Panel Workpiece Handling Module With Vertical Lift and Grip
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing machine designs for processing plate-shaped workpieces lack a compact and flexible loading and unloading system that efficiently utilizes movement axes and devices, leading to inefficiencies in handling and processing.
Innovation Solution
A loading and unloading device with a vertically aligned lifting device and a vertically downward gripping device, supported by moveable struts, allows for compact integration and flexible positioning, enabling the device to be lowered for loading and raised for unloading, with multiple modules that can be driven and controlled for precise positioning and handling of workpieces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a separate handling device is provided for removing processed workpiece parts, then workpiece handling capability is improved, but device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the lifting device and gripping device into a single integrated loading and unloading module. The lifting device raises processed workpiece parts from the workpiece support, while the gripping device simultaneously grips and positions new workpieces. This merging of functions reduces the number of separate handling devices needed while maintaining comprehensive workpiece handling capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The loading and unloading module performs multiple functions: it loads new workpieces onto the workpiece support, unloads processed workpiece parts, and positions workpieces in precise locations. By making this single module universal, the patent eliminates the need for separate specialized handling devices for each function.
2Productivity
If multiple loading and unloading modules are provided, then handling flexibility and productivity are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the loading and unloading system into multiple independent modules, each capable of handling specific workpiece regions. These segmented modules can operate independently or in coordination, allowing the system to handle different workpiece sizes and configurations simultaneously, thereby improving productivity without requiring a single complex monolithic device.
Solution Approach 2:
The loading and unloading modules are designed with movable components including support struts that can be adjusted in position and height. This dynamic capability allows the modules to adapt their configuration based on workpiece dimensions and processing requirements, providing flexibility without permanently increasing structural complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If support struts are made moveable and adjustable, then adaptability to different workpiece sizes is improved, but structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The support struts are designed as moveable components that can be adjusted in position along the base frame and in height to accommodate different workpiece sizes. This dynamic adjustability allows the same structural elements to serve multiple workpiece configurations without requiring separate fixed structures for each size category.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustable support struts serve multiple functions: they provide structural support, enable positioning of the lifting and gripping devices, and adapt to different workpiece dimensions. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate specialized support structures.
4Volume of moving object
If vertical alignment of lifting and gripping devices is implemented, then space utilization and compactness are improved, but mechanical complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions the lifting device vertically above the gripping device, utilizing the vertical dimension to stack functions. This vertical alignment allows both devices to operate within a compact footprint by stacking their operational zones in the vertical direction rather than spreading them horizontally, thereby improving space utilization.
Solution Approach 2:
By vertically aligning the lifting and gripping devices, the patent merges their spatial requirements into a single compact module. The lifting device operates on the upper level while the gripping device operates below, and both share common support structures and control systems, reducing overall mechanical complexity despite the vertical arrangement.
Data Source
AI summary
A loading and unloading device for a machine, a machine for machining panel-like workpieces, and a workpiece support for such a machine and a method for loading and unloading such a machine, having a loading and unloading module, wherein the loading and unloading module has a vertically upwardly oriented raising device for lifting a cut-free workpiece part and a vertically downwardly oriented gripping device (38) for holding an unmachined, panel-like workpiece.