Stacking Device Cam Mechanism for Sheet Sampling Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing stacking devices in forming machines have limited access to the sheet stack, making it difficult for operators to sample sheets efficiently due to the narrow opening created by the pivoting arms.
Innovation Solution
A stacking device with a mobile surface and actuating mechanism using cam means, including follower rollers and control profiles, allows the stacking surface to move between retracted and stowed positions, opening access over the entire height of the stack for easier sampling, replacing the traditional articulated pivot axis with a more robust and economical design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the stacking surface is moved using traditional articulated pivot arms, then the stacking function is achieved, but the access to the sheet stack becomes narrow and difficult for sampling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the stacking surface from the traditional articulated pivot mechanism and relocates it to a fixed position above the sheet stack. By removing the moving arms and pivot points, the system opens complete access to the stack while maintaining stacking functionality through a different mechanical approach using a fixed stacking surface and sheet conveying mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a horizontal movement approach (articulated arms moving the stacking surface back and forth) to a vertical positioning approach (fixed stacking surface above the stack). This dimensional change allows operators to access the entire height of the stack from the front without obstruction from moving mechanical components.
2Productivity
If the stacking surface remains in the path accessing the stack, then the stacking structure is compact, but the operator's work for sampling is hindered
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the stacking surface from the access path area and positions it fixedly above the stack. This extraction eliminates the obstruction caused by the stacking surface being in the operator's path, allowing unrestricted access to the entire stack height for efficient sampling operations.
3Ease of operation
If the stacking surface is raised above the stack, then complete access is opened, but the mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the complex articulated pivot mechanism with a simpler fixed positioning system. The stacking surface is held in a fixed position above the stack, and sheet delivery is achieved through coordinated movement of the sheet conveying mechanism rather than moving the stacking surface itself, reducing mechanical complexity.
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
This design provides a wide and accessible path for sampling sheet-shaped elements, enhancing operational efficiency and ease of use by allowing the stacking surface to be raised above the stack, facilitating the sampling process.
Implementation Method 1
the actuator comprises cam means configured to move the stacking surface upwardly in the retracted position, in a raised position meant to be located above the top of the sheet stack
Implementation Method 2
the cam means comprise at least a first follower roller secured to the stacking surface and at least a first control profile cooperating with the at least one first follower roller to guide said movement of the stacking surface
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a stacking device (10) for placing sheet-shaped elements (P) in stacks in a forming machine (1), said stacking device (10) comprising:a movable stacking surface (11), andan actuating device (12) for moving stacking surface (11):between a retracted position and a vertical forward position in a reciprocating back-and-forth motion for stacking sheets, andbetween the retracted position and a stowed position to open an access to the stack of sheet-shaped elements (P),characterized in that the actuator (12) comprises cam means configured to move the stacking surface (11) upwardly in the retracted position, in a raised position to be located above the top of the sheet stack.The invention also relates to a machine forming sheet-shaped elements comprising at least one such stacking device.