Vacuum Gripping Sheet for Fast Unloading in Vertical Machine Tools
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for unloading processed pieces and swarf from vertical machining centers are inefficient, as they require manual operation, are costly due to the use of anthropomorphic robots, and are complex to program, with limitations in handling pieces of varying dimensions and shapes.
Innovation Solution
A device with a movable frame and a sheet-like gripping element with vacuum openings, allowing simultaneous collection and unloading of pieces, featuring a tiltable and rotatable design with actuating means for efficient movement and vacuum pressure control, enabling quick and versatile handling of pieces without the need for extensive programming.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If manual collection methods are used, then device complexity is reduced, but productivity decreases due to significant unloading time
Solution Approach 1:
The sheet-like element with vacuum openings automatically grips and collects pieces and swarf from the machining surface through vacuum pressure, eliminating the need for complex robotic programming while maintaining high productivity. The system serves itself by using the vacuum pressure to both lift and transport materials simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses vacuum pressure (pneumatics) to grip and transport pieces and swarf. The sheet-like element with vacuum openings creates a pressure differential that automatically lifts and holds materials, providing an efficient collection method that balances simplicity with high productivity.
2Productivity
If anthropomorphic robots with suction cups are used, then productivity is improved through automated collection, but device complexity and programming requirements increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the essential function of material collection from complex robotic systems and implements it through a simple sheet-like element with vacuum openings. By removing the articulated arms and complex control systems while retaining the core vacuum gripping function, the solution achieves automated collection with minimal complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The sheet-like element serves multiple functions simultaneously: it grips pieces and swarf through vacuum pressure, transports them to the collection area, and can be easily repositioned. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for specialized robotic programs for different material types.
3Extent of automation
If suction gripping means are used, then automated handling is achieved, but adaptability decreases for pieces with tapered shapes or small dimensions
Solution Approach 1:
The sheet-like element can be tilted and rotated to adapt to different piece orientations and shapes. This dynamic positioning capability allows the vacuum openings to maintain effective contact with pieces of various geometries, including tapered shapes and small components, while maintaining automated operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the physical parameters of the gripping system by tilting and rotating the sheet-like element to optimize vacuum contact for different piece types. By adjusting the angle and position parameters, the system maintains adaptability across various geometries while preserving automated handling.
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
Significantly reduces unloading time, is cost-effective, and can handle pieces of any dimension, improving productivity by allowing immediate reprocessing of the machining surface.
Implementation Method 1
Said means for the creation of a vacuum are adapted to generate a vacuum pressure at the openings. The vacuum pressure, when the gripping surface is substantially contacting the machining surface, makes it possible to attract the pieces from said machining surface and keep them on said gripping surface of the sheet-like element.
Data Source
AI summary
A device (1) for the movement of sheet-like pieces (P) in a machine tool (M), including a frame (10) moving towards or away from the machining surface (P1) of the machine, a gripping device (20) including a sheet-like element (21) with a gripping surface (21a) having openings (24) and mounted on the frame (10) rotatingly around at least one axis (x) substantially orthogonal to the direction of movement (D) of the frame (10) and element for the creation of a vacuum (25) communicating with the openings (24) and adapted to generate a vacuum pressure at the openings (24), which, when the gripping surface (21a) is substantially next to the machining surface (P1), makes it possible to detach the pieces (P) from the machining surface and keep them on the gripping surface.