Punching Apparatus Single Actuator Tool Orientation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-tool punching apparatuses require three separate actuators for moving the ram and selecting and angularly orienting the punching tool, leading to complex motion transmission, large dimensions, and high costs.
Innovation Solution
A punching apparatus with a single rotating actuator is used for both selecting and angularly orienting the punching tool by integrating the tool holder unit and beating element, reducing the need for multiple actuators through a coupling mechanism that allows the tool holder unit and beating element to rotate together, enabling the tool to be positioned and oriented using a single actuator.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If three separate actuators are used for moving the ram and selecting and angularly orienting the punching tool, then the punching tool can be positioned and oriented, but the device complexity, dimensions, and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of tool selection and angular orientation into a single rotational actuator. The tool holder unit and beating element are integrated to rotate together as a unified assembly, allowing one actuator to perform both tool selection (by positioning) and angular orientation (by rotation) simultaneously, thereby reducing the number of actuators from three to one.
Solution Approach 2:
The single rotational actuator serves multiple functions: it positions the tool holder unit to select a specific punching tool, and simultaneously rotates the integrated beating element to achieve the required angular orientation. This multi-functional actuator replaces three separate actuators, simplifying the system while maintaining full operational capability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If three separate actuators and motion transmission means are used, then complete tool control is achieved, but the dimensions and weight of the apparatus increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the tool holder unit and beating element into an integrated assembly that rotates together. This merging eliminates the need for separate actuators for tool selection and orientation, significantly reducing the total weight of moving components while preserving full adaptability for tool control.
Solution Approach 2:
A single rotational actuator performs both tool selection and angular orientation functions, replacing three separate actuators. This multi-functional approach reduces the overall weight of the apparatus by eliminating redundant actuator systems and their associated motion transmission means.
3Manufacturing precision
If three separate actuators are used, then precise tool positioning and orientation are achieved, but the costs of the apparatus increase
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated tool holder unit and beating element rotate together as a single assembly, requiring only one actuator. This merging reduces the number of precision components needed, lowering manufacturing costs while maintaining the same level of positioning and orientation precision through the unified rotational mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The single rotational actuator provides both tool selection and angular orientation control, eliminating the need for three separate precision actuators. This multi-functional design reduces manufacturing complexity and cost while achieving the same manufacturing precision for tool positioning and orientation.
Data Source
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AI summary
A punching apparatus comprises a tool holder unit (20) rotatable around a working axis (X) and provided with a plurality of seats (21) suitable for slidably housing respective punching tools (10), a beating element (2) movable along and around the working axis (X) and provided with an operating end (7) having a beating portion (8), to selectively interact with a set punching tool (10), first driving means (3) for moving the beating element (2) along the working axis (X) so as to move set punching tool (10) and second driving means (4) for rotating the tool holder unit (20) around the working axis (X); the operating end (7) of the beating element (2) comprises a first coupling element (9) and the tool holder unit (20) comprises a plurality of second coupling elements (22) each of which is associated with a respective seat (21) and arranged to couple with the first coupling element (9) in a connection configuration (F) in which the beating element (2) and the tool holder unit (20) are coupled and rigidly rotate; the second driving means (4) in a selection configuration (E) rotates the tool holder unit (20) for positioning the set punching tool (10) so that the latter faces the beating portion (8) of the operating end (7) and allows the first coupling element (9) to couple with the second coupling element (22) that is associated with the seat (21) of the set punching tool (10) and, in the connection configuration (F), rotates the tool holder unit (20) and the beating element (2) which are mutually connected for angularly orienting the set punching tool (10).