Integrated Stock Lifter Assembly to Prevent Shearing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current metal forming dies are labor-intensive and costly to design, manufacture, and modify due to the custom nature of their components, and existing stock lifter assemblies are prone to sheering and require extensive machining, leading to inefficiencies and high expenses.
Innovation Solution
A stock lifter assembly featuring a cylindrical guide pin body with a cap and base, secured by a spring member and retainer, which reduces the number of components and minimizes the space required within the die assembly, while using a securing member to prevent sheering and simplify installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional stock lifter assemblies with multiple components (pin, guide, retaining features) are used, then the lifting function is achieved, but the device complexity increases and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the guide pin, retaining features, and lifting function into a single integrated cylindrical guide pin body. The guide pin body includes an outer end portion with lifting surface, a medial portion with securing member aperture, and an inner end portion with retainer groove, eliminating the need for separate components while maintaining all necessary functions.
2Reliability
If traditional stock lifter assemblies with multiple components are used, then the lifting function is achieved, but the space required within the die assembly increases
Solution Approach 1:
The integration of multiple functions into a single guide pin body significantly reduces the space required. The cylindrical guide pin body with its compact design incorporating the cap aperture, securing member aperture, and retainer groove eliminates the space needed for separate retaining pins, guides, and mounting features.
3Productivity
If traditional stock lifter assemblies are used with driving force applied, then the stock lifting function is achieved, but sheering of the guiding component and retaining pin can occur
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated guide pin body eliminates separate retaining pins that are prone to sheering. The securing member aperture and retainer groove provide built-in retention features that are more robust than traditional separate retaining pins, while the unified structure distributes shear forces more effectively throughout the component.
4Adaptability or versatility
If custom-designed and handcrafted components are used in metal forming dies, then the die can be tailored to specific parts, but the manufacturing time and cost increase substantially
Solution Approach 1:
The cylindrical guide pin body is designed as a universal component that can be used across different die applications. The standardized structure with cap aperture, securing member aperture, and retainer groove allows for repeatable manufacturing and easier customization compared to traditional handcrafted components, reducing both time and cost.
5Manufacturing precision
If carefully machined precision holes and recesses are required for mounting components, then the components can be securely installed, but the labor intensity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated guide pin body requires fewer precision mounting features. The securing member aperture and retainer groove are formed as part of the single component manufacturing process, eliminating the need for separate precision holes and recesses in the die set for mounting multiple individual components.
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
The stock lifter assembly reduces the complexity and cost of metal forming die components, enhances stability by preventing sheering, and streamlines the installation process, thereby lowering the overall expense and lead time for die assembly and maintenance.
Implementation Method 1
a spring member that has a generally hollow interior with an outer end portion oriented toward the stock piece and an inner end portion oriented away from the stock piece. The outer end portion of the spring member contacts a surface of the outer end portion of the cap. The inner end portion of the spring member contacts the exterior shoulder formed on the base.
Data Source
AI summary
A stock lifter for metal forming dies includes a self-contained assembly. The assembly includes a guide pin that reciprocates within a base. A hardened end cap, which contacts the stock, is attached to the guide pin. A spring is located on the exterior surface of a portion of the base and surrounds the guide pin body. One end of the spring contacts a surface on the cap, while the other end of the spring contacts a surface on the base or an optional mounting flange that is attached above the base. Thus, the stock lifter assembly has a hardened cap for the stock to slide on and a larger, externally mounted spring that provides longer life for the stock lifter. The stock lifter assembly can be made of several different lengths and sizes by using longer or wider guide pins and springs.