Modular Die Width Adjustment for Multi-Side Sheet Metal Bending
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional sheet metal manufacturing processes require multiple machines with different die widths for bending and pressing, leading to complex steps and low production efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A die adjustment mechanism with a base, sliding modules, and a shifting fork system that allows for lateral adjustment of die width by sliding and rotating components, enabling the same machine to process multiple sides of a metal plate with adaptable die width.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the die width is fixed for bending and pressing operations, then the structure is simple, but multiple machines are required and production efficiency is low
Solution Approach 1:
The die is divided into multiple detachable modules that can be independently arranged and reconfigured. Each module can be positioned at different locations along the die length, allowing the effective die width to be adjusted by selecting which modules are installed and how they are arranged, thereby enabling one die to replace multiple fixed-width dies
Solution Approach 2:
The die structure transitions from a fixed, static configuration to a dynamic, adjustable configuration. The modules can be laterally shifted and repositioned along the die body, allowing the die width to be changed between operations to match different workpiece requirements, eliminating the need for multiple fixed-width machines
2Adaptability or versatility
If the die width is changed to accommodate different workpiece widths, then adaptability is improved, but the adjustment mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The die is segmented into standardized modules that can be independently positioned. By selectively installing and arranging these modules, the die width can be adapted to different workpiece dimensions without requiring a completely different die structure, achieving versatility through modular configuration
Solution Approach 2:
A lateral shifting mechanism acts as an intermediary between the fixed die body and the adjustable modules. This mechanism includes shifting forks that engage with the modules and can laterally displacement them along predetermined tracks, providing a standardized interface for width adjustment without complicating the overall die structure
3Productivity
If multiple sides of metal plate are processed on the same machine, then production efficiency is improved, but precise control of die width becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The modular die structure allows precise control of the effective die width by selecting specific modules and positioning them at exact locations. Each module has standardized dimensions and positioning features that ensure repeatable, precise width settings when the same module configuration is used for processing multiple sides of the workpiece
Solution Approach 2:
The die width parameter can be precisely adjusted by changing the module configuration rather than modifying the entire die structure. The lateral shifting mechanism allows modules to be positioned at predetermined intervals, providing discrete but precise width settings that maintain manufacturing precision while enabling flexible adaptation to different workpiece widths
Data Source
AI summary
A die adjustment mechanism, includes a base, the base is provided with a die that can apply pressure on the workpiece. The die includes multiple modules arranged sequentially and capable of sliding laterally relative to the base. The base is further provided with a slide rest/slide rests capable of sliding laterally relative to the base. Each slide rest is provided with a shifting fork which can be clamped with a module or can be clamped between two adjacent modules. Each slide rest is provided with a drive component capable of driving the shifting fork to be clamped with the module or be clamped between the two adjacent modules. Using this mechanism, bending and pressing of multiple sides of the metal plate can be completed by the same machine and the production efficiency is greatly improved.


