NL2025834B1 - Method, sheet metal processing machine, factory and carrier for handling sheet metal - Google Patents
Method, sheet metal processing machine, factory and carrier for handling sheet metal Download PDFInfo
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- NL2025834B1 NL2025834B1 NL2025834A NL2025834A NL2025834B1 NL 2025834 B1 NL2025834 B1 NL 2025834B1 NL 2025834 A NL2025834 A NL 2025834A NL 2025834 A NL2025834 A NL 2025834A NL 2025834 B1 NL2025834 B1 NL 2025834B1
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- supporting carrier
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B23—MACHINE TOOLS; METAL-WORKING NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- B23K—SOLDERING OR UNSOLDERING; WELDING; CLADDING OR PLATING BY SOLDERING OR WELDING; CUTTING BY APPLYING HEAT LOCALLY, e.g. FLAME CUTTING; WORKING BY LASER BEAM
- B23K37/00—Auxiliary devices or processes, not specially adapted to a procedure covered by only one of the preceding main groups
- B23K37/04—Auxiliary devices or processes, not specially adapted to a procedure covered by only one of the preceding main groups for holding or positioning work
- B23K37/0408—Auxiliary devices or processes, not specially adapted to a procedure covered by only one of the preceding main groups for holding or positioning work for planar work
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B23—MACHINE TOOLS; METAL-WORKING NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- B23K—SOLDERING OR UNSOLDERING; WELDING; CLADDING OR PLATING BY SOLDERING OR WELDING; CUTTING BY APPLYING HEAT LOCALLY, e.g. FLAME CUTTING; WORKING BY LASER BEAM
- B23K37/00—Auxiliary devices or processes, not specially adapted to a procedure covered by only one of the preceding main groups
- B23K37/04—Auxiliary devices or processes, not specially adapted to a procedure covered by only one of the preceding main groups for holding or positioning work
- B23K37/047—Auxiliary devices or processes, not specially adapted to a procedure covered by only one of the preceding main groups for holding or positioning work moving work to adjust its position between soldering, welding or cutting steps
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B23—MACHINE TOOLS; METAL-WORKING NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- B23K—SOLDERING OR UNSOLDERING; WELDING; CLADDING OR PLATING BY SOLDERING OR WELDING; CUTTING BY APPLYING HEAT LOCALLY, e.g. FLAME CUTTING; WORKING BY LASER BEAM
- B23K26/00—Working by laser beam, e.g. welding, cutting or boring
- B23K26/36—Removing material
- B23K26/38—Removing material by boring or cutting
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- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Laser Beam Processing (AREA)
Abstract
The invention. relates to a Inethod. for‘ handling sheet metal, wherein the method comprises the steps of: — providing a sheet metal processing machine for processing the sheet metal; — providing a self—supporting carrier for carrying the sheet metal to and from the sheet metal processing machine; — providing a passageway for the self— supporting carrier through the sheet metal processing machine; — moving the self—supporting carrier through the passageway; and — processing the sheet metal in the sheet metal processing machine on the self—supporting carrier while said self—supporting carrier is in the passageway. The invention. further relates to a sheet metal processing machine, a factory and a carrier for handling sheet metal.
Description
P138562NL00 Method, sheet metal processing machine, factory and carrier for handling sheet metal
BACKGROUND The invention relates to a method, a sheet metal processing machine, a factory and a carrier for handling sheet metal.
A typical metal sheet working factory comprises a factory layout with a warehouse area that stores a large number of metal sheets with different sizes, a processing area with one or more sheet metal processing machines, i.e. laser cutting machines and/or plasma cutting machines, for creating metal parts out of the metal sheets and a sorting area for sorting the metal parts, either within the processing area or as a separate sorting area. The sorting area may comprise several sections, i.e. a first section for sorting small metal parts into product carriers, i.e.
onto pallets or into boxes, a second section for sorting and storing larger metal parts that do not fit the product carriers, and a third section for disposing of scrap, leftovers or remnants. The warehouse area and the sorting area are usually separate from the processing area, i.e. in different halls of the factory, because of the relatively large footprint required by these areas and the limited space available around the sheet metal processing machines.
The metal sheets may vary in size from relatively small metal sheets, i.e. less than three meters in length, to large metal sheets, up to or exceeding eight meters in length.
It is known to use automated warehouse solutions that feed relatively small metal sheets directly onto the working bed of the sheet metal processing machines.
However, these automated warehouse solutions are rather expensive, high-rising constructions that are unable to handle the aforementioned larger sizes of the metal sheets.
Moreover, these automated warehouse solutions still need to be restocked regularly from a warehouse area.
The larger sized metal sheets are transported from the warehouse area to the processing area individually or in special cassettes holding one or more metal sheets.
The metal sheets are very difficult to handle during transport.
A forklift can only safely carry the large metal sheets in a sideways or lateral orientation with respect to the forward driving direction.
The forklift thus requires a clear path through the factory that is at least eight meter wide.
Alternatively or additionally, an overhead crane may be used to handle the metal sheets through at least a part of the factory.
However, not all area of the factory can be reached with the same crane.
In any case, it is inevitable that the metal sheets need to be transferred at least once, i.e. between forklift and the overhead crane and/or from the forklift or the overhead crane onto the working bed of the sheet metal processing machines.
It is further known to provide a pull wagon with a drawbar that can be coupled to a hauling vehicle, i.e. a forklift.
The pull wagon is provided with a platform that is large enough to transport the larger metal sheets from the warehouse to the processing area.
The pull wagon can be maneuvered into position alongside the working bed of one of the sheet metal processing machine.
The metal sheet is subsequently transferred from the platform onto the working bed with the use of an overhead crane.
This solution has not proved very popular because the pull wagon has a very large turning radius which makes it difficult to maneuver.
Moreover, coupling to and uncoupling from the hauling vehicle takes up valuable time.
When the sheet metal processing is completed, the working bed of the sheet metal processing machines holds a collection of metal parts, as well as the remnants of the metal sheet, also known as a scrap skeleton.
