EP3024646A1

EP3024646A1 - Force module and modular press system

Info

Publication number: EP3024646A1
Application number: EP13740281.4A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Joerg Rauschenberger
Original assignee: Modus One GmbH
Current assignee: MODUS ONE GmbH
Priority date: 2013-07-23
Filing date: 2013-07-23
Publication date: 2016-06-01
Anticipated expiration: 2033-07-23
Also published as: EP3024646B1; WO2015010724A1

Abstract

The present invention relates to a force module (10) for processing workpieces, comprising: a supporting frame (12), which has at least one connecting element (26, 28) in order to fix the force module (10); a pressure element (14; 60), which is mounted such that it can move relative to the supporting frame (12) and forms a part of a ram for processing the workpieces; a drive unit (24; 46, 48; 50; 56; 62), which is mechanically connected to the pressure element (14; 60) and to a bearing section of the supporting frame in such a manner that a force can be exerted by the drive unit on the pressure element (14; 60) in order to move the pressure element relative to the supporting frame (12) to process the workpieces; wherein the supporting frame (12) has in an outer circumferential face an opening (18), through which the pressure element (14; 60) can be moved by the driving force of the drive unit (24; 46, 48; 50; 56; 62) in order to process the workpieces by means of the driving force.

Description

Power module and modular press system

The present invention relates to a power module for machining workpieces with a support frame having at least one connecting element to fix the force module, a pressure element which is movably mounted relative to the support frame and forms part of a plunger for machining the workpieces , and a drive unit connected to the pressure member and a contact portion of the support frame such that a force from the drive unit is exertable on the pressure member to move the pressure member for machining the workpieces relative to the support frame.

The present invention further relates to a bridge module for receiving power modules, with an upper flange plate and a lower flange plate, the flange plates each having a plurality of juxtaposed connecting portions for receiving and fixing compatible connecting members of support frames of the power modules, and two end plates respectively connected to the flange plates on opposite sides, the end plates fixedly and spacedly connecting the flange plate , so that the connecting portions of the two flange plates are opposite.

The present invention further relates to a stator module for receiving force modules and / or bridge modules, with an elongate, rigid frame having a longitudinal axis, wherein the frame has two spaced pillars, which are formed by the power modules and / or Bridge modules absorbed forces absorb.

The present invention finally relates to a press system for processing workpieces, each having at least one stator module and a bridge module and a force module according to the present invention.

Presses and press groups are used in various applications and are used for example for the processing of sheets, thick plates and solid parts by drawing, bending, molding, embossing, cutting / punching and joining.

For different types of processing different force / displacement characteristics of the presses are needed. For example, pure drawing processes usually require a largely constant course of force over a long stroke. In contrast, embossing or calibration operations require a high force peak, which is followed by an extremely progressive force / displacement curve. Cutting and cutting operations in turn require high forces in a short stroke range with a rather degressive force / displacement curve.

For these different needs, different types of presses with different movements have emerged in the course of development history. Hydraulically driven presses are preferably suitable for longer strokes with approximately constant power requirement over the working stroke, so for example, drawing operations. Different speed profiles can be implemented with the aid of control elements. A switching point between an Eilhub, ie a pure stroke with minimal force, and a stroke can be chosen arbitrarily.

Furthermore, mechanically driven presses are known, for example, eccentric presses, crank presses, knee presses or screw presses. They are basically characterized by a higher rigidity and a lower energy requirement. However, these drives, which are conventionally equipped with a continuous electric motor, generally only permit a very limited basic variation possibility of the process sequence. A common feature is a progressive force / displacement during the power stroke. Therefore, these press types are only partially suitable for drawing operations with long strokes.

Furthermore, press systems with servo technology are now known. Thus, an almost unlimited controllability of the process is achieved in both hydraulic and in mechanical presses. In embodiments, the highly dynamically controllable servo motors are connected to roller spindles, which are installed directly on the main power flow. They show comparable properties as servo-regulated hydraulic cylinders. However, they are also subject to the same boundary conditions, which makes laying after the highest peak force necessary and limits the lifting speed to the maximum possible speed of the spindle.

Partial servomotors with extremely high torque, so-called. Torque motors without spindle or gear stages are connected directly to the drive shaft of an eccentric or toggle lever.

The document DE 10 2008 017 397 A1 proposes a device and an assembly for the production of components, which serves for the machining of a workpiece. The device has a plurality of sequentially to-be-processed the workpieces of a feed direction to be processed processing modules. The processing modules are independent of each other and relative to each other in the feed direction of the workpiece to be machined displaced.

Furthermore, the document DE 20 2005 013 912 U1 shows a forming machine with several, working cycles exporting stages in a rack, which by means of an electronic control device for each stage of the tool path and / or the tool force and / or tool speed is freely programmable.

Furthermore, the document DE 10 2005 038 583 shows a press drive module for a press ram for generating a drive movement and a pressing force between a first and a press frame to be connected output and connected to the press ram second output and two drive means, the are characterized by different force / displacement characteristics, which are defined, wherein the press drive module with two drive units forms a structural unit separate from the press.

Furthermore, the document DE 100 64 154 B4 shows a multi-stage press with a plurality of reciprocally movable rams, which are provided with tools for forming workpieces, and a transport device for transporting the workpieces within and / or between the steps.

However, there is still a need for a wide range of usable press concept that combines the advantages of various known systems in a single basic concept. In particular, the possibilities of use should be kept versatile, in particular the number of independently and variably expiring strokes within a press.

Furthermore, there is a need for press systems that allows the processing of high-strength materials that can be used in the course of lightweight constructions. There are significantly higher requirements with regard to force and the controllability of the process sequence and the number of independently controllable force and movement directions.

Finally, there is also a need to reduce the cost of manufacturing and assembly and the operation of the presses.

It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a modular press system and a force module, which allows a high degree of flexibility in the configuration and in the nature of the machining operations in the same system, a higher number of independently controlled movements and greater power delivery for processing, as well as the costs for production, installation and operation of the plant reduced.

According to the first aspect of the invention is therefore proposed to develop the aforementioned force module to the effect that the support frame has an opening in an outer peripheral surface through which the pressure element is movable by the driving force of the drive unit to the workpieces by means of the driving force to edit.

In this way, the power module can be used as a ready-assembled base element for a modular press system in a kind of "modular system", wherein the individual power modules are arranged depending on the workpiece to be processed and the number of processing steps to be performed in a press system and Processing of the workpiece can be used. The fact that the support frame is rigid, the force module is as such a self-supporting unit and can be inserted in almost any way in a press. It can exert the force to machine the workpieces through the integrated pressure elements directly onto the workpiece-receiving tool in the press. In this case, the opening surrounding part of the support frame can be used as a receptacle and support for the tool frame. Alternatively, the power modules can also be used so that they move bridge modules in the form of plungers and thereby acting indirectly on the tool, as usual in conventional presses. After inserting the force modules, the press can be used functionally.

Thus, the force module according to the invention allows easy installation of the press system on site, whereby the cost of transport to the site can be reduced, since the press is assembled from ready-to-use modules only on site. Incidentally, different force-displacement characteristics can be realized by the use of different drive systems by the independent power modules, which allow a further flexibility of machining the workpieces. The fact that the pressure element is supported by multiple motion elements at short intervals directly on the rigid, stationary drive frame, it can be kept very slim and light. The moving masses are therefore very small. This improves the response of the control and reduces the required energy input during press operation. The sturdy housing can be used for the static reinforcement by the positive and non-positive connection with the other modules. As a result, the entire mechanical structure of the press can be kept very compact and lightweight.

According to the second aspect of the invention, it is proposed that the above-mentioned bridge module be further developed such that between the flange plates a plurality of module receptacles is formed to receive the power modules, wherein the connecting elements of the power modules with the connecting portions of the flange plates are connected such that Support frame of the power modules rigidly connect the flange plates together.

As a result, the individual power modules can be easily integrated in the bridge module and the stability of the bridge module can be increased by the integrated support frame. The narrow design of the power modules allows a close assembly with a variety of power modules to increase the number of possible machining operations and / or to increase the power density. For stiffening the bridge module, a web plate can additionally connect the two flange plates. Alternatively, however, this function can be taken over by stable vertical center webs or by the end plates of the power modules, depending on whether the length of the force modules over extends the entire flange width, or whether half as long force modules are inserted from both sides to the middle of the flange. In addition to the proposed active versions, there are passive variants of a bridge module. The simplest form is a box-shaped body which is connected to the press elements of at least two spaced-apart stator modules.

