Multi-Tool Broaching Unit for Versatile Die Cutter Rules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current broaching machines for die cutter rules are bulky, complex, and require multiple units for different geometries, making them difficult to fine-tune and maintain, while lacking versatility and compactness.
Innovation Solution
A broaching unit with a tool-holding arm equipped with multiple interchangeable broaching tools that can be selectively activated and oriented to perform various broaching operations on a single machine, allowing for compact design and efficient material removal without the need for multiple units.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple broaching units are arranged in succession along the feeding direction to process different geometries, then the machine can handle various rule geometries, but the machine becomes bulky, complex, and difficult to maintain
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a single broaching unit equipped with multiple interchangeable broaching tools (first, second, third, and fourth broaching tools) that can be selectively positioned and activated. This allows one unit to perform the functions previously requiring multiple separate units, thereby reducing machine complexity while maintaining versatility in processing different rule geometries
Solution Approach 2:
The broaching unit is divided into multiple independent tool components that can be selectively positioned along the feeding direction. Each broaching tool can be independently activated or deactivated, allowing the system to process different geometries by engaging only the necessary tools, thus avoiding the need for multiple complete broaching units
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple broaching units are used for different geometries, then various rule shapes can be processed, but the machine requires more space and has higher maintenance requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple broaching tools into a single integrated broaching unit. The first, second, third, and fourth broaching tools are all mounted on one unit and can be selectively positioned and activated, consolidating what would have been separate units into one compact structure, thereby reducing the machine's overall footprint while maintaining geometric versatility
3Productivity
If traditional broaching machines are used, then material removal can be performed, but the machines lack compactness and require multiple units for different operations
Solution Approach 1:
The broaching unit is designed as a multi-functional device with four different broaching tools that can be selectively activated. This single unit can perform all material removal operations that previously required multiple separate units, thereby maintaining high productivity while reducing the number of units needed and simplifying the overall system
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 solution provides a versatile, reliable, and compact broaching unit that simplifies the process of modifying broaching tools, reducing machine complexity and maintenance, while enabling efficient and precise material removal for die cutter rules.
Implementation Method 1
a tool-holding arm (5, 5') equipped with at least one broaching tool (6-6''') to remove material from the rule (4)
Data Source
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AI summary
A broaching unit for rules of die cutters which comprises a supporting structure, for example a frame, a guide of a die cutter rule, and a tool-holding arm equipped with at least one broaching tool is described. The guide defines a sliding surface on which the rule is fed intermittently. The tool-holding arm is mounted on the supporting structure and is susceptible to reciprocating movements with respect to it and with respect to the guide, preferably forward and backwards movements along a transversal direction of the rule, just to intercept the die cutter rule with the broaching tool when the rule is stopped. Advantageously, the tool-holding arm is equipped with at least two broaching tools, for example four tools, and can be oriented with respect to the guide, for example can rotate on itself, to selectively activate one of the broaching tools, i.e. to bring one of the tools into contact with the rule.