EP4695039A1 - Apparatus and method for producing nails - Google Patents

Apparatus and method for producing nails

Info

Publication number
EP4695039A1
EP4695039A1 EP24725613.4A EP24725613A EP4695039A1 EP 4695039 A1 EP4695039 A1 EP 4695039A1 EP 24725613 A EP24725613 A EP 24725613A EP 4695039 A1 EP4695039 A1 EP 4695039A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
pressing
transmission chain
link
advance
blocking element
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Pending
Application number
EP24725613.4A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Inventor
Renato Railz
Andrea Bonassi
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Eurolls SpA
Original Assignee
Eurolls SpA
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Eurolls SpA filed Critical Eurolls SpA
Publication of EP4695039A1 publication Critical patent/EP4695039A1/en
Pending legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B21—MECHANICAL METAL-WORKING WITHOUT ESSENTIALLY REMOVING MATERIAL; PUNCHING METAL
    • B21G—MAKING NEEDLES, PINS OR NAILS OF METAL
    • B21G3/00—Making pins, nails, or the like
    • B21G3/12—Upsetting; Forming heads
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B21—MECHANICAL METAL-WORKING WITHOUT ESSENTIALLY REMOVING MATERIAL; PUNCHING METAL
    • B21G—MAKING NEEDLES, PINS OR NAILS OF METAL
    • B21G3/00—Making pins, nails, or the like
    • B21G3/18—Making pins, nails, or the like by operations not restricted to one of the groups B21G3/12 - B21G3/16
    • B21G3/28—Making pins, nails, or the like by operations not restricted to one of the groups B21G3/12 - B21G3/16 by forging or pressing