According to a third aspect of the invention, it is proposed to further develop the above-mentioned stator module such that functional element receptacles are formed on opposite end sections of the columns in order to receive functional elements and detachably connect them to the columns.

When equipped with a continuous force module, the workpiece in the stator module can be edited directly by the power module. The pressure element of the force module acts through the opening of the support frame on the workpiece, the support frame outside the opening serves as a base plate for mounting the Werkstückstückaufnehmenden tool.

It can be performed by any placement of the stator module different processing steps. In particular, in the element receptacles, a box-shaped bridge module as a press table and a force module can be arranged and combined to form any single-stage press.

Alternatively, in each case a force module can be inserted in both press element receptacles in order to increase, for example, the flexibility of the processing steps. Depending on the design of the press elements in both cases, the active sites of processing can be placed either between the two columns of the stator module, or in front of a column. Thus, single-column presses can be formed either with a closed O-frame or with an open C-frame, depending on whether the focus is on high rigidity and parallel springing, or on good accessibility of the processing space from three sides. However, the disadvantage of the cantilever springing of the cantilever can be largely compensated by a second drive in the power module, the pressure piece is supported on the cantilever opposite end of the support frame to a fixed stop in the column of the stator module, and by its movement, the support frame slants by the amount that the cantilever segment remains perpendicular to the front pillar and thus parallel to the corresponding second Kragarmsegment, as far as this is corrected in the same way.

To increase the number of independently controlled movements narrow bridge modules can be inserted parallel to the level of the stator module and equipped with a plurality of power modules. These bridge modules can be rigidly attached directly to the functional element receptacles or moved by inserted between the ends of the bridge modules and the functional element recordings separate power modules.

Further, a continuous or two force modules located independently in the corners can be used to move a bridge module according to the invention, which is located in a right angle to the plane of the stator module between two stator modules.

Alternatively, instead of power modules, a stator module can also be equipped with other processing devices, for example for welding, joining, injection molding, or for machining. As part of a press line, a stand module equipped in this way can significantly increase the flexibility of the processing steps in a press line. In general, the stator module according to the invention can therefore form a flexible support structure for various functional elements within a flexible press system.

According to a further aspect of the invention, it is proposed to further develop the press system such that a plurality of upright modules according to the present invention and with two bridge modules of the present invention are combined, the bridge modules being arranged opposite each other in the upright modules. By equipping the stator modules and / or the bridge modules with power modules, a multistage press is created.

Thus, larger workpieces can be edited and / or it can be the flexibility and variation of the different steps for processing the Workpieces are increased with appropriate placement of the bridge modules with power modules and the stator modules can be used in particular to move at least one of the bridge modules. Even with such multistage presses, depending on the design of the press elements and positioning of the bridge modules, the effective locations of the processing can be placed either between the columns of the column modules, or outside the columns. Thus, multi-stand presses can be formed either with closed O-frame or with open C-frame, which, for example, allows the use as a press brake in almost any length and variation of the processing steps.

According to a further aspect of the invention, it is proposed to further develop the press system such that a plurality of single-column presses according to the present invention are joined directly in a row and thus form a common working space between the press elements. With appropriate control technology connection of the power modules in the single-column presses thus large-scale workpieces can be acted upon by high force. Alternatively, each Einständerpresse form a separate processing station in the sense of a subsequent processing of a smaller workpiece in the run with each high application of force while avoiding Auffederungsbedingten influences from the neighboring station.

According to a further aspect of the invention, it is proposed to further develop the press system such that, within such a group of single-column presses, the center axes of the single-column presses are not all vertically aligned in parallel, but can be aligned at different angles to one another. As a result, high machining forces can be exerted on the workpieces partially or in individual workstations from completely different directions.

Overall, different press configurations for a plurality of different processing requirements can be realized by the individual aspects of the present invention as part of a uniform modular modular system. The easy interchangeability of the modules also allows subsequent easy adjustment of the press to changing requirement profiles. Both mechanical see as well as hydraulic drives can be used with their different characteristics and can also be combined arbitrarily within a press plant. By additional adjustment devices, the force-displacement curves can be varied as desired even in the mechanical drive systems. The basically narrow structure of the power modules allows a high density of independently movable drives. These features provide a high level of flexibility in the nature of the machining operations. Even a high concentration of force is made possible by the parallel operation of closely adjacent power modules or complete, narrow single-column presses. The consistently modular design in all areas allows mass production of the required individual parts and components in larger quantities. In conjunction with the reduced use of material due to the static multiple use of the power module, this reduces the manufacturing costs and the weight of the press installations. Reusable parts and frequently used modules can be stored in stock. This smoothes demand peaks and balances the production capacities evenly. As a result, the manufacturing costs are further reduced and the delivery time of the press is shortened. The standardized mechanical interfaces allow, in particular for large systems, a simple assembly of the modules which have been tested ready for operation at the place of use. This reduces transport costs and the installation effort on site. The reduction of the moving masses made possible by the design of the force module reduces the energy input. The easy replacement of the wear-prone modules, made possible by the releasable fasteners, reduces downtime and reduces repair costs. These features reduce operating costs.

The object set in the beginning is thus completely solved by the present invention.

In one embodiment of the force module according to the first aspect of the invention, it is preferred if the pressure element is movably mounted along an axis of the support frame and the opening is formed on an axis formed in the direction of the end of the support frame. As a result, the force module can be integrated in a simple manner in a press system, since the pressure element which forms a part of the plunger for machining the workpieces is outwardly movable bar to edit the workpieces by means of the driving force.

In a further embodiment of the force module, it is preferred if the abutment portion is formed at one of the opening opposite end of the support frame.

Thereby, the force can be exerted on the pressure element efficiently, wherein the size of the support frame is generally reduced.

It is particularly preferred if the connecting element is formed at the end of the abutment portion of the support frame.

As a result, the force exerted on the abutment portion force of the drive unit can be transferred with less effort to a press system and the force exerted on the pressure element force are transmitted to the workpiece to be machined.

It is further preferred if the connecting element is formed at the end of the opening.

Thereby, the press system can be made in a small size, since the pressure element is supported on the connecting element to exert the force on the workpiece to be machined and the support frame can be used for power transmission between the contact portion and the connecting element.

In a particular embodiment, the support frame has a connecting element both at the end of the contact section and at the end of the opening. As a result, the support frame can be integrated particularly stable in a press system and the stability of the entire press system can be increased.

In a particular embodiment, the connecting element is formed as an elongated strip which is formed transversely to the axis of the support frame.

As a result, the power module can be inserted with little installation effort into corresponding strips of a press system and stored in a stable manner.

It is generally preferred if the connecting element has a groove which is adapted to be inserted into a rail to connect the support frame with a press frame.

As a result, the force module can be integrated by simply inserting it into the rail of the press frame of a press system, and be fixed by subsequent bracing by a displaceable wedge.

It is further preferred if the support frame is formed rigid.

As a result, the force module can be formed generally self-supporting, so that the force module can be integrated into different press frame, without further stiffening of the press frame is necessary.

It is further preferred if the support frame is designed as a housing of the power module and the drive unit is accommodated in the housing.

Thereby, an independent power module can be provided, which can be integrated independently of other systems in a press line. It is further preferred if two connecting elements are arranged on opposite portions of the support frame and the support frame forms a rigid rigid connection between the connecting elements.

As a result, the force module by integration into a press frame reinforce the rigidity of the press frame, since the connecting elements are rigidly interconnected.

It is further preferred if the drive unit comprises a toggle or a knee joint which is connected to the pressure element and the contact portion of the support frame and with a drive motor to form the force between the abutment portion of the support frame and the pressure element.

As a result, with little technical effort, the force can be exerted by the drive unit on the pressure element.

It is further preferred if the drive unit has at least two toggle lever, which are connected to the contact portion of the support frame and the pressure element and are driven in parallel by a drive motor.

As a result, the force exerted on the pressure element can be uniformly distributed with little technical effort and the drive unit can generally be made more stable.

It is particularly preferred if one of the two toggle associated with a Hohenverstellelement to adjust a distance between the pressure element and a contact portion of the support frame.

As a result, a deflection of the support frame can be compensated. It is particularly preferred if the Hohenverstellelement is formed by a wedge or an eccentric, which is adjustable by means of a drive screw.

