Tool Head Positioning Mechanism for Converting Machines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tool head positioning systems in converting machines are inefficient and lack precision, leading to prolonged downtime and reduced quality in producing box templates of varying sizes and shapes.
Innovation Solution
A tool head positioning device that combines a conveyor arrangement, such as a toothed belt, with individual transport mechanisms and attachment mechanisms like clamps, allowing simultaneous movement of all tool heads and precise individual adjustments, enabling quick and flexible repositioning within the converting area.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If tool heads are moved one at a time or all together then repositioned individually, then the positioning can be completed, but the machine experiences prolonged downtime and reduced productivity
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning system is segmented into a joint transport mechanism for moving all tool heads together to general areas, and individual transport mechanisms for precise positioning of each tool head. This segmentation allows parallel operation of multiple tool heads during positioning, reducing total positioning time while maintaining precision through individual adjustment capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The joint transport mechanism performs preliminary action by moving all tool heads simultaneously to their general destination areas before individual precise positioning is required. This preliminary collective movement eliminates the need to move each tool head individually step-by-step, significantly reducing positioning time while the subsequent individual positioning ensures manufacturing precision.
2Productivity
If tool heads are repositioned quickly, then downtime is reduced, but positioning precision and stability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The two-stage positioning system segments the repositioning task into a fast collective transport phase using the joint mechanism, followed by a precise stabilization phase using individual mechanisms. This allows quick movement to reduce downtime while ensuring final positioning stability through individual adjustment and locking capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The joint transport mechanism acts as an intermediary that handles the bulk movement of tool heads quickly, while the individual transport mechanisms serve as mediators for final precise positioning. This intermediary division of labor allows the system to benefit from both fast collective transport and precise individual positioning without compromise.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple different dimensions of fanfold materials are arranged side by side, then the machine can produce different box template sizes, but the complexity of tool head positioning increases
Solution Approach 1:
The joint transport mechanism provides a universal platform that can transport any number of tool heads to any position along the converting area. This multi-functional capability allows the system to handle multiple fanfold material dimensions and produce various box template sizes using the same positioning infrastructure, reducing the need for multiple specialized positioning systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The positioning system is designed to be dynamic and adaptable, allowing tool heads to be moved individually or collectively based on the specific production requirements. This dynamic capability enables the system to efficiently switch between different box template sizes and configurations without requiring complex reconfiguration, as the same mechanisms can adapt to various positioning scenarios.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a method for positioning a plurality of tool heads in a converting machine for converting sheet material into box templates, comprising: providing a plurality of tool heads located at a first set of individual positions within a converting area, moving the plurality of tool heads within the converting area in a first movement by means of a transport mechanism that is arranged to be coupled individually to each tool head, moving at least one of the plurality of tool heads in relation to the transport mechanism in a second movement, wherein the plurality of tool heads are moved to a second set of individual positions by the first and second movement, and wherein the second movement takes place during the first movement. The invention also relates to a tool heads positioning device.