Definitions

  • the present invention concerns an apparatus and a corresponding method for producing nails in a continuous cycle, starting from metal blanks obtained from a rolled or drawn metal wire with a diameter comprised between less than about 1 mm and about 10 mm.
  • Current apparatuses for producing nails comprise a unit for feeding the metal wire configured to obtain a plurality of blanks and subsequently nails from a forming unit.
  • the forming unit comprises a rotating disc provided with a plurality of seatings for housing metal blanks.
  • Each metal blank is transported toward a pressing zone where there is a pressing roller configured to exert a cold pressure on an exposed end of each blank, obtaining a flattened portion that defines the head of the nail.
  • the rotating disc and the pressing roller are disposed in such a way that in the pressing zone they substantially converge at a single abutment, or pressing, point where the pressing roller exerts a perpendicular pressure on the exposed end of each blank, flattening it and thus forming the head of each nail.
  • a disadvantage linked to the fact that only at the pressing point is there a condition of perpendicularity between the pressing roller and the exposed end of each blank is that if the rotating disc and the pressing roller are not disposed correctly and/or a perpendicular pressure is not exerted, the head of each nail can turn out malformed, or not homogeneous, or create swarfs or other.
  • one purpose of the present invention is to provide an apparatus for producing nails which is flexible, compact, versatile and simple to manufacture.
  • Another purpose of the present invention is to provide an apparatus and devise a method for producing nails which is highly efficient with high productivity.
  • the Applicant has devised, tested and embodied the present invention to overcome the shortcomings of the state of the art and to obtain these and other purposes and advantages.
  • the first transmission and advance means and the upsetting means converge with each other and define a pressing zone for pressing one end of the at least one metal blank with a substantially perpendicular direction.
  • each blank is subjected to a suitable prolonged cold pressure, with a substantially perpendicular direction, obtaining corresponding homogeneous and well-formed nail heads and preventing the formation of swarfs.
  • the first transmission and advance means and the upsetting means define, in correspondence with the pressing zone, a first and a second lying plane which converge with each other. Moreover, the at least one blank and at least one corresponding pressing element of the upsetting means are disposed reciprocally inclined with respect to the first and second lying plane in order to maintain a condition of prolonged substantial perpendicularity in the pressing zone.
  • the first transmission and advance means comprise a first transmission chain closed in a loop. The first transmission chain is associated sliding with a first motorized member in order to move it in a manner that is coordinated and synchronized with the upsetting means.
  • the first transmission chain comprises a plurality of links, each link being provided, in correspondence with respective opposite ends, with a first and a second blocking element.
  • first and second blocking element are disposed in such a position that, in relation to the angle and/or approaching movement between the links, a first, or second, blocking element of a certain link and a second, or first, blocking element of another previous or subsequent link cooperate with each other to intercept and stably block the at least one metal blank from opposite sides.
  • the upsetting means comprise second transmission and advance means provided with a second transmission chain closed in a loop.
  • the second transmission chain is associated sliding with a second motorized member in order to move it in a manner that is coordinated and synchronized with the first transmission and advance means.
  • the second transmission chain comprises a plurality of links, each link being provided with the pressing element having a pressing surface for impressing a cold pressure on the end, thus creating a respective flattened portion.
  • the first and second transmission chain lie on the first and second lying plane, thus forming an angle of convergence.
  • first and second blocking element are each inclined by a first angle of divergence with respect to the first lying plane.
  • Each pressing element is inclined by a second angle of divergence with respect to the second lying plane, in such a way that the sum of the first and second angle of divergence compensates for the angle of convergence in order to maintain, at least in correspondence with the pressing zone, each end of the at least one blank and each pressing surface in a condition of substantial perpendicularity.
  • the first and second blocking element of a same link each comprise respective external abutment walls, facing toward the first, or second, blocking element of another adjacent link.
  • the external abutment walls are each provided with one or more mirror-shaped blocking seatings for blocking a corresponding end of the at least one metal blank.
  • each blocking seating is provided with indentations able to shape and stably block a corresponding end of the at least one metal blank, and with a forming recess having a portion also obtained on a corresponding upper wall of each blocking element.
  • each forming recess of a first, or second, blocking element of a certain link is configured to cooperate with a corresponding forming recess of a second, or first, blocking element of another link which precedes or follows the former, in order to define a forming cavity able to allow the forming of the flattened portion.
  • the apparatus for producing nails comprises one or more units for feeding the at least one metal blank.
  • the one or more feeding units are disposed inside the closed loop defined by the first transmission chain, in such a way as to feed the at least one metal blank toward the first transmission chain from the inside toward the outside.
  • the upsetting means are disposed externally with respect to the first transmission chain.
  • the second transmission chain is disposed externally with respect to the first transmission chain.
  • the one or more feeding units are disposed externally with respect to the first transmission chain, in such a way as to feed the at least one metal blank toward the first transmission chain from the outside toward the inside.
  • the upsetting means are disposed internally with respect to the first transmission chain.
  • the second transmission chain is disposed inside the closed loop defined by the first transmission chain.
  • the present invention also concerns a method for producing nails starting from corresponding metal blanks by means of said apparatus.
  • the method comprises a feeding step in which one or more feeding units feed at least one metal blank toward first transmission and advance means.
  • the method comprises a main forming step in which first transmission and advance means make the at least one metal blank advance toward upsetting means which converge with them and define between them a pressing zone, along which a prolonged pressing with a substantially perpendicular direction of one end of the at least one metal blank is performed, thus forming a corresponding nail.
  • the first transmission and advance means and the upsetting means make the at least one blank and at least one corresponding pressing element, respectively, advance in a coordinated and synchronized manner, disposed reciprocally inclined with respect to the first and second lying plane in order to maintain a condition of prolonged substantial perpendicularity during the pressing.
  • a first motorized member drives a first transmission chain of the first transmission and advance means, in a manner that is coordinated and synchronized with the upsetting means.
  • the main forming step comprises a blocking step in which, in relation to the angle and/or approaching movement between adjacent links of the first transmission chain, a first, or second, blocking element of a certain link and a second, or first, blocking element of another link, which precedes or follows the former, cooperate with each other to intercept and stably block the at least one metal blank from opposite sides.
  • a second transmission chain of the upsetting means which comprises a plurality of links, each provided with a pressing element defining with an external wall thereof a corresponding pressing surface, is driven in a manner that is coordinated and synchronized with the first transmission and advance means.
  • the main forming step also comprises a pressing step in which, in correspondence with the pressing zone, each pressing element, by means of the pressing surface, impresses a preferably perpendicular cold pressure on the end of at least one stably blocked metal blank, creating a respective flattened portion corresponding to the head of one of the nails.
  • the first and second transmission chain in correspondence with a station for forming the nails, are made to advance along the first and second lying plane in such a way as to converge in the pressing zone, thus forming an angle of convergence.
  • the first and second blocking element are each inclined by a first angle of divergence with respect to the first lying plane.
  • each pressing element is inclined by a second angle of divergence with respect to the second lying plane, so that the sum of the first and second angle of divergence compensates for the angle of convergence, so that each pressing element performs a preferably perpendicular pressing of each end.
  • each end is blocked on opposite sides by means of corresponding mirrorshaped blocking seatings created on respective external abutment walls of the first and second blocking element.
  • each forming recess of a first, or second, blocking element of a certain link is approached by, and cooperates with, a corresponding forming recess of a second, or first, blocking element of another previous or subsequent link, in order to define a forming cavity.
  • a corresponding flattened portion is formed in the forming cavity by means of the action of each pressing element.
  • FIG. 1 is a front, schematic and simplified view of an apparatus for producing nails, according to the present invention
