Punching Device Mold Horizontal Adjustment Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing punching devices face challenges in achieving simple and precise adjustment of molds, particularly in returning to the zero position after tool changes, which affects the accuracy and efficiency of sheet punching and embossing processes.

Innovation Solution

The punching device incorporates an upper and lower crucible with a positive and negative mold system, where the counter-mold is connected to a plate held in a frame, allowing horizontal adjustment via an actuator-driven clamping mechanism, enabling precise positioning and easy return to the zero position through a control device.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If traditional adjustable stops and screws are used to position molds, then the device structure remains simple, but the adjustment precision and ease of returning to zero position deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadjustment precisionVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical adjustment systems (screws, stops, and locking mechanisms) with an actuator-driven system. The actuator automatically positions the mold frame horizontally relative to the crucible, eliminating the need for manual screw adjustments and providing precise, repeatable positioning including automatic return to zero position.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The system enables self-positioning through the actuator mechanism that automatically returns the mold frame to its zero position without requiring manual intervention. The clamping mechanism works in conjunction with the actuator to maintain precise positioning while allowing easy reconfiguration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Productivity

If manual adjustment methods are used, then the device complexity remains low, but the productivity and efficiency of mold reconfiguration deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveproductivityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The manual adjustment process is replaced by an automated actuator system that horizontally positions the mold frame relative to the crucible. This substitution of mechanical systems significantly reduces the time required for mold reconfiguration and improves productivity during tool changes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The actuator system pre-positions the mold frame at the zero position and maintains readiness for quick reconfiguration. The clamping mechanism is designed to quickly release and re-clamp, enabling rapid tool changes without extensive manual adjustment procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Reliability

If traditional clamping mechanisms are used, then the ease of manufacture is improved, but the reliability of precise alignment deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvealignment reliabilityVSAvoidease of manufacture
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

Traditional screw-based clamping and positioning systems are replaced with an actuator-driven mechanism that provides more reliable and consistent alignment. The actuator ensures precise horizontal positioning of the mold frame relative to the crucible, improving alignment reliability while maintaining manufacturability through standardized components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The actuator mechanism serves multiple functions: positioning the mold frame horizontally, maintaining clamping force, and enabling automatic return to zero position. This multi-functionality improves alignment reliability while avoiding the need for separate adjustment and clamping systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentEP2087972B1Device for punching
Publication Date: 2012.02.15 HEIDELBERGER DRUCKMASCHINEN AG
  • EP2087972B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2087972B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2087972B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The device has a positive mold provided with a punching and/or grooving blade and connected with an upper cup. A negative mold comprises a vacuum plate (20) and held in a frame (24). A counter mold is screwed with the plate. The frame is connected with a lower cup (9) by a clamping mechanism such as pneumatic cylinder (21). The frame is horizontally movable together with the plate relative to the lower cup by an adjusting device (23), where the plate supports the counter mold that is formed by a punching sheet. An independent claim is also included for a method for punching a sheet made of paper or cardboard, in a sheet punching and/or embossing machine.