Machining Portal with Suction Cups for Panel Processing
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing machine tools for processing panel-shaped materials, particularly in the furniture sector, are complex and require numerous processing steps, limiting efficiency and effectiveness in machining large-format panels.
Innovation Solution
A machine tool with a first and second machine table, a processing portal guided on both sides, and a lifting device with individually controllable suction cups, enabling fully automatic sequential processing of large-format panels, including cutting, milling, and drilling, with vertical and horizontal processing capabilities, and a support device for further processing on a conveyor belt.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a large number of processing steps are used to process panels, then the functionality and processing capability are improved, but the complexity of the machine tool increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple processing functions (sawing, drilling, milling, sanding) into a single integrated processing portal that can service both machine tables. This merging of functions reduces overall machine complexity while maintaining versatile processing capabilities through a unified tool carrier head that can perform multiple operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The processing portal is designed as a universal device that can perform multiple processing operations (cutting, drilling, milling, sanding) and can service both the first and second machine tables. The tool carrier head contains multiple tools that can be positioned to perform different functions, making the system multi-functional without requiring separate dedicated machines for each operation.
2Productivity
If panels are processed manually or in separate steps, then the machine structure is simpler, but the productivity and processing efficiency decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables continuous processing by having the processing portal move between the first and second machine tables without interruption. Panels are processed on the first table, then automatically transferred to the second table for additional processing operations. This continuous action eliminates idle time and manual intervention, significantly improving productivity while the automated portal management keeps the structural complexity manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The processing portal is designed to be movable and dynamically repositionable between the two machine tables. The portal can be positioned over either table as needed, and the tool carrier head can dynamically adjust its position and orientation to perform different operations. This dynamic capability allows the system to adapt to different processing requirements without requiring a completely reconfigured machine structure.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a processing portal is made movable to service both tables, then the versatility is improved, but the stability and precision of machining may worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into two separate machine tables, each with its own suction cup-based workpiece holding system. The processing portal acts as a mobile service unit that can position itself over either table. This segmentation allows each table to maintain stable, precise machining conditions for its specific operations, while the portal provides versatile access to both tables without compromising the precision of either location.
4Adaptability or versatility
If suction cups are controlled individually, then the adaptability to different panel sizes is improved, but the control system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The suction cups are arranged in arrays on both machine tables, with each suction cup or group of suction cups capable of being independently controlled. This local quality control allows the system to adapt to different panel sizes and shapes by activating only the suction cups needed to hold the specific workpiece being processed. The individual control capability provides high adaptability while the modular nature of the suction cup arrays keeps the control system complexity manageable through standardized control units.
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
The machine tool allows for efficient, fully automatic processing of large-format panels from multiple sides, enhancing productivity and precision by enabling simultaneous machining and transportation of workpieces, with the ability to process panels from six sides and manage waste effectively.
Implementation Method 1
The machine tool has a first and a second machine table, on which suction devices can hold a panel-shaped workpiece
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
The machine tool has a table (2) with a surface suitable for cutting and machining plates (12). The table has a machining device for horizontal machining of the plates and a transport unit for transporting the machined plates. A machining portal (4) is guided to the table. A lift-out device (10) for transporting sectioned boards is arranged on the table, where the device has several individually controllable vacuum cups. A sequential machining of large-sized boards occurs in a fully automatic manner.