  • - fig. 2 is a simplified perspective view of a link of a chain of the apparatus of fig. 1;
  • - fig. 3 is a section view of several links of a chain of the apparatus of fig. 1 side by side;
  • - figs from 4 to 9 are schematic, simplified and detailed representations of a forming sequence of a nail by means of the apparatus of fig. 1.
  • an apparatus 10 according to the present invention is suitable and usable for producing nails 100 starting from metal blanks 101.
  • the metal blanks 101 are obtained from a metal wire 102 preferably having a diameter comprised between less than about 1 mm and about 10 mm, and which is chosen according to the sizes of the nail to be obtained.
  • the apparatus 10 comprises one or more feeding units 11 for sequentially feeding, one at a time, a plurality of metal blanks 101, and a forming unit 12, disposed downstream of the feeding units 11, able to form the nails 100 from the blanks 101.
  • the feeding unit 11 and forming unit 12 are associated with a fixed support structure, not shown in the drawings.
  • the metal wire 102 is disposed in correspondence with an initial feeding zone and is wrapped into a roll, or coil.
  • the advance device 14 is configured to keep the already straightened metal wire 102 under tension and make it advance toward the shear member 15.
  • the advance device 14 also has the function of unwinding the metal wire 102 wound into the roll, or coil.
  • the advance device 14 comprises a pair of advance rollers 14a, 14b, opposite with respect to the feeding path PA and configured to contact the metal wire 102 from opposite sides, making it advance at a certain first speed of advance V 1.
  • At least one of the two advance rollers 14a, 14b can be driven by a respective drive member, such as an electric motor of a known type and not shown in the drawings.
  • the shear member 15 is able to cut the metal wire 102 according to a predetermined pitch, in order to obtain metal blanks 101 of variable and selectable length, in relation to the specific operating needs.
  • the shear member 15 is of the type capable of performing the cut of the metal wire 102 without interrupting its advance. In the embodiments shown here, the shear member 15 is a rotating shear.
  • the conveying member 16 is able to receive and convey one metal blank 101 at a time toward an insertion station SI of the forming unit 12.
  • the forming unit 12 comprises, in sequence along a forming path PF, a station SI for inserting the metal blanks 101, a station S2 for upsetting, or forming, the nails 100 from corresponding metal blanks 101, and a station S3 for extracting the formed nails 100.
  • the forming unit 12 comprises first transmission and advance means 17 for making the blanks 101 advance toward the forming station S2, and upsetting means 18 configured to cooperate with the first transmission and advance means 17 to produce the nails 100 starting from the corresponding blanks 101.
  • the first transmission and advance means 17 and the upsetting means 18 are disposed in such a way as to converge with each other, defining a zone ZP for upsetting, or pressing, with a substantially perpendicular direction, for at least one segment, one end 103 of each metal blank 101.
  • the first transmission and advance means 17 in correspondence with the pressing zone ZP, define a first lying plane Pl and the upsetting means 18 define a second lying plane P2.
  • the first and second lying plane Pl, P2 are converging with each other.
  • the first transmission and advance means 17 are configured so that, in correspondence with the pressing zone ZP, each metal blank 101 is inclined with respect to the first lying plane Pl.
  • the upsetting means 18 comprise at least one pressing element 50 for pressing the end 103 of each metal blank 101, which is disposed inclined with respect to the second lying plane P2.
  • each metal blank 101 and the corresponding pressing element 50 are disposed reciprocally inclined with respect to the first and second lying plane Pl, P2 in order to maintain a condition of substantial prolonged perpendicularity in the pressing zone ZP.
  • the first transmission and advance means 17 comprise a first transmission chain 21.
  • the first transmission chain 21 can be associated sliding with a first motorized member 22.
  • the upsetting means 18 comprise second transmission and advance means 19 provided with a second transmission chain 23.
  • the second transmission chain 23 can be associated sliding with a second motorized member 25.
  • the first transmission chain 21 is closed in a loop, that is, it has a shape such as to define a closed loop with its periphery.
  • the second transmission chain 23 is also closed in a loop.
  • the first and second motorized member 22, 25 are configured to drive and move, or make advance, the first and second transmission chain 21, 23 in a coordinated manner, that is, synchronized with each other, and with opposite directions of rotation, at a certain second speed of advance V2, which is in turn coordinated with the first speed of advance VI , as will be described in detail below.
  • the first and the second motorized member 22, 25 are defined by a first and a second pinion, respectively, which are connected to a first and a second drive member 28a, 28b, such as electric motors of a known type.
  • the first drive member 28a can be connected to the first motorized member 22, to the shear member 15 and the conveying member 16, in order to drive them in a coordinated manner.
  • the apparatus 10 can be provided with a central control unit 24 configured and suitable to control and coordinate the drive of the feeding unit 11, the forming unit 12 and of their operating components, in particular of the first and second motorized member 22, 25, so that the motions of the first and second transmission chain 21, 23 are synchronized.
  • the synchronization of the motions of the first and second transmission chain 21, 23 can be obtained by means of a mechanical-type connection between the first and second motorized member 22, 25.
  • the first and second transmission chain 21, 23 are associated with respective guide and support means 26, 27 able to guide and support the corresponding transmission chain 21, 23, keeping it in tension during the respective advance, in particular along the forming path PF.
  • the guide and support means 26, 27 can comprise at least one fixed guide 26a, 27a and, respectively, a first and a second tensioner, or chain tightening pulley, 26b, 27b, each configured to keep the corresponding transmission chain 21, 23 in tension.
  • the feeding units 11 are disposed inside the closed loop defined by the first transmission chain 21, in such a way as to feed the metal blanks 101 toward the first transmission chain 21 from the inside outward; the second transmission chain 23, on the other hand, is disposed outside the first transmission chain 21.
  • the feeding units 11 are disposed outside the closed loop defined by the first transmission chain 21, in such a way as to feed the metal blanks 101 from the outside;
  • the second transmission chain 23 is disposed inside the closed loop defined by the first transmission chain 21.
  • the first transmission chain 21 defines, with a part thereof, the forming path PF of the nails 100.
  • the first and second transmission chain 21, 23 each comprise a plurality of links 30, 48, mobile relative to each other and pivoted to each other by means of respective pairs of connection pins 31, 49 (fig. 2).
  • connection pins 31, 49 there can be externally associated respective rotatable members 29, for example wheels, able to cooperate with the corresponding first and second motorized member 22, 25 for the advance of the first and second transmission chain 21, 23.
  • the rotatable members 29 are able to cooperate with the teeth of the first and second motorized pinion, defining the first and second motorized member 22, 25.
  • Each link 30 (fig. 2) can be made as a single piece, is internally hollow and is provided with two first coupling seatings 32a coaxial with each other and obtained on one end, or internal connection portion, 33 of each link 30, and two second coupling seatings 32b coaxial with each other and obtained on another end, or external connection portion, 34 of each link 30, in which the corresponding connection pins 31 are disposed.
  • Each pair of connection pins 31 rotatably connects the internal and external connection portion 33, 34 of two adjacent links 30.
  • each link 30 of the first transmission chain 21 is provided with a first and a second blocking element 35a, 35b which are disposed in a corresponding housing seating 36a, 36b obtained on an external upper part of each link 30, opposite with respect to the guide means 26.
  • Each blocking element 35a, 35b can be removably associated with the respective housing seating 36a, 36b by means of an attachment member 37 insertable in a corresponding attachment seating 38 made on an internal central portion 39 of each link.
  • each link 30 is also provided with an adjustment member 40 associated with at least one of the two blocking elements 35a, 35b to adjust its relative position within the corresponding housing seating
  • the adjustment member 40 can be an adjustment screw or grub screw.
  • the first and second blocking element 35a, 35b are disposed on opposite sides with respect to an axis of symmetry X, in a position such that the relative angle between adjacent links 30 determines an approaching or distancing movement of the first, or second, blocking element 35a, 35b of a certain link 30 with respect to the second, or first, blocking element 35b, 35a of another link 30 which precedes or follows the former.
  • the relative angle between adjacent links 30 causes an approaching or distancing movement of the first blocking element 35a of a certain link 30 with respect to the second blocking element 35b of another link 30 adjacent to and preceding the former, or of the second blocking element 35b of said certain link 30 with respect to the first blocking element 35a of another link 30 adjacent to and following the former.
  • the first, or second, blocking element 35a, 35b of a certain link 30 and the second, or first, blocking element 35b, 35a of another link 30 which precedes or follows the former, by means of this reciprocal approaching movement and cooperating with each other, have the function of intercepting and stably blocking from opposite sides one or more metal blanks 101 in a blocking position PB at least along the forming station S2 (figs, from 5 to 8).
