Unified Punching Laser Positioning Mechanism
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing machine tools with combined punch/laser capabilities face inefficiencies in positioning the laser accessory unit due to the need for separate and complex accessory unit positioning devices, which complicates the alignment and operation of both the punching and laser processing devices.
Innovation Solution
The punch-side positioning device is used to define the operating position of both the punching tool component and the laser accessory unit, allowing for a simpler and unified positioning mechanism that reduces the complexity of the accessory unit positioning device, enabling a single functional unit to perform both punch-side and laser processing functions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a separate accessory unit positioning device is used for the laser accessory unit, then the positioning function is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The punch-side positioning device is designed to perform dual functions: positioning the punching tool component and defining the operating position of the laser accessory unit. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for a separate accessory unit positioning device, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining the required positioning capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the positioning function for the punching tool and the laser accessory unit into a single integrated positioning mechanism. The punch-side positioning device simultaneously controls both components, combining what would traditionally be separate positioning systems into one unified device.
2Manufacturing precision
If a complex accessory unit positioning device is used, then precise positioning is achieved, but the alignment and operation of both punching and laser processing devices becomes complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The punch-side positioning device serves as a universal positioning system that simultaneously positions both the punching tool component and the laser accessory unit. This eliminates the need for separate positioning mechanisms and their associated alignment procedures, simplifying operation while maintaining precision through the unified control approach.
3Adaptability or versatility
If separate positioning devices are used for punching and laser processing, then each function is independently controlled, but the overall system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the positioning control for both punching and laser processing into a single punch-side positioning device. This unified approach maintains the ability to independently position each component while eliminating the complexity of having separate positioning systems, achieving a balance between adaptability and simplicity.
Data Source
AI summary
A machine tool for processing workpieces, in particular metal sheets, has a punching device and a laser processing device. The punching device comprises a punch-side positioning device by means of which a punching tool component of a punching tool can be positioned in a definable position along an operating stroke axis of the punching device. The laser processing device has a laser processing unit and a laser accessory unit. The laser accessory unit can be positioned by means of an accessory unit positioning device with an activation movement in an operating position which can be defined by means of the punch-side positioning device. In the context of a method for processing workpieces, in particular metal sheets, which method is carried out using the above machine tool, the operating position of the laser accessory unit is defined by means of the punch-side positioning device.