Movable Support Blocks for Stable Panel Machining Under Load

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing support devices for workpieces in machining processes fail to effectively counteract the forces generated during machining, leading to instability and potential tool pull-out issues.

Innovation Solution

A movable support device with two transversely displacing support frames, one equipped with suction elements and the other with sliding elements, is used to securely fix and support workpieces on a machine bed, allowing for external adjustment to match the machining forces.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a stationary support device is used, then the structure is simple, but it cannot counteract machining forces effectively leading to tool pull-out

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveworkpiece stabilityVSAvoidsupport device structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The support device transitions from a stationary structure to a dynamic system with two support frames that can displace transversely relative to each other. This dynamic capability allows the support device to adapt to and counteract machining forces during drilling, milling, and sawing operations, preventing tool pull-out while maintaining structural integrity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The support device is divided into two separate support frames (first support frame and second support frame) that can move independently. This segmentation allows each frame to be equipped with different functional elements (suction elements on one frame, sliding elements on the other) and enables transverse displacement to accommodate machining forces.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If fixed support elements are used, then the device structure is simple, but it cannot adapt to different machining forces

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadjustment to machining forcesVSAvoidadjustment mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The support frames are designed to be movable rather than fixed, allowing them to displace transversely in response to different machining forces. This dynamic adaptability enables the same support device to handle various machining operations (drilling, milling, sawing) with different force requirements without requiring complete redesign.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Reliability

If suction elements alone are used, then workpiece fixation is achieved, but support against lateral machining forces is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveworkpiece fixationVSAvoidresistance to machining forces
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSForce

Solution Approach 1:

The invention combines two different support mechanisms: suction elements for workpiece fixation and sliding elements for lateral force resistance. By merging these two functional systems on separate but coordinated support frames, the device achieves both secure workpiece attachment and effective counteraction of machining forces during operations like drilling, milling, and sawing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The support device separates the fixation function (suction elements on first support frame) from the lateral support function (sliding elements on second support frame). This functional segmentation allows each element to be optimized for its specific purpose while working together to provide comprehensive workpiece support.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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

The support device effectively secures workpieces against machining forces, enhancing stability and preventing tool pull-out during operations like drilling, milling, and sawing by dynamically adjusting its position to align with the workpiece support surface.

Implementation Method 1

A first support frame has at least two supporting and fixing suction elements for fixing the workpiece or pieces

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectVacuum suction: Suction

Data Source

PatentEP3562617B1Movable support device with at least two support blocks
Publication Date: 2023.12.27 ZIMMER MARTIN
  • EP3562617B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3562617B1 patent drawingFigure 2~3
  • EP3562617B1 patent drawingFigure 4

AI summary

The invention relates to a movable support device which is arranged in a recess (14) of a workpiece support gate (10) that is arranged on a machine bed (1), comprising a workpiece transport system (2) which is arranged upstream and which comprises workpiece trolleys (6) for panel and/or board-like workpieces (9), wherein - the workpiece support gate (10) has a support surface (15) which assumes an inclination between 75 and 90° relative to a horizontal plane in order to support the workpieces (9) in a slanted manner, - the support device (30) has at least two support blocks (50, 70) which can be moved transversely to the movement direction of the workpiece trolleys (6) out of a position behind the plane of the support surface (15) into a position on the plane of the support surface (15) by means of an external drive, - a first support block (50) has at least two supporting and fixing suction elements (58) for fixing the workpiece(s) (9), and - a second support block (70) has at least one supporting slide element (78). By using the invention, a support device is provided which supports and/or fixes the workpieces in the region of the workpiece machining location against the forces occurring as a result of the workpiece machining process.