Modular Flat Sheet Machining Apparatus with Dual Grinding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing machining technologies for flat sheets, such as glass and stone materials, face inefficiencies due to the need for repeated re-positioning of sheets during machining, leading to increased manufacturing costs and reduced quality, especially when handling large or complex shapes, and require complex setups for bilateral grinding.
Innovation Solution
A modular apparatus with two parallel grinding machines and anthropomorphic manipulator devices that allow continuous machining of all edges without re-positioning, enabling flexible configuration for different machining tasks and shapes, and integrating additional machines like washing or corner cutting units.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If conventional single-sided grinding machines are used, then the machine structure is simple, but the sheet must be re-positioned multiple times to machine all four edges, increasing machining time and manufacturing cost
Solution Approach 1:
The grinding machine is divided into two independent grinding units (first and second grinding machines), each capable of machining one side of the sheet. This segmentation allows simultaneous machining of opposite edges without requiring sheet repositioning, resolving the contradiction between simple structure and high productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from sequential single-sided machining to parallel dual-sided machining by adding a second grinding machine operating in the opposite direction. This dimensional expansion enables both sides of the sheet to be machined simultaneously, doubling productivity while maintaining manageable system complexity.
2Productivity
If bilateral grinding machines are used to machine all four edges in one cycle, then machining efficiency improves, but the machine dimensions and constructional complexity increase substantially
Solution Approach 1:
Rather than creating one complex bilateral machine, the invention segments the function into two separate but coordinated grinding machines. Each machine remains relatively simple in structure, but their combined operation achieves bilateral grinding efficiency, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining high productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
Each grinding machine is designed to be versatile, capable of machining different edges of the sheet depending on its orientation. This multi-functionality allows the two machines to handle all four edges through coordinated operation, achieving bilateral grinding capability without requiring a single complex machine.
3Extent of automation
If anthropomorphic robots are used to handle sheets during machining, then automation improves, but the robot is subjected to grinding stresses affecting machining quality and cannot process large or thick sheets
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the sheet support function from the robot and assigns it to dedicated support structures (support means) positioned at the edges of the sheet. This separation allows the robot to focus solely on positioning and transferring the sheet, while the support structures bear the grinding stresses, preventing quality degradation and enabling processing of large and thick sheets.
4Adaptability or versatility
If sheets are re-positioned manually or mechanically between machining operations, then different edges can be machined, but handling time increases and handling-related dead time reduces productivity
Solution Approach 1:
The invention establishes continuous machining operation by having two grinding machines work simultaneously on opposite edges of the sheet. The sheet is positioned once and machined on all four edges without interruption or repositioning, eliminating handling dead time and maintaining continuous productive action throughout the machining cycle.
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 setup optimizes machining cycle time, reduces handling-related dead times, and ensures high-quality, cost-effective processing of flat sheets with reduced need for specialized equipment, accommodating various sheet shapes and types.
Implementation Method 1
said first manipulator device comprising a suction gripper
Data Source
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AI summary
A modular apparatus (10) for machining flat sheets, in particular glass, plate glass, or mirror sheets or sheets made from stone materials or the like, comprising machining moduli consisting of a first store (16) suitable for receiving sheets to be machined (25) and a second store (18) suitable for receiving machined sheets (27), a first grinding machine (12), and a second grinding machine (14) suitable for performing grinding machinings along the peripheral edges of said sheets (25), one or more further moduli for machining said flat sheets, if any, of the corner cutting, drill, or washing machine types, possibly associated with said first and second grinding machines (12, 14), and interface means for transferring said flat sheets between said machining moduli.