EP4366894A1

EP4366894A1 - Processing machine, workpiece table and method for processing a workpiece

Info

Publication number: EP4366894A1
Application number: EP22740812.7A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Nikolaus Franz Duscher
Original assignee: Evobend GmbH
Current assignee: Evobend GmbH
Priority date: 2021-07-07
Filing date: 2022-06-28
Publication date: 2024-05-15
Also published as: DE102021117488A1; AU2022306084A1; US20240238860A1; WO2023280635A1

Abstract

The invention relates to a processing machine (10), more particularly a long folding machine, for processing a workpiece (12) made of flat material such as metal sheet, comprising: a workpiece table (14), which defines a support surface (16) onto which the workpiece (12) can be at least partly laid during the processing; and at least one processing unit (18) for processing the workpiece (12). The workpiece table (14) comprises at least one table assembly (20), which has a main plate (22) and a pivoting plate (24), wherein the main plate (22) and the pivoting plate (24) define respective portions of the support surface (16), and wherein the pivoting plate (24) is mounted for pivoting relative to the main plate (22), such that a pivoting movement of the pivoting plate (44) for turning the workpiece (12) can be produced. The invention also relates to a workpiece table and to a method for processing a workpiece made of flat material.

Description

Processing machine, workpiece table and method for processing a workpiece

The invention relates to a processing machine, in particular a sheet metal processing machine, a workpiece table and a method for processing a workpiece.

Various processing machines for processing workpieces made of flat material, such as sheet metal, are known from the prior art. Such processing machines can be provided, for example, for forming and/or cutting processing. Only examples are bending machines, presses and punches.

So-called long folding machines are often used to manufacture profiles. These can be so-called swivel bending machines, which can bend a workpiece held between bending beams about a bending axis by controlled swiveling of a processing tool. Such machines are known, for example, from EP 2 014 381 B1 or from DE 199 01 797 A1.

DE 10 2018 000344 B3 also discloses a bending machine which has clamping cheeks of a similar design but a different bending mechanism. Linearly movable base elements are arranged on the Klemmwan gene. Bending tools, which can be moved linearly relative to the base elements, are in turn attached to the base elements. By superimposing two linear movements, the movement curves of the bending tool can be freely adapted and followed precisely.

Depending on the target geometry of the machined workpiece, it may be necessary during the machining process to turn the workpiece, i.e. to turn its underside up and its top down. In many cases, this is done manually by the machine operator, which is time-consuming and can provoke operator errors.

In addition, various turning devices are known by means of which workpieces can be turned automatically Sized. A first known turning device is designed as a separate machine, which is arranged opposite a workpiece holder of a long folding machine. Such a turning device is used, for example, by the Jorns company, as can be seen in a video that can be accessed at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0PcxtS-9smA. The long folding machine has a workpiece table, which consists of a receiving area within which the workpiece to be processed is arranged during bending, can be moved out between the bending beams. By extending the workpiece table, the workpiece is moved towards the turning device. The workpiece is then completely in front of the clamping jaws and can be picked up by the grippers of the turning device. The workpiece is then turned and placed back on the extended workpiece table. After flipping, the previous top is on the bottom and the previous bottom is on the top. The workpiece table can then be retracted so that the workpiece is again arranged in the receiving area for further processing.

Another known turning device is integrated into a long folding machine. Grippers and/or suction cups are arranged on an upper bending tool, which in turn is attached to an upper clamping cheek. An example of a commercially available turning device of this type is the so-called "sheet turning unit" from Thalmann, the way it works can be seen in a video that can be accessed at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xQluWyKwc6A. An extendable workpiece table is also used in this variant. When extended, the workpiece is completely outside of the pickup area. To turn the workpiece, the bending tool is swiveled forward so that the grippers attached to it come into contact with the top of the workpiece. The top is gripped and the workpiece is swiveled back together with the bending tool, whereby the workpiece is already rotated more than 90 degrees into a partially turned state. The workpiece is then released and slides back onto the workpiece table from the partially turned state. Since the previous top is already pointing downwards in the partially turned state, the workpiece falls onto the previous top, which consequently forms the new underside. The workpiece comes to rest completely turned on the workpiece table. The workpiece table can then be pulled back again.

A turning device is also known from the prior art, which is arranged within the receiving area of a long folding machine. The company ASCO uses such a turning device, which can be seen in a video that can be accessed at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IJtcBh_UJA. Grippers of the turning device are arranged within the receiving space and emerge between table assemblies. For turning, an upper clamping beam is swung up to create space inside the machine. Turning then takes place in the receiving space, which is enlarged as a result, by suitably moving the grippers.

Depending on the turning device used, turning can be more difficult if a particularly large workpiece is being used. In addition, it can happen that edges of the Be bent workpiece if this is released before it is completely stored. There are therefore restrictions for certain workpieces and certain workpiece geometries that can make turning difficult or impossible.

Although there are different variants of turning devices, there is still a need, based on the prior art, for a possibility of being able to turn a workpiece in a controlled, damage-free and reliable manner as far as possible.

This object is achieved according to the invention by a processing machine, a work table and a method according to the independent claims. Further developments can be found in the dependent claims.

According to the invention, a processing machine for processing a workpiece made of flat material can comprise a workpiece table which defines a support surface on which the workpiece can be placed at least in sections during processing. In addition, the processing machine can include a processing unit for processing the workpiece. The processing can take place when the workpiece is placed on the support surface. The workpiece table can comprise at least one table assembly which has a base plate and a pivot plate, the base plate and the pivot plate each defining a portion of the supporting surface, and the pivot plate being pivotably mounted relative to the base plate in such a way that pivoting movement of the pivot plate is for a Turning the workpiece can be generated.

