Interchangeable Pipe Straightening Press for Bending and Calibration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing calibrating and straightening presses are limited to a single application and do not efficiently utilize production capacities, as they cannot be easily adapted for different tasks without additional investments in separate systems.
Innovation Solution
A device with a changeable calibrating and straightening tool that can be replaced with a bending tool, allowing for the same system to be used for both calibrating and straightening hollow components and bending sheet ends to produce pipes, with tools securely held by a pressure-operable ram and assisted by feeding and discharging conveyors, V-blocks, and a rotating device for precise positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a calibrating and straightening press is designed for a single application, then the device structure is simple and reliable, but the adaptability and productivity are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The press is designed with a universal tool holder that can accommodate both calibrating and straightening tools, as well as bending tools for sheet metal. The tool holder with through-opening allows different tools to be positioned and secured in the same workspace, enabling one press to perform multiple functions that previously required separate dedicated machines
Solution Approach 2:
The pressing device is segmented into functional components: a fixed frame structure, a movable ram with tool holder, and interchangeable working tools. This segmentation allows the tools to be independently changed while the main press structure remains constant, facilitating multi-functionality without redesigning the entire system
2Productivity
If separate dedicated presses are used for different tasks, then each device is optimized for its specific function, but the production capacity utilization and investment efficiency are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The press serves multiple production functions through tool interchangeability. The same press can calibrate pipes, straighten hollow components, and bend sheet metal edges, maximizing the utilization of production capacity and eliminating the need for multiple dedicated presses
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple previously separate functions (calibration, straightening, bending) are merged into a single press system. The tool holder acts as a combining mechanism that integrates different tool functions into one unified device, improving productivity while managing complexity through modular tool design
3Loss of time
If tools are quickly changeable, then the productivity and adaptability are improved, but the device complexity and tool securing reliability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The tool holder is pre-designed with a through-opening and clamping mechanism that anticipates tool installation. The through-opening allows tools to be positioned from the front, and the clamping mechanism is pre-configured to securely hold the tool in place, enabling quick changes without compromising securing reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The tool securing function is extracted as a separate clamping mechanism within the tool holder. This extracted clamping system can quickly engage and disengage tools through the through-opening, reducing tool change time while maintaining reliable tool securing during operation
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
Enables efficient multi-functional use of the device without additional investments, allowing for quick tool changes and precise calibration and bending processes, thereby optimizing production capacity and reducing costs.
Implementation Method 1
a pressure-operable cylinder assembly which is supported on the upper cross member
Implementation Method 2
pressure-operable clamping means on and in the ram can clamp the calibrating and straightening tool and the bending tool
Data Source
AI summary
Device (1) for calibrating and straightening hollow components, preferably welded pipes (2), the device (1) being substantially composed of a frame (5) having two side stands (6, 7), a lower cross member (8) and an upper cross member (9), a ram (10) being provided, said ram (10) being movable toward the lower cross member (8) and back by means of a pressure-operable cylinder assembly (12) supported on the upper cross member (9), and a calibrating and straightening tool (11a) being provided between the lower cross member (8) and the ram (10), wherein the calibrating and straightening tool (11a) is changeably disposed on the lower cross member (8) and on the ram (10) and can be replaced with a bending tool (11b) for bending the lateral ends (3) of sheets (4) to produce pipes (2).