  • each metal blank 101 is stably blocked so as to have the end 103 protruding with respect to the blocking elements 35 a, 35b in contact therewith.
  • Positioning means 47 can be provided, which in the example given here are conveying guides (figs. 1 and 5), configured to correctly position each metal blank 101 between two corresponding blocking elements 35a, 35b. This positioning allows to adjust an initial insertion position PI of each metal blank 101, so that the latter assumes the aforementioned blocking position PB (figs. 4 and 5).
  • first, or second, blocking element 35 a, 35b of a certain link 30 and the second, or first, blocking element 35b, 35a of another link 30 which precedes or follows the former, substantially define a blocking clamp of corresponding metal blanks 101.
  • the first and second blocking element 35 a, 35b of a same link 30 each comprise respective external abutment walls 41a, 41b (figs. 2, 3) facing the first, or second, blocking element 35a, 35b of another adjacent link 30, which are configured to contact the corresponding ends 103 of metal blanks 101.
  • each abutment wall 41a, 41b can be provided with one or more mirror-shaped blocking seatings 42a, 42b.
  • Each blocking seating 42a, 42b comprises indentations 43 able to shape and stably block the aforementioned ends 103.
  • each blocking seating 42a, 42b comprises a forming recess 44a, 44b having a portion obtained also on a corresponding upper wall 45a, 45b of each blocking element 35a, 35b.
  • the forming recesses 44a, 44b viewed from above, substantially have the shape of a semicircle.
  • Each forming recess 44a, 44b of a first, or second, blocking element 35a, 35b of a certain link 30 is able to cooperate with a corresponding forming recess 44b, 44a of a second, or first, blocking element 35b, 35a of another previous or subsequent link 30, in order to define a circular forming cavity 46 able to allow the forming, or creation, of the head of each nail 100, as will be described in detail below.
  • the links 48 of the second transmission chain 23 are each provided with the pressing element 50 (figs. 1, and from 7 to 9) disposed on an external upper part of each link 48, opposite with respect to the guide means 27 and defining, with an external wall thereof facing the blanks 101 in correspondence with the pressing zone ZP, a pressing surface 51.
  • Each link 48 can be made as a single piece, is internally hollow and is provided with two third coupling seatings 52a coaxial with each other and obtained on one end, or internal connection portion, 53 of each link 48, and two fourth coupling seatings 52b coaxial with each other and obtained on another end, or external connection portion, 54 of each link 48, in which the corresponding connection pins 49 are disposed.
  • Each pair of connection pins 49 rotatably connects the internal and external connection portions 53, 54 of two adjacent links 48.
  • connection portion 53 of one link 48 is conformed in such a way as to be insertable within the external connection portion 54 of a previous link 48, so as to be hinged thereto.
  • each link 48 is disposed and suitably attached in a corresponding housing seating 55 centered with respect to the underlying connection pin 49.
  • the links 30, 48 of the transmission chains 21 and 23 are configured in such a way that, in correspondence with a pressing zone ZP of the forming station S2, each pressing element 50 is disposed facing the respective blocking elements 35b, 35a of two corresponding adjacent links 30, so that the pressing surface 51 is preferably disposed in a manner perpendicular to each metal blank 101.
  • Each pressing element 50 is configured to impress, along the pressing zone ZP, a suitable cold pressure on the end 103 of each corresponding metal blank 101, so as to determine a homogenous flattening thereof within the forming cavity 46, obtaining a flattened portion 105 corresponding to the head of the nail 100 (fig. 8).
  • each pressing element 50 is positioned in such a way that during the movement of the first and second transmission chain 21, 23 it has a centered, or barycentric, position with respect to the position of the corresponding one or more metal blanks 101, so as to impress the cold pressure in a perpendicular manner.
  • the first and second transmission chain 21, 23 and the corresponding guide means 26, 27 lie on the first and second lying plane Pl and P2, respectively, so as to converge in the pressing zone ZP, thus forming an angle of convergence a (fig. 7).
  • the angle of convergence a is equal to about 2°.
  • the first and second blocking element 35a, 35b of each link 30, are each inclined by a first angle of divergence P 1 with respect to the first lying plane Pl and each pressing element 50 is inclined by a second angle of divergence
  • the first and second angle of divergence pi , ⁇ 2 are equal to about 1°.
  • such a configuration allows to maintain the end 103 of the metal blank 101 and the corresponding pressing surface 51 of the pressing element 50 in a condition of substantial perpendicularity along the pressing zone ZP, guaranteeing the correct formation of the flattened portion 105, that is, of the head of the nails 100.
  • the second transmission and advance means 19 are associated with adjustment and positioning means, not shown in the drawings, to adjust at least the position of the second transmission chain 23 with respect to the first transmission chain 21, in relation to the specific working requirements and the size of the metal blanks 101.
  • extraction station S3 there are known extraction means, not shown here, to extract each nail 100 and transport it toward another processing or storage zone.
  • the operation of the apparatus 10 described heretofore, which corresponds to the method according to the present invention, comprises the following steps.
  • the central control unit 24 controls and coordinates the drive of the feeding unit 11, the forming unit 12 and their operating components.
  • each feeding unit 11 feeds one metal blank 101 at a time toward the forming unit 12 along a feeding path PA, with a first speed of advance VI.
  • the feeding step occurs with the same operating modes or steps for each feeding unit 11.
  • the main feeding step comprises the following operating steps:
  • a cut-to-measure step in which the shear member 15 cuts the metal wire 102 according to a predefined pitch, without interrupting its advance, in order to obtain from the latter metal blanks 101 of variable and selectable length, in relation to the specific operating needs;
  • a conveying and insertion step in which the conveying member 16 conveys one metal blank 101 at a time toward the insertion station SI of the forming unit 12, in correspondence with which it transfers it to the first transmission and advance means 17.
  • the conveying member 16 can insert the above-mentioned metal blank 101 between two adjacent links 30 of the first transmission chain 21 , which intercept it and hold it between them.
  • the first transmission chain 21 moves with a second speed of advance V2 synchronized and coordinated with the first speed of advance VI to allow the correct insertion of each metal blank 101 between two corresponding adjacent links 30.
  • the insertion of the metal blanks 101 takes place between the first, or second, blocking element 35a, 35b of a certain link 30 and the second, or first, blocking element 35b, 35a of another link 30 which precedes or follows the former, the blocking elements, by means of the respective blocking seatings 42a, 42b, intercepting and blocking the corresponding metal blanks 101 from opposite sides in a certain initial insertion position PI (fig. 4).
  • the angle of the first transmission chain 21 determines a relative angle between the adjacent links 30, such that the distance between the corresponding first and second blocking element 35a, 35b, or vice versa, allows each metal blank 101 to be inserted with minimum clearance.
  • a main forming step begins, in which the forming unit 12 forms and therefore produces the nails 100 from the corresponding blanks 101, which are transported both toward the forming station S2 and also toward the next extraction station S3 by the first transmission and advance means 17.
  • the metal blanks 101 are transported by the first transmission chain 21, with the aforementioned second speed of advance V2.
  • the first transmission and advance means 17 make each metal blank 101 advance toward the upsetting means 18 in the pressing zone ZP, along which a prolonged pressing of the end 103 of the at least one metal blank 101 is carried out with a substantially perpendicular direction.
  • the main forming step can comprise the following operating steps.
  • a positioning step in which the positioning means 47 correctly position each metal blank 101 between the first and second blocking element 35 a, 35b, or vice versa, of the adjacent links 30, adjusting the insertion position PI of each metal blank 101 so that the latter assumes the correct blocking position PB (fig. 5).
  • each pressing element 50 of the second transmission chain 23 impresses with the respective pressing surface 51 a suitable cold pressure on the end 103 of each metal blank 101, homogeneously flattening the latter inside the forming cavity 46 of the corresponding first and second blocking element 35 a, 35b, or vice versa, obtaining a flattened portion 105, which corresponds to the head of the nail 100 (fig. 8).
  • This cold pressure is impressed in a perpendicular manner.
  • the first transmission chain 21 transports each formed nail 100 from the forming station S2 to the extraction station S3 for a subsequent extraction.
  • the upsetting means 18 comprise a rotating upsetting, or pressing, member rotatable around an internal axis of rotation thereof.
  • the rotating upsetting member can be a roller, a cam, or suchlike, for example oval or circular in shape.
  • the first transmission and advance means 17 and the rotating member can be conformed and disposed in such a way as to converge with each other, essentially guaranteeing a condition of prolonged perpendicularity along an upsetting, or pressing, zone ZP between each blank 101 and the pressing surface 51 defined by the periphery of the rotating upsetting member.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Forging (AREA)