Furthermore, according to the invention, a workpiece table for a processing machine can define a support surface onto which a workpiece can be placed during processing in such a way that the workpiece rests at least in sections on the support surface. The workpiece table can comprise a table assembly which has a base plate and a pivot plate, the base plate and the pivot plate each defining a section of the support surface, and the pivot plate being pivotable relative to the base plate, in particular in an automated manner, in such a way that a pivoting movement for a turning of the workpiece can be generated. The work table can be a work table for a machine tool according to the invention.

The invention can also relate to a method for processing a workpiece made of flat material with a processing machine. The processing machine includes a workpiece table that defines a support surface on which the workpiece can be placed at least in sections during processing, the processing machine also including at least one processing unit for processing the workpiece, and the tool piece table comprises at least one table assembly having a base plate and a pivot plate, wherein the base plate and the pivot plate each define a portion of the support surface, and wherein the pivot plate is pivotally mounted relative to the base plate. The method may include placing the workpiece on the support surface. In addition, the method can include machining the workpiece. In addition, the method may include generating a pivoting movement of the pivot plate to turn the workpiece. The method can also include processing the turned workpiece. In particular, the method is carried out with a machining machine according to the invention and/or with a workpiece table according to the invention.

The features of the invention make it possible to turn a workpiece in a controlled manner. Damage when turning can be avoided. Turning can be performed very reliably. By turning the tool using a swivel plate, which is part of a table assembly, limitations on turning operations can be largely avoided. In addition, turning can be extremely time-efficient. A turning can also take place in almost all stages of workpiece processing and/or for completely different workpiece geometries.

The flat material can be sheet metal, specifically a metal sheet, for example, but it can also be a different material, in particular a plastically deformable material. The processing machine can be a sheet metal processing machine. In one embodiment of the invention, the processing machine is a bending machine, in particular a long folding machine. The bending machine can be, for example, a single bender or a double bender. In other embodiments, the processing machine can also be a press, a punch, a bending machine or the like. In general, the invention can be used with processing machines in which a work table can be used and/or is used as described herein. The invention extends in principle to machines such as, in particular, two-column machines in which the work piece table can extend to a rear side of the machine or in which the work table over an entire bending length from two opposite sides, ie from the front and from rear, is accessible. The turning device can then be arranged on the back. In other words, viewed from a side from which the machine can be loaded, the swivel plate can be arranged behind the base plate.

The workpiece can then be turned behind the machining tool, for example.

The workpiece can be clamped in a clamping plane. The clamping plane can be defined by the bearing surface. The base plate and/or the swivel plate can have an at least substantially closed surface. The base plate and/or the pivot plate can also define the support surface in other ways, for example by providing suitable support points. For example, the base plate and/or the pivoting plate can be embodied, at least in sections, in the manner of a lattice, grid, mesh, perforated, ribbed, knobbed, etc. In the context of this disclosure, the term “plate” can be understood primarily in a functional sense.

The processing machine and/or the workpiece table can comprise a number of table assemblies which together define the support surface. The processing machine and/or the workpiece table can include different table assemblies. For example, at least one table assembly can be provided with a swivel plate and at least one further table assembly without a swivel plate. The table assembly or the table assemblies can / can functionally form a table on which the workpiece can be placed.

The workpiece is turned in particular in such a way that one side of the workpiece, which represents an underside lying on the supporting surface before turning, represents an upper side directed away from the supporting surface after turning. In other words, flipping can be distinguished from turning, in which an orientation of the workpiece is changed but its top surface is maintained. The turning can take place around an axis that lies in a main extension plane of the workpiece. The pivoting movement takes place in particular out of a plane that is defined by the surface support surface.

In some embodiments, the processing machine and/or the workpiece table and/or the table assembly can comprise a rotating unit, by means of which the workpiece can be rotated. Accordingly, the method according to the invention can include a step in which the workpiece is rotated. Turning can be done independently of turning. The turning takes place, for example, about an axis which is at least essentially perpendicular to the main plane of extent of the workpiece.

The workpiece table can be designed as a module. A modular workpiece table can be used for different machine types. Alternatively, the work table can be integrated with other components of the processing machine.

The processing machine and/or the workpiece table preferably includes a control unit that is set up to control different components and thus, for example, to implement a partially automated or automated control. In particular, if the workpiece table has a modular design, it can have its own control unit, which can be connected to a control unit of the processing machine and/or is set up to exchange data with it and, for example, to receive commands from it.

In particular when the processing machine is designed as a long folding machine, it preferably comprises a first clamping jaw and/or a second clamping jaw.

The clamping cheeks can be plate-like and/or plate-shaped. The clamping jaws may slope away from a flex area and define a tapered receiving area. In the clamped state, for example, a clamped section of the workpiece then lies on the support surface in the receiving area. A section of the workpiece to be bent can protrude from the receiving space between the clamping cheeks. When the section to be bent is bent about a bending axis, it is pivoted relative to the clamping cheeks. The clamping cheeks preferably define the bending axis.

In particular, the machining unit includes a machining tool that can be moved relative to the workpiece table. The processing unit can be net angeord on a clamping cheek. In this way, for example in the case of a long folding machine, bending can take place in that the bending unit moves its processing tool towards the workpiece and/or exerts a tensile force on the workpiece.

