Press Brake Tool Storage With Rotating Feed for Fast Tool Changes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bending tool storage devices require significant space and construction effort, with low storage density and high costs, and are inefficient in loading and changing tools due to the need for extensive movement of tools even when not in use.
Innovation Solution
A compact bending tool storage device with a rotating mechanism that allows tools to be stored inclined to the supply path, utilizing a combination of transfer devices and tool guides to optimize space and automate the loading process, enabling quicker tool changes and increased storage density.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If tools are stored in traditional linear arrangements, then the storage device is simple to construct, but the space utilization is low and storage density is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from linear tool storage to a two-dimensional radial arrangement where tools are stored along guide rails extending from a central rotating device. This dimensional change allows multiple tools to be accessed simultaneously at different radial positions, significantly increasing storage density while reducing the overall footprint area.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotating device with multiple guide rails is nested within a compact housing structure. The guide rails are arranged concentrically around the rotation axis, with tools stored in a nested configuration along the radial direction, maximizing space utilization within the limited area.
2Ease of operation
If all storage locations rotate with tool changes, then tool sequence and orientation are automatically corrected, but the drive system becomes complex and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of rotating the entire storage system, the patent segments the rotation function into a separate rotating device that only rotates when tool changes are needed. The guide rails remain stationary during normal operation, and only the active tool transfer mechanism rotates, simplifying the drive system while maintaining tool orientation control.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a static linear arrangement to a dynamic radial configuration where the rotating device can adjust its angular position. This dynamic adjustment allows the system to optimize tool orientation and sequence without requiring continuous rotation of the entire storage structure, reducing drive complexity.
3Productivity
If tools are moved continuously during storage and retrieval, then the system is simple to construct, but time is lost due to unnecessary movement
Solution Approach 1:
Tools are pre-positioned along the guide rails in the correct sequence and orientation during loading. The rotating device is positioned in advance to align with the required tool, eliminating the need for time-consuming rotations during tool changes. This preliminary arrangement significantly reduces tool change time while maintaining system simplicity.
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 significantly reduces space requirements, enhances storage density, and automates the loading process, resulting in faster tool changes and reduced production costs by optimizing the orientation and sequence of tools along the deployment path.
Implementation Method 1
a rotating device (7) for rotating the bending tools (2) between the transfer point (6) and the provision path (10)
Implementation Method 2
a first transfer device (5) for transferring a bending tool (2) between the storage locations (4) and a transfer point (6)
Implementation Method 3
the storage device has at least a second transfer device (20), by means of which a bending tool (2) can be moved along the tool guide (11) of the provision path (10)
Implementation Method 4
a tool guide (11) for holding and guiding bending tools (2)
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a bending tool storage device (1) for storing bending tools (2), comprising: a preferably shelf-type rack (3) on which a plurality of storage locations (4) for bending tools (2) are arranged, at least one supply path (10), preferably in the form of a tool guide (11), for issuing and/or retrieving bending tools (2), and at least a first transfer unit (5) for transferring bending tools (2) between the storage locations (4) and a transfer point (6), characterized in that the bending tool storage device (1) includes, between the transfer point (6) and the supply path (10), a rotating mechanism (7) for rotating the bending tools (2).