Abstract

Apparatus (10) for producing nails (100) starting from metal blanks (101), comprising first transmission and advance means (17) and upsetting means (18) configured to cooperate with each other and perform, in a pressing zone (ZP), a pressing of one end (103) of each metal blank (101) with a substantially perpendicular direction.

Description

“APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR PRODUCING NAILS”
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention concerns an apparatus and a corresponding method for producing nails in a continuous cycle, starting from metal blanks obtained from a rolled or drawn metal wire with a diameter comprised between less than about 1 mm and about 10 mm.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Current apparatuses for producing nails comprise a unit for feeding the metal wire configured to obtain a plurality of blanks and subsequently nails from a forming unit.
In particular, at least one apparatus for producing nails is known, in which the forming unit comprises a rotating disc provided with a plurality of seatings for housing metal blanks. Each metal blank is transported toward a pressing zone where there is a pressing roller configured to exert a cold pressure on an exposed end of each blank, obtaining a flattened portion that defines the head of the nail.
In particular, the rotating disc and the pressing roller are disposed in such a way that in the pressing zone they substantially converge at a single abutment, or pressing, point where the pressing roller exerts a perpendicular pressure on the exposed end of each blank, flattening it and thus forming the head of each nail.
A disadvantage linked to the fact that only at the pressing point is there a condition of perpendicularity between the pressing roller and the exposed end of each blank is that if the rotating disc and the pressing roller are not disposed correctly and/or a perpendicular pressure is not exerted, the head of each nail can turn out malformed, or not homogeneous, or create swarfs or other.
Another disadvantage of this apparatus is that the rotating and pressing discs occupy a lot of space, taking it away from the other mechanical components, in particular the feeding unit, thus making the apparatus particularly cumbersome and unproductive, or requiring the use of a lot of space compared to what is necessary.
There is therefore the need to perfect an apparatus and devise a method for producing nails that can overcome at least one of the disadvantages of the state of the art.
To do this, it is necessary to solve the technical problem of providing an apparatus for producing nails in which a correct condition of perpendicularity between the end of each blank and a pressing surface is essentially guaranteed, in order to adequately produce the head of the nails.
In particular, one purpose of the present invention is to provide an apparatus for producing nails which is flexible, compact, versatile and simple to manufacture.
Another purpose of the present invention is to provide an apparatus and devise a method for producing nails which is highly efficient with high productivity.
The Applicant has devised, tested and embodied the present invention to overcome the shortcomings of the state of the art and to obtain these and other purposes and advantages.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention is set forth and characterized in the independent claims. The dependent claims describe other characteristics of the present invention or variants to the main inventive idea.
In accordance with the above purposes and to resolve the technical problem disclosed above in a new and original way, also achieving considerable advantages compared to the state of the prior art, an apparatus according to the present invention for producing nails starting from at least one metal blank comprises first transmission and advance means for making the at least one metal blank advance, and upsetting means configured to cooperate with the first transmission and advance means in order to form the head of the nails.
In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the first transmission and advance means and the upsetting means converge with each other and define a pressing zone for pressing one end of the at least one metal blank with a substantially perpendicular direction.
This achieves the advantage that each blank is subjected to a suitable prolonged cold pressure, with a substantially perpendicular direction, obtaining corresponding homogeneous and well-formed nail heads and preventing the formation of swarfs.
In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the first transmission and advance means and the upsetting means define, in correspondence with the pressing zone, a first and a second lying plane which converge with each other. Moreover, the at least one blank and at least one corresponding pressing element of the upsetting means are disposed reciprocally inclined with respect to the first and second lying plane in order to maintain a condition of prolonged substantial perpendicularity in the pressing zone. In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the first transmission and advance means comprise a first transmission chain closed in a loop. The first transmission chain is associated sliding with a first motorized member in order to move it in a manner that is coordinated and synchronized with the upsetting means. In particular, the first transmission chain comprises a plurality of links, each link being provided, in correspondence with respective opposite ends, with a first and a second blocking element.
In addition, the first and second blocking element are disposed in such a position that, in relation to the angle and/or approaching movement between the links, a first, or second, blocking element of a certain link and a second, or first, blocking element of another previous or subsequent link cooperate with each other to intercept and stably block the at least one metal blank from opposite sides.
In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the upsetting means comprise second transmission and advance means provided with a second transmission chain closed in a loop. The second transmission chain is associated sliding with a second motorized member in order to move it in a manner that is coordinated and synchronized with the first transmission and advance means.
In particular, the second transmission chain comprises a plurality of links, each link being provided with the pressing element having a pressing surface for impressing a cold pressure on the end, thus creating a respective flattened portion.
In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the first and second transmission chain lie on the first and second lying plane, thus forming an angle of convergence.
Moreover, the first and second blocking element are each inclined by a first angle of divergence with respect to the first lying plane. Each pressing element is inclined by a second angle of divergence with respect to the second lying plane, in such a way that the sum of the first and second angle of divergence compensates for the angle of convergence in order to maintain, at least in correspondence with the pressing zone, each end of the at least one blank and each pressing surface in a condition of substantial perpendicularity.
In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the first and second blocking element of a same link each comprise respective external abutment walls, facing toward the first, or second, blocking element of another adjacent link. The external abutment walls are each provided with one or more mirror-shaped blocking seatings for blocking a corresponding end of the at least one metal blank.
In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, each blocking seating is provided with indentations able to shape and stably block a corresponding end of the at least one metal blank, and with a forming recess having a portion also obtained on a corresponding upper wall of each blocking element.
In particular, each forming recess of a first, or second, blocking element of a certain link is configured to cooperate with a corresponding forming recess of a second, or first, blocking element of another link which precedes or follows the former, in order to define a forming cavity able to allow the forming of the flattened portion.
In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the apparatus for producing nails comprises one or more units for feeding the at least one metal blank. In particular, the one or more feeding units are disposed inside the closed loop defined by the first transmission chain, in such a way as to feed the at least one metal blank toward the first transmission chain from the inside toward the outside.
The upsetting means are disposed externally with respect to the first transmission chain. In particular, the second transmission chain is disposed externally with respect to the first transmission chain.
In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the one or more feeding units are disposed externally with respect to the first transmission chain, in such a way as to feed the at least one metal blank toward the first transmission chain from the outside toward the inside. In this case, the upsetting means are disposed internally with respect to the first transmission chain. In particular, the second transmission chain is disposed inside the closed loop defined by the first transmission chain.
Doing so achieves the advantage that the apparatus is very compact compared to apparatuses of the prior art.
The present invention also concerns a method for producing nails starting from corresponding metal blanks by means of said apparatus. The method comprises a feeding step in which one or more feeding units feed at least one metal blank toward first transmission and advance means.
In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, the method comprises a main forming step in which first transmission and advance means make the at least one metal blank advance toward upsetting means which converge with them and define between them a pressing zone, along which a prolonged pressing with a substantially perpendicular direction of one end of the at least one metal blank is performed, thus forming a corresponding nail.
In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, in the main forming step the first transmission and advance means and the upsetting means make the at least one blank and at least one corresponding pressing element, respectively, advance in a coordinated and synchronized manner, disposed reciprocally inclined with respect to the first and second lying plane in order to maintain a condition of prolonged substantial perpendicularity during the pressing.
In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, during the course of the method a first motorized member drives a first transmission chain of the first transmission and advance means, in a manner that is coordinated and synchronized with the upsetting means.
In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the main forming step comprises a blocking step in which, in relation to the angle and/or approaching movement between adjacent links of the first transmission chain, a first, or second, blocking element of a certain link and a second, or first, blocking element of another link, which precedes or follows the former, cooperate with each other to intercept and stably block the at least one metal blank from opposite sides.
In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, a second transmission chain of the upsetting means, which comprises a plurality of links, each provided with a pressing element defining with an external wall thereof a corresponding pressing surface, is driven in a manner that is coordinated and synchronized with the first transmission and advance means.
In particular, the main forming step also comprises a pressing step in which, in correspondence with the pressing zone, each pressing element, by means of the pressing surface, impresses a preferably perpendicular cold pressure on the end of at least one stably blocked metal blank, creating a respective flattened portion corresponding to the head of one of the nails. In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, in the pressing step the first and second transmission chain, in correspondence with a station for forming the nails, are made to advance along the first and second lying plane in such a way as to converge in the pressing zone, thus forming an angle of convergence. In particular, the first and second blocking element are each inclined by a first angle of divergence with respect to the first lying plane. In addition, each pressing element is inclined by a second angle of divergence with respect to the second lying plane, so that the sum of the first and second angle of divergence compensates for the angle of convergence, so that each pressing element performs a preferably perpendicular pressing of each end.
In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, in the blocking step each end is blocked on opposite sides by means of corresponding mirrorshaped blocking seatings created on respective external abutment walls of the first and second blocking element. In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, in the blocking step each forming recess of a first, or second, blocking element of a certain link is approached by, and cooperates with, a corresponding forming recess of a second, or first, blocking element of another previous or subsequent link, in order to define a forming cavity. In the pressing step, a corresponding flattened portion is formed in the forming cavity by means of the action of each pressing element.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