Restrictions due to cramped space conditions when turning can be avoided in particular and/or a high degree of freedom with regard to workpiece geometries to be turned can be achieved in particular if the processing machine includes a receiving area in which the workpiece is arranged at least in sections during processing and/or or can be arranged, wherein the pivoting plate for the wen is and/or can be arranged outside of the receiving area. Viewed from the processing tool, the receiving area can be arranged behind the aforementioned clamping cheeks. The clamping jaws mentioned can provide access to the receiving area, for example when they are moved away from one another. The turning can be towards the receiving area. Turning is preferably done entirely outside of the pickup area. It goes without saying that, depending on the structure of the machine, the pivoting plate can be arranged in front of or behind the receiving area. The information “in front of” and “behind” can refer to a front side of the machine. This can be defined by a side from which loading takes place in normal operation and/or by a side on which the section of the workpiece to be bent is located during bending. In one embodiment, the processing unit is set up to bend a section of the workpiece relative to a clamped section of the workpiece about a bending axis. The pivoting movement of the pivot plate can be defined by at least one pivot axis, which is arranged at least essentially parallel to the bending axis. In this way, a high level of efficiency can be achieved, for example because no unnecessarily extensive additional movements of the workpiece are required when it is turned between bending processes. The bending axis is preferably in the vicinity of a plane defined by the bearing surface. The near area can be, for example, an area whose contained points are at most 5 cm, preferably at most 2 cm and particularly preferably at most 1 cm away from said level. If the pivoting movement of the pivot plate is described by a certain movement path, which deviates in particular from a circular path, the movement path can run in a plane which is perpendicular to the bending axis.

Damage-free and controlled turning can be achieved in particular when the table assembly has a holding unit which is designed to hold the workpiece stationary relative to the swivel plate for turning, so that the workpiece follows a movement of the swivel plate in a held state. This can also be achieved in particular when the workpiece is held stationary to the swivel plate when turning in the method according to the invention. The holding unit can have at least one holding element. The holding element can be part of the swivel plate. The holding element is preferably set up to exert a holding force on the workpiece in a holding state, for example a mechanical and/or hydraulic and/or magnetic and/or pneumatic holding force.

The holding unit can have at least one controllable drive. The holding unit can be driven pneumatically and/or hydraulically and/or electrically. In some embodiments, the drive is a lead screw drive. The holding unit can also have a power transmission, by means of which an actuating force can be transmitted from the drive to at least one holding element, such as a chain transmission and/or a Bowden cable and/or a linkage and/or a belt and/or a gear.

The holding unit can be set up to hold the workpiece by means of a vacuum. For example, the holding unit can include one or more suction pads and/or suction cups. A vacuum line can be provided, which runs through the base plate to the swivel plate and is connected, for example, to a vacuum generating device such as a vacuum pump, preferably via at least one suitably controllable shut-off valve. The negative pressure generating device can be attached to a frame of the table assembly and/or the bending machine and/or can be part of the same.

In other embodiments, one or more vacuum generators can be provided in the swivel plate, such as mechanically and/or hydraulically actuated suction pads.

Alternatively or additionally, the holding unit can be set up to hold the workpiece magnetically. For example, the holding unit and/or the pivoting plate can comprise at least one switchable magnetic element, such as an electromagnet, which can be switched between a holding state and a release state.

According to one embodiment, the holding unit comprises at least one holding element that can be moved relative to the swivel plate and is set up to selectively clamp and release the workpiece on the swivel plate. The holding element, which can be moved relative to the swivel plate, can be a holding claw, for example, which can be swiveled towards the workpiece for clamping. Several holding elements can be provided which can be moved collectively and/or individually, for example in order to hold the workpiece in specific areas depending on the geometry of the workpiece.

A high degree of reliability and/or efficiency can be achieved in particular when the processing machine and/or the workpiece table includes a movement device which is set up to generate the pivoting movement of the pivoting plate in an automated manner. In some embodiments, the movement device can generate the pivoting movement from a movement of the table assembly and/or from a movement of the processing tool. The movement device can be set up to swivel the swivel plate according to a predetermined movement plan. The movement plan can include, for example, a target swivel angle and/or a speed profile for a temporal change in the swivel angle. In general, the pivoting movement can be parameterized by means of at least one pivoting parameter. The pivot parameter can be, for example, an angle between the portions of the support surface that define the base plate and the pivot plate, respectively. Alternatively or additionally, the swivel parameter can identify a position along a swivel trajectory. The movement plan can be based on a time profile of the at least one swivel parameter. It can be predetermined how far and/or how fast the pivoting plate is pivoted relative to the base plate. The movement device can include a separate drive for the pivoting plate, which has proven to be advantageous, for example, in the case of a modular design of the workpiece table. The separate drive can be controlled by the control unit. The drive can be pneumatic and/or hydraulic and/or electric. For example, it can be an electric motor, a hydraulic cylinder, a linear actuator or the like, if necessary in combination with a suitable gear. In some embodiments, the drive is a lead screw drive. The movement device may include a power transmission configured to transmit an actuating force for generating the pivoting movement from a location spaced apart from the pivoting plate to the pivoting plate. The power transmission can include, for example, a chain transmission and/or a Bowden cable and/or a linkage and/or a belt and/or a gear and/or a compressed air line and/or a hydraulic line.