In some cases, the metal parts are sorted manually or automatically at the sheet metal processing machines.
Although this comes at the expense of downtime of said sheet metal processing machines and loss of valuable floor space around said sheet metal processing machines, sometimes there is just no better alternative.
Lifting the metal parts and the remnants as a whole from the working bed onto a suitable carrier, i.e. the aforementioned pull wagon, brings the metal parts into such disarray and/or entanglement that automated sorting is no longer possible.
To save time and space in the processing area, the metal parts are just shoved from the working bed and fall randomly into a sorting box or cassette for transport by a forklift to the sorting area.
The metal parts are manually sorted into specific groups or subgroups, depending on the assemblies required by the client or depending on the further processing steps in the factory or routing through said factory.
Depending on the amount Of groups and/or subgroups, the sorting process, either at the sheet metal processing machines or in the separate sorting area, may require many sections and/or sorting positions.
As metal parts of the same group or subgroup may originate from different metal sheets, the metal sheets and metal parts may require even further handling by forklifts and/or overhead cranes in the sorting area.
Alternatively, product carriers, such as pallets or boxes, are repeatedly brought to and moved away from the processing area to collect different metal parts.
Furthermore, the sorting area needs to provide for the disposal of the remnants and the scrap skeleton.
The sorting process can be very laborious and time-consuming task that is prone to human-error.
Although there is a long-felt need to automate the sorting process, the lack of space and the complex logistics in the factory, in particular around the sheet metal processing machines, has prevented the industry from finding a satisfying solution.
After the sorting, the leftovers, remnants or the scrap skeleton of the metal sheet either end up in a scrap bin or are returned to the warehouse area to be reused.
Typically, there is not enough space for a scrap bin next to each sheet metal processing machine.
Moreover, the leftovers may have many different sizes and shapes, from very small to very large, which makes it notoriously difficult to find an effective solution.
Usually, a central scrap bin is provided.
This means that the various remnants of different sizes are being transported through the factory over relatively large distances and with one or more transfers between forklifts and overhead cranes.
As the leftovers, remnants or the scrap skeleton of the metal sheet can be relatively bulky and full of sharp edges, this is a very hazardous operation amidst all other complex logistics within the factory.
As follows from the above discussion of the prior art, the logistics within a metal sheet working factory are very complex and present various challenges regarding safety, efficient use of the available space, automation, maneuverability, equipment (forklifts and overhead cranes) and costs.
Despite the long-felt need to address the aforementioned challenges, it is evident that to this date, the industry has been unable to find a satisfying solution.
Because of the multitude of considerable logistical constraints and bottlenecks inherent to sheet metal processing, even the largest companies in the industry have been unable to optimize and/or automate their production facilities.
It is an object of the present invention to provide a method, a sheet metal processing machine, a factory and a carrier for handling sheet metal, wherein at least one of the aforementioned logistical problems is addressed.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION According to a first aspect, the invention provides a method for handling sheet metal, wherein the 5 method comprises the steps of: - providing a sheet metal processing machine for processing the sheet metal; = providing a self-supporting carrier for carrying the sheet metal to and from the sheet metal processing machine; - providing a passageway for the self- supporting carrier through the sheet metal processing machine; - moving the self-supporting carrier through the passageway; and — processing the sheet metal in the sheet metal processing machine on the self-supporting carrier while said self-supporting carrier is in the passageway.
The carrier is ‘self-supporting’ in the most literal sense that it can maintain its orientation and/or stay up on a ground surface without external supports. In other words, the self-supporting carrier can remain upright outside and/or independently of the sheet metal processing machine. In the context of this invention, the term ‘self- supporting’ should not be interpreted as functioning completely without any outside assistance. In particular, the self-supporting carrier may be moved into and out of the passageway with the use of drive means external to said self-supporting carrier.
With the self-supporting carrier in place in the passageway of the sheet metal processing machine, the processing of the sheet metal can be performed directly on the sheet metal as it is being carried or supported on said self-supporting carrier. The self-supporting carrier can thus effectively form a temporary and/or mobile working bed within the sheet metal processing machine and replaces the integrated working bed of a conventional sheet metal processing machine. The sheet metal can be moved into and removed from sheet metal processing machine without transferring the sheet metal supported thereon to or from the sheet metal processing machine. Consequently, no overhead cranes or forklifts need to interact directly with the sheet metal in the vicinity of the sheet metal processing machine, thereby considerably reducing the complexity of the logistics around the sheet metal processing machine.
When the sheet metal processing machine is used to create metal parts, the metal parts and any leftovers, remnants and/or the scrap skeleton of the sheet metal can be moved out of the sheet metal processing machine and moved towards a sorting area, either near the sheet metal processing machine or in a separate hall of the factory, in substantially the same position in which said metal parts, leftovers, remnants and/or the scrap skeleton are obtained. As such, the risk of entangling the metal parts can be reduced and the metal parts can be sorted more easily, or even automatically. Moreover, the metal parts and the leftovers can remain in place on the self-supporting carrier in a way in which they do not stick out in any direction. Hence, injuries as a result of transporting sharp metal parts and/or leftovers can be reduced or prevented.
The invention can however be applied equally well to a sheet metal processing machine that carries out an automated sorting process. In that case, the self- supporting carrier can be moved into and out of the passageway of the sheet metal processing machine while a manipulator, i.e. a robot, picks up and sorts the metal parts. Because the metals parts are not entangled, they can be identified more easily, i.e. with vision technology, to further automate the sorting process. Again, no transfer is needed thereby enabling such a highly automated sorting process.
The invention provides a unique opportunity to perform the different sheet metal processes in different areas of the factory which are dedicated and/or optimized for said process, without the need to transfer the sheet metal and/or the metal parts obtained therefrom between different modes of transportation when going from one process to the next.
For example, the sorting can be easily separated from the cutting of the metal parts.
Moreover, the sorting can be separated into separate sorting processes and/or sorting sections to effectively handle the various sizes and shapes of metal parts and/or the effectively dispose of the various sizes and shapes of the leftovers, remnants and/or the scrap skeleton.
