EP3030359A1

EP3030359A1 - Bending press

Info

Publication number: EP3030359A1
Application number: EP14780580.8A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Lars WOIDASKY
Original assignee: Bystronic Laser AG
Current assignee: Bystronic Laser AG
Priority date: 2013-08-09
Filing date: 2014-08-05
Publication date: 2016-06-15
Anticipated expiration: 2034-08-05
Also published as: EP3030359B1; WO2015019285A1; US10189068B2; CN105451905A; JP6517203B2; JP2016530102A; US20160151820A1; CN105451905B

Abstract

The invention relates to a bending press (1) for bending workpieces, comprising an upper tool (2) and a lower tool (3), a tool holder (4), in which the upper tool (2) is inserted, and a tool holder (5), in which the lower tool (3) is inserted, wherein the upper tool (2) and the lower tool (3) can be fixed in various positions within the respective tool holder (4, 5), a control device (13) for controlling the bending press (1), a sensor device (8), which is connected to the control device (13), and a stop (6) for positioning the workpiece within the bending press (1), wherein the stop (6) can be moved in relation to the tools (2, 3) by means of a drive (9) controlled by the control device (13). The sensor device (8) is designed to detect the position of the upper tool (2) and of the lower tool (3) within the bending press (1) without contact, and the control device (13) is designed to adapt the movement process by means of which the stop (6) is positioned in relation to the tools (2, 3), in dependence on the position of the upper tool (2) and of the lower tool (3) detected by means of the sensor device (8).

Description

bending press

The invention relates to a bending press according to the preamble of claim 1 and a method for bending a workpiece with a bending press according to claim 8.

The tool selection and arrangement in bending presses, also called press brakes or bending machines, takes place to a high degree manually and only partially supported by the machine control. For this purpose, a bending plan is created, which calculates the product-specific upper and lower tools, as well as their theoretical position. However, there is no monitoring whatsoever as to whether or not these tools are actually being used in the machine. In addition, the tools can be inserted in positions that do not correspond to the process and have the potential for danger.

The exact positioning of the tools is necessary, however, in order to carry out bending sequences of high quality and to align the backgauge fingers or a robot accordingly. Corresponding positioning is only possible by precise and labor-intensive measuring by hand and transfer to the

Machine control possible.

Inaccurate positioning, failure to take into account the bending plan or the wrong number of tools can cause damage to the machine and peripherals. This is also possible by a wrong selection of the tool geometry. Furthermore, upper and lower tools are defined with maximum loads - also here it can come with improper handling to damage. Damage to pressbrakes and tools caused by incorrect assembly can also lead to claims of any kind against the manufacturer. There are already known devices which try to solve the problems mentioned in parts, but have a number of disadvantages. So z. B. a display device on the machine only specify a desired position, but not their control and detection.

JPH0952124A discloses a bending machine with upper and lower tool, a stop and a bar code reader, which is arranged on the stop.

Upper and lower tools are each provided on their back with a barcode that can be read by the barcode reader. The barcode contains information about the nature of the tool. This information are transferred to an NC control. In addition to the barcode reader, a touch sensor or limit switch is provided on the stop, with which the dimensions of the respective tool can be determined. Such a procedure is complex and time-consuming, since the touch sensor must be moved up to the tool several times and in different positions.

With such a system, e.g. Tools can not be detected on the outside of the machine, since due to the mechanics no (backgauge) can drive, and only individually positioned tools can be recognized Several tools that are pushed together on a tool holder can not be differentiated because the central ones In particular, individually positioned tools are only recognizable if the distances between the tools are large enough to be able to move with the back gauge or the fingers in between. such that on very small punches (upper tool) dies (lower tool) can not be represented.Also, the detection of the bar code on inclined surfaces of the tool is heavily flawed, so that not all

Tools can be reliably detected. Also, specially shaped tools can not be detected when the backgauge is not mechanically moved between the tools. If no approximate position of the tool is known prior to the detection process, there is a high risk of colliding with the back gauge. Since the workpieces to be machined also encounter the backgauge during positioning, the

Touch sensors heavily stressed and are easily damaged.

WO2012 / 103565A1 discloses a method for loading a bending press with a bending tool. In this case, a controlled handling device is used with a gripper for the bending tool. A control device generates control commands in order to move the tool from an ACTUAL position to a desired position when it is inserted into the tool holder. Only when the tool has arrived in the desired position, it is inserted into the tool holder and fixed there. The tools held by the handling device must be approached directly by the (rear) stop in order to determine their actual position. The process is complex and based on the fundamental principle that the tools must take an exact position within the tool holder, so that the desired bending plan can be performed. EP0919300B1 (or DE69736112T2) discloses a bending machine in which the upper tools are provided with bar codes. On the tool clamping for the upper tools, a guide for a scanner for reading the bar codes, which extends in the Z direction, is provided on the side facing the operator. Furthermore, a linear scale, eg a magnetic scale, is arranged as a position detection device on this tool clamping on the side facing the operator. The position data of the upper tools recorded by the scanner are saved and later made available in an advertisement. For the re-production of a similar product, the operator must place the tools according to the stored data by hand exactly according to the stored position. Also, this bending machine is based on the fundamental principle that the tools must take an exact position within the tool holder, so that the desired bending plan can be performed. The exact positioning and adjustment of the tool position, however, requires a lot of time and personnel.