According to one embodiment, the movement device has at least one force converter, which converts a generated actuating force into a force required to generate the pivoting movement. The force converter can be a lever, for example. As a result, a driving force can be suitably adjusted, as a result of which almost any force generator can be used. In particular, the force converter effects a step-down or a step-up of an introduced force.

Targeted use of already existing drive power and the associated low additional construction costs as well as high cost efficiency due to multifunctional components can be achieved in particular if the processing unit and preferably the processing tool is set up to provide an actuating force to generate the pivoting movement. In some embodiments it can be provided that an actuating force of the processing unit and/or a movement of the processing tool can be applied in a targeted manner to a force introduction section. The force introduction section can be part of the movement device. The pivoting plate can thus be pivoted by actuating the machining unit and/or moving the machining tool. For example, the machining unit can be brought into an actuation state for this purpose, in which an action on the force introduction section can be carried out in a targeted manner, for example by positioning the machining tool on the force introduction section. The processing tool can then exert a tensile force and/or a compressive force on the force application section. The force introduction section can also have several different force introduction elements, for example a force introduction element for effecting pivoting of the swivel plate and/or a force introduction element for causing the pivot plate to pivot back, such as from a pivoted condition to an unpivoted condition.

Starting from a non-pivoted state, the swivel plate can be swiveled through at least 90 degrees, preferably through at least 120 degrees and in particular through 180 degrees. The specified angle can refer to an angle between the sections of the support surface that define the pivot plate and the base plate.

Complete turning in a controlled manner is possible in particular when, in a maximally wasted state of the pivot plate, a gap remains between the pivot plate and the base plate, in particular a gap with a thickness of at least 3 mm, preferably at least 4 mm and more preferably of at least 5 mm. The gap is preferably adapted to a maximum thickness of the workpiece. In the maximum wasting state, a held portion of the workpiece may be placed in the gap. This allows the workpiece to be turned 180 degrees without it having to fall or slide to any significant degree.

According to one embodiment, the table assembly comprises at least one coupling, in particular a coupling joint, which couples the swivel plate to the base plate in a pivotable manner. As a result, almost any path of movement of the swivel plate can be defined and a high degree of flexibility associated with this can be achieved with regard to workpieces that can be handled. The coupling can define a single pivot axis and/or a path of movement in the form of a circular arc for the pivot plate and can be designed, for example, as a swivel joint. In other embodiments, the coupling can define a movement path of the swivel plate that deviates from a circular path. This can be achieved, for example, by a suitable coupling joint or coupling mechanism, which includes a number of elementary joints.

As mentioned, the processing machine can include a machine frame. The table assembly can be linearly movable relative to the machine frame. In particular, the table assembly can be moved linearly parallel to the support surface and/or perpendicular to the bending axis. The table assembly can be advanced and retracted between the jaws. The table assembly can be at least partially moved out of the exception space, it being possible for a distance between the pivoting plate and the clamping cheeks and/or the processing unit to be increased as a result of the moving out.

In one embodiment, the movement device is set up to generate the swivel movement of the swivel plate from a movement of the table assembly relative to the machine. to create a framework. For this purpose, a force introduction element can be provided on the base plate, which transmits a force to the swivel plate via a force transmission when the force introduction element comes into contact with a stationary component, for example the machine frame. In some embodiments, there may be a stop against which the force application element abuts when the table assembly is advanced past a certain point. The advancement of the table assembly can then be directly accompanied by the pivoting of the pivot plate. In further embodiments, a suitable force introduction element can also be present on the pivoting plate, which causes the pivoting plate to be pivoted when the table device is moved.

Furthermore, one embodiment provides that the processing machine and/or the workpiece table comprises a handling device which is set up to handle the workpiece before, during and/or after processing relative to the table assembly, in particular perpendicular to the bending axis and/or parallel to the support surface, and to fix the workpiece if necessary, with the handling device having at least one handling element which is set up to act mechanically on the workpiece in order to move it, in particular to push it forward, before turning it onto the swivel plate and/or or to move, in particular retract, at least partially onto the base plate after turning from the swivel plate. The method according to the invention can include moving, in particular advancing, the workpiece onto the pivoting plate in such a way that the workpiece is completely moved off the base plate, in particular pushed down, before the pivoting movement for turning the workpiece is generated. Furthermore, the method can include moving back, in particular pulling back, the workpiece at least partially onto the base plate, in particular after it has been turned. By moving the workpiece completely onto the swivel plate, it can be swiveled in a controlled manner, as it can move freely with the swivel plate.

In the following, the present invention is described by way of example with reference to the accompanying figures. The drawing, the description and the claims contain numerous features in combination. The person skilled in the art will expediently also consider the features individually and use them in combination within the scope of the claims. Show it:

1 shows a perspective schematic representation of a processing machine with a workpiece table; FIG. 2 shows a schematic side view of part of the processing machine with the workpiece table in a completely unswiveled state; FIG.

3 shows a schematic side view of part of the processing machine with the work table in a partially pivoted state;

4 shows a schematic side view of part of the processing machine with the work table in a fully pivoted state;

5 is a schematic side view of an alternative embodiment of a table assembly of a work table;

6 is a schematic side view of another alternative embodiment of a table assembly of a work table;

FIG. 7 shows a schematic top view of a part of the table assembly according to the further alternative embodiment; FIG.

8 is a schematic representation of part of yet another alternative embodiment of a table assembly;

9 is a schematic representation of part of yet another alternative embodiment of a table assembly; and

10 shows a schematic flow chart of a method for machining a workpiece made of flat material.