As a result, the handling of this height adjustment element can be simplified. It is further preferred if the drive unit has at least two toggle lever arrangements, each having at least one toggle lever, which are connected to a one-piece or segmented pressure element and the contact portion of the support frame and each driven by a drive unit.

As a result, the force to be exerted on the pressure element can be increased and adjusted individually, since the respective toggle lever arrangements can be driven by different drive units.

It is further preferred if the drive unit is connected by means of a variable transmission element with the pressure element, which is adapted to vary a force-displacement characteristic of the pressure element.

As a result, the force exerted by the pressure element on a workpiece to be machined force can be adjusted individually and adapted to the operation, so that the flexibility of the force module is further increased.

It is further preferred if the drive unit has at least one spindle drive which is arranged between the pressure element and the contact portion of the support frame in order to exert the force on the pressure element.

This allows a particularly compact design can be realized, which can be dispensed with power transmission mechanisms.

It is further preferred if the press system comprises a plurality of separate pressure elements which are each connectable to a spindle drive, wherein the spindle drives between the contact portion and the pressure elements are arranged to exert a separate force on the pressure elements.

As a result, the flexibility of the force module can be increased, since different forces acting on the individual pressure elements and different force-displacement Characteristics can be exercised on the individual printing elements, whereby different steps are possible.

It is further preferred if the drive unit has at least one hydraulic cylinder which can be actuated via a hydraulic line by means of a valve arrangement in order to exert the force on the pressure element.

This allows a further variation of the force-displacement curve can be realized by the special drive technology.

It is particularly preferred if the drive unit has a plurality of hydraulic cylinders, which are each connected to a pressure element in order to exert a separate force on the pressure elements.

As a result, an individual processing by the different pressure elements can be realized, whereby the flexibility of the force module is generally increased.

It is further preferred if the hydraulic cylinder is connected to a spindle drive to generate a hydraulic pressure on the hydraulic cylinder.

As a result, with little technical effort and small size force can be transmitted to the printing elements. On a separate hydraulic unit can be omitted.

In one embodiment of the bridge module according to the second aspect of the invention, it is particularly preferred if the bridge module is equipped with a plurality of force modules according to the first aspect of the present invention, wherein the force modules arranged side by side and each having at least one connecting element of the respective Support frame is connected to at least one of the connecting portions of the flange plates in order to fix the support frame of the power modules to the flange plates. As a result, the force modules can be mounted in the bridge module with simple means and positively and / or non-positively connected to the flange plates, so that they can serve for static reinforcement of the bridge module.

It is further preferred if the flange plates are connected to each other by means of at least one connecting plate which is arranged and fixed perpendicular to the flange plates at an edge portion and / or along a central axis of the flange plates.

As a result, the stability of the bridge module can be further increased.

It is further preferred if at least one connecting plate is connected to the connecting portions of the flange plates.

As a result, the connection plate can be integrated particularly easily in the bridge module.

It is further preferred if connecting portions of the flange plates are formed as rails into which the connecting elements, which are formed as complementary rails, are inserted.

As a result, a fixed mounting of the flange plates in the connecting rails is possible.

It is further preferred if a distance of the connecting portions corresponds to a minimum width of the support frame of the power modules.

As a result, a maximum number of force modules can be integrated in the bridge module. It is further preferred if one of the flange plates has openings which are arranged such that the pressure elements of the force modules can be guided through the openings to machine workpieces.

Thereby, the printing elements can be passed through the upper flange plate to machine the workpieces on the upper flange plate.

It is particularly preferred if a grid dimension of the openings corresponds to a grid dimension of the module holders.

As a result, the bridge module can be equipped with a maximum number of power modules.

In one embodiment of the stator module according to the third aspect of the invention, it is particularly preferred if at least one functional element receptacle is displaceably mounted in the direction of the longitudinal axis, and can be fixed in different positions relative to the other functional element receptacle.

As a result, the flexibility of the stator module can be further increased because workpieces of different sizes can be processed and by adjusting the distance to the respective workpiece and the force-displacement curve and thus the force exerted on the workpiece force can be varied.

It is particularly preferred if two functional element receptacles are formed at one end of the columns, which are mounted displaceably in the longitudinal direction and are fixable to each other in different positions.

As a result, workpieces of different sizes can be processed.

It is particularly preferred if the displaceably mounted functional element receptacle is mounted on the frame by means of at least two thread segments oriented parallel to the longitudinal axis and with an adjusting threaded ring is, wherein the different positions are adjustable by different rotational positions of Verstellgewinderings.

As a result, an adjusting device can be provided, which can be adjusted by simple means and at the same time can carry large loads.

It is further preferred if the thread segments are mounted in the columns and at least partially surround the Verstellgewindering, said Verstellgewindemutter is fixable by a Klemmgewindering.

It is particularly preferred if the Verstellgewindering is rotatable by means of Versteilantriebs to adjust the different positions.

As a result, the different positions can be adjusted automatically, whereby the handling effort of the stator module is reduced.

In the press system, it is particularly preferred if the press system has exactly one post module according to the present invention. As a result, a Einständerpresse be formed.

It is further preferred if the at least one force module is releasably fixed by means of the connecting element in one of the functional element recordings.

As a result, the stator module can be constructed with little effort as a modular system, whereby the total assembly cost is reduced and at the same time the flexibility is increased. It is further preferred if one of the functional elements is designed as a press table, which is releasably fixed in one of the functional element recordings.

As a result, the stator module can be equipped with a power module with little effort and edit the plunger of the power module together with the press table to edit the tool.

It is further preferred if one of the functional elements is designed as a bridge module according to the present invention and forms the press table. As a result, a press table for large workpieces can be provided with low expenditure.

It is further preferred if at least one of the functional elements is designed as a bridge module according to the present invention and is equipped with a plurality of power modules.

As a result, existing module parts of the bridge module can be used and the stator module optionally equipped with a variety of power modules to edit the workpieces flexible.

It is further preferred if the functional elements, which are received in the two functional element receptacles and releasably fixed, as force modules according to the present invention are formed, wherein the respective pressure elements are aligned to the workpiece holder to edit the workpieces and wherein a workpiece receiving tool is fixed to the support frame of the respective force module.

As a result, the flexibility of the machining can be increased because two separately controllable force modules process the workpieces in the workpiece holder. It is further preferred if the force modules protrude in the functional element receptacles perpendicular to the longitudinal axis relative to the frame and the respective pressure element is arranged outside the frame, so that a C-frame press is formed.

This makes it possible to realize a further variation for the machining of workpieces with good accessibility.

It is further preferred that the support frame is rotatably mounted on the frame of the stator module and is connected to a drive unit which is arranged on a side opposite the pressure element side to rotate the support frame, so as to compensate for a bending of the support frame ,

As a result, parallel and precise machining of the workpieces can also be achieved with C-frame presses with large forces and corresponding bending of the support frame.

It is further preferred if in at least one functional element receiving a functional element for machining by means of welding, joining or injection molding is added.

As a result, the variability of the stator module can be further increased.

It is further preferred if at least two bridge modules according to the present invention, at least two stator modules are arranged opposite each other, wherein the at least one force module is accommodated in one of the stator modules or one of the bridge modules.

As a result, the stator modules can be equipped with the bridge modules. It is further preferred if a plurality of force modules are accommodated in the stator modules.

It is further preferred if a plurality of force modules is received in the bridge modules. As a result, a more flexible machining of the workpieces is possible.

It is further preferred if the bridge modules are arranged between the stator modules. As a result, the bridge modules can be moved between the stator modules, whereby greater flexibility can be achieved.

It is further preferred if the force modules, which are accommodated in the functional element receptacles, protrude in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis relative to the frame and the respective pressure element is arranged outside the frame.

In the press system, it is particularly preferred if the pressure elements of the power modules of the stator modules are connected to one of the bridge modules in order to move the bridge modules relative to each other. As a result, the bridge modules can be used more flexibly and adapted to the workpieces.

Overall, it is thus possible to provide various elements of a modular modular press system which can be combined with one another in any desired manner in order to provide a press arrangement for machining workpieces. Due to the modular structure different work steps can be realized and different force-displacement curves can be set by simply replacing or adjusting the corresponding module parts, whereby an individual and flexible processing and use of the entire system is possible. It is understood that the features mentioned above and those yet to be explained below can be used not only in the particular combination given, but also in other combinations or in isolation, without departing from the scope of the present invention.

