Panel Cutting Alignment Using Camera Feedback for Tight Tolerances
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for trimming and measuring wood-based panels are imprecise, particularly when using multiple saws, leading to significant dimensional deviations due to fluctuating transport speed and temperature-related expansion, making manual corrections and setup processes time-consuming and complex.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing multiple measuring cameras to capture corner data and adjust cutting device alignment in real-time, incorporating servomotors for precise control, and accounting for influencing factors like temperature and humidity to ensure accurate cutting with tight tolerances.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple saws are used for high-performance cutting, then productivity increases, but manufacturing precision deteriorates due to dimensional deviations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where measuring cameras capture panel dimensions, the control unit calculates deviations from target values, and adjusting devices automatically correct saw positions for subsequent panels. This closed-loop feedback system maintains manufacturing precision despite using multiple saws for high productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual measurement and adjustment operations with an automated optical measurement system and computer-controlled adjustment mechanisms. Measuring cameras and automated control systems substitute for human operators, enabling precise automatic correction of saw positions while maintaining high cutting speeds.
2Manufacturing precision
If manual measurement and correction processes are used, then manufacturing precision can be maintained, but loss of time increases due to complex setup procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-measurement and self-correction automatically. The measuring cameras continuously monitor panel dimensions, the control unit processes the data and calculates deviations, and the adjusting devices automatically adjust saw positions without human intervention. This self-service capability eliminates time-consuming manual setup while maintaining precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements continuous measurement and adjustment during production. Rather than periodic manual checks, the measuring cameras operate continuously to monitor panel dimensions, and the control system continuously adjusts saw positions. This continuous action maintains precision throughout production without interrupting the cutting process.
3Device complexity
If traditional measurement methods are used, then device complexity remains low, but measurement precision deteriorates due to disturbances like transport speed fluctuations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary evaluation and control unit that acts as a mediator between the measuring cameras and the adjusting devices. This control unit receives measurement data, calculates deviations from target values, determines required corrections, and sends adjustment commands to the saw positioning systems. This intermediary processing layer enables precise compensation for transport speed fluctuations and other disturbances.
4Measurement precision
If saw alignment is adjusted manually for each panel, then measurement precision requirements are reduced, but productivity decreases due to time-consuming adjustments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual alignment measurement and adjustment with an automated optical measurement system and computer-controlled positioning. Measuring cameras capture panel dimensions, the control unit calculates required adjustments, and motorized adjusting devices automatically reposition saws. This substitution of mechanical manual operations with automated systems maintains alignment precision while eliminating time losses.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method and a device for trimming and measuring a plate (6) with at least one adjustable cutting device (7.1, 7.2) for trimming a flat and pressed material (5) in a cutting station (2), a transport device (4) for Transport of the cut panel (6) to a measuring station (3), the measuring station (3) comprising a camera panel measuring system with measuring cameras (12) and a computer-aided evaluation and control unit (15). In order to improve the accuracy, it is provided that an adjusting device (10.1, 10.2) for aligning the cutting device (7.1, 7.2) can be controlled on the basis of the measurement results obtained by the measuring cameras (12) and forwarded to the evaluation and control unit (15).