Movable Secondary Support Structure for Plate Workpiece Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mechanical arrangements for processing plate-like workpieces, such as metal sheets, face inefficiencies in product removal, leading to prolonged idle times for processing devices and slowed production processes due to the need for processed products to be transported to a distant unloading position.
Innovation Solution
A mechanical arrangement featuring a base support structure and a secondary support structure with a holding device that allows for precise positioning of the holding device near the processing device, enabling rapid product pickup and minimizing transportation distance, utilizing a movable secondary support structure with vacuum pads for secure attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If processed products are transported to a distant unloading position, then the handling apparatus can operate with a stable base support structure, but the removal time increases and production speed decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is divided into a stationary base support structure and a movable secondary support structure. The base support structure provides stable positioning and support for the processing device, while the secondary support structure can be moved independently to quickly access and remove processed products from the unloading position, thus separating the stability function from the removal function.
Solution Approach 2:
The secondary support structure acts as an intermediary between the base support structure and the processed products. It can be positioned close to the processing device to quickly pick up processed products and transfer them away, mediating between the need for stable base support and the need for rapid product removal.
2Productivity
If the holding device is positioned close to the processing device, then product pickup time is reduced, but the spatial constraints near the processing device make positioning difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The secondary support structure is designed to be movable relative to the base support structure, allowing dynamic adjustment of the holding device position. This enables the holding device to be positioned close to the processing device for rapid product pickup when needed, while maintaining ease of operation through controlled movement mechanisms.
3Device complexity
If a single base support structure is used for both workpiece feeding and product removal, then the structure remains simple, but idle time increases due to distant unloading position
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is segmented into a base support structure and a secondary support structure with independent movement capability. This segmentation allows the secondary structure to quickly remove products without complicating the overall system, maintaining relative simplicity while significantly improving productivity through reduced idle time.
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 solution significantly reduces the time required to remove processed products, minimizing idle times for processing devices and optimizing the overall production process by allowing immediate vicinity pickup, thus enhancing operational efficiency and adaptability for various workpiece geometries.
Implementation Method 1
The secondary support structure is movable relative to the base support structure and has a holding device for processed products
Data Source
AI summary
A mechanical arrangement is provided for processing plate-like workpieces, especially metal sheets. The mechanical arrangement includes a processing device and a handling apparatus. A support structure of the handling apparatus has a base support structure and a secondary support structure which is supported on the base support structure so as to be movable relative thereto and which is provided with a holding device for processed products.