Embodiments of the invention are illustrated in the drawings and are explained in more detail in the following description. Show it:

1 shows a first embodiment of a power module with a toggle,

Fig. 2 shows an embodiment of a force module with two toggle levers and

Adjusting device for adjusting the force-displacement curve of the pressure element,

3 shows an embodiment of a power module with two toggle levers and a height adjustment,

4 shows an embodiment of a force module with two toggle lever arrangements and two separate drive motors,

5 shows an embodiment of a force module with a plurality of hydraulic cylinders,

6 shows an embodiment of a force module with a plurality of servo spindles,

7 shows an embodiment of a force module with a plurality of pressure elements which can be driven separately from in each case one servo spindle,

8 shows an embodiment of the force module from FIG. 7, FIG. 9 shows an embodiment of a force module with a plurality of hydraulic cylinders, which are controllable by means of servo valves,

10 shows an embodiment of a force module with a plurality of hydraulic cylinders, which are separately drivable by a corresponding plurality of servo spindles,

1 1 a, b a bridge module for receiving force modules,

12 is another view of the bridge module of FIG. 1 1 with side plates,

Fig. 13 is another view of the bridge module of Fig. 1 1 with integrated

Power modules,

14 shows an alternative equipping of the bridge module from FIG. 13,

FIG. 15 shows an alternative configuration of the bridge module from FIG. 13, FIG.

16 shows an alternative equipping of the bridge module from FIG. 13 with hydraulic cylinder power modules from FIG. 9, FIG.

Fig. 17 shows an embodiment of a stator module for receiving

Power modules and bridge modules,

18 is a detail view of the stator module to explain a height adjustment of a functional element recording,

19 is a Einständerpresse with a stator module of FIG. 17, which is equipped with a power module and a press table, 20 shows a variant of the Einständerpresse of FIG. 19, with populated bridge modules,

21 shows a single-column press in one embodiment as a C-frame press with a force module,

22 shows a variant of the Einständerpresse of FIG. 21 with two power modules,

23a is a schematic representation of the deflection of the force modules in a C-pillar press,

FIG. 23b a schematic illustration of a compensation of the deflection of the force modules, FIG.

Fig. 24 is a C-frame press of FIG. 23 with integrated drives for

Compensation of the deflection of the force modules,

25 shows a two-stand press in one embodiment as a C-frame press,

Fig. 26 is a press with a plurality of stator modules, wherein the middle

Stand module is slidably mounted,

27 shows a variant of the press from FIG. 26, FIG. 28 shows an embodiment of a two-stand press with two post modules and two bridge modules, FIG.

FIG. 29 shows a variant of the two-stand press from FIG. 28, FIG. 30 shows an alternative assembly of the Zwiei stator press of FIG. 28, in which the stator modules are each equipped with two movable bridge modules, FIG.

31 shows a press installation with a multiplicity of combined single-column presses,

32 shows a variant of the press installation from FIG. 31 with rotatably mounted single-column presses, FIG.

33 shows a combination of two two-stand press from FIG. 29 with alternative components and a single-stage press, FIG.

Fig. 34 shows an embodiment of a modular press system, which as

Press line is formed with several press stations in a first position,

Fig. 35, the modular press system of Fig. 34 with a moved out

Single Column,

Fig. 36, the modular press system of Figs. 34 and 35 with move out

Press stations and tool changers, and

37 shows a schematic view of a conventional press with built-in force modules according to FIGS. 1 to 10 without the use of the other modular modules.

In Fig. 1, a force module in perspective and in side view is shown schematically and generally designated 10.

The force module 10 has a housing 12 which serves as a support frame 12 for the force module 10. The force module 10 has a pressure element 14 which is movably mounted in a direction of movement 16 relative to the support frame 12. The pressure element 14 is movably mounted along a longitudinal axis of the support frame 12. The support frame 12 has an opening 18 through which the pressure element 14 is movable.

In the support frame 12 and the housing 12, a toggle lever 20 is integrated, which is connected to the pressure element 14 and a contact portion 22 of the support frame 12. The power module 10 further includes a drive motor 24 which is connected to the toggle lever 20 to move the pressure element 14 through the opening 18 therethrough and exert a corresponding force on the pressure element 14.

On the housing 12, two connecting elements 26, 28 are formed, which are formed in the direction of movement 16 at opposite ends of the housing 12. The connecting elements 26, 28 are formed as connecting strips 26, 28, which are aligned transversely or orthogonally to the longitudinal axis or to the direction of movement 16. One of the connecting elements 26 is arranged at a lower end of the housing 12 in the region of the abutment portion 22 and an upper one of the connecting elements 28 is arranged at an upper end of the housing 12 in the region of the opening 18.

The pressure element 14 serves to exert a force on a workpiece to be machined and to form a ram for workpiece machining, either by itself or in combination with a tool. The pressure element 14 can be completely retracted or withdrawn in the housing 12 and correspondingly led out through the opening 18 to the outside, in order to process the workpieces (not shown) accordingly.

The connecting elements 26, 28 serve to insert the entire force module 10 into a press frame (not shown) of a press system in a direction transverse or orthogonal to the direction of movement 16 and there to fix in order to provide a corresponding press function or a plunger function.

In this particular embodiment, the drive motor 24 is arranged outside the housing 12, specifically laterally adjacent to the longitudinal axis of the housing 12 or parallel to the direction of movement 16 of the pressure element 14.

As shown in the side view of Fig. 1, the housing 12 is formed in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis and transversely to the insertion direction or to the connecting elements 26, 28 narrow, so that a plurality of force modules 10 are arranged side by side can, as explained in more detail below.

The drive motor 24 may be formed as a spindle drive or as a hydraulic drive consisting of hydraulic cylinder with servo valve or alternatively as a servo pump and exerts a force on the toggle 20, which is transferable to the pressure element 14 to the pressure element 14 in the direction of movement 16 move accordingly and exert the force on the workpiece to be machined.

Characterized in that the pressure element 14 from the opening 18, which is formed at one end of the housing 12, is herausführbar and protrudes in this position relative to the housing 12, the force module 10 can be easily integrated in a press system and there for processing be used by workpieces.

2, an embodiment of the force module 10 is shown schematically. The same elements are designated by the same reference numerals, in which case only the special features are explained.

The drive motor 24 is formed in this embodiment with two jointly operated toggle levers 30, 32 which are interconnected by means of a connecting rod 34. The pressure element 14 is in a guide 36 in the movement direction 16 movably supported or guided. The pressure element 14 has three separate pressure pieces that are moved out of the housing 12 through the opening 18 or a plurality of openings in order to exert the force from the drive motor 24 to the workpieces to be machined.

By the two toggle levers 30, 32, the driving force of the drive motor 24 is more uniformly transferable to the pressure element 14.

The drive motor 24 is connected via an adjusting device 25 with the knee lever 32 and the pressure elements 14, wherein the adjusting device 25 can set different force-displacement curves of the printing elements 14 in different settings. As a result, the force-displacement curve of the pressure elements 14 can be set individually and as required. The adjustment of the adjusting device 25 takes place via different articulation points and different levers or angles of the deflection mechanism, which thus offers a variation of the force-displacement curve.

In Fig. 3, another embodiment of the force module 10 is shown in perspective. The force module 10 has the two toggle levers 30, 32 in order to move the pressure element 14, one of the toggle levers 30 being assigned a height adjustment element 38 in order to vary the distance between the contact section 22 and the pressure element 14. The height adjustment element 38 is designed as a wedge, which can be moved in its position by means of an adjusting screw 40 in order to vary the corresponding distance between the abutment portion 22 and the pressure element 14. As a result, the force-induced deflection of the housing 12, as well as dimensional tolerances and elastic compression of the toggle lever 30, 32 or the connecting rod 34 can be compensated. In a particular embodiment, the height adjustment element 38 may also be designed as an eccentric. The adjusting device 25 has in this embodiment, an eccentric disc to adjust the force-displacement curve of the printing elements 14. Adjustment devices for adjusting the force-displacement curve are known, for example, from the -PCT / EP2013 / 064298. 4, an embodiment of the force module 10 is shown schematically. In this embodiment, the pressure element 14 is formed with two Doppelkniehebeln 42, 44, which are each connected via the adjusting means 25 with a drive motor 46, 48. The pressure element 14 is guided in accordance with the guide 36, 36 'in the direction of movement 16.

As a result, an increased force can be exerted by the two drive motors 46, 48 on the pressure element. Furthermore, tilting of the pressure element 14 can be prevented by different readjustment of one of the two drive motors. The pressure element 14 may be made in one piece as shown. But it can also be divided in the middle, so that the two halves can perform independent movements. The adjusting device 25 allows the setting of different force-displacement paths of the pressure elements 14. The frame 12 also has a central web 49 which is connected to side plates of the frame 12 in order to increase the flexural rigidity of the frame 12.

