Machine Tool Receiving Device for Workpiece Sorting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing machine tools for processing plate-like workpieces, such as metal sheets, face challenges in efficiently sorting and ejecting differently shaped workpiece parts, as they often require large external sorting devices and lack efficient mechanisms for separating and collecting sorted parts.
Innovation Solution
A machine tool with a receiving device that moves along a gap between two workpiece supporting surfaces, allowing for controlled movement and ejection of workpiece parts into collection containers, utilizing a pivotable flap and controllable ejection device to sort and position parts based on geometry, enabling automatic or manual removal and increased receiving capacity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If external sorting devices are used to sort differently shaped workpiece parts, then sorting capability is improved, but device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The receiving device is designed to perform multiple functions: it collects workpiece parts from the processing gap, stores them temporarily, and ejects them to collection containers. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate external sorting devices, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining sorting capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the receiving device with the pressing tool assembly, integrating the collection and ejection functions directly into the processing tool. This merging of functions reduces the number of separate components needed and simplifies the overall system architecture.
2Quantity of substance
If a receiving device is positioned in the gap to collect workpiece parts, then receiving capacity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The receiving device is nested within or integrated with the pressing tool assembly structure. The receiving device utilizes the existing gap space between workpiece supporting surfaces, effectively nesting the collection function within the processing tool's operational envelope without requiring additional external space.
3Productivity
If the receiving device is movable in the gap, then productivity is improved through efficient sorting, but device complexity and control requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The receiving device is designed with movable components, including a pivotable flap and controllable ejection mechanism, allowing it to adapt its position and orientation based on the type of workpiece parts being collected. This dynamic capability enables efficient sorting of differently shaped parts while maintaining integration with the pressing tool assembly.
4Measurement precision
If workpiece parts are ejected into different collection containers, then sorting precision is improved, but loss of time for ejection and collection increases
Solution Approach 1:
The receiving device temporarily stores workpiece parts in a controlled manner before ejection, organizing them by type during the collection phase. This preliminary sorting action allows for efficient batch ejection to appropriate collection containers, reducing the time required for individual part handling and improving overall sorting efficiency.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to machine tools and methods for processing plate-like workpieces. The machine tool comprises a first movement device for the movement of the workpiece in a first direction, two workpiece supporting surfaces spaced apart by a gap extending in a second direction and configured for supporting the workpiece, and a second movement device for the movement of a pressing tool in the second direction. The pressing tool comprises two tool components that are configured to move in a stroke direction relative to one another in order to process the workpiece in the gap by at least one of stamping and shaping. The machine tool also comprises at least one receiving device configured to move in the second direction one or more of in and along the gap for depositing at least one workpiece part formed when processing the workpiece by at least one of stamping and shaping.