1 shows a schematic perspective representation of a machining machine 10 according to the invention. In this exemplary embodiment, the machining machine 10 is designed as a long folding machine. However, the following description should be understood to mean that the processing machine 10 can also be a press, stamping machine, bending machine, etc. in other embodiments.

The processing machine 10 is set up for processing a workpiece 12 (cf. FIG. 2). In the present case, the processing machine 10 is set up to process a workpiece 12 made of flat material, such as sheet metal, by multiple bending about a bending axis 32 in a known manner. The processing machine 10 has a machine frame 50 . The processing machine 10 also has a workpiece table 14 on which defines a bearing surface 16 on which the workpiece 12 can be placed during processing.

The processing machine 10 includes a control unit 11. This can be connected to a display device, which serves as a user interface or is part of one. It goes without saying that the functions of the processing machine 10 described below can be controlled by the control unit 11 . Accordingly, the control unit 11 can comprise a computer-readable medium with suitable program code.

The processing machine 10 also includes a clamping cheek 56 and a further clamping cheeks 57, by means of which the workpiece 12 is clamped during processing who can. At least one of the clamping cheeks 56, 57 can be moved relative to the machine frame 50. In the illustrated case, the further clamping cheek 57, which is designed as the upper Klemmwan GE, can be pivoted upwards relative to the machine frame. In addition, at least one of the clamping cheeks 56, 57 can be moved linearly and/or pivotably relative to the workpiece table 14.

The processing machine 10 defines a receiving area 26 in which the workpiece 12 is arranged at least in sections during processing. In the case shown, the receiving area 26 is arranged between the clamping cheeks 56 , 57 . During processing, the workpiece partially protrudes between the clamping cheeks 56, 57 from the receiving area 26. As a result, a clamped section 30 and a section 28 of the workpiece 12 to be bent over are defined. In Fig. 2, these two sections 28, 30 are provided with reference numerals, it being understood that bending of the workpiece 12 has already taken place around the bending axis 32 in order to obtain the workpiece geometry shown in FIG Section 28 to be bent over this relative to the clamped section 30 bent downwards.

The processing machine 10 has a processing unit 18 and a further processing unit 19 . These will be briefly described with reference to FIG. The Bear processing unit 18 is attached to the clamping cheek 56 . The processing unit 18 comprises a base element 58. The base element 58 is wedge-shaped in the illustrated case. The base element 58 is mounted on a surface of the clamping cheek 56 in a linearly movable manner. The processing unit 18 also includes a processing tool 60. The processing tool 60 is in turn mounted on a surface of the base element 58 so that it can move linearly. A movement path of the machining tool 60 can thus be generated in that the base element 58 relative to the clamping cheek 56 and/or the machining Machining tool 60 are moved relative to the base member 58. The functioning of such a bending unit is described, for example, in DE 102018 000344 B3.

In the case shown, the additional bending unit 19 is also attached to the additional clamping cheek 57 . The additional bending unit 19 is constructed analogously to the bending unit 18 . By means of the two bending units 18, 19, the workpiece can consequently be bent either upwards or downwards about the bending axis 32.

Reference is again made to FIG. 1 below. The work table 14 includes at least one table assembly 20 having a base plate 22 and a pivot plate 24 . In the case shown, the work table 14 comprises a plurality of table assemblies. These can be designed identically or differently. In particular, it can be provided that only some or one of the table assemblies have a pivoting plate.

The base plate 22 and the pivot plate 24 each define a section of the support surface 16. The pivot plate 24 is pivotable relative to the base plate 22 so that a pivoting movement can be generated, by means of which the workpiece 12 can be turned. When turning the workpiece 12, its top is turned down and its bottom is turned up.

The swivel plate 24 forms a front end of the table assembly 20. In other words, the swivel plate 24 defines a front area of the support surface 16. The term “front” refers to the side of the bending machine 10 on which the processing units 18, 19 are arranged . The machine tool 10 is sent from this side.

In other embodiments, the pivot plate can form a rear end of the table assembly. This can be used, for example, on machines where the work table is accessible from both the front and the rear. If, for example, it is intended for a specific machining operation that the workpiece is placed on the workpiece table from a first side of the machine, the pivoting plate can be arranged behind the base plate when viewed from this first side. The pivot plate may be located on a second side of the machine, opposite the first side.

The table assembly 20 is linearly movable relative to the machine frame 50 . Specifically, the table assembly 20 can be movable perpendicular to the bending axis 32 . The table assembly 20 can be partially driven out of the receiving area 26 and/or driven back into it.

In the case of the long bending machine shown, the table assembly 20 is retracted to the point where the workpiece 12 is bent so that only the workpiece 12 protrudes between the clamping cheeks 56, 57. As a result, a corresponding protruding section to be bent can be bent upwards or downwards towards one of the clamping cheeks without the table assembly 20 impeding the bending movement.

The processing machine 10 or the workpiece table 14 also includes a handling device 52. This is set up to move the workpiece 12 relative to the table assembly 20 group. In the case shown, there are several handling devices 52, only one of which is provided with a reference number. The handling device 52 has a handling element 50 which is set up to act mechanically on the workpiece 12 . For example, the handling element 50 can be pivoted towards the surface of the workpiece 12 and/or lifted from it, as a result of which the workpiece 12 can be held on the support surface 16 as desired. In addition, the handle element 50 can be movable relative to the table assembly 20, as a result of which the workpiece 12 can be moved in the support surface 16. The workpiece 12 can be advanced or retracted on the table assembly 20 by means of the handling device 52 , for example in order to move it out of the receiving area 26 . The handling device 52 can also be used when processing the workpiece 12 to keep this surface 16 on the support.

