Rotating Bending Dies for Sharp and Radius Transitions
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current automated bending devices for forming three-dimensional signs lack the ability to efficiently transition between sharp and radius bends using a single tool, requiring multiple tools and complicating the production of side panels with edge flanges for structural integrity and mounting.
Innovation Solution
An automated strip-bending device with interchangeable rotating bending dies that can switch between sharp and radius bending positions using a single tool, eliminating the need for additional tools and allowing for tighter bends and smaller letter formations by rotating the dies to accommodate different bending requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If multiple separate bending tools are used for sharp bends and radius bends, then each tool can be optimized for its specific function, but the device complexity increases and tool transitions become time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The bending die is designed with a rotating mechanism that allows a single tool to perform both sharp bends and radius bends by changing its orientation. The die can be rotated to present different functional surfaces (sharp edge for break bends, rounded surface for radius bends) to the material, eliminating the need for multiple separate tools while maintaining precision for both bending types
2Device complexity
If a single bending tool is used for both sharp and radius bends, then device complexity is reduced, but the manufacturing precision and versatility are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The bending die incorporates a rotating mechanism that dynamically changes its functional configuration during operation. By rotating the die between different angular positions, the single tool dynamically switches between sharp bend mode (with sharp edge contact) and radius bend mode (with rounded surface contact), maintaining high precision for both operations through active reconfiguration rather than static design
3Productivity
If traditional bending devices are used, then simple bending operations can be performed, but faster transitions between break bends and radius bends cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The rotating bending die is pre-configured with both sharp edge and rounded surface functionalities on the same tool. This preliminary preparation allows instant switching between bend types by simply rotating the die to the appropriate position, eliminating the time loss associated with physically changing tools or reconfiguring complex multi-tool systems
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is directed towards an automated bending device for bending a strip of material into a desired shape. The device is either a single or dual bending tool with interchangeable rotating bending dies which allows for a faster transition from a break bend to a radius bend using air cylinders for positioning of the tools.