200904560 九、發明說明 [相關申請案] 本申請案與2007年4月15日提申^ 的方法及設備”的美國專利暫時申請案第 關，該案的全部內容藉此參照而被倂爲本 【發明所屬之技術領域】 本發明大體上係有關於摺疊板材的工 方法。 【先前技術】 彎折二維度（2D )板材用以形成三； 是已知的。用來實施2 D板材彎折的機器 。例如，授予H u d a等人的美國專利第4，1 種用來彎折大面積建築單元的設備。授予 國專利第4,230,058號顯示一種被建構來 形結構的設備。授予Μ ο 〇 r e的美國專利第 露一種用板材來形成箱形板金屬導管的設 已知的設備大致上都具有壓機及/或 板材，這些機具係在與被用來將板材加工 狀的力量相同程度下作業。該相對高的力 等壓機及/或夾鉗構件會在操作者手指或 折處理期間不小心被夾到這些構件之間或 之間的情形下對操作者造成嚴重的身體傷 S稱爲“摺疊板材 60/911,905 號有 文的一部分。 具系統及其使用 維度（3 D )結構 幾工具係屬習知 33,198號揭露一 Iwaki等人的美 用金屬板製造箱 ;5,105,640 號揭 備。 夾鉗件用來夾鉗 成爲所想要的形 量程度意謂著該 四肢在夾鉗或彎 這些構件與板材 害。 -4- 200904560 g知設備的進一步缺點爲它們需要使用到硬化鋼及及 其它以很緊的公差加以加工之材質用以從2D的板材製造 出3 D的結構。例如，將窄的周邊凸緣壓印或沖壓成一板 材的已知設備大體上需要具很緊的公差之硬化表面，用以 精確地形成具有所要的尺寸之周邊凸緣。 具有不均勻且非對稱的凸緣及彎折線的材料板會產生 製造上的複雜度。一組工具可被提供，每一工具係用來彎 折一特定規格、大小、尺寸、或構造的凸緣。用傳統的設 備來沿著彎折線彎折具有大凸緣部分通常會需要更換工具 或組態，其不同於彎折小規格的凸緣部分的工具或組態。 隨著彎折線及凸緣的數量的變化的增加，時間與複雜度亦 隨之增加。 有鑑於以上所述，具有一種摺疊系統其可克服已知彎 折板材的設備的上述及其它缺點是有利的。 【發明內容】 本發明的一個態樣係有關於一種摺疊工具系統用來由 一實質上二維度的板材形成一三維度結構，該二維度板材 包括一預定的低凸緣摺疊線其界定一低凸緣及一預定的高 凸緣摺疊線其界定一高凸緣。該係統可包括一骨架其包括 一約束總成用來約束一工件在一方向上的運動，一低凸緣 總成其可移動地安裝在該骨架上用以頂著該約束總成偏壓 (biasing )該工件並沿著該低凸緣摺線實施摺疊，該低凸 緣總成包括一低凸緣施用器用來對著該低凸緣施加力量用 -5- 200904560 以實施低凸緣摺疊，一高凸緣總成其可移動地安裝在該骨 架上用以沿著該高凸緣摺線實施摺疊，該高凸緣總成包括 一高凸緣施用器用來對著該高凸緣施加力量用以實施高凸 緣摺疊，及一控制總成用來依序地操作該低凸緣總成與該 高凸緣總成。 該約束總成可包括一約束塊其可移動於一遠離該工件 的第一位置與一與該工件的高凸緣嚙合的第二位置之間。 該約束總成進一步包含一約束板其可移動於一縮回的位置 與一鄰近該低凸緣摺疊線之伸長的位置之間，用以在該低 凸緣總成對著該低凸緣施加力量時約束該工件。 該低凸緣施用器包括一施用器桿用來沿著該下凸緣的 大部分施加實質上連續的力量，用以沿著該低摺疊線實施 實質均勻的摺疊。該施用器桿被可樞轉地安裝以提供超過 90度的動作來調節（accommodate)該低凸緣的回彈。 該高凸緣施用器可包括至少一臂其可繞著一與該高摺 疊線實質平行的軸線樞轉。該臂可包括一肩部其對應於該 工件沿著該高凸緣摺疊線之所想要的最終形狀。 該控制系統可包括一控制器用來控制該低凸緣總成與 該高凸緣總成的致動順序及暫停時間。該控制系統可包括 一第一氣壓致動器用來控制該低凸緣總成的運動及一第二 氣壓致動器用來控制該高凸緣總成的運動。該第一氣壓致 動器可以是一氣囊其被建構成可將該低凸緣總成向上朝向 該約束總成移動的大小。該第二氣壓致動器可以是一氣動 氣缸其被建構成可移動該高凸緣總成的大小，用以沿著該 -6- 200904560 高凸緣摺疊線樞轉。該第一氣壓致動器在約 50psi至 150psi的範圍內操作。該第二氣壓致動器在約50Psi至 1 5 0 p s i的範圍內操作。 本發明的另一個態樣係有關於一種用來將一二維度板 材形成爲一三維度結構的摺疊工具系統，該二維度板材包 括多條預定的低凸緣摺疊線界定低凸緣，多條預定的高凸 緣摺疊線界定高凸緣，及多條預定的端部高凸緣摺疊線界 定端部高凸緣。該系統包括一或多個骨架其包括一約束總 成用來約束一工件在一方向上的運動，一低凸緣總成其可 移動地安裝在該骨架上用來對著該約束總成偏壓該工件並 沿著低凸緣摺疊線實施摺疊，該低凸緣總成包括多個低凸 緣施用器用來對著低凸緣施加力量以沿著每一低凸緣摺疊 線實施低凸緣摺疊，一高凸緣總成其可移動地安裝在該骨 架上用以沿著高凸緣摺疊線實施摺疊，該高凸緣總成包括 多個側向的高凸緣致動器用來對著側向的高凸緣施加力量 以沿著每一側向的高凸緣摺疊線實施摺疊，該高凸緣總成 進一步包括多個端部高凸緣致動器用來對著端部高凸緣施 加力量以沿著每一端部高凸緣摺疊線實施高凸緣摺疊，及 一控制總成用來依序地操作低凸緣施用器，側向的高凸緣 致動器，及端部高凸緣致動器。 該約束總成包括一約束塊其可移動於一遠離該工件的 第一位置與一用來嚙合該等端部高凸緣之第二位置之間。 該約束總成進一步包括一約束板其可移動於一縮回的位置 與一伸展的位置之間，該伸展的位置與該等低凸緣摺疊線 200904560 相鄰，用來在該低凸緣總成對著低凸緣施加力量時約束該 工件。 該低凸緣施用器包括多個施用器桿用來沿著對應的一 個低凸緣施加實質上連續的力量以沿著對應的一條低凸緣 摺疊線實施實質均勻的摺疊。 該等高凸緣致動器包括至少一臂其繞著一軸線樞轉， 該軸線實質地平行於一鄰近的且對應的一高凸緣摺疊線。 該控制系統包括控制器用來控制該低凸緣總成’該高 凸緣總成，及該端部高凸緣總成的致動順序及暫停時間。 該控制系統包括一第一氣壓致動器其控制該低凸緣總成的 運動及一第二氣動制動器其控制該高凸緣總成的致動器’ 該第一氣壓致動器可以是一氣囊其被建構成可將該低凸緣 總成向上朝向該約束總成移動的大小及結構。該第二氣壓 致動器包括多個氣動缸其被建構成可選擇性地移動該等側 向的高凸緣致動器及端部高凸緣致動器的大小及結構。該 等第一及第二氣壓致動器是在約50psi至150psi的範圍內 操作。 該系統可在根據工件的特性所選擇的力量程度下操作 ，用以實質地消除在作業員錯誤的事件中傷及工件的危險 。該系統可在能夠實質地消除在作業員錯誤的事件中傷及 人類作業員的危險的力量程度下操作。該系統可被建構來 沿著至少一條摺疊線摺疊’這可藉由使用至少一個該約束 總成在靠近該摺疊線的位置而不是實質沿著該摺疊線接觸 該工件來達成。 -8- 200904560 本發明的另一個態樣係有關於一種將一大致二維 板材形成爲一三維度結構的方法’該板材包括一預定 凸緣摺疊線界定一低凸緣及一預定的高凸緣摺疊線界 高凸緣。該方法包括一或多個下列的步驟：約束一工 一方向上的運動；將一低凸緣總成設置成抵靠著該低 用以將該工件對著該約束總成偏壓該工件，該低凸緣 包括一低凸緣施用器其接觸該低凸緣用以沿著該低凸 疊線實施摺疊；及抵靠著該高凸緣移動一高凸緣總成 高凸緣總成包括一高凸緣致動器其接觸該高凸緣用以 該高凸緣摺疊線實施摺疊。 該約束步驟係藉由將一約束塊移動於一遠離該工 第一位置與一用來嚙合該工件的一或多個高凸緣的第 置之間來完成的。該約束步驟係藉由將一約束板移動 縮回的位置與一鄰近一或多條低凸緣摺疊線之伸展的 之間來達成的，用以在該低凸緣總成對著低凸緣總成 力量時約束該工件。 該設置步驟係藉由將一施用器桿抵靠著一或多個 緣設置用以沿著一或多個低凸緣的大部分施加實質上 的力量來達成的，用以沿著每一對應的低凸緣摺疊線 實質上均勻的摺疊。該設置步驟係藉由將該施用器桿 超過一設定的最終彎折角度，如達到一超過9 0度的 ’以調節該一或多個低凸緣的回彈來達成的。 該移動的步驟係藉由將一或多個臂繞著一實質平 一對應的高凸緣摺疊線之對應軸線樞轉來達成的。 度的 的低 定一 件在 凸緣 總成 緣摺 ，該 沿著 件的 二位 於一 位置 施加 低凸 連續 實施 移動 位置 行於 200904560 該設置與移動步驟係藉由提供氣動壓力以控制該低凸 緣總成的設置與該高凸緣總成的移動來達成的。該被提供 的氣動壓力是在約50psi至150psi的範圍內。 一三維度結構可藉由上述方法的操作而被形成。 該方法可在根據工件的特性所選擇的力量程度下操作 ，用以實質地消除在作業員錯誤的事件中傷及工件的危險 。該方法可在能夠實質地消除在作業員錯誤的事件中傷及 人類作業員的危險的力量程度下操作。 沿著至少一條摺疊線摺疊可藉由使用至少一個該約束 總成在靠近該摺疊線的位置而不是實質沿著該摺疊線接觸 該工件來達成。該方法可在一組裝環境中被使用，而不是 只在製造環境中使用。 本發明之用於板材的摺疊的該方法與設備具有其它的 特徵與優點，其將被更詳細地在附圖中及下面的[實施方 式]中被提出，這些附圖被包含在此說明書中且構成本說 明書的一部分，該[實施方式]與附圖一起用來說明本發明 的某些原理。 【實施方式】 現將參照本發明的示範性實施例的細節，本發明的例 子被示於附圖中且於下文中被說明。雖然本發明將配合數 個示範性實施例加以描述，但應被理解的是，此描述並不 是要用來將本發明限制於這些示範性實施例上。相反地， 本發明是打算不只涵蓋這些示範性實施例，還涵蓋各種變 -10- 200904560 化’修改’等效物及其它實施例’這些都被包括在由申請 專利範圍所界定之本發明的精神與範圍內。 現翻到附圖’其中相同的構件在所有圖中都被標示相 同的標號’圖1A及1B顯示一示範性的摺疊工具系統3〇 ’其可被用來將二維度（2D)板材摺疊成爲三維度（3D )形狀。該摺疊工具系統被設計成用在其上形成有摺疊線 的板材上，這些摺疊線可讓彎折沿著與性的摺疊線實施。 依據本發明的彎折工具系統特別適合彎折其上形成有 摺疊線之2D板材，這些摺疊線係使用包括了但不侷限於 揭露在美國專利第6,481,259號，美國專利第6,877,349 號，美國專利第7，1 52,449號，美國專利第7，1 52,45 0號 ’美國專利申請案第1 0/82 1, 8 1 8號（現爲美國專利公開案 第2005/0005 670 A1號），及美國專利第7,03 2,426號， 美國專利申請案第1〇/913,615號（現爲美國專利公開案第 2005/009793 7 A1號），美國專利申請案第1 0/98 5,3 73號 (現爲美國專利公開案第2005/006 1 049 A1號），美國專 利申請案第 1 1 /3 5 7,943號（現爲美國專利公開案第 2006/0261139 A1號），美國專利申請案第10/952,357號 (現爲美國專利公開案第2005/0064 1 3 8 A1號），美國專 利申請案第 1 1 /3 84,2 1 6號（現爲美國專利公開案第 2006/0207212 A1號），美國專利申請案第11/080,288號 (現爲美國專利第7,350,390 B2號），美國專利申請案第 1 1 /3 74,828號（現爲美國專利公開案第2006/02 1 3245 A1 號），美國專利申請案第1 1/1 8 0,3 9 8號（現爲美國專利公 -11 - 200904560 開案第 2006/0021413 A1 號），美 1 1 /290,968號（現爲美國專利公開案第 號）’及美國專利申請案第11/411,440 與構造’這些專利與專利申請案的全部 被倂於本文中。 本發明的摺疊工具系統被設計來利 的各種製造面向。例如，精確的機器工 鍵因爲彎折的位置是被形成在該板材上 摺疊工具系統可以是，但不必然是，一 機器的形式’它可以有數百萬的工作循 小。特殊金屬’昂貴且耗時的機器加工 處理可被減少或省略，因爲對於精確的 求被降低：公差被內建在該板材中，因 輕型的摺疊工具來將一 2 D的板材摺疊 ’或在某些例子中，其中間形狀。因此 可用軟鋼，雷射切割的部件及其它相對 ’像是包括了塑膠’複合材料及在建造 常被認爲太軟的其它材料，以及模鑄與 低的構件。當然，以上所述並不排除使 構。然而，這可以依據像是工作循環， 此者的因素來強化靈活性。 此外’該摺疊工具系統的某些面向 申請案第1 〇 / 9 3 8，1 7 0號（現爲美國專利 )，及美國專利申請案第60/840,810號 國專利申請案第 20 06/0075 798 A 1 號的各種摺疊形狀 內容藉由此參照而 用被形成之摺疊線 具公差相對較不關 。因此，本發明的 用軟鋼製成的輕型 環，因爲其磨損很 ，硬化與其它的熱 機器工具公差的需 此可使用較便宜且 成爲其最終的形狀 ，該摺疊工具系統 便宜的構件來建造 金屬成形設備時通 其它相對精確度較 用硬化鋼之重型架 經濟，重量，及類 與揭露在美國專利 第 7,296,45 5 B2 號 (現爲美國專利申 -12- 200904560 請案第11/846,134號及美國專利公開案第2008/0048366 A 1號）中的面向類似，這些專利申請案的全部內容藉由 此參照而被倂於本文中。 然而，吾人將可瞭解的是，該摺疊工具系統亦適合繞 著一摺疊線彎折其它種類的板材，該摺疊線包括但不侷限 於上述之預形成的摺疊線，藉由劃痕（scoring )及/或其 它適當的方式所界定之預設的摺疊線，或預期的彎折線， 板材在該等預期的彎折線上並沒有沿著該彎折線延伸之任 何實體結構用以促進沿著該彎折線的彎折。 回到圖1A，摺疊工具系統30被建構來將一 2D板材 空白片摺疊成爲一 3D板材結構。爲了下文所述的目的， 該板材無論其製造狀態爲何皆被標以標號3 2。詳言之，無 論該板材是在圖2A及圖2B所示之平的狀態，在圖2C所 示之製造中途的狀態，或在圖2D所示之製造的最終狀態 ，板材當將以標號32來標示。事實上，板材之2D及3D 狀態都被示於圖1 A中。 在所示的實施例中，該板材上設有多個條摺疊線3 3， 35，37及39，它們被建構成有助於摺疊成一3D產品的大 小與結構，該3 D產品具有周邊的低凸緣或窄的周邊凸緣 40 ’碰鎖（latching )低凸緣或窄的碰鎖凸緣42，側向高 凸緣或深的側壁44，及端部高凸緣或深的端壁46，如圖 2 A所示。所示的3 D產品爲一家用裝載中心或主要配送箱 ，它是一種具有自我碰鎖側壁及介定該箱子的主要開口的 周邊凸緣之開放箱的形式。吾人將可瞭解的是，數種其它 -13- 200904560 3 D產品可被形成，其包括低凸緣及高凸緣兩者。例如， 3 D產品可包括但不侷限於電子構件機殻、汽車零件 '器 具構件、運輸構件、建築構件、RF屏蔽、HVAC構件、航 空構件、及類此者。 “低”與“高”，“淺的”與“深的”，及“窄的”與“寬的”等 詞係以相對性的觀念被使用。例如，在一應用中是低，其 在另一應用中也許變成是高，反之亦然。而且，在一“極 低”與“低”的凸緣對中，前者可被視爲是“低”且後者可被 相對地被視爲“高”。爲了方便起見，且在沒有限制上文所 述的一般性之下，“低凸緣”一詞在本文中可被視爲一淺的 或窄的凸緣，“高凸緣” 一詞在本文中可被視爲一深的或寬 的凸緣或側壁。大體上，低凸緣需要相對多的，且通常是 多很多的支撐用以沿著所想要的摺疊線均勻地彎折因爲可 用分散彎折力量的材料較少。在另一方面，高凸緣需要相 對少的，且通常是少很多的支撐用以沿著所想要的摺疊線 均勻地彎折，這將於下文中更詳細的描述。凸緣的大小部 分地決定該“桿臂”的大小，及彎折所需的力量大小。 回到圖1A，該摺疊工具系統30大體上包括一骨架〇 其支撐一約束總成4 9，一下凸緣總成5 1，及一高凸緣總 成5 3。與傳統硬工具解決方案不同的是，本發明的摺疊工 具系統可將不同大小的2D板材摺疊成爲不同大小的3 D 產品。在所示的實施例中，該約束總成可被縱長向地重新 放置在箭頭“L”的方向上，用以適應不同長度的配送箱設 計，這些長度係以標號54來表示。吾人將可瞭解的是’ -14- 200904560 該摺疊工具系統的約束總成可被建構成能構側向地 置在側向橫貫及/或直立地垂直箭頭“ L ”的方向上用 不同寬度及高度的配送箱設計。 在所示的實施例中，該約束總成係位在工件的 如圖3 A所示，該約束總成包括一約束桿5 6其向下 緊靠著每一側壁用以約束工件的向上運動。每一約 被建構來接觸鄰近該低凸緣周邊摺疊線33的側壁 進沿著該摺疊線的彎折。 在所示的實施例中，該約束桿沿著該周邊凸緣 部分連續地延伸。然而，吾人將可瞭解的是，該約 一定要是連續的，其可以是區段式的。較佳地，該 接觸一足夠部分的周邊凸緣用以促進沿著對應的摺 實質均勻的彎折。 該約束總成亦包括一約束塊5 8其向下樞轉並 端部高凸緣4 6且以與上述之約束桿類似的方式來 件的向上運動。在所述的實施例中，該約束塊具有 地順應該端部的形狀與尺寸。吾人將可瞭解的是， 結構亦可被使用，譬如約束臂或其它更爲局部化的 〇 約束件的主要目地是要限制向上的運動。因爲 包括摺疊線，所以摺疊線將決定該板材將在何處彎 此，該約束桿及約束塊只需要接觸鄰近摺疊線的側 壁，無需精確地沿著摺疊線。約束桿與約束塊的精 相對地較不重要。當相對精確的公差是必要時，這 重新放 以適應 上方。 樞轉並 束桿都 用以促 的絕大 束桿必 約束桿 暨線之 緊靠著 約束工 可實質 其它的 約束件 該板材 折。因 壁及端 確位置 些構件 -15- 200904560 亦可用軟鋼，雷射切割的部件及其它相對便宜的構件來建 造’像是包括了塑膠，複合材料及在建造金屬成形設備時 通常被認爲太軟的其它材料，以及模鑄與其它相對精確度 較低的構件來建造。 約束桿與約束塊可移動於上縮回位置與下佈署位置之 間’這些位置的重要性在下文中將會更爲明顯。較佳地， 但非必要地，雙動作式（double-action )氣壓致動器60， 6 1被提供來控制它們各自的運動，然而，吾人將可瞭解的 是’其它適合的致動器亦可被使用，譬如像是單動作式氣 壓缸’當作用式與雙動作式氣壓缸的組合，單動作式氣壓 缸及/或雙動作式氣壓缸，電動馬達，線性致動器及其它 適合的機構。 該低凸緣總成被安裝在該骨架上且較佳地被建構來在 同一時間彎折所有窄凸緣用以將週期時間最小化。在所示 的實施例中，下凸緣總成51被安裝在一對氣動式氣囊63 上，用來將該低凸緣總成相對於該主要骨架47向上舉起 ，如圖1B中箭頭“U”所示。低凸緣總成51的平台65升高 用以偏壓該板材32抵靠著該約束桿及約束塊56及58，且 進一步升高用以實質同步地彎折所有窄的凸緣。彎折縮個 不同尺寸的凸緣的順序可依據該應用加以修改。在不同的 實施例中，只有一個或一部分的窄凸緣實質同步被彎折， 之後只有一個或一部分的窄凸緣被彎折。在不同的實施例 中，一類似尺寸或在該板材上彼此鄰近的所有凸緣被實質 同步地彎折。 -16- 200904560 參照圖3 A，該低凸緣總成進一步包括數個力 器67，68，70，其抵靠並施加力量用以“推移”對應 緣40，42向上超過約束桿及約束塊56，58的下表 該等施用器將窄凸緣推移超過約束桿及約束塊時， 用器沿著對應的摺疊線實施彎折並實際形成該等窄 在所示的實施例中，該等致動器爲安裝在平台65 柱桿的形式，這些桿子延伸在該等窄凸緣的長度上 對著窄凸緣施加實質連續的力量。吾人將可瞭解的 些桿不一定要是連續的，其亦可以是區段式的，只 桿子接觸窄凸緣的大部分長度以沿著對應的摺疊線 質均勻的彎折即可。 而且，該等力量施加器上可設置一接觸滾輪， 折期間可自由地沿著窄凸緣的表面滾動。此一接觸 防止施用器桿沿著窄凸緣的滑動，藉以將括痕，磨 工件的其它損傷降至最小。 該等力量施用器尙可設置有一凸輪致動器72 朝內的力量可被朝內地施加用以在該總成到達其向 的終點時可將窄凸緣彎折超過90度，如圖6B及圖 示。此一凸輪致動器可調節（accommodate)窄凸 弓早。 在所示的實施例中，每一施用器桿都專屬於一 對應窄凸緣。然而，吾人可將可瞭解的是’單一的 桿可被用來彎折多個個窄凸緣，及相反地，多個施 可被用來彎折單一窄凸緣。 量施用 的窄凸 面。當 該等施 凸緣。 上的圓 ’因而 是’這 要該等 實施實 它在彎 滾輪可 損或對 使得一 上行程 6C所 緣的回 單一的 施用器 用器桿 -17- 200904560 力量施用器的尺寸及結構將決定被施加在該工件上之 特定的彎折角度。例如’在所示的實施例中’低凸緣施用 器67，68，70被建構來施加一所想要的彎折角度（如， 約90度），然而，該等致動器是可調整的，使得該彎折 角度可藉由調整施用器的行程來加以調整。而且’該彎折 角度可被調整用以補償回彈，以達成所想要之最終彎折角 度。 現翻到高凸緣總成，它亦可可活動地安裝在該骨架上 且被建構來實施沿著高凸緣摺疊線的摺疊。在所示的實施 例中，該高凸緣總成53包括多個側向的高凸緣致動器74 ，75，它們被建構來抵住對應的側向及端部高凸緣44，46 施加力量用以沿著對應的側向高凸緣摺疊線實施高凸緣摺 疊。在所示的實施例中，該等高凸緣致動器被安裝在平台 65上，因此與低凸緣總成一起升高，然而，吾人將可瞭解 的是，高凸緣致動器可以其它方式被安裝在骨架47上。 每一個高凸緣致動器是都設置有一雙動作式氣壓缸77 。與上文中描述之約束桿及約束塊的例子相同地，其它適 合的致動機構亦可被用來取代該雙動作式氣壓缸。而且， 吾人將可瞭解的是，每一致動器都可被提供一或多個氣壓 缸’相反地，一個氣壓缸可服務一或多個致動器。 在所示的實施例中，該等高凸緣致動器包括至少一臂 7 9其繞著一實質平行於一對應的高凸緣摺疊線的軸線樞轉 。較佳地，該臂樞轉於該工件的底部8 1的正下方且包括 一肩部82其對應於該工件之所想要的最終形狀。當該臂 -18- 200904560 向上樞轉時此架構形成一搖籃，該搖籃提供該工件一自我 定心的作用且容許深的凸緣可在沒有或很少來自約束總成 的約束下被彎折。詳言之，與重力及/或摩擦力相結合之 深凸緣之輕型（light-duty)摺疊讓將與工件一起被彎折之 深凸緣僅僅是停放在該等高凸緣致動器上或之間。 現翻到上述氣壓式致動器的操作，該操做可由適當的 機構來加以控制，用以控制每一致動器的壓力及暫停時間 ’以及致動器的致動順序。例如，具有多通道値總成的可 程式邏輯控制器8 4可被提供用以用任何所想要的組合， 時間長度及/或順序來控制該等致動器。該控制器可設計 有一手動超控（override)，用以如所需要地啓動一或多 個致動器，及/或設計有適當的安全及/或關閉開關。吾人 將可瞭解的是其它適合的控制器亦可被使用。 該等氣壓缸或其它的致動機構可被調整使得施加到該 工件上的力量足以沿著摺疊線彎折該工件，同時減小或消 除在操作員不小心夾到其手指或四肢的事件中傷及操作員 的危險。相同地，該致動器機構可被調整使得該工具系統 使用的力量低到足以讓在誤對準或其它操作員錯誤事件中 傷及工件的危險減至最低。在不同的實施例中，該等氣壓 缸被建構成在約lOpsi至200psi的範圍內操作。在不同的 實施例中，該等氣壓缸被建構成在約50psi至150psi的範 圍內操作。然而吾人將可瞭解的是，該等操作壓力與材料 的產品規格，材料長度，及/或其它材料特性有關，這包 括電不侷限於氣動設備的一般商用範圍。例如，液壓或其 -19- 200904560 它更高力量機構適合用來彎折厚規格的詞矮料及/或具有 高強度的材料。雖然液壓或其它更高力量機構可被使用’ 但最好是使用氣動的氣壓缸，其在使用上比液壓裝置較不 髒且環境上更乾淨。 一使用該摺疊工具系統3 0的示範性方法，及使用此 方法所製造出之示範性產品將被描述。雖然下文中將用摺 疊該工件的一個角落之特別詳下的處理來描述’但吾人將 可瞭解的是，所有四個角落可被類似地且同步地被處理。 參照圖3A，工件32被放置在一適當的位置’約束桿及約 束塊56，58同時亦位在它們的縮回位置上。如圖3B及圖 3C中所見，工件被放置成它係停放在施用器桿67，68， 70上。在不同的實施例中，該凸輪致動器72被建構成可 讓上突出部8 6將該工件放置在該工具系統內。 接下來，約束桿及約束塊56，58向下擺動至如圖4A 所示之它們的部署位置，更明確地，如圖4B及4C所示。 該約束桿被設置在該側向周邊低凸緣摺疊線3 3的附近， 該約束塊同時被放置成鄰近摺疊線3 5。因此，該約束總成 現已在定位處，可約束工件的向上運動。 如圖5A，5B及5C，及圖6A，6B及6C中所示，該 低凸緣總成5 1被向上移動使得低凸緣施用器67，68，70 將對應的窄凸緣向上推移（wipe)至該約束桿及約束塊56 ，58上方。在不同的實施例中，目標彎折角度約爲90度 。當該下凸緣總成接近其向上行程的限度時，致動器72 向內樞轉並偏壓該等窄凸緣超過90度用以調節回彈量。 -20- 200904560 此“過度彎折”的大小一部分與材料及彎折處理的特性有關 〇 參考圖7A，7B及7C，約束桿56朝向其縮回位置擺 動，該約束塊5 8同時間保持在其向下的佈署位置上。這 可約束該工件同時用該側向高凸緣致動器74實施彎折’ 如圖8 B中的箭頭所示。 接下來，該側向高凸緣致動器74完成其行程並將側 向高凸緣或側壁44彎折至其最終的位置，如圖9B中的箭 頭所示。如在圖9 B中所見，約束桿5 6被建構成是雙作用 的，當在其上縮回的位置時，該約束桿亦抵靠該窄凸緣4 0 並用來約束工件3 2的向上運動。此約束在該約束塊向上 縮回時（圖1 0C )，及在端部高凸緣致動器75開使並持 續進行其行程（圖1 1 C )時，對於將工件保持在定位上是 有利的。 如圖2A中所示，工件被提供有一揭露在美國專利申 請案第1 1 /3 86,463號（現爲美國專利公開案第 200 6/0277965 A1號）中的種類之碰鎖總成88，該專利申 請案的全部內容藉由此參照而被倂於本文中。吾人將可瞭 解的是，在彎折期間將會需要額外的力量來嚙合該碰鎖總 成。在此例子中，該端部高凸緣致動器75被建構成可提 供比其它致動器更多的力量。而且，在其上縮回的位置上 之該雙作用的約束桿56 (圖10B)可在該端部高凸緣致動 器7 5如圖1 0 C所示地向上樞轉時將工件保持在定位上。 該約束桿可在該端部高凸緣致動器的整個行程期間都抵靠 -21 - 200904560 著該等側向窄凸緣40。然而，如上文中提及的，由於 疊線所提供的低負荷彎折的關係，在該等端部致動器 個行程期間可以不需要約束該工件，在此例子中，該 緣總成5 1可如圖1 2 B中的箭頭所示地降下來，同時 部致動器如圖1 2C中的箭頭所示地完成其行程。 翻到圖1 3，該摺疊工具系統可包括一整平裝置 其爲一設置在該骨架4 7的底座上的偏心凸輪桿的形 一或多個整平裝置可被設置在該骨架上。例如，一整 置可被設置在該摺疊工具系統的覆蓋區（footprint ) 一個角落上。較佳地，該骨架包括至少三個整平裝置 佳的是該骨架的每一角落都有一個。 在所示的實施例中，該整平裝置包括一本體91 調整桿93。該本體藉由一樞軸組件95而被可樞轉地 於該骨架4 7上。在所示的實施例中，該樞軸組件包 穿孔且藉由一緊固件（如一螺栓，拖板螺釘或其它適 機構）而被可樞轉地安裝於該骨架上。兩個或更多個 組件可被設置，用以改變該整平機構所提供的調整程 例如，兩個或更多個孔可被設置在離該本體91的中 同的距離處。孔的位置離該本體的中心愈遠，其可實 垂直調整程度就愈大。 如圖1 4所示，經由一個孔將該整平裝置8 9可樞 安裝至骨架47可在該整平裝置被樞轉75度時與虛線 之原始位置比較起來可提供一定程度的調整性。將該 裝置安裝在離該本體91的中心更遠的其它孔上可在 由摺 的整 低凸 該端 89， 式。 平裝 的每 ，更 及一 安裝 括一 當的 樞軸 度。 心不 施之 轉地 所示 整平 整平 -22 - 200904560 裝置被樞轉7 5度時提供更大的調整程度，如圖1 5所示。 吾人將可瞭解的是，該整平裝置的樞轉範圍是可改變的。 在所示的實施例中，本體91是實質上圓形的；然而 ，吾人將可瞭解的是其它的形狀亦可被使用。例如’該本 體具有一鸚鵡螺形的輪廓，其中與底面接觸的部分係位在 該樞轉組件的正下方，在此例子中該整平裝置被有效地自 行鎖合，亦即，無需任何明顯的傾向來從其所想要的位置 轉動。 描述於本文中之示範性摺疊工具系統可提供一種更簡 單且更安全的方法來將2D板材形成爲3D物件。此外， 該工具系統可被使用在組裝環境中，而不是製造環境中， 因爲它利用了形成在板材上的摺疊線，因而可以減少壓彎 機，連續沖模及其它重型機具的需求。該摺疊工具系統亦 可在沖壓，成形，雷射切割或實施其它作業的各種製造站 之後或之間被輕易地設置在一組裝線上。再者，該摺疊工 具系統亦可被設置在各種細加工站之前或之後的組裝線上 〇 而且’該摺疊工具系統可讓2D板材零件被直接輸送 至組裝的地方，因而讓產品可以儘可能地以平的形式被輸 送通過大部分的製造及組裝處理。許多方法可被用來將工 件饋送至該摺疊工具系統，包括用人工的方式或自動化的 機具，或兩者的組合。 在本發明的另一示範性實施例中，該約束總成49a與 上文所描述的約束總成49類似，但多了 一如圖〗6 a所示 -23- 200904560 的一推移桿9 6。該約束總成4 9 a的構造可以形成一向外延 伸的周邊凸緣，其形成一 s型或2型的側壁。而且’該約 束總成的構造可讓一單一致動器摺疊一周邊低凸緣與一側 向的高凸緣兩者。例如，該側向的高凸緣施用器可被用來 摺疊該周邊低凸緣與該側向的高凸緣兩者’這將於下文中 說明。吾人將可瞭解的是’一單一的致動器可被用來形成 一周邊低凸緣與一端部高凸緣兩者。 相同的標號被用來標示約束總成49a與約束總成49 的相同構件。在此實施例中’該約束總成包括一約束桿 5 6a其被建構成可用與上文中描述的相同方式來樞轉運動 。在此實施例中，該推移桿96被安裝在一樞轉約束桿底 座9 8上，如圖1 6 A所示。當該側向的高凸緣致動器（未 示出）用類似於上文所述的方式開始摺疊側向的高凸緣 44a時，周邊低凸緣40a朝向該推移桿90移動’如圖16B 所示，並接觸該推移桿用以造成該周邊的低凸緣繞著該周 邊摺疊線發生摺疊，如圖1 6C所示。較佳地’該約束桿底 座9 8被作成能夠順應該周邊低凸緣4 0 a的形狀’用以在 該高凸緣44a的摺疊被完成時它可繼續朝內移動’如圖 16D所示。當摺疊完成時，該約束桿底座98繞著樞軸100 向上樞轉藉以將約束桿5 6 a及推移桿9 6兩者擺動離開該 路徑，如圖1 6E所示，藉此能夠便於該被摺疊的板材被移 走。 在本發明的另一示範性的實施例中，摺疊工具系統 3 Ob與上文所述的高凸緣總成3 0類似’但包括修改過的低 -24- 200904560 凸緣與高凸緣致動器，如圖l7A所示。在此實施例 碰鎖凸緣42B及側向凸緣44B的相對位置係藉由該 高凸緣致動器的運動之單一動作來控制的。在此實 ，低凸緣施用器67b，68b與上文所述的類似。施用 ，68b用一種與上文所述之方式類似的方式緊靠並 量用以向上“推移”對應的窄凸緣40b。然而，該碰 施用器70b並沒有如上文所述的施用器70的方式 內地及朝外地推頂（eame )。而是，該碰鎖凸緣 70b將該碰鎖凸緣42b保持在一實質直角的位置， 在該高凸緣置致動器74b開始繞著其對應的摺疊線 側向的高凸緣44b時亦然’如圖1 7B所示。 在所示的實施例中，該碰鎖凸緣施用器7〇b是 的形式，然而，其它適合的形狀及構造亦可被使用 地，該碰鎖凸緣施用器具有一倒角式（chamfered 以將該碰鎖凸緣向上推移。而且，該碰鎖凸緣施用 可被提供一碰鎖凸緣調整器1〇2用以微調該碰鎖凸 置。 高凸緣致動器74b被建構來用類似於上文中所 式接觸並摺疊該側向的高凸緣44b。在此實施例中 凸緣致動器亦包括一擺動板74b’。該擺動板被設置 超出該高凸緣的端部處用以接觸該碰鎖凸緣42b 17C所示，並在該端部凸緣46b被向上摺疊時適當 該碰鎖凸緣，如圖1 7D所示。較佳地。該版動板 接觸表面被稍微偏移，或稍微大於板材Ub的厚度 中，該 側向的 施例中 器67b 施加力 鎖凸緣 一樣朝 施用器 即使是 摺疊該 rri-t am 一塊體 。較佳 )頂部 器70b 緣的位 述的方 ，該局 在剛好 ，如圖 地放置 74b，的 。擺動 -25- 200904560 板的此結構會將該碰鎖凸緣42b的外表面稍微偏壓至 向凸緣44b的內表面的裡面，用以提供適當的間隙來 端部凸緣46，同時適當地對準該碰鎖凸緣用以在摺疊 完成時與碰我總成88b適當地嚙合，如圖1 7E所示。 該擺動板可包括一斜面或去角的表面103，用以 該碰鎖凸緣滑過該擺動板及該側向凸緣的內部。吾人 瞭解的是，適當的調整機構可被提供來微調該擺動板 於該側向的高凸緣致動器的其餘部分的位置。 在本發明的另一示範性的實施例中，該摺疊工具 3〇c類似於上文所述的摺疊工具系統30且被建構來用 種“過度彎折”的方法用以在沒有一搖桿（rocker )總 如，凸輪置動器72 )下調節材料的回彈，如圖18A-] 示。相同的標號被用來標示與該摺疊工具系統相同的 。摺疊工具系統30C包括一平台65C其具有一升高器 及一彎折施用器1〇8其相對於該升高器被不動地安裝 置在該平台上與該升高器間隔開來。該彎折施用器被 來與該板材嚙合且施加一相反的力量至該板材的底側 在所示的實施例中，該彎折施用器爲一桿子，然 吾人可將可瞭解的是’在不同的實施例中該彎折施用 具有其它的結構，這包括一倒角的’斜面的或彎曲的 ，用以讓該板材可以輕易地沿著一彎折線滑入到介於 折施用器與該平台的傾斜部分之間的空間內。在所示 施例中，該升高器爲一級階式的升高器塊體’然而， 可將可瞭解的是’在不同的實施例中該升高器可具有 該側 摺疊 作業 促進 可以 相對 系統 於一 成（ Η所 構件 106 且設 建構 〇 而， 器可 表面 該彎 的實 吾人 其它 -26- 200904560 的結構，這包括一倒角的，斜面的或其它的形狀，影提供 彈性彎折所需之適當的間隙。 在操作時，該板材32c被放置在該平台及彎折施用器 上，同時該平台及彎折施用器保持著如圖18B所示之實質 上固定不動的狀態，且該平台及彎折施用器被對著一約束 件向上移動，這將於下文中說明。在不同的實施例中，該 工具系統被建構成讓該板材與該平台及彎折施用器一起移 動，而在其它的實施例中，該工具系統被建構成可讓該板 材相對於該平台及/或彎折施用器移動。藉由設計用於板 材的運動而非平台零件的運動的系統，該系統可達到更大 的使用靈活度及活動零件的簡單化。 如圖1 8 C及1 8 D所示，該板材的一端部在該彎折施加 器朝向該板材移動時嚙合該彎折施用器108並沿著該板材 的底面“推移”。因此，該彎折施用器1 〇 8沿著一彎折線 1 1 0施加彎折，與此同時一約束件1 1 1約束該板材之向上 的運動。在不同的實施例中，該板材包括彎折誘發結構用 以促進在所想要的彎折位置處之彎折（如彎折線1 1 0 )。 在與該彎折施加器嚙合之後，該板材被向下地約束直 到一部分的板材與升高器106嚙合爲止，如圖18D所示。 在此時，該板材的端部被提供一所想要的角度α，其在一 示範性實施例中提洪一實質90度的凸緣。 如圖18Ε所示，該彎折施用器與該升高器的組合提供 一形狀其造成該板材彎折超過該所想要的角度α而到達一 過度彎折的角度万，其在所示的實施例中爲稍微超過90 -27- 200904560 度（如，約89度至85度，或更多）。該彎折角度部分地 是由力量施加在該板材上的方向及當該升高器106移動在 該約束件1 1 1的底緣上方時該板材的一傾斜的部分的入射 角來決定的。如在圖18E中所見，該板材的一凸緣32c’被 摺疊使得它延伸在與該板材上的該施加線重疊的方向上。 然而，沿著彎折線110該板材被強迫進入一介於該升高器 1 0 6與該彎折施用器1 〇 8之間的空隙中。在此完全嚙合的 位置上，一部分的板材被朝向該平台6 5 c推，使得該板材 沿著兩條彎折線，彎折線1 1 0及彎折線1 1 0 ’，被暫時地彎 折。鑑於沿著彎折線1 1 0的彎折係由彎折施用器1 0 8來實 施的，所以彎折線1 1 0 ’係由該升高器的一個邊緣所形成一 屈折點1 1 2來決定的。 該升高器1 〇 6，特別是它的邊緣，被建構成可最小地 彎折該板材的構造與大小，使得只有該板材的彈性變形沿 著彎折線1 1 0 ’發生。相反地，彎折施用器1 0 8被建構成用 來實施顯著的彎折的構造與大小，該顯著的彎折造成該板 材沿著彎折線1 1 〇塑性變形。彈性彎折係指該板材被彎折 ，使得該彎折是在該材料的彈性區內或小於該材料的降伏 點。該彎折不會嚴重到足以塑性地或永久地將板材變形。 如圖18F所示’平台65c及板材32c在該時期被降低 ，該板材被容許“回彈”使得該材料沿著該彎折線1 1 0具有 實質9 0度的彎折且沿著彎折線丨丨〇，實質上未被彎折。詳 言之，該板材將如圖1 8 F所示沿著彎折線1 1 0 ’ “回彈”至 一實質上的平面形式。又，該板材亦將經歷某些沿著彎折 -28- 200904560 線1 1 0的回彈。這是因爲該板材的材料特性 折的一部分是在該彈性區域內。 接下來，平台6 5 C及彎折施用器1 〇 8被 得約束件u 1與該板材脫離，如圖1 8G所示 該台上完全被移走，如圖18Η所示。如圖 最終狀態下的該板材具有一沿著彎折線1 i 〇 及在屈折點1 1 2的區域內實質上沒有彎折。 雖然設備30c是被設計來產生一在回彈 的彎折，但該設備可被修改用以產生任何數 的彎折及彎折角度。例如，該平台可包括不 ’形狀及位置的屈折點，其界定多個傾斜部 傾斜部分的斜率可被建構來施加超過該材料 折用以造成某些塑性變形。該傾斜部分的屈 度亦可被改變用以調整該板材的最終彎折角 包括各種施用器結構，包括但不侷限於各種 多個施用器。使用多個施用器及其它平台工 可讓該系統在該板材被對著該平台強壓時， 中實施數個處理。該平台可根據板材的變形 其它方式的修改。 爲了便於說明及在下面的申請專利範圍 起見’“上（up ) ”或“上面的（upper )，’，“1 “下面的（1 〇 w e r ) ”，“內部”及“外部”，“側[1 詞被用來參照附圖中所示之本發明的特徵的 發明的特徵。 ，其決定該彎 進一步降低使 ，且該板材從 1 8 Η所示，在 之9 0度彎折 之後之90度 量及任何種類 同尺寸，數量 分。一或多個 的降伏點的彎 折點角度及長 度。該平台亦 形狀及尺寸之 作表面的修改 在一單一步驟 特性而有許多 中的精準定義 :(down) ”或 力”及“端部”等 位置來描述本 -29- 200904560 在許多方面，在不同的圖中之各種修改的特徵類似於 前面特徵的修改及相同的標號加上“a”及“b”的下標用來表 示對應的部件。 以上本發明之特定示範性實施例的描述已經爲了舉例 及說明的目的而被提出。這些描述並不是要將本發明侷限 在所揭露的特定形式上，很顯然地在上文的教導之下本發 明尙有許多變化及改變的可能。這些示範性實施例被選用 及揭露是爲了要解釋本發明的原理及其實際上的應用，藉 以讓熟習此技藝者能夠製造並利用本發明的各式示範性實 施例，以及其不同的改變與變化。本發明的範圍是由下面 的申請專利範圍及其等效物來界定。 【圖式簡單說明】 圖1 A爲用來摺疊板材的示範性設備的立體圖，圖1 B 爲圖1 A的設備的端視示意圖。 圖2A爲一板材的立體圖其被建構成可用1的設備來 摺疊圖1，及圖2B，圖2C及圖2D爲圖2A的板材在摺聲 的過程中的放大立體圖。 圖3 A爲圖1的設備在摺疊圖2 A的板材的最初階段 期間的部分放大立體圖，圖3B與圖3C爲圖3A的部分平 面圖。 圖4A爲圖1的設備在摺疊圖2A的板材的另一階段 期間的部分放大立體圖’圖4B與圖4C爲圖4A的部分平 面圖。 -30- 200904560 圖5A爲圖1的設備在摺疊圖2A的板 材的另 期間的部分放大立體圖，圖5B與圖5(3爲圖5A的 階段 部分_ 面圖。 Μ琪一階段 圖6Α爲圖1的設備在摺疊圖2Α的板材的 ^ 的部分平 期間的部分放大立體圖，圖6Β與圖6(：爲圖6Α 、 面圖。 虫一階段 圖7Α爲圖1的設備在摺疊圖2Α的板材的另— 期間的部分放大立體圖，圖7B與圖7C爲圖7A的部 面圖。 „ w μ戾一階段 圖8Α爲圖1的設備在摺疊圖2Α的板材的力 期間的部分放大立體圖，圖8Β與圖8(：爲圖8Α的部勿/ 面圖。 圖9A爲圖1的設備在摺疊圖2A的板材的另一丨白又 期間的部分放大立體圖，圖9B與圖9C爲圖9A的部为^ 面圖。 圖10A爲圖1的設備在摺疊圖2A的板材的另一 期間的部分放大立體圖，圖10B與圖10C爲圖1〇A的部 分平面圖。 圖11A爲圖1的設備在摺疊圖2A的板材的另一階& 期間的部分放大立體圖’圖與圖11C爲圖ΠΑ的部 分平面圖。 圖1 2 A爲圖1的設備在摺疊圖2A的板材的另一階段 期間的部分放大立體圖，圖12B與圖12C爲圖12A的邰 分平面圖。 -31 - 200904560 圖13爲圖1的設備的一整平（leveling )裝置的放大 圖。 圖14爲圖13的整平裝置的放大平面圖，其中該整平 裝置是在一整平的位置。 圖15爲圖13的整平裝置的放大平面圖，其中該整平 裝置是在另一整平的位置。 圖16A，圖16B，圖16C，圖16D及圖16E爲可使用 在圖1的設備中之另一約束總成的示意圖。 圖17A爲類似圖1的設備之另一設備的部分放大立體 圖，而圖17B，圖17C，圖17D及圖UE爲該設備在折疊 類似圖2A的板材的連續階段中的立體圖。 圖18A爲類似圖1的設備之另一設備的部分放大丛體 圖，而圖18B，圖18C，圖18D，圖18E，圖18F’圖18G 及圖1 8H爲該設備在摺疊類似圖2A的板材的連續階段中 的立體圖。 【主要元件符號說明】 3 〇 :摺疊工具系統 3 2 :板材 33 :摺疊線 3 5 :摺疊線 3 7 :摺疊線 3 9 :摺疊線 4〇 :低凸緣（窄凸緣） -32 - 200904560 42 :碰鎖凸緣 44 :側向高凸緣（深側壁） 46 :端部高凸緣（深端壁） 47 :骨架 4 9 :約束總成 5 1 :低凸緣總成 5 3 :高凸緣總成 54 :長度 5 6 :約束桿 5 8 :約束塊 60 :雙動作氣壓致動器 6 1 :雙動作氣壓致動器 6 3 :氣囊 65 :平台 67 :力量施用器 6 8 :力量施用器 7 0 :力量施用器 72 :凸輪致動器 74 :側向高凸緣致動器 75 :側向高凸緣致動器 77 :雙動作氣壓致動器 79 :臂 8 1 :底部 82 :肩部 -33 200904560 84 :可程式邏輯控制器 89 :整平裝置 91 :本體 93 :調整桿 9 5 :樞軸總成 96 :推移桿 4 9 a :約束總成 9 8 :約束桿底座 5 6 a :約束桿 44a :側向高凸緣 40a :周邊低凸緣 1 0 0 :樞軸 3 0b :摺疊工具系統 42b :碰鎖凸緣 44b :側向凸緣 74b ’·側向高凸緣致動器 67b :低凸緣施用器 68b :低凸緣施用器 70b :碰鎖凸緣施用器 4 0 b :窄凸緣 102 :碰鎖凸緣調整器 74b’ ：擺動板 46b :端凸緣 32b :板材 -34 200904560 8 8 b :碰鎖總成 3 0 c :摺疊工具系統 6 5 c :平台 1 06 :升高器 1 〇 8 :彎折施用器 3 2 c :板材 1 1 〇 :彎折線 1 1 1 :約束件 3 2 c ’ ：凸緣 1 1 〇 ’ ：彎折線 1 1 2 :曲折點 -35200904560 IX. DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION [Related application] The application and the US Patent Provisional Application for the Method and Apparatus for Submitting a Proposal on April 15, 2007, The entire contents of the present application are hereby incorporated by reference. [Technical Field of the Invention] The present invention generally relates to a method of folding a sheet material. [Prior Art] bending a two-dimensional (2D) sheet to form three; It is known. Machine for implementing 2D sheet bending. E.g, U.S. Patent No. 4 to H u d a et al. 1 device for bending large-area building units. Granting State Patent No. 4, 230, No. 058 shows a device that is constructed into a structure. U.S. Patent No. </RTI> </ RTI> </ RTI> </ RTI> <RTIgt; </ RTI> <RTIgt; </ RTI> <RTIgt; </ RTI> <RTIgt; </ RTI> <RTIgt; These machines operate at the same level as the forces used to machine the sheet. The relatively high force isopipe and/or jaw member may cause serious physical injury to the operator in the event of accidental gripping between or between these members during the operator's finger or folding process. Folding sheet 60/911, Part 905 has a part of the text. System and its use dimension (3 D ) structure several tools are known as 33 No. 198 reveals a US-made metal plate manufacturing box for Iwaki et al; 5, 105, 640 is unveiled. The use of the clamps for the clamps to the desired degree of shape means that the limbs are in the form of clamps or bends. -4- 200904560 A further disadvantage of the known devices is that they require the use of hardened steel and other materials that are machined with tight tolerances to create a 3D structure from 2D sheets. E.g, Known devices for stamping or stamping a narrow peripheral flange into a sheet generally require a hardened surface with tight tolerances. Used to accurately form a peripheral flange of the desired size. Material sheets with uneven and asymmetrical flanges and bend lines create manufacturing complication. A set of tools can be provided, Each tool is used to bend a specific specification, size, size, Or a flange constructed. Using conventional equipment to bend a large flange along a bend line usually requires a tool change or configuration. It differs from a tool or configuration that bends a small gauge flange portion. As the number of bend lines and flanges increases, Time and complexity also increase. In view of the above, It would be advantageous to have a folding system that overcomes the above and other disadvantages of devices for known bent sheets. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION One aspect of the present invention is directed to a folding tool system for forming a three-dimensional structure from a substantially two-dimensional sheet material. The two-dimensional panel includes a predetermined low flange fold line defining a low flange and a predetermined high flange fold line defining a high flange. The system can include a skeleton including a constraining assembly for constraining movement of a workpiece in one direction, A low flange assembly movably mounted to the frame for biasing the workpiece against the constraining assembly and folding along the low flange fold line, The low flange assembly includes a low flange applicator for applying a force against the low flange -5 - 200904560 for low flange folding, a high flange assembly movably mounted to the frame for folding along the high flange fold line, The high flange assembly includes a high flange applicator for applying force to the high flange for performing high flange folding. And a control assembly for sequentially operating the low flange assembly and the high flange assembly. The constraining assembly can include a constraining block movable between a first position remote from the workpiece and a second position in engagement with the high flange of the workpiece. The constraining assembly further includes a restraining plate movable between a retracted position and an extended position adjacent the low flange fold line, A means for constraining the workpiece when the low flange assembly applies force against the low flange. The low flange applicator includes an applicator rod for applying substantially continuous force along a majority of the lower flange, It is used to perform a substantially uniform fold along the low fold line. The applicator rod is pivotally mounted to provide an action of more than 90 degrees to accommodate the rebound of the low flange. The high flange applicator can include at least one arm pivotable about an axis substantially parallel to the high fold line. The arm can include a shoulder that corresponds to the desired final shape of the workpiece along the high flange fold line. The control system can include a controller for controlling the actuation sequence and the pause time of the low flange assembly and the high flange assembly. The control system can include a first pneumatic actuator for controlling movement of the low flange assembly and a second pneumatic actuator for controlling movement of the high flange assembly. The first pneumatic actuator can be a bladder that is constructed to move the low flange assembly upwardly toward the constraining assembly. The second pneumatic actuator can be a pneumatic cylinder that is constructed to move the height of the high flange assembly. Used to pivot along the -6-200904560 high flange fold line. The first pneumatic actuator operates in the range of about 50 psi to 150 psi. The second pneumatic actuator operates in the range of about 50 Psi to 150 s i. Another aspect of the invention relates to a folding tool system for forming a two-dimensional sheet into a three-dimensional structure. The two-dimensional sheet includes a plurality of predetermined low flange fold lines defining a low flange, A plurality of predetermined high flange fold lines define a high flange, And a plurality of predetermined end high flange fold line boundaries and a high end flange. The system includes one or more skeletons including a constraining assembly for constraining movement of a workpiece in one direction, A low flange assembly movably mounted on the frame for biasing the workpiece against the constraining assembly and folding along the low flange fold line, The low flange assembly includes a plurality of low flange applicators for applying force against the low flange to effect low flange folding along each low flange fold line, A high flange assembly movably mounted to the frame for folding along the high flange fold line, The high flange assembly includes a plurality of lateral high flange actuators for applying force against the laterally high flanges for folding along each lateral high flange fold line, The high flange assembly further includes a plurality of end high flange actuators for applying a force against the end high flanges to effect high flange folding along each end high flange fold line, And a control assembly for sequentially operating the low flange applicator, Lateral high flange actuator, And an end high flange actuator. The constraining assembly includes a constraining block movable between a first position remote from the workpiece and a second position for engaging the high end flanges. The constraining assembly further includes a restraining plate movable between a retracted position and an extended position, The extended position is adjacent to the low flange fold line 200904560. Used to constrain the workpiece when the low flange assembly applies force against the low flange. The low flange applicator includes a plurality of applicator bars for applying substantially continuous force along a corresponding one of the low flanges to effect a substantially uniform fold along a corresponding one of the low flange fold lines. The contoured flange actuator includes at least one arm pivoting about an axis, The axis is substantially parallel to an adjacent and corresponding high flange fold line. The control system includes a controller for controlling the low flange assembly 'the high flange assembly, And the actuation sequence and the pause time of the end high flange assembly. The control system includes a first pneumatic actuator that controls movement of the low flange assembly and a second pneumatic brake that controls the actuator of the high flange assembly. The first pneumatic actuator can be an air bag. It is constructed to size and structure the lower flange assembly upwardly toward the constraining assembly. The second pneumatic actuator includes a plurality of pneumatic cylinders constructed to selectively move the lateral high flange actuators and the end high flange actuators in size and configuration. The first and second pneumatic actuators are operated in the range of from about 50 psi to 150 psi. The system can operate at a degree of force selected according to the characteristics of the workpiece. It is used to substantially eliminate the danger of injuring the workpiece in the event of a worker's error. The system can operate at a level that substantially eliminates the risk of injuring the human operator's hazard in the event of a worker error. The system can be constructed to fold along at least one fold line' which can be achieved by using at least one of the constraining assemblies in proximity to the fold line rather than substantially contacting the workpiece along the fold line. -8- 200904560 Another aspect of the present invention relates to a method of forming a substantially two-dimensional sheet into a three-dimensional structure. The sheet includes a predetermined flange fold line defining a low flange and a predetermined high flange fold. Line boundary high flange. The method includes one or more of the following steps: Constraining the movement of one work; Positioning a low flange assembly against the low to bias the workpiece against the constraining assembly, The low flange includes a low flange applicator that contacts the low flange for folding along the low projection line; And moving the high flange assembly against the high flange. The high flange assembly includes a high flange actuator that contacts the high flange for folding the high flange fold line. The constraining step is accomplished by moving a constraining block between a first position away from the first position and a first or more high flange for engaging the workpiece. The constraining step is accomplished by moving the position of a constraining plate back and forth between an extension of one or more low flange fold lines. Used to constrain the workpiece when the low flange assembly is facing the low flange assembly force. The setting step is accomplished by placing an applicator rod against one or more edges for applying substantial force along a majority of the one or more low flanges. Used to fold substantially uniformly along each corresponding low flange fold line. The setting step is performed by the applicator rod exceeding a set final bending angle, If a more than 90 degrees is reached, the rebound of the one or more low flanges is achieved. The step of moving is accomplished by pivoting one or more arms about a corresponding axis of a substantially flat corresponding high flange fold line. The lower one of the degree is folded at the edge of the flange assembly. The second member is positioned at a position to apply a low convex continuous moving position to 200904560. The setting and moving steps are achieved by providing pneumatic pressure to control the setting of the low flange assembly and the movement of the high flange assembly. . The supplied pneumatic pressure is in the range of from about 50 psi to 150 psi. A three-dimensional structure can be formed by the operation of the above method. The method can be operated at a degree of strength selected according to the characteristics of the workpiece, It is used to substantially eliminate the danger of injuring the workpiece in the event of a worker's error. The method can be operated at a level that is capable of substantially eliminating the risk of injuring the human operator's risk in the event of a worker error. Folding along at least one fold line can be achieved by using at least one of the constraining assemblies in proximity to the fold line rather than substantially contacting the workpiece along the fold line. The method can be used in an assembly environment, Rather than just using it in a manufacturing environment. The method and apparatus for folding of panels of the present invention have other features and advantages. It will be presented in more detail in the drawings and in the following [embodiment]. These drawings are included in this specification and form part of this specification. This [Embodiment] is used together with the drawings to illustrate certain principles of the invention. [Embodiment] Reference will now be made to the details of the exemplary embodiments of the invention, Examples of the invention are shown in the drawings and are explained below. Although the invention will be described in connection with a number of exemplary embodiments, But it should be understood that This description is not intended to limit the invention to these exemplary embodiments. Conversely, The present invention is intended to cover not only these exemplary embodiments, but also It is also intended to cover various modifications and equivalents of the invention and the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. 1A and 1B show an exemplary folding tool system 3'' which can be used to fold a two-dimensional (2D) sheet into a drawing. Three-dimensional (3D) shape. The folding tool system is designed to be used on a sheet on which a fold line is formed. These fold lines allow the bend to be implemented along the compliant fold line. The bending tool system according to the invention is particularly suitable for bending 2D sheets on which fold lines are formed, The use of these fold lines is included but not limited to the disclosure of U.S. Patent No. 6, 481, No. 259, US Patent No. 6, 877, No. 349, US Patent No. 7, 1 52, No. 449, US Patent No. 7, 1 52, 45 No. 'US Patent Application No. 1 0/82 1, 8 1 8 (now US Patent Publication No. 2005/0005 670 A1), And US Patent No. 7, 03 2, No. 426, U.S. Patent Application No. 1/913, No. 615 (now US Patent Publication No. 2005/009793 7 A1), US Patent Application No. 1 0/98 5, No. 73 (now US Patent Publication No. 2005/006 1 049 A1), US patent application No. 1 1 / 3 5 7, No. 943 (now US Patent Publication No. 2006/0261139 A1), US Patent Application No. 10/952, No. 357 (now US Patent Publication No. 2005/0064 1 3 8 A1), US Patent Application No. 1 1 / 3 84, 2 1 6 (now US Patent Publication No. 2006/0207212 A1), U.S. Patent Application No. 11/080, No. 288 (now US Patent No. 7, 350, 390 B2), US Patent Application No. 1 1 / 3 74, No. 828 (now US Patent Publication No. 2006/02 1 3245 A1), US Patent Application No. 1 1/1 80 No. 3 9 8 (now US Patent Publication No. -11 - 200904560, No. 2006/0021413 A1), Beauty 1 1 /290, 968 (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 1) and U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 11/411, 440 and Construction 'All of these patents and patent applications are incorporated herein by reference. The folding tool system of the present invention is designed to benefit a variety of manufacturing aspects. E.g, The precise machine tool key is formed on the sheet because the bent position can be, But not necessarily, A form of machine 'it can have millions of jobs to follow. Special metal 'expensive and time consuming machining processes can be reduced or omitted, Because the accuracy is reduced: Tolerances are built into the sheet, Folding a 2D sheet due to a lightweight folding tool' or, in some instances, The middle shape. Therefore, soft steel can be used, Laser-cut parts and other relative 'like plastics' composites and other materials that are often considered too soft during construction, As well as molded and low components. of course, The above does not exclude the architecture. however, This can be based on a work cycle, This factor is used to enhance flexibility. In addition, some of the folding tool systems are oriented to the application No. 1 / 9 3 8, No. 1 70 (now US patent), And U.S. Patent Application No. 60/840, The various folded shape contents of No. 810, the patent application No. 20 06/0075 798 A1, by which reference is made, the tolerance of the formed folding wire is relatively unrelated. therefore, The lightweight ring made of mild steel of the present invention, Because it is very worn, Hardening and other thermal machine tool tolerances This can be used cheaper and becomes its final shape, The folding tool system is cheaper to construct metal forming equipment. Other relatively accurate ones are harder than hardened steel. weight, And class and disclosure in US patents 7, 296, 45 5 B2 (now US Patent Application -12-200904560, Expedition No. 11/846, No. 134 and US Patent Publication No. 2008/0048366 A No. 1) The entire contents of these patent applications are hereby incorporated herein by reference. however, What we will understand is that The folding tool system is also suitable for bending other types of panels around a fold line. The fold line includes, but is not limited to, the pre-formed fold line described above. a preset fold line defined by scoring and/or other suitable means, Or the expected bend line, The sheet does not have any physical structure extending along the bend line on the intended bend line to promote bending along the bend line. Returning to Figure 1A, Folding tool system 30 is constructed to fold a 2D sheet blank into a 3D sheet structure. For the purposes described below, The sheet is designated by the numeral 3 2 regardless of its manufacturing state. In detail, Regardless of the fact that the sheet is in the flat state shown in Figs. 2A and 2B, In the state in the middle of manufacture shown in Fig. 2C, Or in the final state of manufacture as shown in Figure 2D, The sheet will be indicated by reference numeral 32. In fact, The 2D and 3D states of the sheet are shown in Figure 1A. In the illustrated embodiment, The sheet is provided with a plurality of folding lines 3 3, 35, 37 and 39, They are constructed to fit the size and structure of a 3D product. The 3D product has a peripheral low flange or a narrow peripheral flange 40' latching a low flange or a narrow latching flange 42, Lateral high flange or deep side wall 44, And an end high flange or a deep end wall 46, As shown in Figure 2A. The 3D product shown is a loading center or a main distribution box. It is in the form of an open box having a self-locking side wall and a peripheral flange that defines the main opening of the box. What we will understand is that Several other -13- 200904560 3 D products can be formed, It includes both low flanges and high flanges. E.g, 3 D products may include, but are not limited to, electronic component housings, Auto parts 'tools, Transport component, Building components, RF shielding, HVAC components, Aeronautical components, And this class. "low" and "high", "shallow" and "deep", Words such as "narrow" and "wide" are used in a relative concept. E.g, Low in an application, It may become high in another application, vice versa. and, In a "very low" and "low" flange pair, The former can be considered "low" and the latter can be considered relatively "high". For convenience, And without limiting the generality described above, The term "low flange" can be considered herein as a shallow or narrow flange. The term "high flange" is used herein to mean a deep or wide flange or sidewall. In general, Low flanges need to be relatively large, And usually a lot more support is used to bend evenly along the desired fold line because less material is available to disperse the bending force. on the other hand, High flanges need to be relatively small, And usually a much smaller support for evenly bending along the desired fold line, This will be described in more detail below. The size of the flange partially determines the size of the "arm arm". And the amount of power required to bend. Returning to Figure 1A, The folding tool system 30 generally includes a skeleton that supports a constraining assembly 4 9, Next flange assembly 5 1, And a high flange assembly 5 3 . Unlike traditional hard tool solutions, The folding tool system of the present invention folds 2D sheets of different sizes into 3D products of different sizes. In the illustrated embodiment, The constraining assembly can be repositioned vertically in the direction of the arrow "L", To accommodate different lengths of distribution box designs, These lengths are indicated by reference numeral 54. What we will understand is that - -14-200904560 The restraint assembly of the folding tool system can be constructed to be laterally placed in laterally and/or upright vertical arrows "L" in different widths and High distribution box design. In the illustrated embodiment, The constraint assembly is tied to the workpiece as shown in Figure 3A. The constraining assembly includes a restraining rod 56 that abuts against each side wall to constrain the upward movement of the workpiece. Each of the sides is configured to contact a side wall adjacent the lower flange peripheral fold line 33 into a bend along the fold line. In the illustrated embodiment, The restraining rod extends continuously along the peripheral flange portion. however, What we will understand is that The covenant must be continuous, It can be segmented. Preferably, The contact is in contact with a sufficient portion of the peripheral flange to promote uniform bending along the corresponding fold. The constraining assembly also includes a constraining block 58 that pivots downwardly and ends with a high flange 46 and moves upwardly in a manner similar to that described above. In the described embodiment, The constraining block has a shape and size that conforms to the end. What we will understand is that The structure can also be used, The main purpose of a restraining arm or other more localized 约束 constraint is to limit the upward movement. Because it includes fold lines, So the fold line will determine where the sheet will bend, The restraining rod and the restraining block only need to contact the side wall of the adjacent folding line. There is no need to accurately follow the fold line. The constraining rod is relatively less important than the constraining block. When relatively precise tolerances are necessary, This is re-placed to fit above. Both the pivoting and the beam are used to promote the absolute beam. The bar must be restrained. The line is close to the restraint. The other constraints are the other. Due to the wall and the end of the position of some components -15- 200904560 can also be used with mild steel, Laser-cut parts and other relatively inexpensive components are built to include plastics, Composite materials and other materials that are generally considered too soft when constructing metal forming equipment, As well as molding and other components with relatively low precision. The constraint bar and the constraining block can be moved between the upper retracted position and the lower deployed position. The importance of these positions will be more apparent hereinafter. Preferably, But not necessary, Double-action pneumatic actuator 60, 6 1 is provided to control their respective movements, however, What we will understand is that other suitable actuators can also be used. For example, a single-acting pneumatic cylinder' is a combination of a working and a double-acting pneumatic cylinder. Single-acting pneumatic cylinders and/or double-acting pneumatic cylinders, electric motor, Linear actuators and other suitable mechanisms. The low flange assembly is mounted on the frame and is preferably constructed to bend all of the narrow flanges at the same time to minimize cycle time. In the illustrated embodiment, The lower flange assembly 51 is mounted on a pair of pneumatic air bags 63, Used to lift the low flange assembly upward relative to the main frame 47, This is shown by the arrow "U" in Figure 1B. The platform 65 of the low flange assembly 51 is raised to bias the plate 32 against the restraining bar and the restraining blocks 56 and 58, And further raised to substantially bend all of the narrow flanges in synchronism. The order in which the flanges of different sizes are bent can be modified depending on the application. In a different embodiment, Only one or a portion of the narrow flange is substantially simultaneously bent, Only one or a portion of the narrow flange is then bent. In different embodiments, All flanges of similar size or adjacent to each other on the panel are substantially simultaneously bent. -16- 200904560 Referring to Figure 3 A, The low flange assembly further includes a plurality of forces 67, 68, 70, It resists and exerts force to “transfer” the corresponding edge 40, 42 extends upward beyond the restraining rod and the restraining block 56, Table 58 of 58 When the applicator moves the narrow flange beyond the restraining rod and the restraining block, The user performs the bending along the corresponding fold line and actually forms the narrowness. In the illustrated embodiment, The actuators are in the form of poles mounted on the platform 65. These rods extend over the length of the narrow flanges to exert a substantially continuous force against the narrow flanges. Some of the sticks that we will understand are not necessarily continuous. It can also be segmented, Only the rod contacts most of the length of the narrow flange to evenly bend along the corresponding fold line. and, A force roller can be disposed on the force applicators, The folding period is free to roll along the surface of the narrow flange. This contact prevents the applicator rod from sliding along the narrow flange, Borrowing, Other damage to the workpiece is minimized. The force applicator 尙 can be provided with a cam actuator 72 inwardly directed to force inwardly to bend the narrow flange more than 90 degrees when the assembly reaches its end point. See Figure 6B and Figure. This cam actuator can accommodate a narrow bow early. In the illustrated embodiment, Each applicator rod is dedicated to a corresponding narrow flange. however, What we can understand is that a single rod can be used to bend multiple narrow flanges. And conversely, Multiple applications can be used to bend a single narrow flange. The narrow convex surface applied. When these are applied to the flange. The upper circle 'is thus' the size and structure of the force applicator will be determined by the implementation of the force applicator in the bending of the roller or the return of a single stroke 6C. The specific bending angle applied to the workpiece. For example, 'in the illustrated embodiment, the low flange applicator 67, 68, 70 is constructed to apply a desired bend angle (eg, About 90 degrees), however, The actuators are adjustable, This bending angle can be adjusted by adjusting the stroke of the applicator. And 'the bend angle can be adjusted to compensate for the rebound, To achieve the desired final bend angle. Now turned to the high flange assembly, It may also be movably mounted on the frame and constructed to effect folding along the high flange fold line. In the illustrated embodiment, The high flange assembly 53 includes a plurality of lateral high flange actuators 74, 75, They are constructed to abut the corresponding lateral and end high flanges 44, 46 Apply force to implement a high flange fold along the corresponding lateral high flange fold line. In the illustrated embodiment, The contoured flange actuator is mounted on the platform 65, So it rises with the low flange assembly, however, What I will understand is that The high flange actuator can be mounted to the frame 47 in other ways. Each of the high flange actuators is provided with a double acting pneumatic cylinder 77. As with the example of the restraining rod and the restraining block described above, Other suitable actuating mechanisms can also be used in place of the dual action pneumatic cylinder. and, What we will understand is that Each actuator can be supplied with one or more pneumatic cylinders. A pneumatic cylinder can service one or more actuators. In the illustrated embodiment, The contoured flange actuator includes at least one arm 79 that pivots about an axis substantially parallel to a corresponding high flange fold line. Preferably, The arm pivots directly below the bottom 81 of the workpiece and includes a shoulder 82 that corresponds to the desired final shape of the workpiece. This structure forms a cradle when the arm -18-200904560 pivots upwards. The cradle provides a self-centering effect of the workpiece and allows the deep flange to be bent without or with minimal constraints from the constraining assembly. In detail, The light-duty fold of the deep flange combined with gravity and/or friction allows the deep flange to be bent with the workpiece to simply rest on or between the high flange actuators. Now turning to the operation of the above-mentioned pneumatic actuator, This operation can be controlled by an appropriate mechanism. It is used to control the pressure and pause time of each actuator and the actuation sequence of the actuator. E.g, A programmable logic controller 84 having a multi-channel clamp assembly can be provided to use any desired combination, The length and/or order of time controls the actuators. The controller can be designed with a manual override. Used to activate one or more actuators as needed, And / or designed with appropriate safety and / or closing switches. What we will understand is that other suitable controllers can also be used. The pneumatic cylinders or other actuating mechanisms can be adjusted such that the force applied to the workpiece is sufficient to bend the workpiece along the fold line. At the same time, it reduces or eliminates the risk of injury to the operator in the event of an operator accidentally pinching his or her fingers or limbs. identically, The actuator mechanism can be adjusted such that the tool system uses a force that is low enough to minimize the risk of injury to the workpiece during misalignment or other operator error events. In different embodiments, The pneumatic cylinders are constructed to operate in the range of about 10 to 200 psi. In a different embodiment, The pneumatic cylinders are constructed to operate in the range of about 50 psi to 150 psi. However, what we will understand is that These operating pressures and product specifications, Material length, And/or other material properties, This includes electricity not limited to the general commercial range of pneumatic equipment. E.g, Hydraulic or its -19- 200904560 Its higher strength mechanism is suitable for bending thick gauge materials and/or materials with high strength. Although hydraulic or other higher strength mechanisms can be used, 'preferably pneumatic pneumatic cylinders are used, It is less dirty and environmentally cleaner than hydraulics. An exemplary method of using the folding tool system 30, Exemplary products made using this method will be described. Although it will be described hereinafter with a particularly detailed process of folding a corner of the workpiece, 'but we will understand that All four corners can be processed similarly and synchronously. Referring to Figure 3A, The workpiece 32 is placed in an appropriate position 'constraining rod and restraining block 56, 58 is also in their retracted position. As seen in Figure 3B and Figure 3C, The workpiece is placed such that it rests on the applicator rod 67, 68, 70 on. In different embodiments, The cam actuator 72 is constructed to allow the upper projection 86 to place the workpiece within the tool system. Next, a restraining rod and a restraining block 56, 58 swing down to their deployed position as shown in Figure 4A. More specifically, As shown in Figures 4B and 4C. The restraining rod is disposed adjacent to the lateral peripheral low flange fold line 3 3 , The constraint block is simultaneously placed adjacent to the fold line 35. therefore, The constraint assembly is now at the location, The upward movement of the workpiece can be constrained. As shown in Figure 5A, 5B and 5C, And Figure 6A, As shown in 6B and 6C, The low flange assembly 51 is moved upwardly to cause the low flange applicator 67, 68, 70 wipes the corresponding narrow flange up to the restraining rod and the restraining block 56, Above 58. In different embodiments, The target bend angle is approximately 90 degrees. When the lower flange assembly is near the limit of its upward stroke, The actuator 72 pivots inwardly and biases the narrow flanges over 90 degrees to adjust the amount of rebound. -20- 200904560 The size of this "overbend" is related to the material and the characteristics of the bending process. 〇 Refer to Figure 7A. 7B and 7C, The restraining rod 56 swings toward its retracted position, The constraint block 58 remains at its downward deployment position at the same time. This constrains the workpiece while performing the bending with the lateral high flange actuator 74' as indicated by the arrows in Figure 8B. Next, The lateral high flange actuator 74 completes its travel and bends the lateral high flange or side wall 44 to its final position. This is shown by the arrow in Figure 9B. As seen in Figure 9 B, The restraining rod 56 is constructed to be double-acting, When the position is retracted on it, The restraining rod also abuts against the narrow flange 40 and serves to constrain the upward movement of the workpiece 32. This constraint is when the constraint block is retracted upwards (Figure 10C), And when the end high flange actuator 75 is opened and continues to travel (Fig. 1 1 C), It is advantageous to keep the workpiece in position. As shown in Figure 2A, The workpiece is provided with a disclosure in US Patent Application No. 1 1 / 3 86, A type of latch assembly 88 of the type 463 (now US Patent Publication No. 200 6/0277965 A1), The entire contents of this patent application are incorporated herein by reference. What I will understand is that Additional force will be required to engage the latch assembly during bending. In this example, The end high flange actuator 75 is constructed to provide more force than other actuators. and, The double acting restraining rod 56 (Fig. 10B) at the retracted position thereof maintains the workpiece in position as the end high flange actuator 75 pivots upward as shown in Fig. 10C. The restraining rods can abut the lateral narrow flanges 40 during the entire stroke of the end high flange actuator. however, As mentioned above, Due to the low load bending relationship provided by the stacking line, There may be no need to constrain the workpiece during the strokes of the end actuators, In this example, The edge assembly 5 1 can be lowered as indicated by the arrow in Figure 1 2 B. At the same time, the actuator completes its stroke as indicated by the arrow in Fig. 1 2C. Turn to Figure 13. The folding tool system can include a leveling device on which the one or more leveling devices disposed on the base of the frame 47 can be disposed. E.g, A set can be placed in a corner of the footprint of the folding tool system. Preferably, The skeleton includes at least three leveling devices. Preferably, there is one corner of the skeleton. In the illustrated embodiment, The leveling device includes a body 91 adjustment rod 93. The body is pivotally mounted to the frame 47 by a pivot assembly 95. In the illustrated embodiment, The pivot assembly is perforated and has a fastener (such as a bolt, A tray screw or other suitable mechanism is pivotally mounted to the frame. Two or more components can be set, Used to change the adjustment procedure provided by the leveling mechanism, for example, Two or more holes may be disposed at the same distance from the center of the body 91. The farther the hole is from the center of the body, The greater the degree of vertical adjustment. As shown in Figure 14. The pivotal mounting of the leveling device 89 to the skeleton 47 via a hole provides a degree of adjustability when compared to the original position of the dashed line when the leveling device is pivoted 75 degrees. Mounting the device on other holes further from the center of the body 91 can be folded at the end 89, formula. Everyone in paperback, And a pivotal degree of installation. The heart is not applied to the ground. The leveling is flat. -22 - 200904560 When the device is pivoted at 75 degrees, it provides a greater degree of adjustment. As shown in Figure 15. What we will understand is that The pivoting range of the screed device is changeable. In the illustrated embodiment, The body 91 is substantially circular; However, What we will understand is that other shapes can also be used. For example, the body has a nautilus outline. Where the portion in contact with the bottom surface is directly below the pivoting assembly, In this example the screed is effectively self-locking, that is, There is no need for any obvious tendency to turn from its desired position. The exemplary folding tool system described herein provides a simpler and safer method of forming a 2D sheet into a 3D article. In addition, The tool system can be used in an assembly environment, Rather than in a manufacturing environment, Because it takes advantage of the fold lines formed on the board, Therefore, the press brake can be reduced, Demand for continuous die and other heavy machinery. The folding tool system is also available in stamping, Forming, Various manufacturing stations for laser cutting or performing other operations are easily placed on an assembly line after or between. Furthermore, The folding tool system can also be placed on an assembly line before or after various finishing stations 〇 and the folding tool system allows the 2D sheet parts to be transported directly to the assembly location. Thus, the product can be transported as much as possible in a flat form through most of the manufacturing and assembly processes. Many methods can be used to feed the workpiece to the folding tool system. Including manual or automated tools, Or a combination of the two. In another exemplary embodiment of the invention, The constraint assembly 49a is similar to the constraint assembly 49 described above. But there is a shift lever 9 6 as shown in Figure 6a -23- 200904560. The configuration of the constraining assembly 49a can form a circumferentially extending peripheral flange. It forms an s- or 2-type sidewall. Moreover, the configuration of the restraint assembly allows a single actuator to fold both a peripheral low flange and a laterally high flange. E.g, The lateral high flange applicator can be used to fold both the peripheral low flange and the lateral high flange' which will be described below. As will be appreciated, a single actuator can be used to form both a peripheral low flange and an end high flange. The same reference numerals are used to designate the same components of the constraint assembly 49a and the constraint assembly 49. In this embodiment the restraining assembly includes a restraining rod 56a that is constructed to pivotally move in the same manner as described above. In this embodiment, The shift lever 96 is mounted on a pivoting restraint base 98. As shown in Figure 16. When the lateral high flange actuator (not shown) begins to fold the laterally high flange 44a in a manner similar to that described above, The peripheral low flange 40a moves toward the shift lever 90 as shown in Fig. 16B. And contacting the shifting rod to cause the low flange of the periphery to fold around the peripheral folding line, As shown in Figure 1 6C. Preferably, the restraining rod base 98 is shaped to conform to the shape of the peripheral low flange 40 a for continued inward movement when the folding of the high flange 44a is completed' as shown in Fig. 16D. When the fold is complete, The restraining rod base 98 pivots upward about the pivot 100 to swing both the restraining rod 56 6 a and the shifting rod 96 away from the path. As shown in Figure 1 6E, Thereby, the folded sheet can be easily removed. In another exemplary embodiment of the invention, The folding tool system 3 Ob is similar to the high flange assembly 30 described above but includes a modified low -24-200904560 flange and high flange actuator, As shown in Figure 17A. The relative position of the latch flange 42B and the lateral flange 44B in this embodiment is controlled by a single action of the movement of the high flange actuator. In this case, Low flange applicator 67b, 68b is similar to that described above. Application 68b abuts in close proximity to the narrow flange 40b correspondingly "sliding" in a manner similar to that described above. however, The bump applicator 70b does not eject inwardly and outwardly in the manner of the applicator 70 as described above. But, The latching flange 70b holds the latching flange 42b at a substantially right angle. Also as shown in Fig. 17B, the high flanged actuator 74b begins to be wound around its corresponding fold line laterally high flange 44b. In the illustrated embodiment, The latching flange applicator 7〇b is in the form of however, Other suitable shapes and configurations may also be used, The latch flange applicator has a chamfered shape to push the latch flange upward. and, The latch flange application can be provided with a latch flange adjuster 1 2 for fine tuning the latch projection. The high flange actuator 74b is constructed to contact and fold the laterally high flange 44b in a manner similar to that described above. The flange actuator in this embodiment also includes a wobble plate 74b'. The oscillating plate is disposed beyond the end of the high flange for contacting the latching flange 42b 17C, And the latching flange is suitable when the end flange 46b is folded upward, As shown in Figure 1 7D. Preferably. The plate's contact surface is slightly offset. Or slightly larger than the thickness of the sheet Ub, The lateral embodiment of the device 67b exerts a force to lock the flange as it is toward the applicator even if the rri-t am piece is folded. Preferably, the side of the edge of the top 70b is The bureau is just right, Place 74b as shown, of . Swing -25- 200904560 This structure of the plate slightly biases the outer surface of the latching flange 42b to the inside of the inner surface of the flange 44b. Used to provide a suitable clearance for the end flange 46, At the same time, the latching flange is properly aligned for proper engagement with the hitch assembly 88b when the folding is completed, As shown in Figure 1 7E. The oscillating plate may include a beveled or chamfered surface 103. The latch flange is slid over the interior of the oscillating plate and the lateral flange. What I understand is that A suitable adjustment mechanism can be provided to fine tune the position of the oscillating plate to the remainder of the lateral high flange actuator. In another exemplary embodiment of the invention, The folding tool 3〇c is similar to the folding tool system 30 described above and is constructed to use an "over-bending" method for use without a rocker. The cam actuator 72) adjusts the rebound of the material, As shown in Figure 18A-]. The same reference numerals are used to indicate the same as the folding tool system. Folding tool system 30C includes a platform 65C having a riser and a bend applicator 1 8 that is fixedly mounted on the platform relative to the riser spaced from the riser. The bend applicator is engaged with the sheet and applies an opposing force to the bottom side of the sheet. In the illustrated embodiment, The bending applicator is a pole, However, what we will understand is that the bending application has other structures in different embodiments, This includes a chamfered 'beveled or curved, It is used to allow the sheet to be easily slid along a bend line into the space between the fold applicator and the inclined portion of the platform. In the illustrated example, The riser is a first-order riser block' however, It will be appreciated that in various embodiments the riser can have the side-folding operation facilitated relative to the system (the member 106 is constructed and configured) The surface of the bend can be the other person -26- 200904560 structure, This includes a chamfer, Beveled or other shape, The shadow provides the proper clearance for elastic bending. In operation, The plate 32c is placed on the platform and the bend applicator. At the same time, the platform and the bending applicator maintain a substantially fixed state as shown in Fig. 18B. And the platform and the bend applicator are moved upward against a restraining member, This will be explained below. In different embodiments, The tool system is constructed to move the sheet with the platform and the bend applicator, In other embodiments, The tool system is constructed to move the sheet relative to the platform and/or the bend applicator. By designing a system for the movement of the sheet rather than the movement of the platform parts, The system achieves greater flexibility in use and simplification of moving parts. As shown in Figure 1 8 C and 1 8 D, One end of the sheet engages the bend applicator 108 and "slides" along the bottom surface of the sheet as the bend applier moves toward the sheet. therefore, The bending applicator 1 〇 8 is bent along a bending line 1 1 0, At the same time, a restraining member 1 1 1 constrains the upward movement of the sheet. In different embodiments, The panel includes a bend inducing structure to facilitate bending at the desired bend location (e.g., bend line 1 1 0 ). After engaging the bending applicator, The sheet is constrained downwardly until a portion of the sheet engages the riser 106. As shown in Figure 18D. currently, The end of the sheet is provided at a desired angle α, It in one exemplary embodiment lifts a substantially 90 degree flange. As shown in Figure 18, The combination of the bend applicator and the riser provides a shape that causes the sheet to bend beyond the desired angle a to reach an excessively bent angle. It is slightly more than 90 -27-200904560 degrees in the illustrated embodiment (eg, About 89 degrees to 85 degrees, Or more). The bend angle is determined in part by the direction in which the force is applied to the sheet and the angle of incidence of a sloped portion of the sheet as the riser 106 moves over the bottom edge of the restraint 11.1. As seen in Figure 18E, A flange 32c' of the sheet is folded such that it extends in a direction that overlaps the line of application on the sheet. however, The sheet is forced into a gap between the riser 106 and the bend applicator 1 沿着 8 along the bend line 110. In this fully engaged position, A part of the plate is pushed towards the platform 6 5 c, Making the sheet along two bend lines, Bending line 1 1 0 and bending line 1 1 0 ’, Temporarily bent. In view of the fact that the bending along the bending line 110 is implemented by the bending applicator 108, Therefore, the bending line 1 1 0 ' is determined by an inflection point 1 1 2 formed by one edge of the riser. The riser 1 〇 6, Especially its edge, Constructed to minimize the construction and size of the panel, Only the elastic deformation of the sheet occurs along the bending line 1 1 0 '. Conversely, The bend applicator 108 is constructed to achieve a significant bend in construction and size, This significant bending causes the sheet to plastically deform along the bend line 1 1 〇. Elastic bending means that the sheet is bent, The bend is such that it is within the elastic zone of the material or less than the point of relief of the material. The bend is not severe enough to plastically or permanently deform the sheet. As shown in Fig. 18F, the 'platform 65c and the plate 32c are lowered during this period, The sheet is allowed to "rebound" such that the material has a substantial 90 degree bend along the bend line 110 and along the bend line. It is not substantially bent. In detail, The panel will "rebound" along the bend line 1 1 0 ' to a substantially planar form as shown in Figure 186F. also, The sheet will also experience some rebound along the bend -28-200904560 line 1 1 0. This is because a part of the material properties of the sheet is in the elastic region. Next, The platform 6 5 C and the bending applicator 1 〇 8 are detached from the sheet by the restraining member u 1 , As shown in Figure 1 8G, the stage was completely removed. As shown in Figure 18Η. The sheet material in the final state as shown in the drawing has substantially no bending along the bending line 1 i 〇 and in the region of the inflection point 112. Although the device 30c is designed to produce a bend in the rebound, However, the device can be modified to produce any number of bends and bend angles. E.g, The platform may include inflection points that are not shaped and positioned. The slope defining the slope of the plurality of slopes can be constructed to apply more than the material to cause some plastic deformation. The deflection of the inclined portion can also be varied to adjust the final bend angle of the sheet, including various applicator structures, This includes, but is not limited to, a variety of applicators. The use of multiple applicators and other platformers allows the system to be used when the panel is forced against the platform. Several processes are implemented in the process. The platform can be modified in other ways depending on the deformation of the board. For the convenience of description and in the following patent application scope, "up" or "upper", ’, "1" below (1 〇 w e r )", "internal" and "external", "Side [1 word is used to refer to the features of the invention of the features of the invention shown in the drawings. , It decides that the bend is further lowered, And the plate is shown from 1 8 ,, 90 degrees after the 90 degree bend and any kind of the same size, Quantity. The angle and length of the bend point of one or more of the relief points. The platform is also shaped and sized to modify the surface in a single step. There are many precise definitions in the characteristics: (down) "or force" and "end" and other locations to describe this -29- 200904560 in many ways, The various modified features in the different figures are similar to the modifications of the preceding features and the same reference numerals plus the subscripts "a" and "b" are used to indicate corresponding parts. The above description of specific exemplary embodiments of the invention has been presented for purposes of illustration and description. These descriptions are not intended to limit the invention to the particular form disclosed. It is apparent that the present invention has many variations and modifications under the above teachings. These exemplary embodiments have been chosen and disclosed in order to explain the principles of the invention and its application. To enable those skilled in the art to make and utilize the various exemplary embodiments of the present invention, And its different changes and changes. The scope of the invention is defined by the following claims and their equivalents. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Figure 1A is a perspective view of an exemplary apparatus for folding sheets. Figure 1 B is a schematic end view of the apparatus of Figure 1A. Figure 2A is a perspective view of a panel constructed to form a usable device for folding Figure 1. And Figure 2B, 2C and 2D are enlarged perspective views of the sheet of Fig. 2A during the process of folding. Figure 3A is a partially enlarged perspective view of the apparatus of Figure 1 during the initial stages of folding the sheet of Figure 2A, 3B and 3C are partial plan views of Fig. 3A. Figure 4A is a partially enlarged perspective view of the apparatus of Figure 1 during another stage of folding the sheet of Figure 2A. Figures 4B and 4C are partial plan views of Figure 4A. -30- 200904560 Figure 5A is a partially enlarged perspective view of the apparatus of Figure 1 during another period of folding of the panel of Figure 2A, Fig. 5B and Fig. 5 (3 is a stage portion _ face view of Fig. 5A. Fig. 6 is a partially enlarged perspective view of the apparatus of Fig. 1 in a partial flat portion of the sheet of Fig. 2, Figure 6Β and Figure 6 (: For Figure 6Α, Surface map. Figure 7 is a partially enlarged perspective view of the apparatus of Figure 1 during the other period of folding the sheet of Figure 2, 7B and 7C are partial views of Fig. 7A. „ w μ戾一阶段 Figure 8Α is a partially enlarged perspective view of the apparatus of Figure 1 during the folding of the force of the sheet of Figure 2Α, Figure 8Β and Figure 8 (: It is the part / figure of Figure 8Α. Figure 9A is a partially enlarged perspective view of the apparatus of Figure 1 during another folding of the sheet of Figure 2A. 9B and 9C are diagrams of the portion of Fig. 9A. