Reconfigurable Work Bench for Panel Machining and Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing work benches in machining centers are inflexible, leading to increased downtime due to the need for manual reconfiguration and limited ability to machine panels of different sizes and orientations, particularly when working on narrow faces parallel to the Y-direction.
Innovation Solution
The work bench features movable supporting and blocking members, motorized conveyor belts, and actuator systems that allow for dynamic reconfiguration and support of panels of varying dimensions, enabling machining of narrow faces in all positions without interrupting machining processes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the work bench uses fixed support elements and conveyor belts, then the structure is simple and stable, but it cannot adapt to panels of different sizes and orientations, increasing downtime for reconfiguration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the support elements and conveyor groups movable rather than fixed. The support elements can move along the Y-axis to adjust their positions, and the conveyor groups can move along the X-axis and raise/lower to adapt to different panel configurations. This dynamic capability allows the work bench to accommodate panels of various sizes and orientations without manual reconfiguration, directly resolving the technical contradiction between adaptability and device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements universality by designing a multi-functional work bench where the same movable support elements and conveyor groups can serve multiple functions: supporting panels during machining, transporting panels along the X-axis, and adjusting to different panel orientations. This eliminates the need for separate fixed structures for each function, achieving versatility while controlling complexity through integrated design.
2Manufacturing precision
If the work bench is configured for specific panel dimensions, then machining precision is maintained, but downtime increases due to manual reconfiguration for different panel sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-programming the positions and configurations of the movable support elements and conveyor groups for different panel types. Before machining begins, the system can automatically configure the work bench for the specific panel dimensions and orientation required, eliminating manual reconfiguration time. The control system stores preset configurations that can be quickly activated, maintaining machining precision while minimizing downtime.
Solution Approach 2:
The dynamic movement capabilities of the support elements and conveyor groups enable rapid reconfiguration between different panel configurations. The system can transition from one preset configuration to another during panel changeover, maintaining machining precision through controlled movement while significantly reducing the time required compared to manual reconfiguration of fixed structures.
3Ease of operation
If the panel is positioned at fixed locations on the work bench, then support and blocking are simplified, but the machining group cannot access narrow faces parallel to the Y-direction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves this contradiction by making the support elements movable along the Y-axis rather than fixed at specific locations. This allows the support elements to dynamically adjust their positions to accommodate panels in various orientations, including those with narrow faces parallel to the Y-direction. The machining group can access narrow faces because the support elements can be repositioned out of the way or adjusted to provide clear access paths.
Solution Approach 2:
The work bench is segmented into multiple independently movable support elements rather than a single fixed support structure. This segmentation allows individual support elements to be positioned and adjusted independently to accommodate different panel configurations, providing both ease of operation through modular control and versatility in accessing narrow faces at various positions.
4Device complexity
If manual loading and unloading is used, then the work bench structure is simpler, but productivity decreases due to operator involvement and slower cycle times
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by equipping the work bench with automatic conveyor groups that can independently transport panels along the X-axis and position them for machining without operator intervention. The conveyor groups can automatically raise and lower, and the movable support elements can self-adjust to panel positions, enabling the work bench to service itself during panel loading, unloading, and repositioning operations, thereby increasing productivity while maintaining reasonable structural complexity.
Data Source
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AI summary
Work bench (2) for a machine (M), to support, block and move a workpiece, wherein said work bench (2) extends longitudinally along a first direction (X), and transversely along a second direction (Y), orthogonal to said first direction (X), comprising at least two supporting and blocking member (21), for supporting and blocking said workpiece, arranged for forming a workpiece supporting bench (23), and at least one conveyor group (22), for moving said workpiece along said first direction (X), wherein said at least one conveyor group (22) is at least partially interposed between said at least two supporting and blocking members (21), at least when it does not move said workpiece, wherein said at least two supporting and blocking members (21) are movable along said first direction (X).