EP1517761 B1 and DE602005005385T2 relate to special tools and tool holders, which can detect tool positions relatively imprecisely via sensors. It is sometimes not possible

Classify tools qualitatively and geometrically. Also disadvantageous are the high initial costs of the necessary periphery, the maintenance intensity, the required new acquisition of special punches and dies and their limited geometry. Due to the introduced sensors in the machine and tool, limited pressing forces can still be expected. In addition, moving sensors on top and bottom beams, as well as necessary data and power cables reduce the variability of a press brake. The number of possible bending parts is limited.

EP1510267B1 (or DE69736962T2) discloses a method of displaying a tool assembly in a press brake. Based on a displayed graph, it is determined whether the planned bending operation is also possible. Subsequently, additional tools for certain bendline sections are added and the process repeated with the new constellation. This method requires exactly as well as the previous methods an exact

Positioning the tools in the tool holder. DE3830488A1 discloses an electronic tool recognition system for press bending presses. Through this system it is possible with the help of an electronic control to recognize the built-in tool geometry, the

To protect tools against overloading as well as to preserve the working safety for the operator.

DE4442381A1 relates to a device for detecting the position and shape of upper beam tools on folding machines and press bending presses. Behind the upper cheek is a guide in a motorized sliding carriage on which a holder for a laser light barrier is mounted. With this, the length of the built-in Oberwangenwerkzeuge and their

Gaps determined. The values are displayed numerically and graphically. In addition, there is a read / write head in the holder, which reads out codes on the back of the upper beam tools.

All known systems relate to the reading of codes and / or the detection of the tool dimensions. The exact positioning of the tools within the tool holder plays an essential role. In the prior art, it is thus necessary to position the tools with respect to the tool holder exactly, which has the disadvantage of a complex and time-consuming

Assembly of the bending machine brings with it.

The object of the present invention is thus to eliminate the disadvantages of known solutions and to provide a bending press in which a precise

Positioning of upper tool and lower tool is no longer necessary. Nevertheless, the entire bending process, including the positioning of the workpiece relative to the tools, should be reliable and provide bending parts exactly in accordance with the bending plan.

This object is solved by the features of the independent claims.

According to the invention, the sensor device for contactless detection of the position and / or the nature of the upper tool and the lower tool is formed within the bending press and the control device is designed to the function of the detected with the sensor device position and / or type of the upper tool and the lower tool Movement process with which the at least one stopper is positioned relative to the tools to adjust. An important advantage of the invention is that the tools during

Loading the bending press inside the tool holder no longer need to be positioned exactly. This saves time and manpower. The invention is based on the principle that not the tools (or their position within the tool holder) are adapted to the bending plan, but that the movements of the at least one stop to the position of the upper and lower tool within the bending press or within the respective Tool holder can be adjusted. As a result, a highly flexible system is created, which automatically controls the movements of the stop required before and during the bending process.

First, a detection of the position of the tool already used in the tool holder relative to (or in the) tool holder. In

Depending on this relative tool position, an automatic adaptation of those movement processes is then carried out with which the stop / stops (eg back stops) is / are positioned. A 'non-exact' insertion of the tool into the tool holder or insertion at a completely different location is thereby automatically 'compensated' or considered.

In fact, according to the present invention, there is no wrong insertion or positioning. Any position of upper and lower tool in the

Tool holder leads to an automatic adjustment of the stop control and to a correct bending result. For this purpose, a bending program is stored in the control device, which detects the detected by means of sensor device

Position data of the upper and lower tool are taken into account as an input variable and, depending on this input, control commands are generated to the drive of the stop as an output variable.

Under "movement process of the stop 'or .Method of the stop' is any conceivable movement of the stop especially his

Stop elements such as stop fingers and the like understood.

With the contactless sensor device, in particular designed as a camera, it would also be possible to detect a plurality of tools distributed along the Z axis and inserted into the tool holder. An automatic determination of the gap width between two adjacent top or bottom tools would be conceivable. With sufficiently large detection range of the sensor device all tools can be held in a single shot. At smaller Detection area, the camera can be moved so that the individual tools along the z-axis are detected sequentially.

