Optical Draw-In Sensing for Uniform Stamping Die Adjustment

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Solution Overview

Problem

In stamping presses, the alignment and movement of upper and lower die portions can lead to uneven material draw, causing structural and aesthetic issues in stamped substrates, and potential damage due to direct contact between die components.

Innovation Solution

The integration of optical sensors within the die to measure directions and distances of material movement, coupled with electric motors and a motor control module, allows for real-time adjustment of die movement to equalize material draw across the substrate, preventing direct contact and ensuring uniform deformation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If optical sensors and motor control systems are integrated into the die, then manufacturing precision of material draw is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvematerial draw uniformityVSAvoiddie system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical measurement and adjustment systems with optical sensors and automated motor control. Optical sensors non-contactingly measure material draw in real-time, and electric motors automatically adjust die portion positions based on sensor feedback, eliminating the need for complex mechanical measurement devices and manual adjustment mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The die system performs self-adjustment through integrated optical sensors that continuously monitor material draw and electric motors that automatically correct positioning errors. The system self-regulates material draw uniformity without external intervention, with the motor control module receiving sensor signals and autonomously adjusting die portion positions to maintain optimal stamping conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Productivity

If real-time measurement and adjustment systems are implemented, then productivity is improved through reduced rework, but use of energy increases due to additional sensors and motors

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestamping efficiencyVSAvoidenergy consumption of sensors and motors
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a closed-loop feedback system where optical sensors continuously measure material draw in real-time during stamping operations, and the motor control module receives these measurements to automatically adjust die portion positions. This real-time feedback enables immediate correction of material draw variations, preventing defective parts and reducing rework, thereby improving overall productivity despite the energy consumption of the additional components.

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

This solution ensures better structural and aesthetic quality of stamped substrates by maintaining uniform material draw and preventing die component damage through precise control of die movement, enhancing the efficiency and reliability of the stamping process.

Implementation Method 1

optical sensors that are disposed within the apertures, respectively, of the lower portion and that are configured to measure directions of movement and distances of movement inward of the outer edges of the substrate

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight reflection: Reflection

Data Source

PatentUS11833567B2Die adjustment systems and methods with draw in sensors
Publication Date: 2023.12.05 GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
  • US11833567B2 patent drawing
  • US11833567B2 patent drawing
  • US11833567B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A die of a stamping press is described and includes: an upper portion including one or more first features; a lower portion including one or more second features that are complementary to the first features and apertures at locations, respectively, that extend through the lower portion; and optical sensors that are disposed within the apertures, respectively, of the lower portion and that are configured to measure directions of movement and distances of movement inward of outer edges of a substrate at the locations, respectively, during stamping of the substrate.