In Fig. 5, an embodiment of the force module 10 is shown schematically. The same elements are designated by the same reference numerals, in which case only the special features are explained.

In the embodiment of the power module 10 of Fig. 5, a plurality of hydraulic cylinders 50 are arranged between the pressure element 14 and the abutment portion 22, which are supplied via hydraulic lines 52 with hydraulic pressure. The hydraulic lines 52 are connected to respective separate servo hydraulic valves 54 to drive the hydraulic cylinders 50 accordingly. The hydraulic pressure is provided by an external hydraulic power unit (not shown) to which the hydraulic valves 54 can be connected. Optionally, the hydraulic cylinders 50 may be connected directly to one or more external servo pumps (not shown). In this variant, the servo-hydraulic valves 54 can be omitted. In Fig. 6, an embodiment of the force module 10 is shown schematically. The same elements are designated by the same reference numerals, in which case only the special features are explained. In the embodiment shown in Fig. 6, a plurality of servo spindles 56 are arranged as a drive unit between the pressure element 14 and the abutment portion 22, which are supported on the abutment portion 22 and accordingly exert the driving force on the pressure element 14.

In Fig. 7, an embodiment of the force module 10 is shown schematically in different views. The same elements are designated by the same reference numerals, in which case only the special features are explained.

The force module 10 of FIG. 7 has a plurality of independent pressure elements 60 which are each connected to a servo spindle 56. As a result, the independent printing elements 60 can be moved independently of each other to flexibly provide various forces and strokes for machining the workpieces.

FIG. 8 schematically shows a variant of the force module 10 from FIG. 7. The same elements are designated by the same reference numerals, in which case only the special features are explained. The separate printing elements 60 are each connected to a servo spindle 56 so as to be driven independently of each other. The servo spindles 56 are offset in the direction of movement 16 in this embodiment in order to allow a more compact design and to integrate a higher number of servo spindles 56 in the housing 12.

[00150] An embodiment of the force module 10 is shown schematically in FIG. The same elements are designated by the same reference numerals, in which case only the special features are explained. The separate pressure elements 60 are each connected to a hydraulic cylinder 62, which are each connected via a hydraulic line 64 with corresponding hydraulic valves 66. As a result, the separate pressure elements 60 can be controlled and moved independently of each other, the hydraulic cylinders 62 correspondingly via the hydraulic valves 66 or optionally can be independently controlled and moved by a directly acting servo pump.

FIG. 10 schematically shows a further embodiment of the force module 10 from FIG. 9. The same elements are designated by the same reference numerals, in which case only the special features are explained.

The hydraulic cylinders 62 are supplied via the hydraulic lines 64 with a corresponding hydraulic pressure, wherein the hydraulic lines 64 are connected to hydraulic pistons 68 which are driven by means of servo spindles 70. The hydraulic pistons 68 are integrated in the housing 12. and the larger-sized servo spindles 70 are externally connected to the housing 12 of the power module. Due to different diameters of the hydraulic cylinders 62 and 68, the forces of the servo spindles can be varied proportionally. Characterized in that each pressure piece 60 has a separate hydraulic drive, the pressure elements 60 of the individual power modules 10 are independently controllable and movable.

In Fig. 1 1 a, a bridge module for receiving force modules 10 is shown schematically and generally designated 130. The bridge module 130 includes an upper flange plate 132 and a lower flange plate 134, each having connectors 136 for securing power modules 10 or web plates. The flange plates 132, 134 are connected to the respective end faces by means of a respective end plate 140, 142 and in this illustration with the web plate 138. The flange plates 132, 134 are correspondingly spaced by means of the end plates 140, 142, wherein the connecting elements 136 face each other or . are directed to a formed interior 144. The end plates 140, 142 further comprise cantilevers for the connection of the bridge module 130 with the power modules 10 and / or the frame 82. In the upper flange plate 132 openings 145 are formed through which ram or the pressure elements 14 can be guided by the power modules 10, which are received in the inner space 144 and fastened by means of the connecting grooves 136. In Fig. 1 1 b, the bridge module 130 is shown schematically with an inserted force module 10. The same elements are designated by the same reference numerals, in which case only the special features are explained. In a detailed drawing of the upper flange plate 32, which is also shown in Fig. 1 1 b, the receptacle of the connecting element 28 in one of the connecting grooves 136 is shown in detail, wherein the connecting groove 136 and the connecting element 28 are formed complementary to the force module 10th firmly stored in the bridge module 130. Furthermore, an elongated wedge element 146 is shown in FIG. 1 b, which is pushed in a longitudinal direction of the connecting groove 136 between the connecting element 28 and a side flank of the connecting groove 136 in order to support the force module 10 in a particularly firm and clearance-free manner.

FIG. 12 schematically illustrates the bridge module 130, in which the interior spaces 144 are each closed by means of a lateral web plate 148. The web plate 148 is connected to the bridging module 130 at the connecting grooves 136. Thus, the bridge module 130 can also serve as a passive press table or plunger without additional function.

In Fig. 13, the bridge module 130 is shown schematically in a perspective and plan view and equipped with a plurality of power modules 10. The power modules 10 are laterally inserted into the two inner spaces 144 and by means of the connecting strips 26, 28 and the corresponding Connecting grooves 136 connected to the bridge module 130. The pressure elements 14 are guided through the openings 145 in the upper flange plate 132 to edit the workpieces accordingly. In the assembly shown in FIG. 13, four narrow force modules 10 are arranged in one of the two inner spaces 144, whereas in the opposite inner space 144 two narrow force modules 10 and a wide force module 10 are arranged. The corresponding openings between the force modules 10 are closed with web plate segments 152 in order to increase the corresponding stability of the bridge module 130.

By virtue of the force modules 10 arranged in the bridge module 130, the bridge module 130 can be used as a press element for machining workpieces can be used, whereby the flexibility of the application and processing is ensured by the different mounting variants. In this case, different drive types according to FIGS. 1 to 10 can also be used side by side within a bridge module 130. The rigid and self-supporting support frame 12 or housing 12 of the power modules 10 serve also for mechanical stabilization of the bridge module 130th

In Fig. 14, a further assembly variant of the bridge module 130 is shown schematically, in perspective and in plan view. The same elements are designated by the same reference numerals, in which case only the special features are explained.

14, force modules 10 according to one of FIGS. 1 to 4 are arranged in the interior spaces 140, wherein the width of the respective housing 12 is smaller than the width of the respective drive motor 24. Therefore, the force modules 10 are in two different lengths executed, so that the drive motors 24 are arranged in two rows offset from each other and the housing 12 of the power modules 10 are each placed side by side in the respective interior 144. As a result, it is possible to assemble with particularly many of the force modules 10.

In Fig. 15, an alternative assembly variant of the bridge module 130 is shown schematically, in perspective and in plan view. The same elements are designated by the same reference numerals, in which case only the special features are explained.

The power modules 10, which are arranged in the two inner spaces 144 in FIG. 18, do not themselves have their own drive motor 24, but are actuated via a connection carrier 152, which is moved with two separate drive motors 154, wherein the drive motors 154 are connected to the upper flange plate 132 and the lower flange plate 134 to exert the corresponding force on the connection carrier 152. FIG. 16 shows an assembly variant of the bridge module 130, in which force modules 10 with hydraulic drive according to FIG. 9 or 10 are arranged in the interior spaces 144. The same elements are designated by the same reference numerals, in which case only the special features are explained.

The separate pressure elements 60 are passed through the openings 145 in the upper flange plate 132 to perform the corresponding processing function. As a result of the multiplicity of individually individually movable pressure pieces 60, any free-form surfaces can be formed which can be flexibly pressed onto the workpiece, for example directly or via an intermediate medium. a sheet metal, can be molded.

As a result, the bridge module 130 can thus be equipped with a wide variety of force modules 10 up to the fully flexible multi-point device to perform a variety of processing steps.

