Machining Device Vertical Tool Access Compact Footprint
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing machines for machining plate-shaped workpieces require large spaces due to the need for extensive machining areas and conveyor interruptions, leading to inefficiencies and potential collisions during processing.
Innovation Solution
A device with a processing plane located above the transport plane, allowing for a compact design where the buffer and processing zones overlap, enabling efficient machining without collisions and allowing non-processed workpieces to pass through without delay.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If the machining area extends over the entire length of the workpiece to ensure complete processing, then the workpiece can be fully machined, but the machine requires twice the length of the workpiece for the machining area to allow the tool to move back and forth
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a two-dimensional planar machining arrangement to a three-dimensional configuration by positioning the tool above the workpiece in the vertical dimension. The tool moves in the vertical direction (z-axis) rather than requiring extensive horizontal travel, thereby reducing the machining area length while maintaining complete workpiece processing capability.
2Ease of operation
If the conveyor device is interrupted over a large area to accommodate tool movement, then the tool can access the workpiece for machining, but the holding device must transport each workpiece over the interruption, causing delays
Solution Approach 1:
The tool accesses the workpiece from the vertical dimension above the conveyor, eliminating the need for large horizontal interruptions in the conveyor path. The tool moves vertically to reach the workpiece surface, allowing the conveyor to remain continuous and eliminating transport delays associated with crossing interruptions.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the machining area is made large to process workpieces of various sizes, then any workpiece can be processed, but the machine occupies excessive space in the production line
Solution Approach 1:
The tool operates from the vertical dimension above the workpiece, allowing it to process workpieces of various sizes without requiring a large horizontal machining area. The vertical movement capability enables the tool to access different portions of workpieces of varying dimensions while maintaining a compact machine footprint suitable for production line integration.
4Productivity
If the holding device moves workpieces over the machining zone, then the workpiece can be processed, but the machine requires continuous monitoring and control to prevent collisions between workpieces
Solution Approach 1:
The tool operates from the vertical dimension, allowing multiple workpieces to be present on the conveyor at different positions without collision risk. The vertical separation eliminates horizontal interference, enabling continuous processing with multiple workpieces in the system while maintaining safety and reliability.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
AI summary
The device (10) has a transport device (6) with a supply side (6A) for supplying a workpiece (2) and a removing side (6C) for removing the workpiece to and/or from a tool (11) e.g. drill. A holding device (4) is used for holding the workpiece during machining by the tool in a machining plane that lies in a machining zone (B), and for transport of the workpiece from the supply side to the removing side. A buffer zone (A) and/or a removing zone (C) overlap in sections with the machining zone in a projection perpendicular to a transport plane or the machining plane. An independent claim is also included for a method for machining a workpiece.