Pneumatic Distribution Unit With Movable Separator for Flexible Bar Grouping
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional distribution units for pneumatic elements in machining centers have a rigid separation between sections, limiting the ability to adjust the number of fluid outlets associated with machining and loading bars, making it difficult to accommodate workpieces of varying sizes efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A distribution unit with a movable separator element that allows dynamic separation of fluidic channels, enabling flexible association of more or fewer bars with machining and loading bars by controlling the fluid flow through electrovalves and a logic control unit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed separator element is used in the distribution unit, then the sections are clearly separated and fluid distribution is controlled, but the number of fluid outlets is fixed and cannot be adjusted for different workpiece sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The separator element is made movable between a first position and a second position, allowing dynamic reconfiguration of the distribution unit. This enables the same distribution unit to serve different workpiece sizes by adjusting the separator position, thereby achieving adaptability without requiring multiple fixed configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The distribution unit is designed to perform multiple functions by using a single movable separator element that can create different outlet configurations. The same physical structure serves both as a separator and as a configurable divider, allowing the distribution unit to adapt to various machining scenarios without requiring separate units for different workpiece sizes.
2Adaptability or versatility
If independent electrovalves are used for each fluid outlet to achieve dynamic separation, then flexibility is improved, but costs and system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using multiple independent electrovalves for each outlet, the invention merges the control function into a single movable separator element. This single element simultaneously controls the fluid distribution to multiple outlets by its position, thereby achieving flexibility while reducing the number of control components and simplifying the overall system.
Solution Approach 2:
The movable separator element acts as an intermediary mechanism that translates a single control input (separator position) into multiple output configurations (fluid distribution patterns). This intermediary approach provides flexibility without requiring direct control of each individual outlet, thus reducing system complexity.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The present invention relates to a distribution unit (1) for pneumatic elements, comprising: one or more sections (S1-S6), each section comprising: a first fluid inlet (122) and a second fluid inlet (124); a plurality of fluid outlets (1261, 1262, 1271-1276); and a fluidic channel extending from said first fluid inlet (122) to said second fluid inlet (124), said fluidic channel (128) being fluidically connected to said plurality of fluid outlets (1261, 1262, 1271-1276); and wherein the distribution unit (1) comprises at least one separator element (11), said separator element (11) being movable between a rest position and an active position wherein said at least one separator element (11) interrupts said fluidic channel (128) separating at least one of said plurality of fluid outlets (1261, 1262, 1271-1276) from a respective one of said first inlet (122) or said second fluid inlet (124).