In one embodiment of the invention, the detection of the tool data by means of the sensor device for the time being, regardless of the position or at all by the presence of a (rear) stop. A stop could thus also be mounted or inserted only after the step of detecting. In a further embodiment, other or additional tool data could be detected, which are not used for the correction of the stop, but serve other purposes.

Preferably, the at least one stop for positioning the workpiece is a back stop, which is movable parallel to the bending line, and is the

Sensor device arranged in the region of the backgauge. At this point, the detection range of the sensor device is not disturbed by operating personnel and workpieces to be inserted. Also, this arrangement restricts the

Sensor device does not enter the working area of the bending press. The sensor is also well protected and, due to its arrangement, can provide reliable images of the back of the tools.

Preferably, the sensor device is attached to the stop, e.g. at the backgauge, arranged and moved together with the stop preferably parallel to the bending line. The travel axis of the stop, e.g. Backgauge, is used in two ways. In addition, others can

Movement directions of the stop according to the invention (adapted to the position of the tools) are controlled. The (back) stop could be e.g. be movable in three different spatial directions.

The arrangement of the sensor device, in particular in the form of a reading head or a camera, on the guide of the back gauge or directly thereon offers the following advantages: simple arrangement; no additional interference contours on the outside of the machine; no obstruction of the bending process or personnel; the external appearance of the machine does not change for the user; The sensor device is easy to retrofit and also allows that

simultaneous reading of upper tool (punch) and lower tool (die); the sensor device is protected with regard to contamination; several tools along the Z-axis are visible at the same time; and the Sensor device can be positioned arbitrarily. In addition, the position of the tools could also be calculated via the reference position of the back gauge along the Z axis.

Preferably, the sensor device can be moved to a position in which the detection range of the sensor device comprises at least partially both the upper tool and the lower tool. This can be done by means of a

Measuring process or a single image acquisition all required data are recorded. Due to the large detection range, only one sensor device is required.

In a further embodiment, the sensor device comprises at least two non-contact, in particular optical sensors with different spatial detection ranges. The method of a sensor, e.g. along the bending line, can be omitted. The detection ranges of the sensors can overlap.

In a preferred embodiment, the bending press comprises a

User interface, in particular in the form of a screen, wherein sensor data of the sensor device and / or derived from the sensor data data can be displayed on the operator interface (or automatically in operation on the

User interface are output). It is preferred if the

Sensor device comprises at least one camera and recorded by the camera images or image sequences are displayed on the screen for the operator.

The sensor device is preferably a camera, particularly preferably a matrix camera. This not only codes or scales can be detected, but - especially in their absence - and the tool itself or its contours. With a single measurement / image acquisition, therefore, a variety of different information can be detected.

Preferably, a scale or a position marking is applied to the upper tool and / or the lower tool and / or the respective tool holder. This allows a reliable and accurate determination of the relative position of the tool to tool holder. Preference is given to the upper tool and / or the lower tool

two-dimensional code, in particular a data matrix code applied, wherein preferably the code contains information about the tool used, in particular about the nature and dimensions of the tool. Datamatrix codes have some advantages for this application, for example, they allow for oblique reading of the codes. As a result, codes of upper tools and lower tools can be evaluated simultaneously with a correspondingly large read window of the camera. Also, attaching the code on sloping surfaces is possible. Furthermore, this type of coding allows a relatively large

Fault tolerance, d. H. if damaged, the code will still be detected. As already mentioned, even the smallest code dimensions can be read from a relatively large distance. Advantageously, in each case a code is applied to the front and the back of the tools in order to enable detection of the corresponding tool even when the tool is rotated (mirrored introduction).

The object is also achieved with a method for bending a workpiece with a bending press according to one of the preceding embodiments. This method comprises the steps:

Detecting the position and / or the type of upper tool and / or

Lower tool, which are fixed in the respective tool holders, within the bending press by means of the sensor device,

Adjusting the movement process, with which the at least one stopper is positioned relative to the tools, depending on the

Sensor device detected position of the upper tool and / or

Lower tool,

Positioning the at least one stop in accordance with the adjusted movement process by adjusting (moving or positioning) the

Stop by means of a drive controlled by the control device relative to the tools,

Performing a bending process by relative method of

Upper tool and / or lower tool.

It is a flexible system, regardless of the position of the tools used, the implementation of a specific bending plan allows. By adapting the controlled movements of the

At the end of the stroke, the system is flexibly adjusted to each tool position.

During the step of detecting the position of the

Upper tool and / or lower tool whose / whose position relative to the respective tool holder, in which the tool is fixed detected. This is a particularly reliable method, since the spatial proximity of the tool and tool holder, these can be easily captured and recorded in a recording.

Preferably, during the step of adjusting the movement process, a travel path of the stop is calculated parallel to the bending line. The stop is, so to speak, "tracked" to the tool. The travel path is here

Output quantity, while the position data of the tools represent the input variable of the bending program.