In Fig. 17, a stator module for receiving force modules 10 for machining workpieces is shown schematically and generally designated 80. The stator module 80 has a rigid frame 82, with element receivers 84, 86 which are offset along a longitudinal axis 88 of the frame 82 and spaced from each other. The element receivers 84, 86 are designed to receive a press element in the form of a force module 10 or a bridge module 130 and to introduce the reaction forces from the press element into the columns. Corresponding openings in the columns 94, 96 allow the insertion of the functional elements for easy assembly and replacement. The element receivers 84, 86 each have connecting grooves 97 or connecting sections 97, which are designed to receive the connecting elements 26, 28 of the power modules 10 or of the press tables 90. In this case, the connecting grooves 97 are formed complementary to the connecting elements 26, 28, so that the corresponding force modules 10 or press tables 90 can be received firmly in the element holders 84, 86. Between the element receptacles 84, 86 of the installation space 92 for the tool (not shown) is formed, which is adapted to the to receive machining workpieces and to edit by means of or of the force module 10.

The frame 82 generally comprises pillars 94, 96 which connect the two element receivers 84, 86 together and are adapted to receive the force exerted by the force modules 10 on the workpiece or the press table 90 and a corresponding counterforce develop. Further, the frame 82 has a top plate 98 and a bottom plate 99 formed at opposite ends of the frame 82.

At the columns 94, 96 laterally stiffening plates 101, 102 are arranged to stiffen the entire frame 82.

The stand module 80 optionally has on the top plate 98 and at the end of the columns 94, 96 adjustment devices 104, by means of which the upper element receptacles 84 and the functional element received therein along the longitudinal axis 88 can be displaced or displaced. The adjusting device 104 has in a light version in each case a spindle drive 106 and an adjusting spindle 105 in order to move the element holders 84, 86 or the functional element accommodated therein.

As a result of the fact that different force modules 10 according to FIGS. 1-10 or bridge modules can be accommodated in the element holders 84, 86, the press function can be varied as desired by replacing the elements in the stator module 80. In a particular embodiment, two force modules 10 can be arranged in both element receptacles 84, 86 and accordingly process a workpiece in the tool installation space 92 with the respective plungers or pressure elements 14

In Fig. 18 is a sectional view of the stator module 80 in perspective schematic and two partial views of an alternative adjusting device for represented high forces. The same elements are designated by the same reference numerals, in which case only the special features are explained.

Fixed thread segments 108 in the columns 94, 96 are aligned parallel to the longitudinal axis 88, and act like segments of a enveloping hollow spindle. In between a Verstellgewindering 1 10 and a Klemmgewindering 1 12 are arranged. The Verstellgewinderingl 10 and the Klemmgewindering 1 12 are connected via a common central axis with a support frame 1 14 to vary the height accordingly by rotation of Verstellgewinderings 1 10 in the threaded segments 108. This holding frame 1 14 simultaneously serves as an element receptacle 84 for the power module 10. On the holding frame 1 14 one of Verstellantrie- be 106 is arranged, which is connected via a chain drive with Verstellgewindering 1 10 to rotate this according to the height adjustment. An actuator 1 16 is connected via a chain drive with the clamping threaded ring 1 12 to rotate it accordingly.

By the height position of the Verstellgewinderings 1 10, the position of the holding frame 1 14 is set and the clamping frame 1 12 of the holding frame 1 14 is clamped by correspondingly to counter a fixed position of the holding frame 1 14 and thus the element holder 84 and To ensure it recorded functional element.

The upper flanks 1 18 of the threads are aligned at a right angle relative to the longitudinal axis 88, whereas the lower flanks 120 of the threads are conical or formed at an angle in order to force in the radially outward in the clamping operation the tensile bars 94, 96 form. As a result, the tension rods are braced in an elastic region against guides of brackets of the holding frame 1 14. As a result, a backlash when tightening the clamping nut 1 12 is achieved in all directions, which avoids knocking out the contact surfaces in the constant load changes in press operation. By adjusting means 106 can be adjusted to each other by simple means, the relative position of the functional element receptacles 84, 86, whereby in general the final force can be adjusted to the workpiece and whereby different high tools for machining the workpieces can be installed in the installation space 92.

FIG. 19 schematically shows a single-column press 100 as a fitting variant of the column module 80. The same elements are designated by the same reference numerals, in which case only the special features are explained.

The upper element receptacle 84 is equipped with a force module 10 and the lower element receptacle 86 is equipped with a bridge module 130 configured as a press table 90. This allows a single-acting press function to be performed.

In Fig. 20 an alternative assembly variant of the Einständerpresse 100 is shown schematically, in which in the upper element receptacle 84 and in the lower element receptacle 86 each have a bridge module 130 is added, in each of which four power modules 10 are added. The bridge modules 130 are movably supported on the pillars 94, 96 and connected to opposing power modules 10, respectively, for moving the bridge modules 130 along the longitudinal axis of the pillar press 100, respectively. As a result, large strokes and different force-displacement curves of the printing elements 14 can be adjusted.

In FIGS. 21 and 22, mounting variants of the stator module 80 are shown. The same elements are designated by the same reference numerals, in which case only the special features are explained.

As shown in FIG. 21, a power module 10 is arranged in the upper element receptacle 84 and a press table 90 is arranged in the lower element receptacle 86. In this case, the respective elements extend laterally beyond the frame 82 in the element receptacles, so that the Pressure element 14 is arranged laterally adjacent to the frame 82. As a result, a C-frame press can be provided by this mounting variant of the Einständerpresse 00th In this case, the drive unit 24 protrudes out of the frame 82, on a side opposite the pressure element 1 side. There is a free accessibility in the outer working space of the press.

FIG. 22 shows an alternative assembly variant in which, compared to the variant from FIG. 21, a force module 1 is also arranged and fixed in the lower element receptacle 86, so that this assembly variant has two force modules 10 and thus a double-acting one C-frame press is formed.

Figure 23a shows a schematic representation of the effects of the force-induced deflection of the support frame 12 of the power modules 10 in this assembly variant and Figure 24 shows the possibility of compensation for this systemic disadvantage. The same elements are designated by the same reference numerals, in which case only the special features are explained.

The eccentric arrangement of the printing elements 1 of the mounting variant of Fig. 23 causes, as shown in Fig. 23a, the deflection of the support frame 12 of the power modules 10 and a corresponding inclination of the printing elements 14. The movements of the upper and lower pressure elements 14th Do not run parallel to each other but form an angle to each other, as indicated by the corresponding force arrows. As a result, a precise machining of the workpieces is not possible and increased tool wear the result. To compensate for this, the power modules 0 are rotatably mounted about a pivot point 166 and rotatable about the pivot point 166 by means of a drive not shown here. In Fig. 23b, the support frame 12 are rotated accordingly, so that the surfaces of the printing elements 14 are aligned parallel to each other. As a result, a precise compensation of the deflection of the support frame 12 can be realized. Fig. 24 shows an embodiment of the possibility schematically shown in Fig. 23b for compensating for the deflection of the support frame 12. The same elements are designated by the same reference numerals, in which case only the special features are explained. A separate drive 167 serves to rotate the support frame 12 to compensate for the deflection of the support frame 12 accordingly. In the upright module 80, a force module 10 similar to FIG. 4 is installed at the top and bottom, each with a drive 24 and a drive 167 for driving the pressure elements 14. At the processing point outside the frame, the drive 24 for the printing element 14 is rotated by 180 ° and moved into the interior of the housing of the power module 10, which is shown partially opened in the drawing. As a result, the accessibility of the processing point is increased. At the processing point opposite end of the power module 10, the moving of the drive 167 pressure piece 14 is supported on a fixed contact piece of the column 94 from. The movement of this pressure piece 14 causes a rotation of the force module 10 about the pivot point 166, to which the element receptacles are formed at the ends of the column 96 by the installation of a dome. The rotation of the force module 10 serves to compensate for the deflection of the support frame 12 accordingly. In this case, the parallel position of the pressure elements at the processing point during the press stroke must be monitored in a control loop by suitable sensors, which emits appropriate control signals to the rotation causing drive 24 in the event of imminent deviations.

In Fig. 25, a two-stand press is shown schematically and generally denoted by 170. The two-stand press has two post modules 80, which are equipped according to FIG. 21 and wherein the force modules 10 received in the upper element receptacle 84 are connected to an elongate bridge module 130, in which a plurality of force modules 10 are accommodated. As a result, an elongated C-press unit can be assembled, which can also process elongate workpieces in one step or in successive steps.

In Fig. 26, a multi-column press 180 is shown with three adjacently arranged Einständerpressen 100, in a Bestückungsvariante 21, each with a force module 10 in the upper element receptacle 84. The pressure elements 14 are each connected to a box-shaped bridge module 182 so as to jointly process a workpiece. The middle of the Einständerpressen 100 is movably mounted, as indicated by an arrow 184, so that here the force can be applied demand-oriented at any point.

