Stretch Rolling Manipulator Layout for Parallel Multi-Step Forming
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing stretch-rolling devices face limitations in output due to high structural complexity and the need for multiple gripping devices, which complicates the handling of workpieces with varying lengths across different stages.
Innovation Solution
A stretch-rolling device with a pair of work rolls and a manipulator equipped with a plurality of gripping devices, where workpieces are transferred between stages using a tray, allowing for parallel occupation of stages without additional manipulators, and incorporating length compensation mechanisms to handle varying workpiece lengths.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple gripping devices are installed on opposite sides of the rollers to enable parallel occupation of stages, then the output of workpieces is increased, but the structural complexity and design effort increase considerably
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple gripping devices (first and second gripping devices) onto a single manipulator structure, allowing parallel occupation of multiple stages while avoiding the need for separate manipulators on opposite sides of the rollers. This merging approach increases productivity while reducing structural complexity compared to the prior art of using two gripping devices on opposite sides.
Solution Approach 2:
The manipulator is designed with universal functionality to handle multiple workpieces simultaneously at different stages through its multiple gripping devices. This multi-functional design allows a single manipulator structure to perform the work of what would traditionally require multiple separate gripping systems, thereby increasing output without proportionally increasing structural complexity.
2Productivity
If two gripping devices are used per step to grip the workpiece at both ends for parallel occupation of stages, then output increases, but length compensation between individual gripping devices becomes necessary to ensure reliable rolling
Solution Approach 1:
The gripping devices are designed with adjustable and movable characteristics, allowing dynamic adaptation to different workpiece lengths at various stages. The manipulator can adjust the position and configuration of its gripping devices to accommodate the changing dimensions of workpieces as they progress through different rolling stages, eliminating the need for complex pre-configured length compensation mechanisms.
Data Source
Figure 1a~1c
Figure 2a~2c
Figure 3a~3c
AI summary
The invention relates to a stretch rolling device (1) and to a stretch rolling method for the pressure forming of workpieces (W) by rolling. The stretch rolling device (1) comprises: a working roller pair having two rollers (10), which can be rotated about their roller axes and form a nip between themselves, the rollers (10) realizing a plurality of steps (S1 to S4) in the axial direction, which are designed to incrementally form the workpieces (W) by virtue of the fact that the workpieces (W) successively pass through the steps (S1 to S4); a manipulator (20) having a plurality of gripping apparatus (21), which are arranged on a working side (AS) of the working roller pair and are designed to grip the workpieces (W) and to guide said workpieces through the nip in an advancing/retracting direction at an associated step (S1 to S4); a rest (30), which is designed to temporarily support workpieces (W) and, in cooperation with the manipulator (20), to transfer said workpieces to another gripping apparatus (21), preferably to the adjacent gripping apparatus (21) of the next higher step (S2 to S4).