Preference is given before and / or during the step of detecting the position and / or the type of upper tool and / or lower tool, the

Move sensor device parallel to the bending line. As a result, tools can be detected positionally along the entire length of the bending press.

Preferably, the position and / or type of the upper tool and the position and / or type of the lower tool are detected simultaneously. This includes the

Detection range of the sensor device both upper tool and

Lower tool or possibly also their tool holder.

Preferably, the detection of the position of the upper tool and / or takes place

Lower tool with the help of one on the upper tool and / or the

Lower tool and / or the respective tool holder applied

Scale or position marker. This will increase the accuracy of the

Position detection increased. The size and shape of the tools can also be detected in relation to the scale or the distance of the camera.

Preferably, the detection of the position and / or type of upper tool and / or lower tool by a contour recognition of the tool. Here, regardless of aids such as scales or codes, the position of the tool, for example, in relation to the (known) position of the sensor device can be determined. The camera is able to adjust the contours of the tools used recognize and compare with (eg in the control device) deposited data. If no data is stored or no code at all, the tools are identified by their geometry and assigned accordingly.

The method preferably comprises a step of reading out information from a two-dimensional code, in particular a data matrix code, applied to the upper tool and / or the lower tool. The use of a Datamatrix code also makes it possible to mark extremely narrow tools.

Also, the simultaneous detection of multiple codes is by the present

Invention possible. By connecting the camera to the backgauge, the distance to the tools can be changed. According to the resolution of the camera thus several codes and contours can be detected simultaneously.

The idea underlying this is that the tools used are recognized in their position (optionally in their own way). The determined from it

Parameters are used via the machine control so that the periphery of the machine is adapted to the present bending operation. Here is z. As the backgauge, he is then positioned in relation to the tools.

As a result, both the calibration and the control between an actual value and a target value are saved - the tools can be introduced at any point and the bending process can be started easily. Among other things, it is therefore no longer necessary to achieve exactly the same tool and workpiece positions for a recurring bent part. As mentioned, it does not matter which position the tools are at all. Due to the recognition and conversion to the product all relevant machine parts (stops) are positioned accordingly and at the same time a collision during the bending process is excluded.

In a preferred embodiment, a simultaneous recognition of the upper tool (punch) and lower tool (dies) takes place. The position of these tools to each other can be relevant to safety and for the quality of the bend of importance. In this case, safety-relevant means that a wrongly positioned upper tool can lead to a collision. Thus, in addition a bending corresponding control between upper and

Sub-tools are performed. An incorrect assembly is thereby excluded.

The invention also relates in one embodiment to the determination of tool type and tool position of all upper tools (bending punch) and all

Sub-tool (dies) within a bending press or bending machine.

To determine the type of tool (including all its descriptive parameters) and exact Z-direction position in the bending press 2D codes

(preferably data matrix codes) and a read head are used. For this purpose, the read head, preferably a matrix camera, attached to a Z axis of the backgauge of the press brake, whereby it is automatically adjustable. Due to the relatively small dimensions of this camera and an already existing on the axis cable chain can be both installation, as well as the data transfer easily implemented.

To describe the parameters, a specific data matrix code is applied to each existing tool. This code, for example, stores a simple number which can be assigned in the database with the necessary parameters of the tool. These include, for example: geometry, maximum load, material, number of bending cycles already performed, wear, etc .. By means of a description of simple numbers, the Datamatrix codes can be made even in the smallest version and thus also allow application to extremely narrow tools ( Punches and dies).

A possible procedure could be as follows. After inserting the tools in the bending press upper tool (punch) and

Lower tool (dies) clamped and are thus now fixed in position. Thereafter, the (matrix) camera moves with the Z-axis over the entire length of the bending press. Depending on the reading speed of the camera, images of the tools are generated and evaluated via the machine control and database. The recognition of the position of the tools used allows or simplifies a simple scale - attached to the tool clamping of the machine - preferably directly at or at the same height of the data matrix code. The scale is then part of the generated image and thus allows a precise position determination. Further advantages of preferred embodiments of the invention are given below:

complete control of the tools used

The bending plan can be automatically converted to real tool positions

Significantly shorter service life of the bending press in one

Tool change, since a precise calibration can be omitted,

the risk of overloading the bending press and tool is significantly minimized

extremely low maintenance and compared to known solutions

cost-effective,

all or different tools can be used

(regardless of geometry, manufacturer or clamping type),

an upgrade of already existing tools is possible

the tools are not limited in their maximum load due to the non-contact measuring principle,

dirty or damaged codes are simply cleaned or re-applied,

no additional interference contours on the bending press or chains for data cables,

the data matrix codes applied to the tools can be the

Simplify warehousing: In the description of the code, it is also possible to deposit corresponding storage bins or maximum usage times of the tools or the like;

- Retrieval of bending parts and programs: The (matrix) camera can also be used to read codes of work plans or sheets, for example, for a certain process, program or sheet metal quality.