In Fig. 27, a fitting variant of the multistage press 180 is shown schematically. The single-column presses 100 are each equipped with a force module 10 in the assembly variant from FIG. 19, so that the pressure elements 14 are moved within the frame 82. The printing elements 14 are connected to the common plunger 182 to work together on the workpiece. As in FIG. 26, the middle one of the single-column presses 100 is movably mounted in order to distribute the force as required.

In Fig. 28, a two-stand press is shown schematically and generally designated 185. The two-stand press 185 has two column modules 80, and two bridge modules 130 arranged opposite one another, wherein both bridge modules are equipped with power modules 10, each of which has its own drive motor 24. This assembly of the bridge modules 130 is merely an example. In principle, the bridge modules 130 can be equipped with all force modules shown in FIGS. 1 to 10 in any combination. Since the opposing bridge modules 130 do not perform their own movement, the workpieces can only be processed by the force modules 10 received in the bridge modules 130. The upper and lower force modules 10 can each form an independent workstation in pairs.

FIG. 29 shows a variant of the two-stand press 185 from FIG. 28. The two-stand press 185 has two post modules 80, which are each equipped with force modules 10 in the upper press element receptacles 84 and with two oppositely arranged bridge modules 130, wherein the upper bridge module is equipped with power modules 10, each having its own drive motor 24 and the lower bridge module 130 two drive motors 154 for drive all power modules of this bridge module 130 have. The power modules 10 of the stator modules 80 are connected to the upper bridge module 130, in order to move this accordingly and thus perform variable operations. Thus, for example, the upper bridge module 130 can perform rapid lift as well as power stroke, and the force modules 10 merely act as so-called die-cushions. Alternatively, working steps between bridge module 130 and force modules 10 can also be combined in various ways, eg rapid stroke / closing stroke by the bridge module 130 and different working strokes by the force modules 10.

FIG. 30 shows a further variant of the two-stand press 185 from FIG. 28 with a schematic sectional view. The same elements are designated by the same reference numerals, only special features are explained here.

In this variant, both the upper bridge module 130 and the lower bridge module 130 are designed to be movable at their four corners in each case by force modules 10. As a result, the variation possibilities described in FIG. 29 are once again extended. In addition, a larger closing or opening movement of the bridge modules 130 can be achieved, whereby, for example, the removal of the respective workpiece is facilitated or a higher workpiece can be processed. The upper bridge module 130 is equipped with hydraulic power modules, the lower with mechanical. The stator modules 80 also each have the adjusting device 104. The columns 94, 96 are shown in section, the columns each having guide rails 162, 164 for guiding the two bridge modules 130 up and down. In principle, two-stand presses according to FIGS. 28-30 can process a large-area workpiece uniformly or with different actions at different locations. Alternatively, with appropriate equipping of the bridge modules 130, small workpieces can be processed individually in the passage in work stations formed by the force modules 10 within the bridge modules 130 independently of each other. This allows a very flexible use of the presses.

In Fig. 31, a compact press system is shown schematically and generally designated 190. The compact press system is in this example formed from five detachably connected Einständerpressen 100, each consisting of stator modules 80 and power modules 10. This very high forces can be exercised, either together on a large workpiece, or individually in five workstations on a small workpiece in the flow. It can be the same, or different in execution and equipment different presses combined.

In Fig. 32, a variant of the compact press system 190 is shown schematically. The various Einständerpressen 100 are rotatably mounted on a bogie. The Einständerpressen 100 are independently rotatably mounted to act with high force from different directions on the workpiece.

FIG. 33 shows by way of example a combination of two two-stand presses with a single-stage press arranged therebetween. This allows use for multi-stage processing steps with very different power requirements, the station with the high power requirement should exert no influence in the form of elastic deformation on the other workstations with possibly. High demands on accuracy.

Fig. 34 shows a modular press line 200 for particularly large-area workpieces, which is formed from a plurality of press stations 240, 241, 242, 243, 244, 245. By way of example, in this figure, the stations are formed from a combination of schematically illustrated single presses according to FIG. 19. In the same way, however, a station may also be formed from a two-stand press according to FIGS. 28-30 or from a compact press installation according to FIG. In each station, the workpiece is machined in a particular way in a tool. A transport between the individual press stations 240 to 245 of a respective workpiece takes place by means of suitable transport systems, which are basically known to the person skilled in the art. All presses can be arranged on a common machine bed 246, which allows relative mobility of each press and thus also each press station 240 to 245 in the conveying direction relative to each other.

Furthermore, each press can be designed to be movable perpendicular to the conveying direction. By way of example, Fig. 35 shows how a single press is laterally, i. is extended perpendicular to the conveying direction from a press station 241. In this way, a repair of the respective press or its maintenance is easily possible. In principle, it is also possible in this way to swap a single press quickly so as not to have to stop the entire press while the single press is being repaired.

In addition, it is shown in FIG. 36 that the individual press stations can also be moved perpendicular to the conveying direction in this way. For example, it is then possible to exchange the tools at the individual press stations by means of a tool changing carriage 247 in order subsequently to implement other machining operations.

In Fig. 37, a conventional press is shown schematically and generally designated 250. The press line has a rigid, press frame 252 with table and fixed headboard and below the vertically movable plunger. Table and plunger have a plurality of receptacles 254 to push or dispose the power modules 10. By appropriate openings 256 in table and plunger plate, the pressure elements 14 in the tool installation space 258 can be guided to edit the workpieces accordingly.

Fig. 37 shows that the individual power modules 10 can also serve to load conventional press systems in the function as passive die cushion or as additional active force elements.

Claims

Patent claims

Force module (10) for processing workpieces, with:

a support frame (12) which has at least one connecting element (26, 28) in order to fix the force module (10),

a pressure element (14; 60) which is movably mounted relative to the support frame (12) and forms part of a ram for processing the workpieces,

a drive unit (24; 46, 48; 50; 56; 62), which is connected to the pressure element (14; 60) and a contact section (22) of the support frame (12) in such a way that a force from the drive unit (24; 46 , 48; 50; 56; 62) can be exerted on the pressure element (14; 60) in order to move the pressure element (14; 60) relative to the support frame (12) for processing the workpieces, characterized in that the support frame (12 ) has an opening (18) in an outer peripheral surface, through which the pressure element (14; 60) can be moved by the driving force of the drive unit (24; 46, 48; 50; 56; 62) in order to move the workpieces by means of the driving force edit.

Force module according to claim 1, characterized in that the pressure element (14; 60) is movably mounted in a direction of movement (16) and the opening (18) is formed at an end of the support frame (12) formed in the direction of movement (16).

Power module according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the contact section (22) is formed at an end of the support frame (12) opposite the opening (18).

4. Power module according to claim 3, characterized in that the connecting element (26) is formed at the end of the contact section (22) of the support frame (12).

5. Power module according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that the connecting element (28) is formed at the end of the opening (18).

6. Power module according to one of claims 2 to 5, characterized in that the connecting element (26, 28) is designed as an elongated strip (26, 28) which is formed on the support frame (12) transversely to the direction of movement (16).

7. Power module according to claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the connecting element (26, 28) has a groove which is designed to be inserted into a rail (136) in order to connect the support frame (12) to a press frame .

8. Power module according to claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the support frame (12) is designed to be rigid.

9. Power module according to claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the support frame (12) is designed as a housing of the power module and the drive unit is accommodated in the housing.

10. Power module according to claims 1 to 9, characterized in that two connecting elements (26, 28) are arranged on opposite sections of the support frame (12) and the support frame (12) forms a rigid, rigid connection between the connecting elements (26, 28). .

1 1 . Power module according to one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the drive unit (24; 46, 48; 50; 56; 62) has a toggle lever (20) which is connected to the pressure element (14) and the contact section (22) of the support frame (12) and with a drive motor (24) is connected to form the force between the contact section (22) of the support frame (12) and the pressure element (14).

12. Power module according to claim 1 to 1 1, characterized in that the drive unit (24; 46, 48; 50; 56; 62) has at least two toggle levers (30, 32; 42, 44) which are connected to the contact section (22). of the support frame (12) and the pressure element (14; 60) are connected and can be driven in parallel by the drive motor (24; 46, 48).

13. Power module according to claim 12, characterized in that one of the two toggle levers (30; 32; 42, 44) is assigned a height adjustment element (38) in order to maintain a distance between the pressure element (14) and a contact section (22) of the support frame ( 12).

