Round Head Clamp Pressure Feedback for Stretch Bending

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Solution Overview

Problem

Numerical control machines face inefficiencies due to the need for multiple clamps for different workpiece sizes, leading to wasted time and resources, and excessive clamping force monitoring issues that result in energy consumption and workpiece damage.

Innovation Solution

A numerical control machine with a round head clamp and hydraulic system, including a clamping force monitoring device that calculates pressure and adjusts clamping force in real-time using a sensor and data processing module, allowing for dynamic control of oil pressure to maintain a preset clamping force.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If multiple clamps are used for different workpiece sizes, then the workpiece can be held securely, but the time is wasted and working efficiency is reduced due to frequent clamp changes

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveworkpiece holding securityVSAvoidworking efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies universality by designing a single round clamp that can accommodate multiple workpiece sizes through adjustable clamping mechanisms. The round clamp features a variable opening capability and adjustable clamping force, allowing one clamp to perform the function of multiple fixed-size clamps, thereby eliminating the need for frequent clamp changes while maintaining secure workpiece holding

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements dynamics by introducing an adjustable clamping mechanism that can dynamically adapt to different workpiece sizes and shapes. The round clamp includes adjustable jaws or segments that can change their configuration and clamping force according to the specific workpiece requirements, providing both versatility and secure holding

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Reliability

If excessive clamping force is applied, then the workpiece is held firmly, but energy consumption increases and workpiece damage occurs

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveworkpiece holding firmnessVSAvoidenergy consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies feedback by implementing a monitoring device that detects the actual clamping force applied to the workpiece. This feedback mechanism allows the control system to adjust the clamping force dynamically, ensuring that only the necessary force is applied to hold the workpiece securely, thereby preventing excessive energy consumption and workpiece damage

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements parameter changes by allowing the clamping force parameter to be adjusted and optimized based on workpiece characteristics. The system can modify the clamping force level according to the specific requirements of different workpieces, ensuring firm holding while minimizing energy consumption and avoiding damage

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Ease of operation

If fixed clamping force is used, then the hydraulic system is simple to operate, but it causes heavy clamping marks and workpiece damage

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvehydraulic system operation simplicityVSAvoidclamping marks and workpiece damage
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies feedback by incorporating a monitoring device that provides real-time information about the clamping force and its effects on the workpiece. This feedback enables the system to automatically adjust the clamping force to prevent harmful effects while maintaining ease of operation through automated control

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements self-service by enabling the hydraulic system to automatically regulate its own clamping force based on monitored conditions. The system can self-adjust the clamping parameters to prevent damage without requiring manual intervention, combining operational simplicity with damage prevention

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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

Enables efficient clamping of various workpiece sizes without replacing chucks, reduces energy consumption, and prevents workpiece damage by dynamically adjusting clamping force, improving resource utilization and forming efficiency.

Implementation Method 1

The sensor is set in the mounting groove and for detecting the pressure between the hydraulic rod and the internal module

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPressure detection:

Implementation Method 2

a hydraulic system for applying pressure to the round head clamp to clamp the workpiece

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHydraulic pressure: Hydraulic Press

Data Source

PatentUS11517953B2Numerical control machine for stretch bending and monitoring method for clamping force of round clamp thereof
Publication Date: 2022.12.06 HEFEI UNIV OF TECH
  • US11517953B2 patent drawing
  • US11517953B2 patent drawing
  • US11517953B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A NC machine for stretch bending and monitoring method for clamping force of round clamp thereof is invented, which includes a round head clamp, a hydraulic system and a clamping force monitoring device. The round head clamp includes a housing, an internal module arranged in the housing and a positioning member for positioning the internal module in the housing. The hydraulic system includes a hydraulic rod and a hydraulic ram for pushing the hydraulic rod. The clamping force monitoring device includes a sensor and a data processing module. The present invention is suitable for the workpiece of different shapes and sizes. In this invention, the clamping force can be adjusted in real time when it needs to be changed, and this not only can avoid the problems of excessive energy consumption, excessive clamping marks and damage of the workpiece, but also save energy and protect the workpiece.