Preferably, the self-supporting carrier is moved into the passageway at a first side of said passageway and leaves the passageway at second side of said passageway, opposite to the first side.
This has the technical advantage that the next self-supporting carrier can already be positioned at the first side of the passageway for a next cycle of the method to considerably reduce the downtime of the sheet metal processing machine.
In a further embodiment the method further comprises the steps of: - providing a processing area that holds the sheet metal processing machine; — providing at least one of a warehouse area and a sorting area; and — carrying the sheet metal between the processing area and the at least one of the warehouse area and the sorting area on the same self-supporting carrier that moves through the passageway.
Preferably, the sheet metal is carried between the warehouse area, the processing area and the sorting area on the same self-supporting carrier that moves through the passageway.
By moving the self-supporting carrier between the aforementioned areas, there 1s no need for expensive overhead cranes and corresponding overhead track structures to extend between each of these areas.
In particular, the overhead cranes may only be required at the warehouse area to transfer the sheet metal onto the self-supporting carrier.
In a further embodiment the method further comprises the steps of: - providing a carrier drive at the sheet metal processing machine; and - driving the movement of the self-supporting carrier through the passageway with the carrier drive.
Hence, the self-supporting carrier does not require drive means of its own to move through the passageway.
Instead, the self-supporting carrier can be pulled into and/or pushed through the passageway by a carrier drive associated with the sheet metal processing machine.
The carrier drive can for example take over from a forklift that maneuvers the self-supporting carrier up to the sheet metal processing machine.
In another embodiment the self-supporting carrier comprises a platform for supporting the sheet metal and a plurality of wheels mounted to said platform for supporting the platform with respect to a ground surface, wherein the self-supporting carrier is moved through the passageway by rolling the platform on the plurality of wheels over the ground surface.
The self-supporting carrier thus merely requires a clear path on the ground surface to move to any position within a factory.
To enable passage of the self- supporting carrier through the passageway, the sheet metal processing machine needs to provide a clear path over the ground surface along said passageway.
Said clear path may be formed by the bare factory floor or one or more road plates associated with the sheet metal processing machine.
Preferably, the method further comprises the steps of: — providing a powered vehicle; = engaging the self-supporting carrier with the powered vehicle; and - moving the self-supporting carrier to and from the sheet metal processing machine over the ground surface with the powered vehicle. Hence, the self- supporting carrier does not require drive means of its own to move to or from the sheet metal processing machine.
More preferably, the powered vehicle is a forklift with at least one fork, wherein the self- supporting carrier is provided with a plurality of fork apertures in the platform, wherein the method further comprises the steps of: — engaging the self-supporting carrier with the forklift by inserting the at least one fork in one fork aperture of the plurality of fork apertures; and - moving the self-supporting carrier to and from the sheet metal processing machine with the forklift without lifting the plurality of wheels from the ground surface. The forklift does not need to carry the weight of the self-supporting carrier and the sheet metal carried thereon. Instead, it may simply engage the self-supporting carrier and move it around. The forklift can be controlled by a human operator. Alternatively, the forklift may be an autonomous ground vehicle (AGV).
Most preferably, the platform has a longitudinal side and a lateral side that define a length and a width, respectively, of the platform, wherein the length is at least twice the width, wherein the plurality of fork apertures comprises a first group of fork apertures at the longitudinal side and a second group of fork apertures at the lateral side, wherein the method comprises the step of: ~ alternatingly engaging at least one fork aperture of the first group and at least one fork aperture of the second group with the forklift. Alternating between the first group and the second group can greatly enhance the maneuverability of the self-supporting carrier. In particular, the self-supporting carrier can be moved through the factory while engaging the fork apertures of the second group, thus requiring a clear path through the factory that corresponds to the width of the platform. When arriving at the sheet metal processing machine, the fork apertures of the first group may conveniently be engaged to maneuver the self-supporting carrier into position relative to the passageway.
In another embodiment the self-supporting carrier comprises a working bed that directly supports the sheet metal during the processing of said sheet metal. Hence, the processing of the sheet metal can be performed directly on the working bed. Alternatively, the self-supporting carrier may be provided with support elements to support working bed on the self-supporting carrier.
Preferably, the self-supporting carrier further comprises a suction chamber below said working bed for providing suction at said working bed during the processing of the sheet metal, wherein the sheet metal processing machine comprises a pneumatic fitting, wherein the method further comprises the step of: - using the pneumatic fitting to connect the suction chamber to a vacuum source while the self- supporting carrier is in the passageway. The suction chamber may collect residues occurring from the processing of the sheet metal. Hence, no separate suction chambers are required at the sheet metal processing machine.
In another embodiment the method further comprises the step of: - returning the self-supporting carrier to the warehouse area after moving subsequently from the warehouse area to the processing area and from the processing area to the sorting area. The self-supporting carrier can be reused for a next cycle of the method.
In another embodiment the processing of the sheet metal involves a machining operation of the group comprising: cutting, laser cutting, plasma cutting, drilling, deburring, milling and/or punching. The machining operation results in a collection of metal parts which can be handled more easily with the self-supporting carrier, in particular during any subsequent sorting operations.
Alternatively, the processing of the sheet metal invelves an automated sorting operation. As mentioned before, the method according to the present invention can be applied equally well to a sorting process, i.e. the process following the aforementioned machining operation. As the sorting process can be carried out separately from the machining operation, i.e. at a different factory or location, the method according to the present invention also includes a sheet metal processing machine which has automated sorting as its main purpose. By separating the sorting process from the other sheet metal processes, i.e. the cutting, the sorting machine and/or the sorting area can be optimized and/or dedicated for an efficient sorting process, i.e. based on the size and/or shapes of the metal parts and/or leftovers that are being handled in said sorting area.
