioning module, each featuring a positioning swing rod with a reference plane that cooperates with the gripper bar's positioning surface, utilizing driving cams, tension springs, and levers to maintain precise alignment and reduce the risk of paper scattering, even when the chain is stretched.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If the existing positioning device is used, then the structure is simple, but the positioning accuracy deteriorates due to chain deformation and cumulative error

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepositioning device structureVSAvoidpaper processing accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The positioning device is divided into multiple independent positioning units (first positioning unit, second positioning unit, third positioning unit) corresponding to different workstation stations. Each unit independently positions the gripper bar at its specific station, eliminating the cumulative error that occurs in long-chain systems while maintaining structural simplicity through modular design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Manufacturing precision

If frequent adjustment is performed to compensate for chain deformation, then the positioning accuracy is maintained, but the productivity decreases due to shutdowns and time consumption

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepositioning accuracyVSAvoiddevice efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The positioning units are pre-configured with adjustable positioning plates that can be set during installation or initial setup. This preliminary adjustment compensates for chain deformation without requiring frequent shutdowns during operation, as the mechanical adjustment mechanism allows for quick compensation when needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Manufacturing precision

If multiple workstation positioning devices are calibrated in turn, then each station achieves proper positioning, but the time consumption and labor costs increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveworkstation positioning accuracyVSAvoidcalibration time
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

Each positioning unit is equipped with an independent adjustable positioning plate that can be individually calibrated without affecting other stations. The modular design allows operators to adjust each station autonomously and simultaneously, eliminating the need for sequential calibration and reducing both time and labor requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentEP3482942B1Die-cutting machine comprising gripper bar positioning device
Publication Date: 2023.02.15 MASTERWORK GROUP CO LTD
  • EP3482942B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3482942B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3482942B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The invention discloses a gripper bar positioning device and a die-cutting machine including the same, wherein the gripper bar positioning device comprises a front positioning module, a rear positioning module and a stripping unit positioning module; and the front positioning module is disposed at the input end of the first set of die-cutting unit; and the rear positioning module is disposed at the output end of each die-cutting unit, and the front positioning module, the rear positioning module, the stripping unit positioning module each comprise a positioning swing rod, and the reference plane of the positioning swing rod of the front positioning module cooperates with the positioning surface disposed behind the gripper bar, and the reference axis of the positioning swing rod of the rear positioning module and the stripping unit cooperates with the positioning surface disposed behind the gripper bar. The tooth positioning device of the present invention can be positioned successfully without overcoming the stretch of the chain.