Laser Tube Cutting With Integrated Threaded Insert Application
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing machines for laser cutting tubes and profiled sections require manual or offline insertion of threaded inserts, leading to prolonged production times.
Innovation Solution
An integrated automatic insert application system within the machine allows for the precise insertion of threaded inserts of various sizes directly into laser-cut tubes or profiled sections, eliminating the need for post-processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual or offline insertion of threaded inserts is used, then the machine structure remains simple, but production time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the laser cutting unit and the threaded insert insertion unit into a single integrated machine system. The control unit coordinates both operations automatically, allowing the machine to perform laser cutting and insert insertion without manual intervention or offline processing, thereby reducing production time while maintaining manageable complexity through unified control
Solution Approach 2:
The machine is designed with multi-functionality, capable of performing both laser cutting and threaded insert insertion operations. The control unit manages multiple functions automatically, enabling the same machine to complete multiple production steps that previously required separate operations or manual processes
2Productivity
If automatic insert application system is integrated, then productivity increases, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The automatic insert application system is merged with the laser cutting unit into a single integrated machine. The control unit coordinates both the laser cutting operation and the automatic insert insertion, allowing the machine to perform multiple operations automatically without requiring separate standalone equipment, thereby increasing productivity while keeping the overall system integrated and manageable
3Loss of time
If manual insertion by operator is used, then device complexity remains low, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The machine performs the threaded insert insertion operation automatically through an integrated insertion unit controlled by the control unit. The system serves itself by automatically positioning and inserting the inserts after laser cutting, eliminating the need for manual operator intervention and significantly reducing the time lost to manual 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
This solution significantly reduces production time by enabling the machine to produce finished workpieces ready for use, with integrated threaded inserts, thereby enhancing efficiency and productivity.
Implementation Method 1
a working head (12) adapted to carry out a laser cutting process on a tube (T)
Data Source
Figure 1~2
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AI summary
A method for operating a machine for laser cutting of tubes and profiled sections, wherein the machine comprises: a working head (12) having a focusing device (18) adapted to focus a laser beam on the surface of the tube or profiled section (T) to be worked, a carriage (28) on which the working head (12) is mounted, and an automatic insert application system (30) for placing a threaded insert (I) in a housing (H) formed in a wall (w) of the tube or profiled section (T) by means of the laser beam, the automatic insert application system being integrated into the machine and being configured to operate in a coordinated manner with the working head (12).