Multi-Tool Processing Head With 3D Motion for Furniture Panel Machining
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a driven multi-processing unit that can freely move in 3-dimensional space for handling, gripping, separating, and joining of plate- and board-like workpieces with different tools, particularly for simple tool changes and efficient production of furniture panels with various machining operations such as drilling and fitting assembly.
Innovation Solution
The multi-processing unit features a central body with extendable drilling tools, a panel gripping device, base assembly device, and fitting setting device, all driven by a central servo motor and pneumatically actuated, allowing for precise positioning and operation in six degrees of freedom, enabling efficient machining and assembly of furniture panels with different tools like drills and fittings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple different tools are installed in the central body for various machining operations, then the versatility and adaptability of the multi-processing unit is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The central body is designed as a universal platform that can accommodate multiple different tool types (drilling tools, separating tools, joining tools, gripping tools) through a standardized interface system. The central drive mechanism can drive different tool types, and the pneumatic extension system works with all tool types, allowing one structure to perform multiple functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The tool system is segmented into modular tool units that can be independently selected and installed in the central body. Each tool type (drills, cutters, fastening tools, gripping devices) operates as an independent module that can be pneumatically extended or retracted, allowing the system to configure itself for different machining operations without redesigning the entire device.
2Productivity
If a large number of tools are stored in the central body for different machining operations, then the productivity is improved by reducing tool changes, but the volume of the central body increases
Solution Approach 1:
Tools are stored in a nested arrangement within the central body, with multiple drilling tools and other machining tools arranged concentrically or in layered configurations. The pneumatic extension system allows tools to be projected outward from the central body during operation, enabling compact storage while maintaining access to multiple tool types.
Solution Approach 2:
The central body employs a dynamic extension mechanism where tools transition between a retracted storage position and an extended working position via pneumatic actuation. This dynamic configuration allows the central body to maintain a compact volume during movement while providing full tool access during machining operations.
3Ease of operation
If tools are pneumatically extended from the central body for machining operations, then the ease of operation is improved by enabling quick tool deployment, but the reliability may worsen due to additional pneumatic components
Solution Approach 1:
A pneumatic extension system is integrated into the central body to rapidly deploy and retract tools during machining operations. Compressed air cylinders provide the actuating force for extending tools from the central body to the working position and retracting them after use, enabling quick tool changes without mechanical reconfiguration.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the multi-processing unit is designed to move freely in six degrees of freedom, then the adaptability for complex machining operations is improved, but the device complexity and control difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The multi-processing unit is designed with six degrees of freedom, allowing it to move dynamically in three-dimensional space (three translational movements along x, y, z axes and three rotational movements around these axes). This dynamic mobility enables the unit to approach workpieces from any direction and perform complex machining operations on plate- and board-like workpieces of various configurations.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a multi-processing unit, comprising a plurality of tools for manipulating or processing workpieces by handling, chip-forming, joining and assembling, the tools being movably installed or mounted in and on a central body, and comprising at least one central drive. The chip-forming tools are either in a retracted parking position or in an extended working position in the central body. A plurality of chip-forming tools, combined to form a group mechanically or by software, can be brought into a working position simultaneously. The chip-forming tools are different types or sizes for cutting production methods. At least one handling tool of the multi-processing unit is a gripping tool and/or an assembling device. By means of the present invention, a multi-processing unit for processing and/or handling by gripping, cutting and/or joining is developed, which can be moved in three-dimensional space in order to process panel- and/or board-type workpieces by means of different tools.