Wood Frame Component Processing Machine with Integrated Broaching

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing machines for processing frame components are inefficient as they require components to be unloaded, transferred to a separate broaching machine, and repositioned, resulting in a complex and time-consuming work cycle due to their inability to perform subsequent machining processes in a single operation.

Innovation Solution

A machine with an elongated base, longitudinal guiding members, a bridge crane, working head, clamping vices, and integrated broaching units that allow for in-line processing of components, enabling machining and pin insertion without the need for intermediate transfers, with tools for milling, drilling, and broaching integrated into a single system.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If components are processed on a separate broaching machine after the working head, then pin insertion can be performed, but the work cycle becomes complex and time-consuming requiring unloading and transfer

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprocessing efficiencyVSAvoidwork cycle complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the broaching function into the working head assembly, merging two separate machining operations (milling/drilling and broaching) into a single integrated unit. This allows pin insertion to be performed on the same machine without unloading or transferring components, directly resolving the technical contradiction by improving productivity while reducing work cycle complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The working head is designed with multi-functionality, capable of performing both traditional milling/drilling operations and broaching operations. This universal tooling approach eliminates the need for separate specialized machines, thereby simplifying the work cycle and enhancing processing efficiency

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Productivity

If components are transferred between machines, then subsequent machining processes can be performed, but overall machine dimensions and processing time increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprocessing timeVSAvoidoverall machine dimensions
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLength of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

By integrating the broaching unit into the existing working head and base structure, the patent consolidates multiple machining functions into a single compact system. This eliminates the need for separate broaching machines and transfer mechanisms, thereby reducing overall machine dimensions while simultaneously decreasing processing time

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The integrated design enables continuous processing where components remain clamped in the vices throughout the entire machining sequence. The broaching operation follows immediately after milling/drilling without interruption or transfer, maintaining continuous useful action and minimizing idle time

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

Data Source

PatentEP2159021B1Method and machine for processing components made of wood
Publication Date: 2015.07.15 BIESSE SPA
  • EP2159021B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2159021B1 patent drawingFigure 2~3

AI summary

Method and machine for processing components (2) made of wood having an elongated shape, according to which a component (2) is locked inside at least one clamping vice (16), is processed by means of a working head (12) to form at least one seat (36) in the component (2), and is removed from the clamping vice (16) by means of a grip and transfer unit (19) to be transferred to at least one working unit (27) suitable to insert a pin or ironmongery element inside each seat (36).