Nail Element and Wedge Gap Formation for Panel Separation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for separating and conveying large-format wooden panels often result in uncontrolled dragging of the top sheet due to high static and sliding friction forces, risking damage to the panels during the separation process.
Innovation Solution
A device employing a nail element and a wedge-shaped separating element creates a controlled gap between the panels, secured mechanically, with the nail element being pulled out to reduce lateral load, and a camera system ensures precise separation, preventing damage and uncontrolled movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a counter-holder and slide are used to separate the partial stack from the remaining stack, then the separation function is achieved, but the top sheet of the remaining stack is dragged along uncontrolled due to high friction forces
Solution Approach 1:
A separating element is introduced as an intermediary between the partial stack and remaining stack. This element creates a controlled gap and parting line, preventing direct friction-based contact that causes uncontrolled dragging. The separating element acts as a mediator that enables clean separation without the harmful dragging effect.
Solution Approach 2:
The separation process is segmented into distinct phases: first creating a gap, then establishing a parting line, and finally separating the stacks. This segmentation allows controlled separation by breaking down the single complex action into manageable steps, preventing uncontrolled dragging.
2Productivity
If the bottom plate of the partial stack is held back by the counter-holder, then the partial stack can be pushed off, but the bottom plate is damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The separating element serves as an intermediary that prevents direct contact between the counter-holder and the bottom plate. By introducing this intermediate component, the bottom plate is protected from damage while still enabling the pushing-off action to occur efficiently.
Solution Approach 2:
The separating element is positioned in advance to create a gap before the pushing-off action occurs. This preparatory positioning cushions the bottom plate against direct impact with the counter-holder, preventing damage while maintaining separation productivity.
3Reliability
If the nail element is driven deep into the bottom plate to create a secure gap, then separation is improved, but the load on the nail element increases
Solution Approach 1:
The nail element is driven only partially into the bottom plate - just enough to create a secure gap and parting line, but not excessively deep. This partial action achieves the necessary separation reliability while avoiding excessive lateral load that would occur with deeper penetration.
Solution Approach 2:
The wedge-shaped separating element replaces the need for excessive nail penetration. Instead of relying solely on deep nailing to create the gap, the wedge shape mechanically enlarges the gap with reduced lateral load on the nail element.
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 enables quick, reliable, and precise separation of panels without risk of damage, reducing the likelihood of the top sheet being dragged along and allowing for safe handling and processing.
Implementation Method 1
Due to the large surfaces of the plates, however, the static and sliding friction forces between the bottom plate of the partial stack and the top plate of the remaining stack are relatively high.
Implementation Method 2
A wedge shape of the separating element is particularly advantageous because it widens the gap in a simple and gentle manner when it is pushed in.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The device (10) has a horizontal and pointedly pin component (35) moved horizontally and directly driven under or into a lowest plate (68) of a partial stack (62). The pin component is moved upward such that a gap (74) is locally produced between the partial stack and a residual blank stack (64). The pin components are arranged in a set of horizontal and rows that are transferred to each other, and are arranged in separate groups on respective carrier elements. An independent claim is also included for a method for ordering a partial stack.