Swivel Workpiece Table for Automated Sheet Turnover
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing machine tools for sheet metal forming struggle with efficiently and reliably turning large workpieces over during machining, often resulting in bent edges or manual, time-consuming operations that are prone to errors.
Innovation Solution
A machine tool with a workpiece table featuring a swivel plate pivotably mounted relative to a base plate, allowing for controlled and automated turnover of workpieces, utilizing a holding unit and movement device to manage the swivel movement and maintain workpiece stability during the process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual turnover by operator is used, then flexibility in handling various workpiece geometries is maintained, but time consumption increases and operating errors occur
Solution Approach 1:
The workpiece table performs turnover automatically through its own swivel plate mechanism, eliminating the need for external turnover devices or manual operator intervention. The table serves itself by integrating the turnover function directly into its structure, thereby reducing time loss and improving reliability.
2Extent of automation
If separate turnover device is used, then automated turnover is achieved, but device complexity increases and space requirements expand
Solution Approach 1:
The turnover function is merged with the workpiece table by integrating a swivel plate directly into the table structure. This combination eliminates the need for separate turnover devices, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining automated turnover capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The workpiece table is designed with multi-functionality by incorporating both the supporting function and the turnover function into a single device. The swivel plate enables the table to perform both workpiece support and automated turnover, reducing the need for additional dedicated turnover equipment.
3Productivity
If workpiece is released before complete deposition, then turnover speed increases, but edge bending occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The swivel plate is designed to complete the entire turnover movement before the workpiece is released. This preliminary completion of the deposition action ensures that the workpiece is fully and correctly positioned on the table before any release occurs, preventing edge bending while maintaining efficient turnover speed.
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
Enables reliable, damage-free, and efficient turnover of workpieces across various geometries and sizes, reducing operational time and minimizing the risk of errors, while maintaining high precision in machining.
Implementation Method 1
the swivel plate is pivotably mounted relative to the base plate in such a way that a swivel movement of the swivel plate can be generated for turning the workpiece over
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a machine tool (10), in particular a long folding machine, for machining a workpiece (12) made of flat material such as sheet metal, comprising: a workpiece table (14) defining a supporting area (16) on which the workpiece (12) can be placed at least in sections during machining; and at least one machining unit (18) for machining the workpiece (12). The workpiece table (14) comprises at least one table assembly (20) having a base plate (22) and a swivel plate (24), the base plate (22) and the swivel plate (24) each defining a portion of the supporting area (16), wherein the swivel plate (24) is pivotably mounted relative to the base plate (22) in such a way that a swivel movement of the swivel plate (44) can be generated for turning the workpiece (12) over. The invention further relates to a workpiece table and a method for machining a workpiece made of flat material.