A part of the processing machine 10 is shown in FIGS. 2 to 4 . The illustrations serve to illustrate a turning process of the workpiece 12. Some reference symbols have been omitted in FIGS. 2 to 4 for the sake of clarity.

Before turning, the workpiece 12 is completely on the swivel plate 24 vorscho ben. It is then no longer on the portion of the bearing surface 16, the TE 22 defines the base plate. This can be done when the table assembly 20 is in a retracted state, for example by means of the handling device 52.

The table assembly 20 includes a holding unit 34. The holding unit 34 includes one or more holding elements 36, only one of which is provided with a reference number for reasons of clarity. The holding elements 36 are formed on or in the pivot plate 24 . In the embodiment shown, the holding elements 36 are suction cups. These are not shown compressed air lines through the pivot plate 24 and extend the base plate 22, connected to a vacuum generator such as a vacuum pump or the like. The vacuum generator is arranged on the machine frame 50, for example.

In other embodiments, a movable clamping device can be used as the holding element, which can selectively fix the workpiece 12 mechanically on the swivel plate 24 . Switchable and/or magnetic holding elements can also be used according to the invention.

Regardless of the exact configuration of the holding element 36, this is set up to hold the workpiece 12 stationary relative to the pivot plate 24 or to release it. In a held state, the workpiece 12 moves with the pivot plate 24 when it is pivoted. As a result, the pivoting movement of the pivoting plate 24 can serve as a turning movement for the workpiece 12 . In the released state, on the other hand, the workpiece 12 can be moved relative to the swivel plate 24 .

Starting from the completely non-pivoted state of the pivoting plate 24 shown in FIG. As a result, a bottom of the workpiece 12, which rests on the pivot plate 24, to the new top of the workpiece 12, whereas a top of the workpiece 12 rests as a bottom on the base plate 22 after turning. The pivot axis 33 is parallel to the bending axis 32 is arranged.

As can be seen in FIG. 7 , when the pivot plate 24 is fully wasted, a gap 46 is formed between the base plate 22 and the pivot plate 24 . This gap 46 may be a few millimeters thick, allowing the workpiece 12 to be received in the gap 46 when the pivot plate 24 is fully wasted. The pivoting movement of the pivot plate 24 can thus be carried out to such an extent that the workpiece 12 is completely turned over before it is released from the holding unit 34 . In the case shown, a maximum swivel angle of 180° is provided.

In other embodiments, the gap 46 may be omitted and/or the maximum pivot angle may be smaller.

Turning the workpiece 12 may include the workpiece 12 being released by the holding unit 34 and the workpiece 12 then sliding and/or falling onto the base plate 22 . On the one hand, this can be done if not all available Swivel angle is used, or even if the maximum swivel angle is less than 180 °.

Reference is again made to FIG. 1 below. The processing machine 10 includes a movement device 38 which is set up to automatically generate the pivoting movement of the pivot plate 24 . The movement device 38 can be connected to the control unit 11 . In the case shown, the movement device 38 includes a separate drive 40. The movement device 38 and the separate drive 40 are shown only schematically. Different drives can be used, such as hydraulic cylinders, air cylinders, threaded spindles, gears with different drives, linear actuators, etc.

In the exemplary embodiment according to FIG. 1 , the separate drive 40 is arranged at a distance from the pivot plate 24 . The movement device 38 therefore includes a power transmission such as a Bowden cable, a hydraulic line, a compressed air line, a belt, a chain, a gear or the like in order to transmit an actuating movement generated by the separate drive 40 to the swivel plate 24 .

Alternatively, a separate drive can also be provided directly on and/or in the swivel plate 24 . For example, an electric motor can be present directly in the area of an articulated connection of the pivot plate 24 to the base plate 22, which can be optionally supplied with electrical energy in order to generate the pivoting movement of the pivot plate 24.

Further variants relating to the generation of the pivoting movement of the pivoting plate 24 are described below with reference to FIGS. 6 to 9 .

5 shows a further embodiment of a table assembly 120. This can be used as an alternative to the table assembly 20 described above. Similarly, the table assembly 120 includes a base plate 122 and a pivot plate 124. The table assembly 120 includes a coupling joint 148 that pivotally couples the pivot plate 124 to the base plate 122 and that defines a path of movement of the pivot plate 124 that deviates from a circular path. The coupling joint 148 is shown only schematically and its individual joints are not shown in detail. The coupling joint 148 may be configured in any suitable manner and may comprise a plurality of solid members connected by joints. The coupling joint 148 can be a spatial transmission. A complex pivoting movement can be defined in this way, which, for example, includes movement that prevents the workpiece 12 from being pinched at an edge when turning.

In one embodiment, the linkage 148 is adjustable so that the trajectory is variable. This can be automated or done manually. The pivoting movement can thus be adjusted to the geometry of a workpiece to be turned, so that this can be turned in a targeted manner and/or without damage, even if it has already been machined and, for example, has one or more bending points.

