Multi-mode Hammering Machine with Conversion Pin
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Metal forming industries face challenges in meeting diverse customer demands due to the need for multiple specialized machines, which are expensive and occupy significant space, as existing machines are not easily convertible between rigid reciprocating, flexible power enhancing, and press modes, and lack independent on-the-fly stroke length and gap adjustments.
Innovation Solution
A multi-mode hammering machine that operates in rigid metal shaping, flexible power hammering, and press modes, featuring a ram drive assembly with a lever drive system and conversion pin to switch between modes, and independent stroke length and gap adjustment mechanisms, allowing for versatile operation and reduced machine costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple specialized machines are used to meet diverse customer demands, then the ability to perform various metal forming functions is improved, but the overhead costs and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a single machine capable of operating in three distinct modes: rigid-stroke mode for shaping, flexible-stroke hammering mode for power-enhanced forming, and press mode for compression tasks. The ram drive assembly can be reconfigured between these modes using conversion pins to engage or disengage flexible components, allowing one machine to replace multiple specialized machines and thereby reducing space requirements and overhead costs
2Adaptability or versatility
If conversion between operating modes is implemented, then the versatility of the machine is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The ram drive assembly is segmented into rigid components and flexible components (such as springs and flexible couplings). Conversion pins are used to selectively engage or disengage these flexible components, allowing the machine to switch between rigid-stroke and flexible-stroke modes. This segmentation enables mode conversion without requiring complete redesign of the drive system, thus limiting the increase in complexity
3Ease of operation
If independent stroke length and gap adjustment mechanisms are added, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The stroke length and gap adjustment mechanisms are designed to be independently adjustable during machine operation without requiring mode changes or complex coordination. The adjustments can be made on-the-fly while the machine is running, allowing operators to optimize parameters for different workpieces and tasks without interrupting production, thereby improving ease of operation with minimal added complexity
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 machine significantly reduces overhead costs and space requirements by performing multiple functions, enabling metal forming shops to efficiently meet varied customer demands and maintain production schedules with a single machine, while minimizing wear and tear and extending machine lifespan.
Implementation Method 1
The flex drive includes a leaf spring that flexes during the power hammer mode
Implementation Method 2
A conversion pin is used to engage one and simultaneously disengage the other
Data Source
AI summary
The invention is a multi-mode hammering machine that operates in a rigid mode, a flexible power hammer mode and a machine press mode to contour, shape and form sheet metal products. In all three modes, a ram is linearly stroked toward and away from a fixed die by a common ram drive assembly that includes a lever drive assembly and a reciprocating lever. The lever drive assembly moves in a rigid non-flexing manner. The reciprocating lever includes a rigid mode and a flexible mode. A conversion pin is used to engage one and simultaneously disengage the other. The lever drive assembly includes a control link that interfaces with a stroke adjustment mechanism. The gap adjustment mechanism is located at the fulcrum of the reciprocating lever. Both stroke length and gap are adjusted independently during the operation while the ram is cycling.