In addition, the camera used can visualize the (rear) stop area. Often it is difficult, plates exactly to the

To position backgauge fingers, as the installation height of the press brake is too low or the tools used the view of the stop fingers prevent. To simplify the process here, the camera image, which represents the backgauge area, can be transferred to a visible to the operator screen.

Preferably, it is displayed on an operator interface when the with the

Sensor device detected position of the upper tool and / or

Lower tool is not correct, especially if the tools are not aligned. Here, correction values with respect to the positioning of upper tool and / or lower tool to the controller or the

User interface (e.g., screen) to indicate to the operator that the tools are not aligned and the position of at least one tool must be corrected.

The bending process or the setting-up process is preferably interrupted if the position and / or type of upper tool and / or lower tool detected by the sensor device are incorrect. In the case of incorrectly placed or incorrectly dimensioned tools, damage to the machine or dangers for the operating personnel due to tool breakage can be achieved in this way

be excluded.

Preferably, the method comprises a calibration of the position of the stop, wherein preferably the calibration by means of a preferably optical

Position mark takes place on a component of the bending press or on a

Reference tool is attached. The calibration of the (rear) stop can be done in the X-, R- and Z-direction by an optical reference (position marking) on the upper beam, on the tool clamp, inside the bending press or by a reference tool, so that an alignment of the (background) ) Stop by hand can be omitted if the stop was adjusted by improper use.

Preferably, the workpiece to be bent is provided with a readable code, in which a reference to an associated bending program is included, and that after reading the code, preferably with the sensor device, the associated bending program is automatically loaded and / or processed in the control device. This can be a loading of the bending part associated bending program in the controller using a code on the bending part (bending or sheet metal blank) in which the associated bending program is encrypted, done automatically. The code is applied, for example, with a laser on the bending part. The operator holds eg the sheet metal in front of the

Sensor device, e.g. a camera, and the controller automatically loads the appropriate bending program. The reading out of the code can also be done at

Positioning of the bent part on the stop, advantageously automatically by the sensor device done.

The sensor device is preferably a camera and the images or image sequences recorded with the camera are displayed on an operator interface. The transfer of the live camera image to the controller or the

Operator interface allows the operator to view the current situation within the press brake.

This embodiment allows, inter alia:

- An operator guidance of the sheet before or during the striking of the sheet metal at the stop by means of camera image and displayed guide lines (similar to when parking by car);

- An operator guidance when inserting the tools using the camera image and displayed guide lines;

- An investment recognition of the sheet at the (rear) stop by means of camera. (If the camera detects that the sheet has been correctly positioned against the fence, the control will give an appropriate signal and the operator can start the bending process).

- A monitoring of the engine room by the camera. This can be used to monitor the approach speed of the stop to the table and thus to be able to proceed faster than previous bending presses.

The sensor device can also be used to measure the deflection of upper and lower cheeks. During the bending process upper and lower beam undergo a deflection, which can be compensated by crowning cylinder. The

Crowning is calculated in the control based on theoretical values and will be calculated in the future using the real state recorded by the sensor device. As a result, a higher accuracy in the bent part can be achieved. Also, the sensor device can be designed to detect the (sheet) thickness of the inserted (sheet metal) workpiece. If the workpiece corresponds to the input data in the control device (machine control) or if the corresponding values are within the specified tolerance range, the bending process can be started or continued, otherwise the bending process can be interrupted or interrupted.

Likewise, workpiece or bending part dimensions (correct cutting, correct positioning) can be detected with the sensor device, thereby enabling improved operator guidance.

In a preferred embodiment, the subject method also includes the preparation of thermographic images of the bending press or of parts thereof. This is preferably done by means of at least one IR sensor or

at least one thermal imaging camera, which can be arranged within the bending press. Thus, the various heating conditions of the bending press (e.g., tools, machine frame, etc.) can be monitored and evaluated. Due to the heating, the machine body expands under certain circumstances, which leads to shifts of important reference points and thus to poorer bending results. Particularly critical is a not fully heated machine body, ie local temperature differences, as they can occur, for example, directly after switching on the press brake. With the aid of the thermographic state images, individual reference axes can compensate for the occurring displacements and thus ensure a constant bending quality.

Further advantages, features and details of the invention will become apparent from the following description in which embodiments of the invention are described with reference to the drawings. The features mentioned in the claims and in the description may each be essential to the invention individually or in any desired combination.

The list of reference numerals is part of the disclosure. The figures are described coherently and comprehensively. The same reference symbols denote the same components, reference symbols with different indices indicate functionally identical or similar components.

It shows: 1 shows a bending press according to the invention from the front, FIG. 2 shows the bending press from FIG. 1 in a lateral view, FIG. 3 shows the bending press from FIG. 1 from behind, FIG.