Figures 6 and 7 illustrate another embodiment. In this embodiment, a table assembly 220 is used, which has a base plate 222 and a pivot plate 224 mounted thereon so that it can pivot about a pivot axis 233 . The table assembly 220 includes a movement device 238 with a power transmission 242 which is configured to transmit an actuating force for generating the pivoting movement from a location which is spaced apart from the pivot plate 224 to the pivot plate 224. The power transmission 242 is merely exemplary shown and can be set up to transmit a tensile force and / or a compressive force. As mentioned above, any suitable power transmission can be used. In principle, it can also be provided according to the invention that the pivoting plate 224 is, in particular damped, spring-loaded and, for example, automatically returns to its completely non-pivoted state if an actuating force is not acting or automatically moves into a maximum wasting state if an actuating force is not acting.

As in the embodiment described above, the movement device 238 can comprise a separate drive. An actuating force provided by the separate drive can then be transmitted to the pivot plate 224 by means of the force transmission 242 .

In the embodiment according to FIGS. 6 and 7, the movement device 238 also includes a force converter 244. This force converter 244 converts an actuating force for generating the pivoting movement of the pivot plate 224. In the example shown, the force converter 244 is a lever. This is formed by the pivot plate 244 itself. The force converter 244 is about the pivot axis in the direction of the base plate 222 to over. This projection can be used as a lever in that the power transmission 242 acts on it. As illustrated schematically in FIG. 7, several protruding parts may be present, for example if force is to be transmitted to the pivot plate 224 at several points. In certain embodiments, the processing unit 18 and/or the processing unit 19 can be set up to provide an actuating force in order to generate the pivoting movement. It goes without saying that this can also be the case for other types of processing machines and correspondingly differently designed processing units. For this purpose, a movement device can be designed in such a way that a movement provided by the corresponding processing unit is transmitted to the swivel plate. In the exemplary embodiment according to FIGS. 6 and 7 , for example, the processing unit 18 can act on an end of the force transmission 242 that is not shown.

FIGS. 8 and 9 schematically illustrate embodiments in which a processing unit serves to provide the operating force for the pivot plate. A section of a base plate 322, 422 of a table assembly 320, 420 is shown in each of the figures. A swivel plate is connected to each of these, as has been described above in connection with other exemplary embodiments.

In the embodiment according to FIG. 8, a movement device 338 includes a force introduction element 362, which is set up to enable force to be introduced from a processing unit. In the case shown, the force introduction element 362 is designed as a lever on which a machining tool 360 of a machining unit that is not shown in detail can act. The force introduction element 362 is mounted on the base plate 322 in such a way that it can be pivoted in two directions. Moving the force introduction element 362 in a first direction causes the pivoting plate to pivot toward the base plate 322, while moving in the opposite direction causes the pivoting plate to pivot back into its completely non-pivoted state. The power transmission 342 shown schematically can be a linkage, for example. However, one or more hydraulic lines, Bowden cables, belts, chains, etc. can also be used, possibly in combination.

In the embodiment according to FIG. 9, a movement device 438 comprises a force transmission 442 which comprises two force introduction elements 462, 464. These are each designed as a hyd raulikzylinder and connected to a separate hydraulic line that lead to the pivot plate, not shown, and are connected to an actuating mechanism for the pivot plate. It can also be provided that each of the force-input elements is a lever that actuates a linkage or the like. Furthermore, the force introduction elements can be connected to Bowden cables. The force introduction elements 462, 464 are each arranged and set up in such a way that a machining tool 460 of a machining unit (not shown in more detail) can act on them. Actuating a first force introduction element 462 causes the pivoting plate to pivot on the Base plate 422 to. Actuation of a second force introduction element 462 causes the pivoting plate to pivot back into its completely non-pivoted state. The force introduction elements 462, 464 can optionally be designed to react to a compressive force or a tensile force that is applied by the machining tool 460.

Instead of the machining unit acting on a force introduction element, it can also be provided that one or more stops are present which act on a force introduction element when the table assembly 20 is moved relative to the machine frame 50 . The pivoting movement is then generated by moving the table assembly 20 . The corresponding force introduction element can optionally be arranged directly on the swivel plate 24 or on an end of a force transmission spaced apart from it.

FIG. 10 shows a schematic flow chart of a method for machining a workpiece made of flat material. The method is explained below as an example for implementation using the processing machine 10 described above. However, it goes without saying that the method can also be carried out with another processing machine that has a corresponding workpiece table.

The workpiece 12 is placed on the support surface 16 in a method step S1.

The workpiece 12 is machined in a method step S2. For example, the workpiece 12 is bent downwards about the bending axis 32 .

In an optional method step S3, the workpiece 12 is pushed onto the swivel plate 24 in such a way that it is completely pushed off the base plate 22. This is done, for example, by means of the handling device 52. The optional method step S3 can alternatively or additionally include an extension of the table assembly 20.

In an optional method step S4, the workpiece 12 is temporarily fixed to the swivel plate 24. This can be done, for example, by means of the holding unit 34 described above.

A pivoting movement of the pivoting plate 24 is generated in a method step S5 in order to turn the workpiece 12 . The swivel plate 24 can be arranged outside of the recording area 26 . The pivoting of the workpiece 12 can consequently take place completely outside of the receiving area 26 . If the workpiece 12 is temporarily fixed to the swivel plate 24, it follows the movement of the swivel plate 24 accordingly completely. In other variants it can also be provided that the workpiece 12 relative to the pivot plate 24 can move. For example, the workpiece 12 can then be turned by resting on one of its edges against a holding element that is spaced from the pivot plate 24 and thus causes the workpiece 12 not to be moved uncontrolled but to slide relative to the pivot plate 24 .