14. Power module according to one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that the drive unit (46, 48) has at least two toggle lever arrangements (42, 44), each with at least one toggle lever, which has a one-piece or segmented pressure element (14) and the contact section (22) of the support frame (12) are connected and can each be driven by a drive motor (46, 48).

15. Force module according to one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that the drive unit is connected to the pressure element by means of a variable transmission element, which is designed to vary a force-path characteristic of the pressure element.

16. Power module according to one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the drive unit has at least one spindle drive (56) which is arranged between the pressure element (14; 60) and the contact section (22) of the support frame (12) in order to To exert force on the pressure element (14; 60).

17. Force module according to claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the force module (10) has a plurality of separate pressure elements (60), each with a spindle drive (56), the spindle drives (56) being arranged between the contact section (22) and the pressure elements (60) in order to separately exert force on the pressure elements (60).

18. Power module according to one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the drive unit (50; 62) has at least one hydraulic cylinder (50; 62) which can be controlled via a hydraulic line (52; 64) by means of a valve arrangement (54), to exert the force on the pressure element (60).

19. Power module according to claim 18, characterized in that the drive unit (62) has a plurality of hydraulic cylinders (62), each of which is connected to a pressure element (60) in order to separately exert force on the pressure elements (60).

20. Power module according to claim 19, characterized in that the hydraulic cylinder (62) is connected to a spindle drive (70) in order to exert hydraulic pressure on the hydraulic cylinder (62).

21. Bridge module (130) for accommodating force modules (10), with: an upper flange plate (132) and a lower flange plate (134), the flange plates (132, 134) each having a plurality of connecting sections (136) arranged next to one another in order to do this to accommodate and fix compatible connecting elements (26, 28) of the support frame (12) of the force modules (10), two end plates (140, 142), which are each connected to the flange plates (132, 134) on opposite sides, the end plates ( 140, 142) connect the flange plates (132, 134) firmly and at a distance from one another, so that the connecting sections (136) of the two flange plates (132, 134) lie opposite one another, characterized in that a plurality of module receptacles are formed between the flange plates (132, 134) in order to accommodate the force modules (10), the connecting elements (26, 28) of the force modules (10) being connected to the connecting sections (136) of the flange plates (132 , 134) can be connected in such a way that support frames (12) of the force modules (10) rigidly connect the flange plates (132, 134) to one another.

22. Bridge module according to claim 21, with a plurality of force modules (10) according to one of claims 1 to 18, characterized in that the force modules (10) are arranged next to one another and in each case the at least one connecting element (26, 28) of the respective support frame (12 ) is connected to at least one of the connecting sections (136) of the flange plates (132, 154) in order to fix the support frames (12) of the force modules on the flange plates (132, 154).

23. Bridge module according to claim 22, characterized in that the flange plates (132, 134) are connected to one another by means of at least one connecting plate which is perpendicular to the flange plates (132, 134) at an edge section and / or along a central axis of the flange plates (132, 134) is arranged and fixed.

24. Bridge module according to claim 23, characterized in that at least one connecting plate is connected to the connecting sections (136) of the flange plates (132, 134).

25. Bridge module according to one of claims 21 to 24, characterized in that connecting sections (136) of the flange plates (132, 154) are designed as rails (136) into which the connecting elements (26, 28), which are designed as complementary rails be inserted.

Bridge module according to one of claims 21 to 25, characterized in that a distance between the connecting sections (136) corresponds to a minimum width of the support frames (12) of the force modules (10).

Bridge module according to one of claims 22 to 26, characterized in that at least one of the flange plates (132, 134) has openings (150) which are arranged such that the pressure elements (14; 60) of the force modules (10) pass through the openings ( 150) can be guided to process the workpieces.

Bridge module according to claim 27, characterized in that a grid dimension of the openings (150) corresponds to a grid dimension of the module receptacles.

Bridge module according to one of claims 21 to 28, characterized in that the pressure elements (14; 60) of the force modules (10) are connected to one another to form a common ram for workpiece processing.

Stand module (80) for holding force modules (10) and/or bridge modules (130) and for processing workpieces, with a rigid frame (82) which has a longitudinal axis (88), the frame (82) having two spaced columns ( 82, 84), which are designed to absorb forces exerted by the force modules (10) and/or bridge modules (130), characterized in that functional element receptacles (84, 86) are formed on opposite end sections of the columns in order to accommodate functional elements and to be detachably connected to the columns (82, 84).

Stand module according to claim 30, characterized in that at least one of the functional element receptacles (84, 86) is mounted displaceably in the direction of the longitudinal axis (88) and can be fixed in different positions relative to the other functional element receptacle (84, 86).

Stand module according to one of claims 30 or 31, characterized in that the displaceably mounted functional element receptacle (84, 86) by means of a parallel to the longitudinal axis (88) aligned thread segments (108) and with an adjusting threaded ring (110) on the frame (82), the different positions being adjustable by different rotational positions of the adjusting ring (1 10).

Stand module according to claim 32, characterized in that the thread segments (108) are mounted in the columns (82, 84) and at least partially surround the adjusting threaded ring (1 10), the adjusting threaded ring (1 10) being fixable by a clamping threaded ring (1 12). is.

Stand module according to claim 32 or 33, characterized in that the adjusting threaded ring (110) can be rotated by means of an adjusting drive (106) in order to set the different positions.

Press system (100, 170, 180, 185, 190, 195, 200) for processing workpieces, with at least one stand module (80) according to one of claims 30 to 34 and with at least one force module (10) according to one of claims 1 to 20 .

Press system according to claim 35, characterized in that the press system has exactly one stand module according to one of claims 30 to 34.

Press system according to claim 36, characterized in that the stand module has a bridge module according to one of claims 21 - 29.

Press system according to claim 36, characterized in that the at least one force module (10) is releasably fixed in one of the functional element receptacles (84, 86) by means of the connecting element (26, 28).

Press system according to claim 37 or 38, characterized in that one of the functional elements is designed as a press table (90) which is detachably fixed in one of the functional element receptacles (84, 86).

40. Press system according to claim 37 or 38, characterized in that one of the functional elements is designed as a bridge module (130) according to one of claims 21 to 29 and forms the press table.

41. Press system according to one of claims 37 to 40, characterized in that one of the functional elements is designed as a bridge module (130) according to one of claims 21 to 29 and is equipped with a plurality of force modules (10).

42. Press system according to one of claims 37 to 41, characterized in that the functional elements which are accommodated and releasably fixed in the two functional element receptacles (84, 86) are designed as force modules (10) according to one of claims 1 to 20, wherein the respective pressure elements (14; 60) are aligned towards the workpiece holder in order to process the workpieces and a workpiece-receiving tool is fixed to the support frame (12) of the respective force module (10).

43. Press system according to claims 37 to 42, characterized in that the

Force modules (10) in the functional element receptacles (84, 86) protrude perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (88) relative to the frame (82) and the respective pressure element (14, 60) is arranged outside the frame (82), so that a C-frame -Press is formed.

44. Press system according to claims 37 to 43, characterized in that the

Support frame (12) is rotatably mounted on the frame (82) of the stand module and is connected to a drive unit which is arranged on a side opposite the pressure element (14) in order to rotate the support frame (12) so as to prevent bending of the support frame (2) to compensate.

45. Press system according to one of claims 37 to 44, characterized in that a functional element for processing by means of welding, joining or injection molding is accommodated in at least one functional element receptacle Press system according to claim 36, with at least two stand modules according to one of claims 30 to 34, at least two bridge modules (130) according to one of claims 21 to 29, which are arranged opposite one another on the two stand modules (80), the at least one force module (10 ) is accommodated in one of the stand modules or one of the bridge modules.

Press system according to claim 46, characterized in that a plurality of force modules (10) are accommodated in the stand modules.

Press system according to claim 46 or 47, characterized in that a plurality of force modules are accommodated in the bridge modules.

Press system according to one of claims 46 to 48, characterized in that the bridge modules (130) are arranged between the stand modules (80).

Press system according to one of claims 46 to 49, characterized in that the force modules (10), which are accommodated in the functional element receptacles (84, 86), protrude from the frame (82) in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (88) and that respective pressure element (14, 60) is arranged outside the frame (82).

Press system according to claim 50, characterized in that bridge modules (130) which lie opposite one another in the longitudinal direction of the frame (82) are mounted on the pressure elements (14, 60).