Multi-Strand Drum Shears With Movable Guides for Compact Cutting

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Solution Overview

Problem

There is a need for a simple, compact, and efficient cutting system capable of simultaneously cutting multiple strands of long rolled products coming from a rolling mill before they are discharged onto a cooling bed, as existing systems are not adequately equipped to handle multiple strands efficiently.

Innovation Solution

A system comprising two rotatable drums with cutting means and movable guides that can position and cut multiple strands simultaneously, utilizing knives with circular trajectories and a crank and connecting rod assembly to cyclically translate the guides between cutting and non-cutting positions, allowing for continuous cutting and minimal space usage.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If multiple strands are cut simultaneously using a complex cutting system, then productivity increases, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecutting speedVSAvoidcutting system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple cutting operations into a single integrated shear unit. The shear simultaneously cuts multiple strands (at least two) in one operation, merging what would traditionally require separate cutting stations into a single device. This is achieved through the scissor-like action of two shears working together, with strands positioned between them, allowing simultaneous cutting of multiple strands while maintaining relatively simple device architecture

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The cutting system is designed to handle multiple strands of varying lengths and from different rolling mill stands through a universal cutting mechanism. The shear unit can process strands of different lengths by adjusting the positioning of the shears and guides, making the system versatile for cutting multiple strands simultaneously without requiring separate specialized equipment for each strand

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Area of stationary object

If a compact cutting system is used, then space requirements are reduced, but the ability to handle multiple strands efficiently may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespace requirementVSAvoidcutting capacity
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent utilizes the vertical dimension to arrange multiple strands and cutting elements. Strands are positioned vertically between the shears, and the cutting action occurs in a vertical plane. This dimensional arrangement allows multiple strands to be handled in a compact horizontal footprint while maintaining adequate space for the cutting mechanism to operate effectively

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The cutting system employs a nested arrangement where multiple strands are positioned within the space defined by the shear structure. The strands are guided through channels and positioned between the shears in a compact configuration, allowing the cutting system to handle multiple strands within a minimized spatial envelope while maintaining cutting efficiency

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

3Productivity

If strands are continuously moved forward for cutting, then productivity increases, but precision of cutting position may deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontinuous cuttingVSAvoidcutting position accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs preliminary positioning actions before the actual cutting occurs. Guides and positioning mechanisms are provided that pre-position the strands at the correct cutting location before the shears engage. This preliminary alignment ensures that even during continuous movement, the strands are correctly positioned for accurate cutting, maintaining manufacturing precision while enabling continuous operation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The cutting system incorporates feedback mechanisms that monitor the position of strands and the movement of the shears. This feedback allows for real-time adjustments to maintain precise cutting positions during continuous operation. The system can detect and compensate for variations in strand speed or position, ensuring accurate cutting lengths even during continuous high-speed operation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

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 system enables simultaneous cutting of multiple strands with increased production efficiency and reduced space requirements, simplifying the handling of finished segments and optimizing the processing of long rolled products in rolling mill plants.

Implementation Method 1

The system comprises a plurality of driving means, each connected to a connector of a guide and each driving mean comprising a crank and connecting rod assembly intended to cyclically translate each corresponding guide in two directions

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCrank and connecting rod mechanism: Four-Bar Linkage

Implementation Method 2

a shear comprising at least two rotatable drums, each drums having cutting means arranged to simultaneously cut at least two strands of long rolled products into finished segments

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical shearing: Shear Stress

Data Source

PatentUS10994348B2System and method for cutting to length long rolled products coming from different strands of a rolling mill
Publication Date: 2021.05.04 PRIMETALS TECH AUSTRIA GMBH
  • US10994348B2 patent drawing
  • US10994348B2 patent drawing
  • US10994348B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A system for cutting to length at least two strands of long rolled products (3, 5) preferably coming from a hot rolling mill. The system includes shears comprising at least two rotatable drums (4,6), each drum having a cutter (8,8′,10,10′) arranged to cut simultaneously at least two strands of long rolled products into finished segments. The system further includes at least two movable guides (12,14), each including at least two channels, each guide arranged to receive and guide at least one strand (3,5) of long product. The guides are movable between a position wherein, in operation, the strands of long product are located in positions either outside of the trajectory of the cutters in a position wherein the strands cannot be cut or wherein the strands are located on the trajectories of the cutters and can be cut by the cutters.