In an optional method step S6, the workpiece 12 is partially pulled back or pushed onto the base plate 22, if necessary. The optional method step S6 can alternatively or additionally include retracting the table assembly 20 .

Finally, in a method step S7, the turned workpiece 12 is machined.

Claims

patent claims

1. Processing machine (10), in particular long folding machine, for processing a workpiece (12) made of flat material such as sheet metal, comprising: a workpiece table (14) that defines a support surface (16) on which the workpiece (12) at the Processing can be placed at least in sections; and at least one machining unit (18) for machining the workpiece (12) when the workpiece (12) is placed on the support surface; wherein the work table (14) comprises at least one table assembly (20) having a base plate (22) and a pivot plate (24), wherein the base plate (22) and the pivot plate (24) each define a portion of the support surface (16), and wherein the pivoting plate (24) is pivotably mounted relative to the base plate (22) in such a way that a pivoting movement of the pivoting plate (44) can be generated for turning the workpiece (12).

2. Processing machine (10) according to Claim 1, further comprising a receiving area (26) in which the workpiece (12) is and/or can be arranged at least in sections during processing, the pivoting plate (24) for turning outside of the Recording area (26) is arranged and / or can be arranged.

3. Processing machine (10) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the processing unit (18) is set up to bend a section (28) of the workpiece (12) to be bent relative to a clamped section (30) of the workpiece (12) about a bending axis ( 32) to bend, and wherein the pivotal movement of the pivot plate (24) is defined by at least one pivot axis (33) arranged parallel to the bending axis (32).

4. Processing machine (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the table assembly (20) has a holding unit (34) which is designed to hold the workpiece (12) stationary relative to the pivot plate (24) for turning, so that the workpiece (12) follows a movement of the pivot plate (24) in a held state.

5. Processing machine (10) according to claim 4, wherein the holding unit (34) is directed to hold the workpiece (12) by means of negative pressure.

6. Processing machine (10) according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the holding unit (34) comprises at least one holding element (36) which can be moved relative to the swivel plate (24) and which is set up to men and release the workpiece (12) selectively on the pivot plate (24) festzuklem.

7. Processing machine (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a movement device (38) which is set up to automatically generate the pivoting movement of the pivot plate (24).

8. Processing machine (10) according to claim 7, wherein the movement device (38) comprises a separate drive (40) for the swivel plate (24).

9. Processing machine (10) according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the movement device (238) comprises a power transmission (242) which is adapted to generate an actuating force for generating the pivoting movement from a location spaced from the pivot plate (24). is to be transmitted to the swivel plate (24).

10. Processing machine (10) according to one of claims 7 to 9, wherein the movement device (38) comprises at least one force converter (244) which converts a generated actuation force into a force required to generate the pivoting movement.

11. Processing machine (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the processing unit (18) is set up to provide an actuating force in order to generate the pivoting movement.

12. Processing machine (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the pivot plate (24) starting from a non-pivoted state by at least 90 degrees, preferably by at least 120 degrees and in particular by 180 degrees is pivotable.

13. Processing machine (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein in a maximum wasted state of the pivot plate (24), a gap (46) remains between the pivot plate (24) and the base plate (22), in particular a gap with a thickness of at least 3 mm, preferably at least 4 mm and more preferably at least 5 mm.

14. Processing machine (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the table assembly (20) comprises at least one coupling joint (148) which couples the pivoting plate (24) pivotably to the base plate (22) and which one movement path of the pivoting plate (24) defined, which deviates from a circular path.

15. Processing machine (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a machine frame (50), wherein the table assembly (20) relative to the machine frame (50) is linearly movable.

16. Processing machine (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a handling device (52) which is adapted to move the workpiece (12) for handling before, during and/or after processing relative to the table assembly (20). and to fix the workpiece (12) as required, the handling device (52) having at least one handling element (54) which is set up to act mechanically on the workpiece (12) in order to turn it onto the swivel plate (24 ) to advance.

17. Workpiece table (14) for a processing machine (10), in particular for a processing machine (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the workpiece table (14) defines a support surface on which a workpiece (12) can be placed during processing that the workpiece (12) rests at least in sections on the supporting surface, comprising a table assembly (20) which has a base plate (22) and a swivel plate (24), the base plate (22) and the swivel plate (24) each define a section of the support surface, and wherein the pivot plate (24) relative to the base plate (22), in particular automated, is pivotable in such a way that a pivoting movement for turning the workpiece (12) can be generated.

18. Method for processing a workpiece (12) made of flat material such as sheet metal with a processing machine (10), in particular with a processing machine (10) according to claims 1 to 16, wherein the processing machine (10) comprises a workpiece table (14). which defines a support surface (16) on which the workpiece (12) can be placed at least in sections during processing, the processing machine (10) also comprising at least one processing unit for processing the workpiece (12), and the workpiece table (14 ) comprises at least one table assembly (20) having a base plate (22) and a pivot plate (24), wherein the base plate (22) and the pivot plate (24) each define a portion of the support surface (16), and wherein the pivot plate ( 24) is pivotally mounted relative to the base plate (22), the method comprising:

placing the workpiece (12) on the support surface (16);

machining the workpiece (12); generating pivotal movement of the pivot plate (24) to turn the workpiece (12); and

Machining of the turned workpiece (12).

19. The method of claim 18, further comprising:

Advancing the workpiece (12) onto the pivot plate (24) such that the workpiece (12) is pushed completely off the base plate (22) before the pivoting movement for turning the workpiece (12) is generated.