Modular Roll-Holder Accessory for Numerical Control Cutting Machines

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing roll-holder structures for numerical control cutting machines are bulky, logistically challenging, and heavy, especially when handling materials with high specific weight like leather, limiting their repositioning and storage.

Innovation Solution

A slim accessory apparatus with fixable beams attached to the cutting machine, supporting rolls via main and secondary slots, allowing for easy assembly, quick mounting, and reduced weight distribution through discharge feet, enabling efficient unrolling of multiple rolls at different heights.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If traditional roll-holder structures are used, then rolls can be supported and fed to the machine, but the overall dimensions become large and the structure becomes heavy

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverepositioning and storage easeVSAvoidroll-holder structure weight
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSWeight of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The roll-holder structure is divided into separate components: a fixed support structure attached to the machine and removable beams that can be detached and stored. This segmentation allows the main structure to remain lightweight while the removable beams provide additional support when needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The beam support structure is designed to be removable and reconfigurable rather than fixed. The beams can be detached from the fixed support structure and repositioned as needed, transforming the system from a static heavy structure to a dynamic lightweight system that provides support only when required.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If traditional roll-holder structures are used, then rolls can be supported at different heights, but the structure complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveroll support configuration flexibilityVSAvoidroll-holder structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The support structure is segmented into a fixed base structure and removable beams that can be independently positioned. Each beam can be separately attached to the fixed structure at different locations, allowing flexible height configuration without requiring a complex integrated support system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The fixed support structure is pre-configured with attachment points at various heights and positions. This preliminary arrangement of support points allows the removable beams to be quickly attached in different configurations without requiring complex assembly procedures, simplifying the overall system while maintaining versatility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentEP3996856B1Numerical control machine for cutting sheets of material
Publication Date: 2022.11.16 COMELZ SPA
  • EP3996856B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3996856B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3996856B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

Accessory apparatus (50) for feeding sheets of material comprising at least two beams (51) which are fixable, in a mounted configuration, to a numerical control cutting machine (1), wherein in said mounted configuration the beams (51) develop in projection with respect to a frontal portion of said machine (20), said beams (51) supporting, in spaced relation with respect to the frontal portion of the machine (1), at least two pairs of opposite main slots (52) for holding as many transversal support bars (53) intended to support a roll (57) or another supporting element for supporting a sheet (2) of material to be cut.