Upper Tool Stocker Locking Structure for Safe Tool Change
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing upper tool stockers are not compatible with automatic tool changers for installing and removing divided upper tools from holders with vertical contact surfaces and anti-drop grooves, limiting versatility and safety in press brake operations.
Innovation Solution
A stocker main body with a left-right directional installing groove and movable locking pieces, along with a shutter for regulating and releasing locking piece movement, allows for detachable support of divided upper tools, enabling compatibility with both manual and automatic tool changers and preventing accidental drops.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If locking pieces are made movable to enable tool installation and removal, then ease of operation is improved, but risk of accidental drops during movement is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The locking pieces operate in a periodic manner, alternating between a locked position where they engage with the tool's anti-drop groove to prevent movement, and an unlocked position where they disengage to allow tool installation or removal. This periodic locking and unlocking action ensures the tool is secured during stocker movement while enabling easy installation and removal when needed.
Data Source
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AI summary
An upper tool stocker (83, 97) for detachably supporting a plurality of divided upper tools (17) in a press brake (1) includes a stocker main body (83) extending in a left-right direction, and provided with a left-right directional installing groove (87), attachment portions (79) provided in upper portions of the divided upper tools (17) being detachably installed in the installing groove (87), wherein the stocker main body includes a front-back directional cutout (101A to 101D) communicated with the installing groove to remove the divided upper tools downward or in the front-back direction from the installing groove.