Segmented Machine Door With Spiral Motion for Rapid Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing machine doors suffer from premature failure of guides, hinges, seals, and door limit switches, leading to delays in automated loading and unloading of workpieces, especially when retrofitted with robots or handling devices.
Innovation Solution
A machine door with at least three door segments that move synchronously in a spiral motion, actuated by a drive system, allowing for rapid and automated opening and closing, and featuring a synchronizing mechanism to ensure precise alignment and secure closure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional machine doors with guides and hinges are used, then the door can be securely closed, but the guides and hinges suffer from premature failure
Solution Approach 1:
The door is divided into multiple door segments (at least three) that can move independently relative to each other. Each segment is actuated separately by individual actuating means, allowing the door to open and close without relying on traditional continuous guides and hinges. This segmentation eliminates the wear-prone continuous contact elements while maintaining secure closure through coordinated movement of discrete segments.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the machine door is opened for automated loading with robot or handling device, then workpieces can be loaded, but opening and closing the door leads to delays in automated loading
Solution Approach 1:
The door segments are equipped with actuating means that enable rapid, periodic opening and closing actions. The actuating means can quickly transition the door segments between open and closed positions, creating efficient periodic cycles that minimize the time the door remains open while still allowing automated loading operations to proceed.
Solution Approach 2:
The door system transitions from static traditional doors to dynamic segments that can move independently and rapidly. The actuating means provide controlled dynamic movement of each segment, allowing for optimized opening and closing speeds that reduce cycle time while maintaining safety and functionality for automated loading.
3Area of stationary object
If the machine door provides sufficient access to the process chamber, then workpieces can be loaded, but the door structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The door is segmented into at least three separate segments that can be actuated independently. This segmentation allows the door to provide sufficient opening area for workpiece access while using standardized, modular components for each segment and its actuating means, which can simplify manufacturing and maintenance despite the increased number of moving parts.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a machine door (2) comprising a door frame (10) having an opening (20), at least three door segments (30), and an actuating means (40), wherein the actuating means (40) can move the at least three door segments (30) from a position within the door frame (10) in which the opening (20) is open, to a position outside the door frame (10) in which the opening (20) is closed. Moreover, the present invention relates to a machine (1) comprising a machine door (2) of this kind.