Support Pin Positioning for Laser Cutting Cycle Time
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing workpiece support apparatuses require extended cycle times for cutting operations due to the need to selectively pull down support pins after the workpiece is introduced to the machining position, as the electromagnet for attracting the pins is only activated at the machining position.
Innovation Solution
A workpiece support apparatus with a conveyor-type system that includes support members held by holders and driven by conveyor belts, utilizing a lock release mechanism and movement restricting members to switch the support members' holding positions along a revolving path before reaching the machining position, allowing the support members to avoid laser beam irradiation and minimize cycle time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the electromagnet is provided at the machining position to selectively pull down support pins, then the support pin is prevented from being melted by the laser beam, but the cycle time is extended because the selective pull-down can only be performed after the workpiece is introduced to the machining position
Solution Approach 1:
The electromagnet is activated before the workpiece reaches the machining position to pull down the support pin in advance. This preliminary action ensures the support pin is protected from laser beam irradiation while allowing the workpiece to be processed without delay, thus resolving the contradiction between protection reliability and cycle time loss.
2Reliability
If the support member is held at a first holding position to support the workpiece, then the workpiece can be properly positioned for machining, but the support member must be switched to a second holding position to avoid laser beam irradiation, requiring additional mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The support member utilizes its own weight and the gravitational force to automatically switch between the first and second holding positions. When the electromagnet releases the support member, it naturally falls to the lower position under gravity, eliminating the need for additional complex switching mechanisms while maintaining reliable workpiece positioning during machining.
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 configuration enables the support members to be switched to non-irradiated positions before reaching the machining area, reducing the overall cycle time for workpiece cutting and minimizing the need for additional power sources by utilizing the support members' weight and mechanical forces.
Implementation Method 1
an electromagnet that selectively attracts and pulls down the respective support pins arranged to be urged in an upward direction
Implementation Method 2
a machined portion of the workpiece is irradiated by a laser beam from a nozzle of a machining head
Implementation Method 3
a material of the machined portion is melted or evaporated by the laser beam
Implementation Method 4
a material of the machined portion is melted or evaporated by the laser beam
Data Source
AI summary
A workpiece support apparatus is provided with a plurality of support members. The support members support a workpiece. Each support member moves along a moving path to a machining position while the support member is held at a first holding position for supporting the workpiece or a second holding position which is spaced apart from the first holding position. At least one support member is displaced from the first holding position to the second holding position or from the second holding position to the first holding position along a machining trajectory, before the support member arrives at the machining position whenever each support member is moved to the machining position.