Modular Tool Carrier for Flat Blank Processing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tool carrier devices for processing flat blanks, such as cardboard, require frequent reconfiguration of tools along a forming path, which is time-consuming and prone to inaccuracies, affecting product quality due to the need for precise positioning of tools relative to transport rollers.
Innovation Solution
A tool carrier device featuring parallel carrier rails with detachable cross members and tool holders, allowing for quick and accurate repositioning of tools along the forming path, with locating means and clamping devices for secure positioning, enabling single-operator operation from one side of the transport device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If traditional tool carrier devices are used with separate bridge structures, then tool positioning accuracy is maintained, but reconfiguration time increases and operational complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tool carrier device is segmented into modular components: carrier rails that remain fixed, detachable cross members that can be independently positioned, and tool holders that can be separately attached. This segmentation allows rapid reconfiguration by simply moving cross members between predetermined positions on the carrier rails, eliminating the need to reconfigure entire bridge structures while maintaining positioning accuracy through the predetermined locating means.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from static bridge structures to a dynamic configuration system where cross members can be quickly detached and repositioned along the carrier rails. The locating means with predetermined positions provides dynamic adaptability, allowing the tool carrier device to be rapidly reconfigured for different production requirements while maintaining structural integrity through the fixed carrier rails.
2Productivity
If multiple operators are required for tool repositioning, then positioning accuracy is ensured, but productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The locating means on the carrier rails provides self-aligning functionality that guides cross members into predetermined positions during the detaching and repositioning process. This self-service mechanism ensures accurate positioning through the geometric design of the locating features, eliminating the need for multiple operators to manually align components while maintaining positioning precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces manual alignment operations with a mechanical locating mechanism that automatically ensures accurate positioning. The predetermined locating features on the carrier rails substitute for human measurement and alignment skills, allowing single-operator reconfiguration while maintaining manufacturing precision through the engineered locating geometry.
3Ease of operation
If tools are reconfigured from both sides of the transport device, then accessibility is improved, but operational complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cross members are designed to be completely detachable from the carrier rails, extracting the tool-holding function from the fixed bridge structure. This allows operators to remove cross members from one side of the transport device and reposition them along the carrier rails, providing accessibility from one side only while simplifying operational procedures by eliminating the need for coordinated two-sided operations.
4Adaptability or versatility
If fixed bridge structures are used for tool holders, then structural stability is maintained, but reconfiguration flexibility decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the tool carrier into fixed carrier rails that provide structural stability and detachable cross members that provide reconfiguration flexibility. The carrier rails remain permanently fixed to the transport device, maintaining structural integrity, while the cross members can be independently positioned at various predetermined locations, providing adaptability for different tool arrangements without compromising overall structural stability.
Data Source
AI summary
A tool carrier device for adjustable arrangement of tools along a forming path comprises two carrier rails arranged so as to run parallel to one another in the longitudinal direction of the forming path and above the latter, at least one cross member which can be detachably connected to both carrier rails at a plurality of predetermined positions along the forming path in such a way that the cross member is arranged transversely to the longitudinal direction of the forming path, and at least one tool holder which can be detachably connected to the cross member.