Sensor-Guided Pipe Pressing for Material-Specific Crimping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional pressing machines apply uniform maximum force for crimping, disregarding the unique crimping properties of different fitting materials, leading to suboptimal and potentially damaging deformation.
Innovation Solution
A press machine equipped with a sensor system to identify the type of tubular workpiece, adjusting motor parameters and pressing forces based on the identified material, using sensors like cameras, RFID, NFC, and Bluetooth modules, and a control unit to optimize the deformation process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If uniform maximum force is applied for crimping, then the pressing machine can handle all fitting types, but the deformation is suboptimal and potentially damaging to different materials
Solution Approach 1:
The pressing machine dynamically adjusts the pressing force based on the identified fitting material type. The control unit receives material identification from the sensor system and automatically modifies motor parameters to apply the appropriate pressing force for each material, transitioning from static uniform force to dynamic adaptive force.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the pressing force parameter according to the fitted material type. Different material types (copper, plastic, composite, stainless steel) have different optimal pressing forces, and the control unit adjusts this parameter automatically based on sensor identification results.
2Manufacturing precision
If material-specific pressing forces are applied, then optimal deformation is achieved, but the device complexity increases due to sensor systems and control mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual material identification and force selection with an automated sensor system and control unit. The sensor system (camera, RFID, NFC, or Bluetooth) automatically identifies the material, and the control unit automatically adjusts the motor parameters, eliminating the need for manual intervention and reducing operational complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The pressing machine performs self-identification of the workpiece material and self-adjustment of pressing parameters. The sensor system automatically detects the fitting type, and the control unit automatically selects and applies the appropriate pressing force without requiring operator knowledge or manual setup.
3Device complexity
If conventional pressing machines are used, then the structure is simple, but the pressing force cannot be adjusted for different materials leading to potential damage
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements a feedback loop where the sensor system continuously identifies the fitting material type, and the control unit uses this information to adjust the pressing force in real-time. This closed-loop control ensures that the pressing force always matches the material requirements, preventing over-pressing and damage.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a press machine, in particular a pipe press machine, for the plastic deformation of a tubular workpiece, especially a fitting. The press machine comprises press jaws and a motor configured to drive the press jaws to apply a force to the workpiece. The invention further relates to a method for operating such a press machine, press jaws, and a tubular workpiece.