Running Bar Alignment Control in Metal Press Sliding Guides
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for monitoring and correcting the central alignment of components in extrusion presses, such as running bars and container holders, are indirect and difficult to automate, leading to challenges in maintaining high dimensional accuracy and repeatability of the pressing process.
Innovation Solution
A method that continuously measures the central alignment of slidingly guided components within a press frame by sensing reference points in a plane transverse to the longitudinal axis and automatically adjusts guide elements using an open-loop or closed-loop control system to correct deviations, allowing precise monitoring and alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If indirect measurement via guide shoes and pressure elements is used, then alignment deviations can be detected, but automated monitoring and central alignment become difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the indirect mechanical measurement system (guide shoes and pressure elements) with a direct optical measurement system. Optical sensors directly measure the position of the running bar relative to the press frame, eliminating the need for mechanical intermediaries and enabling automated monitoring and correction of alignment deviations.
2Manufacturing precision
If manual correction by operating personnel is used, then alignment deviations can be corrected, but productivity and repeatability are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a closed-loop feedback system where optical sensors continuously monitor the position of the running bar, and the control system automatically adjusts the guide elements to correct any alignment deviations. This eliminates manual intervention, maintains precise central alignment, and improves productivity by enabling continuous operation without manual correction stops.
Solution Approach 2:
The press system performs self-correction of alignment deviations through automated control of the adjustable guide elements. The system monitors its own state and automatically makes corrections without external intervention, improving both precision and productivity.
3Reliability
If adjustable guide shoes with pressure elements are used, then positive-locking contact with guides is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the complex mechanical guide shoe and pressure element mechanism with a simpler system using optical sensors and adjustable guide elements. The optical measurement system eliminates the need for resilient connections and pressure elements, reducing mechanical complexity while maintaining measurement reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for monitoring and changing the position of at least one component, more particularly a running bar, slidingly guided within a press frame between abutments of the press frame is disclosed. A central alignment of the component within the press frame is continuously measured and the alignment of the component within the press frame is corrected as a function of the acquired measurement result by preferably automatically adjustable guide elements of the sliding guides of the press. The central alignment of the slidingly guided component within the press frame is measured by the sensing of the location of at least one, preferably two, reference points of the slidingly guided component preferably in a plane extending perpendicularly to the longitudinal center axis of the press. A press having automatically adjustable guide elements and means for controlling the guide elements as a function of the measured position of the component.