These and other aspects, characteristics and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of some embodiments, given as a non-restrictive example with reference to the attached drawings wherein:
- fig. 1 is a front, schematic and simplified view of an apparatus for producing nails, according to the present invention;
- fig. 2 is a simplified perspective view of a link of a chain of the apparatus of fig. 1;
- fig. 3 is a section view of several links of a chain of the apparatus of fig. 1 side by side;
- figs, from 4 to 9 are schematic, simplified and detailed representations of a forming sequence of a nail by means of the apparatus of fig. 1.
We must clarify that the phraseology and terminology used in the present description, as well as the figures in the attached drawings also in relation as to how described, have the sole function of better illustrating and explaining the present invention, their purpose being to provide a non-limiting example of the invention itself, since the scope of protection is defined by the claims.
To facilitate comprehension, the same reference numbers have been used, where possible, to identify identical common elements in the drawings. It is understood that elements and characteristics of one embodiment can be conveniently combined or incorporated into other embodiments without further clarifications. DESCRIPTION OF SOME EMBODIMENTS OF THE PRESENT INVENTION
With reference to fig. 1, an apparatus 10 according to the present invention is suitable and usable for producing nails 100 starting from metal blanks 101.
The metal blanks 101 are obtained from a metal wire 102 preferably having a diameter comprised between less than about 1 mm and about 10 mm, and which is chosen according to the sizes of the nail to be obtained.
The apparatus 10 comprises one or more feeding units 11 for sequentially feeding, one at a time, a plurality of metal blanks 101, and a forming unit 12, disposed downstream of the feeding units 11, able to form the nails 100 from the blanks 101.
According to one possible embodiment, the apparatus 10 comprises at least two feeding units 11.
The feeding unit 11 and forming unit 12 are associated with a fixed support structure, not shown in the drawings.
In correspondence with the feeding unit 11, the metal wire 102 is disposed in correspondence with an initial feeding zone and is wrapped into a roll, or coil.
Each feeding unit 11 can comprise, along a respective feeding path PA, at least one straightening device 13, an advance device 14, a shear member 15 and a conveying member 16. The straightening device 13 has the function of straightening the metal wire 102 wound into the coil, or roll.
The advance device 14 is configured to keep the already straightened metal wire 102 under tension and make it advance toward the shear member 15. The advance device 14 also has the function of unwinding the metal wire 102 wound into the roll, or coil.
According to possible embodiments, the advance device 14 comprises a pair of advance rollers 14a, 14b, opposite with respect to the feeding path PA and configured to contact the metal wire 102 from opposite sides, making it advance at a certain first speed of advance V 1.
At least one of the two advance rollers 14a, 14b can be driven by a respective drive member, such as an electric motor of a known type and not shown in the drawings.
The shear member 15 is able to cut the metal wire 102 according to a predetermined pitch, in order to obtain metal blanks 101 of variable and selectable length, in relation to the specific operating needs. The shear member 15 is of the type capable of performing the cut of the metal wire 102 without interrupting its advance. In the embodiments shown here, the shear member 15 is a rotating shear.
The conveying member 16 is able to receive and convey one metal blank 101 at a time toward an insertion station SI of the forming unit 12.
The forming unit 12 comprises, in sequence along a forming path PF, a station SI for inserting the metal blanks 101, a station S2 for upsetting, or forming, the nails 100 from corresponding metal blanks 101, and a station S3 for extracting the formed nails 100. The forming unit 12 comprises first transmission and advance means 17 for making the blanks 101 advance toward the forming station S2, and upsetting means 18 configured to cooperate with the first transmission and advance means 17 to produce the nails 100 starting from the corresponding blanks 101.
According to possible embodiments, the first transmission and advance means 17 and the upsetting means 18 are disposed in such a way as to converge with each other, defining a zone ZP for upsetting, or pressing, with a substantially perpendicular direction, for at least one segment, one end 103 of each metal blank 101. According to possible preferred embodiments, in correspondence with the pressing zone ZP, the first transmission and advance means 17 define a first lying plane Pl and the upsetting means 18 define a second lying plane P2. The first and second lying plane Pl, P2 are converging with each other.
The first transmission and advance means 17 are configured so that, in correspondence with the pressing zone ZP, each metal blank 101 is inclined with respect to the first lying plane Pl.
According to possible preferred embodiments, the upsetting means 18 comprise at least one pressing element 50 for pressing the end 103 of each metal blank 101, which is disposed inclined with respect to the second lying plane P2.
Advantageously, each metal blank 101 and the corresponding pressing element 50 are disposed reciprocally inclined with respect to the first and second lying plane Pl, P2 in order to maintain a condition of substantial prolonged perpendicularity in the pressing zone ZP.
According to preferred embodiments, the first transmission and advance means 17 comprise a first transmission chain 21. The first transmission chain 21 can be associated sliding with a first motorized member 22.
According to preferred embodiments, the upsetting means 18 comprise second transmission and advance means 19 provided with a second transmission chain 23. The second transmission chain 23 can be associated sliding with a second motorized member 25.
According to the preferred embodiments shown here, the first transmission chain 21 is closed in a loop, that is, it has a shape such as to define a closed loop with its periphery. In addition, the second transmission chain 23 is also closed in a loop.
The first and second motorized member 22, 25 are configured to drive and move, or make advance, the first and second transmission chain 21, 23 in a coordinated manner, that is, synchronized with each other, and with opposite directions of rotation, at a certain second speed of advance V2, which is in turn coordinated with the first speed of advance VI , as will be described in detail below.
According to preferred embodiments, the first and the second motorized member 22, 25 are defined by a first and a second pinion, respectively, which are connected to a first and a second drive member 28a, 28b, such as electric motors of a known type.
In possible embodiments, the first drive member 28a can be connected to the first motorized member 22, to the shear member 15 and the conveying member 16, in order to drive them in a coordinated manner. The apparatus 10 can be provided with a central control unit 24 configured and suitable to control and coordinate the drive of the feeding unit 11, the forming unit 12 and of their operating components, in particular of the first and second motorized member 22, 25, so that the motions of the first and second transmission chain 21, 23 are synchronized. In some embodiments, the synchronization of the motions of the first and second transmission chain 21, 23 can be obtained by means of a mechanical-type connection between the first and second motorized member 22, 25.
The first and second transmission chain 21, 23 are associated with respective guide and support means 26, 27 able to guide and support the corresponding transmission chain 21, 23, keeping it in tension during the respective advance, in particular along the forming path PF.
According to some embodiments, the guide and support means 26, 27 can comprise at least one fixed guide 26a, 27a and, respectively, a first and a second tensioner, or chain tightening pulley, 26b, 27b, each configured to keep the corresponding transmission chain 21, 23 in tension.
According to possible embodiments shown in the drawings, the feeding units 11 are disposed inside the closed loop defined by the first transmission chain 21, in such a way as to feed the metal blanks 101 toward the first transmission chain 21 from the inside outward; the second transmission chain 23, on the other hand, is disposed outside the first transmission chain 21.
According to other possible embodiments not shown in the drawings, the feeding units 11 are disposed outside the closed loop defined by the first transmission chain 21, in such a way as to feed the metal blanks 101 from the outside; the second transmission chain 23, on the other hand, is disposed inside the closed loop defined by the first transmission chain 21.
The first transmission chain 21 defines, with a part thereof, the forming path PF of the nails 100.
The first and second transmission chain 21, 23 each comprise a plurality of links 30, 48, mobile relative to each other and pivoted to each other by means of respective pairs of connection pins 31, 49 (fig. 2).
With the connection pins 31, 49 there can be externally associated respective rotatable members 29, for example wheels, able to cooperate with the corresponding first and second motorized member 22, 25 for the advance of the first and second transmission chain 21, 23. In other words, the rotatable members 29 are able to cooperate with the teeth of the first and second motorized pinion, defining the first and second motorized member 22, 25.
Each link 30 (fig. 2) can be made as a single piece, is internally hollow and is provided with two first coupling seatings 32a coaxial with each other and obtained on one end, or internal connection portion, 33 of each link 30, and two second coupling seatings 32b coaxial with each other and obtained on another end, or external connection portion, 34 of each link 30, in which the corresponding connection pins 31 are disposed. Each pair of connection pins 31 rotatably connects the internal and external connection portion 33, 34 of two adjacent links 30.
We must clarify that the internal connection portion 33 of one link 30 is conformed in such a way as to be insertable within the external connection portion 34 of a previous link 30, so as to be hinged thereto. With reference to figs. 2, 3, each link 30 of the first transmission chain 21 is provided with a first and a second blocking element 35a, 35b which are disposed in a corresponding housing seating 36a, 36b obtained on an external upper part of each link 30, opposite with respect to the guide means 26.
Each blocking element 35a, 35b can be removably associated with the respective housing seating 36a, 36b by means of an attachment member 37 insertable in a corresponding attachment seating 38 made on an internal central portion 39 of each link.
According to some embodiments, each link 30 is also provided with an adjustment member 40 associated with at least one of the two blocking elements 35a, 35b to adjust its relative position within the corresponding housing seating
36a, 36b. For example, the adjustment member 40 can be an adjustment screw or grub screw.
The first and second blocking element 35a, 35b are disposed on opposite sides with respect to an axis of symmetry X, in a position such that the relative angle between adjacent links 30 determines an approaching or distancing movement of the first, or second, blocking element 35a, 35b of a certain link 30 with respect to the second, or first, blocking element 35b, 35a of another link 30 which precedes or follows the former.
In other words, the relative angle between adjacent links 30 causes an approaching or distancing movement of the first blocking element 35a of a certain link 30 with respect to the second blocking element 35b of another link 30 adjacent to and preceding the former, or of the second blocking element 35b of said certain link 30 with respect to the first blocking element 35a of another link 30 adjacent to and following the former.
The first, or second, blocking element 35a, 35b of a certain link 30 and the second, or first, blocking element 35b, 35a of another link 30 which precedes or follows the former, by means of this reciprocal approaching movement and cooperating with each other, have the function of intercepting and stably blocking from opposite sides one or more metal blanks 101 in a blocking position PB at least along the forming station S2 (figs, from 5 to 8).
We must clarify that in such blocking position PB, each metal blank 101 is stably blocked so as to have the end 103 protruding with respect to the blocking elements 35 a, 35b in contact therewith.
Positioning means 47 can be provided, which in the example given here are conveying guides (figs. 1 and 5), configured to correctly position each metal blank 101 between two corresponding blocking elements 35a, 35b. This positioning allows to adjust an initial insertion position PI of each metal blank 101, so that the latter assumes the aforementioned blocking position PB (figs. 4 and 5).