In a further embodiment the method further comprising the steps of: - processing the sheet metal into different metal parts on the self-supporting carrier; — providing a further self-supporting carrier in the vicinity of the self-supporting carrier; — sorting the metal parts from the self- supporting carrier into sorted groups of metal parts on the further self-supporting carrier; and — sorting the sorted groups of metal parts on the further self-supporting carrier into sub-groups. By first sorting out the metal parts into groups on the further self-supporting carrier, the sorted groups of metal parts can be easily handled during a further sorting step into subgroups. This further sorting step may be automated as well, i.e. by moving the further self-supporting carrier into a further sheet metal processing machine for further automated sorting of the sorted groups into subgroups. As the metal parts remain in (sub)groups on the self- supporting carriers, the number of sorting positions required at or near the sheet metal processing machine(s) can reduced considerably, thereby significantly reducing the complexity of the logistics during the sorting process.
According to a second aspect, the invention provides a sheet metal processing machine for processing sheet metal, wherein the sheet metal processing machine comprises a passageway for passing a self-supporting carrier, which carries the sheet metal to and from the sheet metal processing machine, through said sheet metal processing machine.
The sheet metal processing machine has already been mentioned before as part of the method according to the first aspect of the invention and has the same technical advantages, which will not be repeated hereafter.
Preferably, the sheet metal processing machine further comprises a carrier drive for driving the movement of the self-supporting carrier through the passageway.
In a further embodiment the self-supporting carrier comprises a working bed for directly supporting the sheet metal during the processing of said sheet metal and a suction chamber below said working bed for providing suction at said working bed during the processing of the sheet metal, wherein the sheet metal processing machine comprises a pneumatic fitting for connecting the suction chamber to a vacuum source while the self-supporting carrier is in the passageway.
In a further embodiment the processing of the sheet metal involves a machining operation of the group comprising: cutting, laser cutting, plasma cutting, drilling, deburring, milling and/or punching.
Alternatively, the processing of the sheet metal involves an automated sorting operation.
According to a third aspect, the invention provides a factory comprising the sheet metal processing machine according to the second aspect of the invention, wherein the factory further comprises a self-supporting carrier for carrying the sheet metal to and from the sheet metal processing machine.
The factory or factory layout is provided with the aforementioned sheet metal processing machine according to the second aspect of the invention and thus has the same technical advantages, which will not be repeated hereafter.
Preferably, the factory comprises a processing area that holds the sheet metal processing machine and at least one of a warehouse area and a sorting area, wherein the self-supporting carrier is movable between the processing area and the at least one of the warehouse area and the sorting area. More preferably, the self-supporting carrier is movable between the processing area, the warehouse area and the sorting area.
In another embodiment the sheet metal processing machine further comprises a carrier drive for driving the movement of the self-supporting carrier through the passageway, wherein the self-supporting carrier is provided with a driving surface that is arranged to contact the carrier drive, wherein the self-supporting carrier is arranged to be moved through frictional contact between the carrier drive and said driving surface. The frictional contact can be obtained simply be establishing contact between the driving surface and the carrier drive. Hence, no further manual operations are needed to align, couple and/or disconnect the carrier drive and the self-supporting carrier. Alternatively, the carrier drive may mechanically interact with the self-supporting carrier, i.e. through a hook, a gear rack, timing belt, chain or another suitable mechanical interaction.
In another embodiment the self-supporting carrier comprises a platform for supporting the sheet metal and a plurality of wheels mounted to said platform for supporting the platform with respect to a ground surface, wherein the self-supporting carrier is movable through the passageway by rolling the platform on the plurality of wheels over the ground surface.
Preferably, the plurality of wheels are swivel caster wheels. The swivel caster wheels can passively and/or freely swivel into any direction trailing the overall movement of the self-supporting carrier. By providing all of the wheels as swivel caster wheels, the maneuverability of the self-supporting carrier can be significantly enhanced.
In a further embodiment the self-supporting carrier is provided with a plurality of fork apertures in the platform for receiving at least one fork of a forklift.
Preferably, the platform has a longitudinal side and a lateral side that define a length and a width, respectively, of the platform, wherein the length is at least twice the width, wherein the plurality of fork apertures comprises a first group of fork apertures at the longitudinal side and a second group of fork apertures at the lateral side.
In a further embodiment the self-supporting carrier is provided with a securing member at each fork aperture of the plurality of fork apertures for securing any fork received therein against retraction out of the respective fork aperture. The securing member may prevent that the self-supporting carrier accidentally slides from the fork of the forklift during a sudden deceleration, i.e. as a result of an emergency stop. The securing member may create a mechanical interlock between the fork and the fork aperture, i.e. with a locking pin. Alternatively, the securing member can be a strategically positioned block or flange that the fork can tilt behind during the engagement.
In another embodiment the self-supporting carrier is provided with a braking mechanism that is biased into a braking state to automatically brake at least one wheel of the plurality of wheels, wherein the braking mechanism extends into at least one fork aperture of the plurality of fork apertures and is arranged to move into a release state for terminating the braking of the at least one wheel in response to the at least one fork counteracting the bias of the braking mechanism to the braking state in said at least one fork aperture. To increase the safety, it can be ensured that the self-supporting carrier remains stationary or substantially stationary when no forklift is around to control its movement.
In another embodiment the self-supporting carrier comprises a working bed for directly supporting the sheet metal during the processing of said sheet metal.
Preferably, the self-supporting carrier further comprises a suction chamber below said working bed for providing suction at said working bed during the processing of the sheet metal.
According to a fourth aspect, the invention provides a self-supporting carrier for carrying sheet metal to and from a sheet metal processing machine, wherein the self-supporting carrier comprises a platform for supporting the sheet metal and a plurality of swivel caster wheels mounted to said platform for supporting the platform with respect to a ground surface, wherein the self-supporting carrier is movable by rolling the platform on the plurality of wheels over the ground surface, wherein the self- supporting carrier is provided with a plurality of fork apertures in the platform for receiving at least one fork of a forklift, The self-supporting carrier according to the fourth aspect of the invention can provide a highly maneuverable solution to many of the complex logistic issues presented above in relation to the processing of sheet metal, in particular in the aforementioned applications according to the first, second and third aspect of the invention, but also independently thereof. Because the carrier is self-supporting, the forklift does not need to carry the weight of the self-supporting carrier and the sheet metal carried thereon. Instead, it may simply engage the self-supporting carrier at one of the fork apertures and move it around. The swivel caster wheels can passively and/or freely swivel into any direction trailing the overall movement of the self-supporting carrier, By providing all of the wheels as swivel caster wheels, the maneuverability of the self-supporting carrier can be significantly enhanced.
