Laser Work Cell with Mobile Cover for Alternating Machining Zones
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current machining centers with laser heads require complex and inflexible shielding systems to protect operators from laser beams, limiting their versatility and efficiency in industrial operations.
Innovation Solution
A work cell with a mobile top covering and internal divider that allows for easy conversion between two distinct working areas and a single area configuration, enabling safe operator access and efficient machining operations by alternating the laser head's operation between areas.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed structure with shielding panels is used to protect operators from laser beams, then operator safety is ensured, but the work cell lacks flexibility and versatility for different working area configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the top covering mobile instead of fixed. The covering can move between different positions to alternatively cover the first and second working areas, allowing the system to adapt its configuration dynamically based on operational needs while maintaining operator protection.
Solution Approach 2:
The work cell is divided into two distinct working areas separated by an internal divider. The top covering is also segmented into panels that can move independently. This segmentation allows flexible reconfiguration of the working spaces while maintaining shielding effectiveness in each area.
2Ease of operation
If a mobile top covering is used to enable alternating access to working areas, then operator safety and accessibility are improved, but the structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The top covering is designed as a mobile structure that can be positioned over either the first or second working area as needed. This dynamic positioning capability allows operators to safely access one working area while the laser head operates in the other area, improving operational flexibility and safety.
Solution Approach 2:
The mobile top covering serves multiple functions: it protects operators from laser radiation, defines working areas, and can be repositioned to alternatively cover different areas. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate structures for each function, thereby managing complexity while enhancing ease of operation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If two distinct working areas are defined with a mobile divider, then versatility and safety are improved, but the device complexity and installation difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The internal divider is designed to be mobile rather than fixed, allowing it to be repositioned to create two distinct working areas when needed. This mobility enables flexible configuration of the work cell for different operational requirements while simplifying installation compared to permanent fixed structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The work cell is segmented into two separable working areas using a mobile internal divider. This segmentation allows the areas to be independently configured and accessed, providing versatility for different machining operations while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure that is easier to install and modify.
4Stability of the object's composition
If shielding panels are fixed to the floor to create lateral covering, then structural stability is ensured, but the work cell lacks flexibility for reconfiguration
Solution Approach 1:
The shielding structure is segmented into fixed lateral panels providing stable perimeter protection and a mobile top covering that can be repositioned. This segmentation maintains structural stability where needed while introducing flexibility in the vertical dimension for reconfiguring working areas.
Solution Approach 2:
While the lateral shielding panels remain fixed to provide stable structural protection, the top covering is made mobile to allow dynamic reconfiguration of working areas. This combination of fixed and mobile elements maintains structural stability while enabling operational flexibility.
Data Source
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AI summary
Described herein is a work cell for machining operations carried out via a laser head, the work cell including: - at least one working area (20, 40) designed to 5 receive the pieces on which to carry out laser machining; and - a lateral covering (60) and a top covering configured for separating at least partially said working area from the outside.10 The work cell is characterized in that: - it comprises an internal divider (18) that defines, together with said lateral covering, a first working area (20) and a second working area (40) separated from one another by said divider; and15 - said top covering (22) is selectively mobile between a first position over said first working area (20) and a second position over said second working area (40).