Fig. 4 shows a detail of a bending press from the front, with upper and

Lower tool and the stop,

5 shows an upper tool, which is fixed in a tool holder,

6 shows two lower tools which are fixed in a tool holder,

7 shows a possible procedure in the manner of a flow chart,

Fig. 8 is a schematic representation of a bending press with control lines and

Travels, and

9 is a schematic representation of a linkage of the sensor device with an operator interface of the bending press.

Fig. 1 shows a bending press 1 for bending workpieces, with a

Upper tool 2 (punch) and a lower tool 3 (die), a

Tool holder 4, in which the upper tool 2 is inserted, and a

Tool holder 5, in which the lower tool 3 is inserted. The length of the tool holders 4, 5 along the Z-axis, d. H. parallel to the bending line, is so large that a plurality of upper and lower tools 2, 3 next to each other in the tool holder 4, 5 can be used and fixed. This case is shown in Fig. 6, where two lower tools 3 sit in the tool holder 5.

The upper tool 2 and the lower tool 3 can be fixed in different positions within the respective tool holder 4, 5. Ie. the tools may be relative to the respective tool holder in the Z-axis direction

be arranged differently.

The bending press 1 has at least one stop 6 for positioning the workpiece 14 (FIG. 2) within the bending press 1, the stop 6 being actuated relative to the tools 2 by means of a drive 9 controlled by a control device 13 (shown in FIG. 8). 3 is movable. This mobility relates in particular to a mobility along the Z-axis, but is also a movability into other - in particular perpendicular - spatial directions conceivable. The embodiment of Fig. 1 shows two stops 6, which are independently movable.

As can be seen from the side view of Fig. 2 is in the present embodiment is a backgauge, d. H. a stop which, viewed from the operator side of the bending press 1, is arranged behind the tools 2, 3. The stopper 6 serves a workpiece 14, z. B. a sheet to be bent relative to the tools 2, 3 to position. The backgauge can be moved parallel to the bending line (along the Z axis). The sensor device 8 is arranged on the backgauge and can be moved together with the backgauge parallel to the bending line.

In an alternative embodiment, the sensor device 8 could be independent, e.g. B. sitting in its own holder, be moved from the backgauge.

However, the sensor device is preferably arranged in the region of the backgauge.

The stop 6 comprises in the illustrated embodiment stop finger 7, which are additionally movable. In addition to the stop fingers 7, there is a sensor device 8 based on a contactless measuring principle, in particular in the form of a camera. The sensor device 8 is designed for contactless detection of the position of the upper tool 2 and lower tool 3 within the bending press 1. The stop 6 can be seen in detail in FIGS. 3 and 4.

In the embodiment described here, the sensor device 8 detects the position of the tools 2, 3 in the direction along the Z-axis, d. H. along the bend line. This measurement can be done by checking the position of a

Tool 2, 3 relative to the respective tool holder 4, 5, in which the

Tool 2, 3 is fixed, is detected.

8 shows a schematic representation of the functional relationships in a bending press 1 according to the invention, which also comprises a control device 13 for controlling the bending press 1. The control device 13 controls

in particular the drive 12 for the upper tool 2 and thus the actual pressing process. A further control line connects the control device 13 to the drive 9 for the stop 6. The sensor device 8 is likewise connected to the control device 13, The control device 13 is now designed to function of the detected with the sensor device 8 position of the upper tool 2 and the

Unterwerkzeuges 3 the movement process with which the at least one stop 6 is positioned relative to the tools 2, 3, adapt.

As an example, two possible positions of upper tool 2 and lower tool 3 are shown, one of them dashed. For the first position (solid line), depending on the position, a travel zi is calculated in order to align the stop 6 with respect to the tools 2, 3. The stop 6 does not necessarily - as shown - come to rest behind the tool, but there are also other positions relative to the tool depending on the bending plan conceivable.

For the second position (dashed line), depending on the position, a travel z _{2 is} calculated in order to align the stop 6 with respect to the tools. By this principle, the Anfahrkoordinaten the stop 6 are adapted to the respective position of the tool, so that a corresponding bending operation can be performed according to bending plan. The adaptation or adaptation of the movement process can of course also relate to the movements of the stop fingers 7.

Also, as indicated in Fig. 6 - several tools in one

Tool holder sit, whereby more bending line sections are defined. The associated bends can be transferred simultaneously or sequentially to the workpiece. In any case, the Anfahrkoordinaten the stop 6 are adjusted automatically.

The method for bending a workpiece with a bending press 1 may now comprise the following steps, which are illustrated in the flow chart of FIG. 7:

Step 20: loading the bending press with at least one upper tool and / or at least one lower tool, the / within the respective

Tool holder is / are fixed.