The technical advantages of the embodiments below have already been discussed in the corresponding embodiments above and will not be repeated hereafter.
Preferably, the platform has a longitudinal side and a lateral side that define a length and a width, respectively, of the platform, wherein the length is at least twice the width, wherein the plurality of fork apertures comprises a first group of fork apertures at the longitudinal side and a second group of fork apertures at the lateral side.
In a further embodiment the self-supporting carrier is provided with a securing member at each fork aperture of the plurality of fork apertures for securing any fork received therein against retraction out of the respective fork aperture.
In a further embodiment the self-supporting carrier is provided with a braking mechanism that is biased into a braking state to automatically brake at least one wheel of the plurality of wheels, wherein the braking mechanism extends into at least one fork aperture of the plurality of fork apertures and is arranged to move into a release state for terminating the braking of the at least one wheel in response to the at least one fork counteracting the bias of the braking mechanism to the braking state in said at least one fork aperture.
In a further embodiment the self-supporting carrier is provided with a driving surface that is arranged to contact a carrier drive of the sheet metal processing machine, wherein the self-supporting carrier is arranged to be moved through frictional contact between the carrier drive and said driving surface. Again, alternatively, the carrier drive may mechanically interact with the self- supporting carrier, i.e. through a hook, a gear rack, timing belt, chain or another suitable mechanical interaction.
In a further embodiment the self-supporting carrier comprises a working bed for directly supporting the sheet metal during the processing of said sheet metal.
Preferably, the self-supporting carrier further comprises a suction chamber below said working bed for providing suction at said working bed during the processing of the sheet metal.
In another embodiment the platform has a longitudinal side and a lateral side that define a length and a width, respectively, of the platform, wherein the length of the platform is at least three meters and the width of the platform is at least one-and-a-half meters. The larger the size of the platform, the more useful the self-supporting carrier according to the invention becomes. In particular with the larger sized sheet metal, up to or exceeding eight meters in length, can be easily handled and/or maneuvered within the factory with the self- supporting carrier. Additionally or alternative, two or more smaller plates of sheet metal may be supported, processed, cut and/or sorted simultaneously on the same self-supporting carrier.
The various aspects and features described and shown in the specification can be applied, individually, wherever possible. These individual aspects, in particular the aspects and features described in the attached dependent claims, can be made subject of divisional patent applications.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION QF THE DRAWINGS The invention will be elucidated on the basis of an exemplary embodiment shown in the attached schematic drawings, in which: figure 1 shows a top view of a factory or a factory layout according to the invention with a warehouse area, a processing area and a first section of a sorting area;
figure 2 shows a top view of the factory according to figure 1 with the first section of the sorting area and a second section of the sorting area; figure 3 shows an isometric view of a self- supporting carrier according to a first exemplary embodiment of the invention for use in the factory according to figures 1 and 2; figure 4 and 5 show a side view and a front view, respectively, of the self-supporting carrier according to figure 3; figure 6 shows a cross section of the self- supporting carrier according to the line VI-VI in figure 5; figure 7 shows a side view of an alternative self-supporting carrier according to a second exemplary embodiment of the invention; and figure 8 shows a cross section of the alternative self-supporting carrier according to the line VIII-VIII in figure 7.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION QF THE INVENTION Figures 1 and 2 show a factory or a factory layout according to the invention for handling, working and/or processing sheet metal. Figures 3-6 show a self- supporting carrier 100 according to a first exemplary embodiment of the invention for use in said factory. The self-supporting carrier 100 is shown in figures 1 and 2 in different positions of the factory. It will be clear that figures 1 and 2 schematically represent the different positions of the self-supporting carrier 100 within the factory at different times during the handling, working and/or processing of the sheet metal. The factory comprises a warehouse area W, a processing area P and a sorting area S. The factory may have multiple warehouse areas, processing areas and/or sorting areas (not shown). The sorting area S may be further divided into a first sorting section S1 and a second sorting section SZ.
One or more of the areas W, P, S and section S81, S2 may be located within the same hall of the factory or each area W, P, S or section S1, S2 may be in a different hall.
Alternatively, one or more of the sorting sections S1, S2 may also be located outside of the Factory, i.e. at a different at a site where the metal parts produced in the factory are assembled.
As shown in figure 1, the warehouse area W comprises one or more storage members 1, i.e. storage racks or storage cassettes, for storing a collection of metal sheets or sheet metal M of different sizes.
The metal sheets M may vary in size from relatively small metal sheets, i.e. less than three meters in length, to large metal sheets, up to or exceeding eight meters in length.
The warehouse area W further comprises an overhead crane 2 or another means for transferring the sheet metal M from one Of the storage members 1 onto the self-supporting carrier 100. Alternatively, a forklift or forklift truck 3 may be used to transfer the smaller metal sheets.
The self- supporting carrier 100 can subsequently carry or support the sheet metal M supported thereon through the factory in a manner that will be described in more detail hereafter.
The processing area P comprises a first sheet metal processing apparatus or machine 4 for processing the sheet metal M, The processing area P may hold further sheet metal processing machines (not shown). In this exemplary embodiment, the first sheet metal processing machine 4 is a laser cutting machine.
Alternatively, the first sheet metal processing machine 4 can perform any other machining operation of the group comprising: cutting, laser cutting, plasma cutting, drilling, deburring, milling and/or punching.
For the purpose of the invention, an automated sorting process is also considered an operation that falis within the scope of sheet metal processing although, in the embodiment as shown, the sorting is carried out in the sorting area S as discussed hereafter.