Therefore, the first, or second, blocking element 35 a, 35b of a certain link 30 and the second, or first, blocking element 35b, 35a of another link 30 which precedes or follows the former, substantially define a blocking clamp of corresponding metal blanks 101.
According to preferred embodiments, the first and second blocking element 35 a, 35b of a same link 30 each comprise respective external abutment walls 41a, 41b (figs. 2, 3) facing the first, or second, blocking element 35a, 35b of another adjacent link 30, which are configured to contact the corresponding ends 103 of metal blanks 101.
According to some embodiments, each abutment wall 41a, 41b can be provided with one or more mirror-shaped blocking seatings 42a, 42b. In the embodiments shown here, there are two blocking seatings 42a, 42b. Each blocking seating 42a, 42b comprises indentations 43 able to shape and stably block the aforementioned ends 103.
Furthermore, each blocking seating 42a, 42b comprises a forming recess 44a, 44b having a portion obtained also on a corresponding upper wall 45a, 45b of each blocking element 35a, 35b. The forming recesses 44a, 44b, viewed from above, substantially have the shape of a semicircle.
Each forming recess 44a, 44b of a first, or second, blocking element 35a, 35b of a certain link 30 is able to cooperate with a corresponding forming recess 44b, 44a of a second, or first, blocking element 35b, 35a of another previous or subsequent link 30, in order to define a circular forming cavity 46 able to allow the forming, or creation, of the head of each nail 100, as will be described in detail below.
The links 48 of the second transmission chain 23 are each provided with the pressing element 50 (figs. 1, and from 7 to 9) disposed on an external upper part of each link 48, opposite with respect to the guide means 27 and defining, with an external wall thereof facing the blanks 101 in correspondence with the pressing zone ZP, a pressing surface 51.
Each link 48 can be made as a single piece, is internally hollow and is provided with two third coupling seatings 52a coaxial with each other and obtained on one end, or internal connection portion, 53 of each link 48, and two fourth coupling seatings 52b coaxial with each other and obtained on another end, or external connection portion, 54 of each link 48, in which the corresponding connection pins 49 are disposed. Each pair of connection pins 49 rotatably connects the internal and external connection portions 53, 54 of two adjacent links 48.
We must clarify that the internal connection portion 53 of one link 48 is conformed in such a way as to be insertable within the external connection portion 54 of a previous link 48, so as to be hinged thereto.
The pressing element 50 of each link 48 is disposed and suitably attached in a corresponding housing seating 55 centered with respect to the underlying connection pin 49.
According to some embodiments, the links 30, 48 of the transmission chains 21 and 23 are configured in such a way that, in correspondence with a pressing zone ZP of the forming station S2, each pressing element 50 is disposed facing the respective blocking elements 35b, 35a of two corresponding adjacent links 30, so that the pressing surface 51 is preferably disposed in a manner perpendicular to each metal blank 101.
Each pressing element 50 is configured to impress, along the pressing zone ZP, a suitable cold pressure on the end 103 of each corresponding metal blank 101, so as to determine a homogenous flattening thereof within the forming cavity 46, obtaining a flattened portion 105 corresponding to the head of the nail 100 (fig. 8).
In particular, each pressing element 50 is positioned in such a way that during the movement of the first and second transmission chain 21, 23 it has a centered, or barycentric, position with respect to the position of the corresponding one or more metal blanks 101, so as to impress the cold pressure in a perpendicular manner.
According to the possible preferred embodiments, in correspondence with the forming station S2, the first and second transmission chain 21, 23 and the corresponding guide means 26, 27 lie on the first and second lying plane Pl and P2, respectively, so as to converge in the pressing zone ZP, thus forming an angle of convergence a (fig. 7). For example, the angle of convergence a is equal to about 2°.
In relation to this, in order for each pressing element 50 to exert a correct and balanced pressure on the end 103, the first and second blocking element 35a, 35b of each link 30, are each inclined by a first angle of divergence P 1 with respect to the first lying plane Pl and each pressing element 50 is inclined by a second angle of divergence |32 with respect to the second lying plane P2, so that the sum of the first and second angle of divergence pi, 02 compensates for the angle of convergence a. For example, the first and second angle of divergence pi , β2 are equal to about 1°.
Advantageously, such a configuration allows to maintain the end 103 of the metal blank 101 and the corresponding pressing surface 51 of the pressing element 50 in a condition of substantial perpendicularity along the pressing zone ZP, guaranteeing the correct formation of the flattened portion 105, that is, of the head of the nails 100.
According to possible embodiments, the second transmission and advance means 19 are associated with adjustment and positioning means, not shown in the drawings, to adjust at least the position of the second transmission chain 23 with respect to the first transmission chain 21, in relation to the specific working requirements and the size of the metal blanks 101.
In correspondence with the extraction station S3 there are known extraction means, not shown here, to extract each nail 100 and transport it toward another processing or storage zone.
The operation of the apparatus 10 described heretofore, which corresponds to the method according to the present invention, comprises the following steps.
We must clarify that what is described for a single metal blank 101 is valid cyclically for each of the metal blanks 101 with which the nails 100 are produced.
In an initial preparation step, the central control unit 24 controls and coordinates the drive of the feeding unit 11, the forming unit 12 and their operating components.
As a result of the initial preparation step, there is a drive step in which the feeding unit 11 and the forming unit 12 are driven in a coordinated manner, and in which, in particular, the first and second transmission chain 21, 23 are driven by the respective first and second motorized member 22, 25.
In a main feeding step, each feeding unit 11 feeds one metal blank 101 at a time toward the forming unit 12 along a feeding path PA, with a first speed of advance VI. The feeding step occurs with the same operating modes or steps for each feeding unit 11.
The main feeding step comprises the following operating steps:
- a straightening step, in which the metal wire 102, while being made to advance along the feeding path PA by the advance device 14, is straightened by the straightening device 13;
- a cut-to-measure step, in which the shear member 15 cuts the metal wire 102 according to a predefined pitch, without interrupting its advance, in order to obtain from the latter metal blanks 101 of variable and selectable length, in relation to the specific operating needs; - a conveying and insertion step, in which the conveying member 16 conveys one metal blank 101 at a time toward the insertion station SI of the forming unit 12, in correspondence with which it transfers it to the first transmission and advance means 17. In particular, in accordance with the preferred embodiments, the conveying member 16 can insert the above-mentioned metal blank 101 between two adjacent links 30 of the first transmission chain 21 , which intercept it and hold it between them.
The first transmission chain 21 moves with a second speed of advance V2 synchronized and coordinated with the first speed of advance VI to allow the correct insertion of each metal blank 101 between two corresponding adjacent links 30.
In particular, the insertion of the metal blanks 101 takes place between the first, or second, blocking element 35a, 35b of a certain link 30 and the second, or first, blocking element 35b, 35a of another link 30 which precedes or follows the former, the blocking elements, by means of the respective blocking seatings 42a, 42b, intercepting and blocking the corresponding metal blanks 101 from opposite sides in a certain initial insertion position PI (fig. 4). In correspondence with the insertion station SI, the angle of the first transmission chain 21 determines a relative angle between the adjacent links 30, such that the distance between the corresponding first and second blocking element 35a, 35b, or vice versa, allows each metal blank 101 to be inserted with minimum clearance.
We must clarify that by the expression “minimum clearance” we mean that each metal blank 101, subjected to an adequate and controlled external force, can translate axially into a different position from the initial insertion position. Subsequently, a main forming step begins, in which the forming unit 12 forms and therefore produces the nails 100 from the corresponding blanks 101, which are transported both toward the forming station S2 and also toward the next extraction station S3 by the first transmission and advance means 17.
In particular, in accordance with the preferred embodiments, the metal blanks 101 are transported by the first transmission chain 21, with the aforementioned second speed of advance V2.
In the main forming step, the first transmission and advance means 17 make each metal blank 101 advance toward the upsetting means 18 in the pressing zone ZP, along which a prolonged pressing of the end 103 of the at least one metal blank 101 is carried out with a substantially perpendicular direction.
In accordance with the preferred embodiments, the main forming step can comprise the following operating steps.
A positioning step, in which the positioning means 47 correctly position each metal blank 101 between the first and second blocking element 35 a, 35b, or vice versa, of the adjacent links 30, adjusting the insertion position PI of each metal blank 101 so that the latter assumes the correct blocking position PB (fig. 5).
In a subsequent blocking step, in relation to the angle of the first transmission chain 21 in correspondence with the forming station S2, there is a variation in the relative angle between the adjacent links 30, which leads to another approaching movement between the first or second blocking element 35a, 35b of a certain link 30 and the second or first blocking element 35b, 35a of another previous or subsequent link 30, in order to intercept and stably block each metal blank 101 in the blocking position PB (fig. 6).
Subsequently, in a pressing step, in correspondence with the pressing zone ZP, each pressing element 50 of the second transmission chain 23 impresses with the respective pressing surface 51 a suitable cold pressure on the end 103 of each metal blank 101, homogeneously flattening the latter inside the forming cavity 46 of the corresponding first and second blocking element 35 a, 35b, or vice versa, obtaining a flattened portion 105, which corresponds to the head of the nail 100 (fig. 8). This cold pressure is impressed in a perpendicular manner.
Then, in an extraction step, the first transmission chain 21 transports each formed nail 100 from the forming station S2 to the extraction station S3 for a subsequent extraction.
In correspondence with the extraction station S3, in relation to the angle of the first transmission chain 21, there is a variation in the relative angle between the adjacent links 30, which leads to a distancing movement between the first or second blocking element 35a, 35b of a certain link 30 and the second or first blocking element 35b, 35a of another link 30 which precedes or follows the former, which allows suitable extraction means of a known type to extract each nail 100 (fig- 9).
It is clear that modifications and/or additions of parts may be made to the apparatus 10 and to the method as described heretofore, without departing from the field and scope of the present invention, as defined by the claims.
In particular, according to other possible embodiments, not shown in the drawings, the upsetting means 18 comprise a rotating upsetting, or pressing, member rotatable around an internal axis of rotation thereof.
The rotating upsetting member can be a roller, a cam, or suchlike, for example oval or circular in shape. Specifically, the first transmission and advance means 17 and the rotating member can be conformed and disposed in such a way as to converge with each other, essentially guaranteeing a condition of prolonged perpendicularity along an upsetting, or pressing, zone ZP between each blank 101 and the pressing surface 51 defined by the periphery of the rotating upsetting member.
It is also clear that, although the present invention has been described with reference to some specific examples, a person of skill in the art will be able to achieve other equivalent forms of apparatuses for producing nails, having the characteristics as set forth in the claims and hence all coming within the field of protection defined thereby.
In the following claims, the sole purpose of the references in brackets is to facilitate their reading and they must not be considered as restrictive factors with regard to the field of protection defined by the claims.

