Linear Chain Drive for Compact Workpiece Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional workpiece table drive systems for machining units are bulky and create an interfering contour that impedes functional use, particularly when multiple pallets are used to serve a machining system.
Innovation Solution
The use of a linear chain as the drive chain for the load carrier, which can transmit both tensile and shear forces, minimizing the interfering contour by integrating the chain drive wheel with the load carrier and moving it to the target position, along with the load carrier, and optimizing the chain guidance to prevent buckling and wear.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If conventional endless drive chains with upper and lower strands are used, then the drive system can transmit tensile forces, but the interfering contour becomes bulky and impedes functional use
Solution Approach 1:
The conventional two-strand endless chain is segmented into a single-layer linear chain with individual chain links that can be arranged in a compact configuration, eliminating the need for upper and lower strands while maintaining force transmission capability
Solution Approach 2:
The chain structure transitions from a two-dimensional endless loop configuration to a one-dimensional linear arrangement that can be stored compactly on the load carrier, dramatically reducing the interfering contour in the operational area
2Device complexity
If stationary chain drive wheels are used on the drive shaft, then the drive system is simple, but the interfering contour is constantly present and impedes functional use
Solution Approach 1:
The chain drive wheel transitions from a stationary component to a dynamic component that moves together with the load carrier on its support rail, allowing the interfering contour to relocate rather than remain fixed in the operational area
Solution Approach 2:
The chain drive wheel is merged with the load carrier system by providing it with a support rail that runs parallel to the load carrier's movement, causing both components to move together and coordinate their positions
3Volume of moving object
If a linear chain is used as a single-layer conveyor, then the interfering contour is minimized, but the chain must transmit both tensile and shear forces
Solution Approach 1:
The chain link structure is modified by adding stiffening projections that change the mechanical parameters of the chain, enabling it to resist buckling under shear stress while maintaining the ability to transmit tensile forces
Solution Approach 2:
The chain link is designed as a composite structure combining flexible chain material with rigid projection elements, creating a hybrid component that can handle both tensile and shear forces simultaneously
4Area of stationary object
If the chain drive wheel moves with the load carrier, then the area free of the load carrier remains free from interfering contour, but the chain guidance must be optimized to prevent buckling and wear
Solution Approach 1:
A chain guide is introduced as an intermediary component between the linear chain and the chain drive wheel, providing proper alignment and guidance to prevent buckling and wear while the chain moves dynamically with the load carrier
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 reduces the interfering contour, allowing for higher positioning accuracy and efficient movement of workpieces and machining residues, enabling optimal processing results and increased operational speed with minimal wear and noise.
Implementation Method 1
rigid chains are able to transmit not only tensile forces but also shear forces
Implementation Method 2
A special structural design of the adjacent chain links of linear chains prevents them from buckling under shear stress. In detail, rigid chains are stiffened by projections which protrude from each chain link towards the adjacent chain link and which, when the shearing force is effective, are supported on a shoulder of the adjacent chain link
Implementation Method 3
a load carrier drive, by means of which the load carrier can be moved into a target position and which includes a drive motor and a chain drive wheel drive-connected thereto, which in turn is driven by the drive motor
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The invention relates to a mechanical assembly (3, 4) for moving work pieces and/or rests of work piece machining and comprises a load carrier (5) as well as a load carrier drive (7). Part of the load carrier drive (7) is the feed chain (21) which is impinged by a chain drive wheel (11) located in the load carrier (5). In consequence of said impingement, the chain drive wheel (11) takes along the load carrier (5) to the target position. In the process, the chain drive wheel (11) moves together with the load carrier (5) in relation to a chain abutment (46) which supports the feed chain (21). A mechanical assembly (1) for machining work pieces makes use of the above-mentioned mechanical assembly (3, 4).