The first sheet metal processing machine 4 has a passage or passageway 40 that enables the self-supporting carrier 100 to pass through the first sheet metal processing machine 4. In particular, the first sheet metal processing machine 4 comprises one or more guides 41, 42 extending along the passageway 40 to define said passageway 40 and/or to keep the self-supporting carrier 100 within said passageway 40. In this exemplary embodiment, the passageway 40 is open at both ends, meaning that the self- supporting carrier 100 can enter or move into the passageway 40 from one end and exit or move out of the passageway 40 at the opposite end.
The ground surface at the passageway 40 may be the bare factory floor.
Alternatively, one or more ground plates or road plates may be provided (not shown). The first sheet metal processing machine 4 further comprises a processing member 43, in this example, a laser unit, that can be moved in a position overhead the passageway 40 to perform a processing operation, i.e. laser cutting, directly on the sheet metal M supported on said self-supporting carrier 100 positioned in the passageway 40. The first sheet metal processing machine 4 may be provided with a suitable XY drive system 44 to move the processing member 43 to any position above the self-supporting carrier 100 within the passageway 40. As shown in figure 1, the first sheet metal processing machine 4 may further comprise a carrier drive 45 that is arranged to engage the self-supporting carrier 100 and drive the movement of said engaged self-supporting carrier 100 through the passageway 40. In particular, the carrier drive 45 is arranged for establishing frictional contact between the carrier drive 45 and the self- supporting carrier 100, i.e. through a contact wheel or a belt, to push or pull the self-supporting carrier 100 through the passageway 40. Alternatively, the carrier drive 45 may mechanically interact with the self-supporting carrier 100, i.e. through a hook, a gear rack, timing belt,
chain or another suitable mechanical interaction.
After passing through the passageway 40 of the first sheet metal processing machine 4, the sheet metal M is processed into a collection of metal parts N and leftovers M' in the form of remnants, rest plates or a scrap skeleton. When leaving the passageway 40, the metal parts N can remain on the self-supporting carrier 100 in the same orientation and/or position in which they were obtained. Hence, entanglement and/or disarray of the metal parts N can be prevented.
As best seen in figure 1, the first sorting section Sl of the sorting area S comprises a second sheet metal processing apparatus or machine 5 for automatically or semi-automatically sorting the metal parts N on the self-supporting carrier 100 into groups. One or more further self-supporting carriers 200, 300 may be provided in the vicinity of the second sheet metal processing machine 5 to store the metal parts N in said groups and/or to dispose of the leftovers M’ from the second sheet metal processing machine 5.
Like the first sheet metal processing machine 4 in the processing area P of figure 1, the second sheet metal processing machine 5 in the first sorting section S1 has a passage or passageway 50 that enables the self- supporting carrier 100 to pass through the second sheet metal processing machine 5. In particular, the second sheet metal processing machine 5 comprises one or more guides 51, 52 extending along the passageway 50 to define said passageway 50 and/or to keep the self-supporting carrier 100 within said passageway 50. Again, the passageway 50 is open at both ends, meaning that the self-supporting carrier 100 can enter or move into the passageway 50 from one end and exit or move out of the passageway 50 at the opposite end. The second sheet metal processing machine 5 further comprises a processing member 53, in this example, a manipulator or a robot, that can be moved in a position overhead the passageway 50 to perform a processing operation, i.e. automated sorting, directly on the metal parts N supported on said self-supporting carrier 100 positioned in the passageway 50. The second sheet metal processing machine 5 may be provided with a suitable XY drive system 54 to move the processing member 53 to any position above the self-supporting carrier 100 within the passageway 50.
The first sorting section S1 may be the only sorting section of the sorting area S. In this exemplary embodiment however, as shown in figure 2, the second sorting section SZ may comprise a third sheet metal processing machine 6 for automatically or semi- automatically sorting the sorted groups of metal parts N further into subgroups. One or more further self-supporting carriers 400, 500 may be provided in the vicinity of the third sheet metal processing machine 6 to collect or receive the metal parts N and store them in said subgroups. The third sheet metal processing machine 6, like the second sheet metal processing machine 5, has & passage or passageway 60 that enables the further self-supporting carrier 200 from the first sorting section S81 to pass through the third sheet metal processing machine 6. The third sheet metal processing machine 6 is functionally similar or identical to the second sheet metal processing machine 5 and will therefore not be discussed in {further detail.
Figures 3-6 show the self-supporting carrier 100 according to the first exemplary embodiment of the invention. The features of the self-supporting carrier 100 as described below also apply to the one or more further self-supporting carriers 200-500 as shown in figures 1 and
2.
As shown in figure 3, the self-supporting carrier 100 comprises a platform 101 for supporting the sheet metal M and a plurality of wheels 102 mounted to said platform for supporting the platform 101 with respect to a ground surface, i.e. the factory floor, ground plates or road plates. The platform 101 is arranged to extend horizontally, substantially horizontally and/or in a horizontal or level orientation. The self-supporting carrier 100 is movable through the passageways 40, 50, 60 of each of the various sheet metal processing machines 4, 5, 6, as shown in figures 1 and 2, by rolling the platform 101 on the plurality of wheels 102 over sald ground surface. Preferably, the wheels 102 are caster wheels, in particular swivel caster wheels. As such, the caster wheels can freely and/or passively follow and/or trail in the direction of movement of the platform 101.
The self-supporting carrier 100 is further provided with a plurality of fork apertures 131, 132, 133, 134 in the platform 101 for at least partially receiving at least one fork of the forklift 3. In particular, as shown in figure 4, the platform 101 has a longitudinal side 111 with a first group of fork apertures 131, 132. The fork apertures 131, 132 of the first group are preferably spaced apart to enable simultaneous insertion of two forks 30 of the same forklift 3 therein. As shown in figure 5, the platform 101 further has a lateral side 112 with a second group of fork apertures 133, 134. Again, the fork apertures 133, 134 of the second group are preferably spaced apart to enable simultaneous insertion of two forks 30 of the same forklift 3 therein.
Alternatively, the self-supporting carrier 100 may be provided with coupling members (not shown), not necessarily being the fork apertures 131-134, for coupling the self-supporting carrier 100 to an external vehicle, i.e. an autonomous ground vehicle (AGV).