Step 21: detecting the position of the upper tool 2 and / or lower tool 3, which are fixed in the respective tool holders 4, 5, within the bending press 1 by means of the sensor device 8. For example, before and / or during the step 21, the sensor device 8 parallel to Bending line (ie along the Z axis). Step 22: Adjusting the movement process, with which the at least one stop 6 is positioned relative to the tools 2, 3, depending on the detected with the sensor device 8 position of the upper tool 2 and / or lower tool 3. This step can be done, for example, that a travel zi, z _{2 of} the stop 6 is calculated parallel to the bending line (ie along the Z axis).

Step 23: Positioning of the at least one stop 6 in accordance with the adapted movement process by moving the stop 6 by means of a drive 9 controlled by the control device 13 relative to the stop

Tools 2, 3.

Step 24: Performing a Bending Process by Relative Procedure of Upper Tool 2 and / or Lower Tool 3.

Step 25: Replacement and / or addition of upper and / or lower tools and their fixation in the respective tool holder.

Subsequently, a recovery of steps 21 to 25 can take place.

The position of the upper tool 2 and the position of the lower tool 3 arranged at the same height are preferably detected simultaneously. For this purpose, the sensor device 8 can be moved to a position in which the

Detection range of the sensor device 8 includes both the upper tool 2 and the lower tool 3 at least partially.

FIGS. 5 and 6 show preferred variants of the invention, in which a scale 10 is applied to the respective tool holder 4, 5. Alternatively or additionally, a scale could also be applied to the upper tool 2 and / or the lower tool 3.

The detection or detection of the position of the upper tool 2 and / or lower tool 3 can be done in this embodiment with the help of this scale 10. These are images of the trained as a camera

Sensor device 8 with respect to the relative position of the tool in relation to the scale evaluated (eg., By using appropriate

Image recognition software). As can be seen from FIGS. 5 and 6, the scale graduation extends parallel to the bending line. Preferably, the position of the upper tool 2 and / or lower tool 3 is detected by a contour recognition of the tool 2, 3 with corresponding image processing programs.

In a preferred variant, a two-dimensional code 11, in particular a data matrix code (from an arrangement of black and white rectangles within a field), is applied to the upper tool 2 and the lower tool 3. The code 11 contains information about the tool 2, 3 used, in particular about the type and dimensions of the tool 2, 3.

Advantageously, at the front and at the back of a tool 2, 3 each have a code 1 1 applied. Thus, the tool 2, 3 also

mirrored in a tool holder 4, 5 used and easily detected by the sensor device 8.

In this embodiment, a reading of the code information can also be done by means of the sensor device 8. It can then be checked whether a tool meets given specifications or is compatible with the bending plan.

FIG. 9 shows an embodiment in which the sensor device 8 has two

Non-contact sensors with different spatial detection ranges includes. The sensors are here optical sensors, in particular cameras. The cameras form different areas along the bending line Z (also called the Z axis). The detection ranges of the sensors can overlap.

Furthermore, it can be seen from Fig. 9 that the bending press a

Operator interface 27 includes (here in the form of a screen), which is connected to the control device 13 and the sensor device 8. In this case, sensor data of the sensor device 8 and / or data derived from the sensor data can be displayed on the user interface 27. This data can be automatically output to the operator interface 27 during operation.

The sensor device 8 may also comprise only one sensor or camera. In particular, the images or image sequences recorded with the camera can be displayed on the user interface 27.

In a preferred method, the operator interface 27 can be displayed when the position of the sensor detected by the sensor device 8 Upper tool 2 and / or lower tool 3 is not correct, especially if the tools 2, 3 are not aligned. On the basis of this information, which may already contain correction values, the operator is enabled to easily correct the position of the tools 2, 3.

The invention is not limited to the described embodiments and the aspects highlighted therein. Rather, it is within the

According to the invention a variety of modifications possible, which are within the scope of expert action. It is also possible, by combining the means and features mentioned to realize further embodiments, without departing from the scope of the invention.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

1 bending press

2 upper tool

3 lower tool

4 tool holder for upper tool 2

5 tool holder for lower tool 3

6 stop

7 stop fingers

8 sensor device

9 drive for stop 9

10 scale

11 code

12 Drive for upper tool 2

13 control device

14 workpiece

20-26 process steps

27 operator interface

Z bending line

Claims

claims

1. bending press (1), in particular press brake, for bending workpieces (14), with

an upper tool (2) and a lower tool (3),

a tool holder (4) in which the upper tool (2) is inserted, and a tool holder (5) in which the lower tool (3) is inserted, wherein the upper tool (2) and the lower tool (3) in different positions within the respective tool holder (4, 5) are fixable, a control device (13) for controlling the bending press (1), a sensor device (8) which is connected to the control device (13),

at least one stop (6) for positioning the workpiece within the bending press (1), wherein the stop (6) by means of a

Control device (13) driven drive (9) relative to the tools (2, 3) is movable, characterized in that

the sensor device (8) is designed for the contactless detection of the position and / or the type of upper tool (2) and lower tool (3) within the bending press (1),

and the control device (13) is designed to determine, in dependence on the position and / or type of upper tool (2) and lower tool (3) detected by the sensor device (8), the movement process with which the at least one stop (6) moves relative to the tools (2, 3) is positioned to adjust.