Claims

1. Apparatus (10) for producing nails (100) starting from at least one metal blank (101), characterized in that it comprises first means (17) for the transmission and advance of said at least one metal blank (101) which converge with upsetting means (18) and define with them a pressing zone (ZP) for pressing one end (103) of said at least one metal blank (101) with a perpendicular direction.
2. Apparatus (10) as in claim 1, characterized in that said first transmission and advance means (17) and said upsetting means (18) define, in correspondence with said pressing zone (ZP), a first and a second lying plane (Pl, P2) which converge with each other, and said at least one blank (101) and at least one corresponding pressing element (50) of said upsetting means (18) are disposed reciprocally inclined with respect to said first and second lying plane (Pl, P2) in order to maintain a condition of prolonged perpendicularity in said pressing zone (ZP).
3. Apparatus (10) as in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that said first transmission and advance means (17) comprise a first transmission chain (21) closed in a loop and having a plurality of links (30), each link (30) being provided, in correspondence with respective opposite ends (33, 34), with a first and a second blocking element (35a, 35b) which are disposed in such a position that, in relation to the angle and/or approaching movement between said links (30), a first, or second, blocking element (35a, 35b) of a certain link (30) and a second, or first, blocking element (35b, 35a) of another previous or subsequent link (30) cooperate with each other to intercept and block said at least one metal blank (101) from opposite sides.
4. Apparatus (10) as in claim 2 or 3, characterized in that said upsetting means (18) comprise a second transmission chain (23) closed in a loop and having a plurality of links (48), each link (48) being provided with said pressing element (50) having an external pressing surface (51) for impressing a cold pressure on said end (103), thus creating a flattened portion (105).
5. Apparatus ( 10) as in claims 3 and 4 when they depend on claim 2, characterized in that said first and second transmission chain (21 , 23) lie on said first and second lying plane (Pl, P2) forming an angle of convergence (a), and in that said first and second blocking element (35a, 35b) are each inclined by a first angle of divergence (β1) with respect to said first lying plane (Pl) and each pressing element (50) is inclined by a second angle of divergence (β2) with respect to said second lying plane (P2), in such a way that the sum of said first and second angle of divergence (β1 , β2) compensates for said angle of convergence (a) in order to maintain the condition of perpendicularity. 6. Apparatus (10) as in claim 3 or 5, characterized in that said first and second blocking element (35 a, 35 b) of a same link (30) each comprise respective external abutment walls (41a, 41b), facing toward the first, or second, blocking element (35a, 35b) of another adjacent link (30), each of said external abutment walls (41a, 41b) being provided with one or more mirror-shaped blocking seatings (42a, 42b) for blocking corresponding ends (103).
7. Apparatus (10) as in claim 6, characterized in that each blocking seating (42a, 42b) is provided with indentations (43) able to shape and stably block a corresponding end (103) and with a forming recess (44a, 44b), and in that each forming recess (44a, 44b) of a first, or second, blocking element (35 a, 35b) of a certain link (30) is configured to cooperate with a corresponding forming recess (44b, 44a) of a second, or first, blocking element (35b, 35a) of another link (30), which precedes or follows the former, in order to define a forming cavity (46) able to allow the forming of said flattened portion (105).
8. Apparatus (10) as in any claim from 3 to 7, when claim 4 depends on claim 3, characterized in that one or more units (11) for feeding said at least one blank
(101) are disposed inside the closed loop defined by said first transmission chain (21), in such a way as to feed said at least one metal blank (101) toward said first transmission chain (21) from the inside toward the outside, and in that said upsetting means (18) are disposed externally with respect to said first transmission chain (21).
9. Apparatus (10) as in any claim from 3 to 7, when claim 4 depends on claim 3, characterized in that one or more units (11) for feeding said at least one blank (101) are disposed externally with respect to said first transmission chain (21), in such a way as to feed said at least one metal blank (101) toward said first transmission chain (21) from the outside toward the inside, and in that said upsetting means (18) are disposed internally with respect to said first transmission chain (21).
10. Method for producing nails (100) starting from corresponding metal blanks (101) by means of an apparatus (10), comprising a step of feeding at least one metal blank (101), characterized in that it comprises a main forming step in which first transmission and advance means (17) make said at least one metal blank (101) advance toward upsetting means (18) which converge with them and define between them a pressing zone (ZP) along which a prolonged pressing with perpendicular direction of one end (103) of said at least one metal blank (101) is performed.
11. Method as in claim 10, characterized in that in said main forming step said first transmission and advance means (17) and said upsetting means (18), defining in correspondence with said pressing zone (ZP) a first and a second lying plane (Pl, P2) which converge with each other, make said at least one blank (101) and at least one corresponding pressing element (50), respectively, advance in a coordinated and synchronized manner, disposed reciprocally inclined with respect to said first and second lying plane (P1, P2) in order to maintain a prolonged perpendicularity during said pressing.
12. Method as in claim 10 or 11, characterized in that said main forming step comprises a blocking step in which, in relation to the angle and/or approaching movement between adjacent links (30) of a first transmission chain (21) of said first transmission and advance means (17), a first, or second, blocking element (35a, 35b) of a certain link (30) and a second, or first, blocking element (35b, 35a) of another preceding or following link (30) cooperate with each other to intercept and block said at least one metal blank (101) from opposite sides.
13. Method as in any claim from 10 to 12, characterized in that said main forming step comprises a pressing step in which a pressing element (50), associated with a respective link (48) of a second transmission chain (23) of said upsetting means (18), impresses with a pressing surface (51) thereof a cold pressure on said end (103), thus creating a respective flattened portion (105).
14. Method as in claim 13 when it depends on claims 11 and 12, characterized in that in said pressing step said first and second transmission chain (21, 23) are made to advance along said first and second lying plane (β1 , β2 ) forming an angle of convergence (α), said first and second blocking element (35a, 35b) each being inclined by a first angle of divergence (β1 ) with respect to said first lying plane (Pl), and each pressing element (50) being inclined by a second angle of divergence (β2 ) with respect to said second lying plane (P2), so that each pressing element (50) performs a perpendicular pressing of each end (103).
EP24725613.4A 2023-04-11 2024-04-11 Apparatus and method for producing nails Pending EP4695039A1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
IT102023000006939A IT202300006939A1 (en) 2023-04-11 2023-04-11 APPARATUS AND PROCEDURE FOR THE PRODUCTION OF NAILS
PCT/IT2024/050070 WO2024214126A1 (en) 2023-04-11 2024-04-11 Apparatus and method for producing nails

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EP4695039A1 true EP4695039A1 (en) 2026-02-18

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EP (1) EP4695039A1 (en)
IT (1) IT202300006939A1 (en)
WO (1) WO2024214126A1 (en)

Family Cites Families (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DK143935C (en) * 1978-02-23 1982-04-19 Nordiske Kabel Traad MACHINE FOR MANUFACTURING HEADS ON A SHAFT, SUCH AS BEHIND OR SCREW
DK560287A (en) * 1987-10-26 1989-04-27 Enkotec As PROCEDURE FOR PROCESSING AN OBJECTED TOPIC AND MACHINE FOR EXERCISING THE PROCEDURE

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IT202300006939A1 (en) 2024-10-11

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