Panel Machining Center Auxiliary Transport System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing machining centers for wooden panels face challenges in safely and efficiently loading and unloading panels, especially in zones distal to the operator side, due to the complexity and cost of automatic systems and the risks associated with manual handling.
Innovation Solution
A machining center with a working area equipped with supporting suction cups and a movable raiser system, along with an auxiliary system that can move panels from the proximal to the distal zone, facilitates safer and more efficient panel loading and unloading operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If automatic loading and unloading systems (robots) are used, then productivity and operator safety are improved, but device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables semi-automatic operation where the operator loads panels manually into the proximal zone, and the machine automatically transports them to the distal zone and positions them for machining. The machine serves itself by automatically moving panels between zones without requiring external robotic systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The working area is divided into proximal and distal zones with different functions. The proximal zone is for manual loading close to the operator, while the distal zone is for automated machining operations. This segmentation allows the system to combine manual and automated operations efficiently.
2Device complexity
If manual panel handling is used, then device complexity is reduced, but operator safety and ease of operation deteriorate in distal zones
Solution Approach 1:
The auxiliary system acts as an intermediary between the operator and the distal working zone. It automatically transports panels from the proximal zone (where the operator loads them) to the distal zone (where machining occurs), eliminating the need for the operator to manually reach into dangerous distal areas.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces manual mechanical handling by the operator with an automated auxiliary transport system. This substitution eliminates the physical risk to the operator while maintaining system simplicity compared to full robotic automation.
3Device complexity
If panels are loaded manually in distal zones, then device complexity is minimized, but operator safety and productivity decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adapts to different panel sizes and machining requirements by allowing flexible positioning of panels in either the proximal or distal zone. The auxiliary system can automatically transport panels as needed, providing safety and flexibility without requiring complex fixed automation.
4Productivity
If multiple working zones are created, then productivity is improved through simultaneous panel machining, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
Both the proximal and distal zones can independently function as complete working zones for panel loading and machining. The auxiliary system enables the distal zone to operate independently while the proximal zone remains accessible for manual operations, providing multi-functionality without requiring completely separate systems.
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 enhances operator safety, reduces the risk of accidents, and improves the efficiency of panel handling by allowing easier access and manipulation of panels in all working zones, while maintaining a compact and economical machine design.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of supporting suction cups (33), configured to support and lock a panel (P) to be machined
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
This invention relates to a machine (1) for machining a panel, comprising: a plurality of supporting suction cups (33), configured to support and lock a panel (P) to be machined on a working area (3), wherein the working area (3) has an operator side (30) oriented longitudinally and facing an operator zone (O), the plurality of supporting suction cups (33) being distributed, in the working area (3), along the transverse axis (Y), between a zone proximal to the operator side (30) and a zone distal to the operator side (30); a machining unit (4), movable on the working area (3) and configured to machine the panel (P); a raiser (32), movable between a lowered position, where it is disposed below the working plane, and a raised position, where it is configured to support the panel (P) at a level above the working plane; and an auxiliary system (7), having an active configuration, in which it is operatively coupled to the panel (P) and an inactive configuration, in which it is uncoupled from the panel (P), the auxiliary system (7) being movable along the transverse axis (Y). This invention also relates to a method for machining a panel.