2. Bending press according to claim 1, characterized in that the at least one stop (6) for positioning the workpiece is a backgauge, which is movable parallel to the bending line, and that the sensor device (8) is arranged in the region of the backgauge.

3. Bending press according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the sensor device (8) on the stop (6) is arranged and together with the stop (6) is preferably movable parallel to the bending line.

4. Bending press according to one of the preceding claims, characterized

characterized in that the sensor device (8) can be moved to a position in which the detection range of the sensor device (8) both the

Upper tool (2) and the lower tool (3) comprises at least partially.

5. Bending press according to one of the preceding claims, characterized

in that the sensor device (8) is a camera.

6. Bending press according to one of the preceding claims, characterized

in that a scale (10) or a position marking is applied to the upper tool (2) and / or the lower tool (3) and / or the respective tool holder (4, 5).

7. Bending press according to one of the preceding claims, characterized

in that a two-dimensional code (11), in particular a data matrix code, is applied to the upper tool (2) and / or the lower tool (3), wherein preferably the code (11) contains information about the tool (2, 3) used contains, in particular about the type and dimensions of the tool (2, 3).

8. A method for bending a workpiece (14) with a bending press (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the steps:

Detecting the position and / or the type of the upper tool (2) and / or lower tool (3), which are fixed in the respective tool holders (4, 5), within the bending press (1) by means of the sensor device (8),

Adapting the movement process with which the at least one stop (6) is positioned relative to the tools (2, 3) as a function of the position and / or type of the position detected by the sensor device (8)

Upper tool (2) and / or lower tool (3),

Positioning the at least one stop (6) in accordance with the adapted movement process by adjusting the stop (6) by means of a drive (9) controlled by the control device (13) relative to the tools (2, 3),

Performing a bending process by relative method of

Upper tool (2) and / or lower tool (3).

9. The method according to claim 8, characterized in that during the step of detecting the position and / or the type of upper tool (2) and / or lower tool (3) whose / whose position relative to the respective tool holder (4, 5), in the tool (2, 3) is fixed, is detected.

10. The method according to claim 8 or 9, characterized in that during the step of adjusting the movement process, a travel (zi, z ₂ ) of the stop (6) is calculated parallel to the bending line.

1 1. Method according to one of claims 8 to 10, characterized in that before and / or during the step of detecting the position and / or the type of upper tool (2) and / or lower tool (3), the

Sensor device (8) is moved parallel to the bending line.

12. The method according to any one of claims 8 to 1 1, characterized in that the position and / or the type of the upper tool (2) and the position and / or the nature of the lower tool (3) are detected simultaneously.

13. The method according to any one of claims 8 to 12, characterized in that the detection of the position of the upper tool (2) and / or

Lower tool (3) by means of a / on the upper tool (2) and / or the lower tool (3) and / or the respective tool holder (4, 5) applied scale (10) or position marking is carried out.

14. The method according to any one of claims 8 to 13, characterized in that the detection of the position and / or recognition of the type of

Upper tool (2) and / or lower tool (3) by a

Contour recognition of the tool (2, 3) takes place.

15. The method according to any one of claims 8 to 14, characterized in that the method comprises a step of reading information from a on the upper tool (2) and / or the lower tool (3) applied two-dimensional codes (1 1), in particular a data matrix Code.

16. The method according to any one of claims 8 to 15, characterized in that on an operator interface (27) is displayed when detected with the sensor device (8) position of the upper tool (2) and / or lower tool (3) is not correct, especially when the tools (2, 3) are not aligned.

17. The method according to any one of claims 8 to 16, characterized in that the bending operation or the setting process is terminated when the detected with the sensor device (8) position and / or type of

Upper tool (2) and / or lower tool (3) is not correct.

18. The method according to any one of claims 8 to 17, characterized in that the method comprises a calibration of the position of the stop (6), wherein preferably the calibration is effected by means of a preferably optical position mark on a component of the bending press (1) or a reference tool is attached.

19. The method according to any one of claims 8 to 18, characterized in that the workpiece to be bent (14) is provided with a readable code in which a reference to an associated bending program is included, and that after reading the code preferably with the Sensor device (8) the associated bending program is automatically loaded in the control device (13) and / or processed.

20. The method according to any one of claims 8 to 19, characterized in that the sensor device (8) comprises at least one camera and the images recorded with the camera or image sequences are displayed on an operator interface (27).