The Longitudinal side 111 and the lateral side 112 define a length and a width, respectively, of the platform 101. Preferably, the length is at least twice the width. The length is preferably at least three meters, more preferably at least five meters and most preferably at least seven meters. The width is preferably at least one- and-a-half meters, and more preferably at least two meters. As such, the platform 101 has sufficient surface area to support the sheet metal M in a range of sizes, Optionally, the self-supporting carrier 100 may be provided with a plurality of support elements 104 on the platform 101, as shown in figure 3, to support a working bed (not shown), i.e. a cutting bed, on the self-supporting carrier 100. The same support elements 104 may also be used to support product holders, such as pallets, boxes or a waste bin, for example for use in the sorting area S. Alternatively, the sheet metal M and/or the metal parts N may be supported directly on the platform 101.
As best seen in figure 6, the self-supporting carrier 100 is provided with a securing member 105 at each fork aperture 131-134 of the plurality of fork apertures 131-134 for securing any fork 30 received therein against retraction out of the respective fork aperture 131-134. The securing member 105 may prevent that the self-supporting carrier 100 accidentally slides from the fork 30 of the forklift 3 during a sudden deceleration, i.e. as a result of an emergency stop. In this exemplary embodiment, the securing member 105 is a strategically positioned block or flange that the fork 30 can tilt behind during the engagement. Alternatively, a securing member may be provided that creates a mechanical interlock between the fork 30 and the respective fork aperture 131-134, i.e. a locking pin (not shown).
As a further safety measure, the self-supporting carrier 100 is optionally provided with a braking mechanism 106 that is biased into a braking state to automatically brake at least one wheel 102 of the plurality of wheels
102. The braking mechanism 106 may for example be biased with a spring that urges the braking mechanism 106 into the braking state. Preferably, the braking mechanism 106 extends into at least one fork aperture 131-134 of the plurality of fork apertures 131-134 and is arranged to move into a release state for terminating the braking of the at least one wheel 102 in response to the fork 30 counteracting the bias of the braking mechanism 102 to the braking state in said fork aperture 131-134. In the exemplary embodiment as shown in figure 6, the braking mechanism 106 comprises a lever 160 that is pivotable against the bias of a spring 161 and that is coupled to a hydraulic cylinder 162 that controls a brake 163 at the wheel 102.
As best seen in figure 5, the self-supporting carrier 100 is provided with a profile 170 to be engaged by the aforementioned carrier drive 45. In particular, the profile 170 defines a driving surface 170 that is arranged to contact a carrier drive 45, i.e. a contact wheel or a belt thereof. The self-supporting carrier 100 can subsequently be moved through frictional contact between the carrier drive 45 and said driving surface 170. The profile 170 may guide the self-supporting carrier 100 relative to the carrier drive 45 along a predefined path, i.e. through the passageway 40. Alternatively, the self- supporting carrier 100 may be provided with one or more openings, protrusions or other means for mechanically interacting with a carrier drive, i.e. through a hook, a gear rack, timing belt, chain or another suitable mechanical interaction.
In a further alternative embodiment, the self- supporting carrier 100 may be driven through the passageway 40 by a carrier drive integrated into said self-supporting carrier 100 or external to said self-supporting carrier 100, in particular, by means of a pushing or hauling vehicle, more in particular a vehicle that is low enough to pass underneath the processing member 43 of the first sheet metal processing machine 4 without interfering with its operation. An example of such a vehicle can be a relatively low autonomously or remotely controlled ground vehicle that does not require a cabin for a human operator.
Figures 7 and 8 show an alternative self- supporting carrier 600 according to a second exemplary embodiment of the invention that differs from the previously discussed self-supporting carriers 100, 200,
300, 400, 500 in that it comprises a working bed 601, i.e. a cutting bed, for directly supporting the sheet metal M during the processing, i.e. cutting, of said sheet metal M. The working bed 601 may replace the aforementioned platform or may be integrated with or placed on top of said platform. Optionally, the alternative self-supporting carrier 600 further comprises a suction chamber 602 below said working bed 601 for providing suction or a partial vacuum at said working bed 601 during the processing of the sheet metal M and an outlet 603 for connection of the suction chamber 602 to a vacuum source. The sheet metal processing machine 4 of figure 1 may be provided with a pneumatic coupling, hose and/or fitting 604, schematically shown in broken lines in figure 8, to connect the outlet 603 to a vacuum source (not shown) at the sheet metal processing machine 4 or elsewhere within the factory. Hence, suction or a partial vacuum can be provided to the suction chamber 602 and/or air can be drawn from the suction chamber 602 while the alternative self-supporting carrier 600 is in the passageway 40.
The method of handling sheet metal M in the factory with the use of any one of the aforementioned self- supporting carriers 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600 will be described hereafter with reference to figures 1 and 2.
As shown in figure 1, sheet metal M may be transferred from the storage members 1 onto the self- supporting carrier 100 with the use of the overhead crane 2 (arrow A) or the forklift 3. The forklift 3 can subsequently engage the self-supporting carrier 100 at the lateral side thereof and steer the self-supporting carrier 100 from the warehouse area W to the processing area P (arrow B). The forklift 3 may release the lateral side of the self-supporting carrier 100 and move around said self- supporting carrier 100 towards the longitudinal side of said self-supporting carrier 100. The self-supporting carrier 100 can then be pushed and/or maneuvered into alignment with the passageway 40 of the first sheet metal processing machine 4 (arrow C). Alternatively, depending on the space available around the machine 4, the forklift 3 may also drive the self-supporting carrier 100 into the passageway 40 from the lateral side.
The self-supporting carrier 100 is then moved through the passageway 40 (arrow E} either with the carrier drive 45 or with another suitable driving means. While the self-supporting carrier 100 is in position below the processing member 43, a sheet metal process, i.e. cutting, may be performed on the sheet metal M. The self-supporting carrier 100 is then moved out of the passageway 40 at the other end. The self-supporting carrier 100 may then be re- engaged by the forklift 3 to pull it further out of the first sheet metal processing machine 4 (arrow F).
The self-supporting carrier 100, with a collection of metal parts N and the leftovers M' of the sheet metal supported thereon, may then be moved by the forklift 3 from the processing area P to the first (or only) sorting section Sl of the sorting area S (arrow G).
There, the process of entry into the passageway 50 {arrow H), moving through said passageway 50 (arrow I) and exiting said passageway 50 (arrow K) is repeated for the second sheet metal processing machine 5.
During the passing of the self-supporting carrier 100 through the passageway 50 of the second sheet metal processing machine 5, the metal parts N supported thereon are sorted into groups on a further self-supporting carrier 200 standing in the vicinity of the second sheet metal processing machine 5. The leftovers M’ of the sheet metal, i.e. the scrap skeleton, are collected on a further self- supporting carrier 300 and can be returned to the warehouse area W (arrow R) or disposed at a centralized scrap location or scrap bin (not shown).
The original self-supporting carrier 100, now empty, can be returned to the warehouse area W for a next cycle of the method (arrow L).
Figure 2 shows an optional further sorting step in the second sorting section S2. The further self- supporting carrier 200 with the sorted groups of metal parts N supported thereon can be moved by a forklift 3 from the first sorting section Sl to the second sorting section 82 (arrow GG’). There, the process of entry into the passageway 60 (arrow H'’), moving through said passageway 60 (arrow I’) and exiting said passageway 60 (arrow K') is repeated for the third sheet metal processing machine 6. During the passing of the further self-supporting carrier 200 through the passageway 60 of the third sheet metal processing machine 6, the sorted groups of metal parts N supported thereon are sorted into subgroups on one or more further self-supporting carriers 400, 500 standing in the vicinity of the third sheet metal processing machine 6.
One or more of the self-supporting carriers 100, 200, 300, 400, 500 may be temporarily stored until the metal parts N supported thereon are required during the abovementioned sorting process. Alternatively, at any one of the sorting sections 81, 82, the metal parts N may be temporarily stored in a buffer station (not shown), i.e. by loading them onto pallets that are selectively transferred into or out of said buffer station. The metal parts N can be pulled from the buffer station back onto one of the self-supporting carriers 100, 200, 300, 400, 500 for further handling. When all metal parts N are collected from the one or more further self-supporting carriers 200, 300, 400, 500, they may be returned LIL’ to the first sorting section 81 (arrow L') or alternatively to the warehouse area W to take part in the next cycle of the method.
It is noted that the highly maneuverable self- supporting carriers 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600 can be easily moved around by one or more forklift 3, independently of the sheet metal processing machines 4, 5,
6. Meanwhile, the sheet metal processing machines 4, 5, 6 can be modified to enable the self-supporting carriers 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600 to move through the respective passageways 40, 50, 60 and allow said self-supporting carriers 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600 to conveniently form or replace the conventional working surface of said sheet metal processing machines 4, 5, 6. As such, the processing operations, i.e. cutting or sorting, can be performed directly on the self-supporting carriers 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600 without the need to transfer the sheet metal M and/or the metal parts N from the self-supporting carriers 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600 onto and from the sheet metal processing machines 4, 5, 6. This can considerably reduce the complexity of the logistics around said machines 4, 5, 6 and significantly increase the overall safety and efficiency of the sheet metal processing.
It is to be understood that the above description is included to illustrate the operation of the preferred embodiments and is not meant to limit the scope of the invention.
From the above discussion, many variations will be apparent to one skilled in the art that would yet be encompassed by the scope of the present invention.
Claims (40)
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| NL2025834A NL2025834B1 (en) | 2020-06-15 | 2020-06-15 | Method, sheet metal processing machine, factory and carrier for handling sheet metal |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| NL2025834A NL2025834B1 (en) | 2020-06-15 | 2020-06-15 | Method, sheet metal processing machine, factory and carrier for handling sheet metal |
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| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| NL2025834B1 true NL2025834B1 (en) | 2022-02-16 |
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| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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| NL2025834A NL2025834B1 (en) | 2020-06-15 | 2020-06-15 | Method, sheet metal processing machine, factory and carrier for handling sheet metal |
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Citations (5)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FR2818624A1 (en) * | 2000-12-22 | 2002-06-28 | Renault | Industrial trolley comprises frame with rollers at top and open end allowing articles to be transferred from roller conveyor, hook mounted on trolley being fitted automatically into ring on conveyor by pivoting cam as trolley approaches it |
| KR20090063998A (en) * | 2007-12-14 | 2009-06-18 | 현대자동차주식회사 | Jig device for roof welding of vehicles |
| US9415984B1 (en) * | 2012-05-15 | 2016-08-16 | Leonard W. Shinosky, Jr. | Method and apparatus for pallet transport with forklift carts |
| CN105922066A (en) * | 2016-05-31 | 2016-09-07 | 安庆市天润工程机械有限责任公司 | Feed supporting device provided with buckles |
| US20180029143A1 (en) * | 2016-07-28 | 2018-02-01 | Mecal S.R.L. | Machining centers for metal profiles |
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2020
- 2020-06-15 NL NL2025834A patent/NL2025834B1/en active
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| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FR2818624A1 (en) * | 2000-12-22 | 2002-06-28 | Renault | Industrial trolley comprises frame with rollers at top and open end allowing articles to be transferred from roller conveyor, hook mounted on trolley being fitted automatically into ring on conveyor by pivoting cam as trolley approaches it |
| KR20090063998A (en) * | 2007-12-14 | 2009-06-18 | 현대자동차주식회사 | Jig device for roof welding of vehicles |
| US9415984B1 (en) * | 2012-05-15 | 2016-08-16 | Leonard W. Shinosky, Jr. | Method and apparatus for pallet transport with forklift carts |
| CN105922066A (en) * | 2016-05-31 | 2016-09-07 | 安庆市天润工程机械有限责任公司 | Feed supporting device provided with buckles |
| US20180029143A1 (en) * | 2016-07-28 | 2018-02-01 | Mecal S.R.L. | Machining centers for metal profiles |
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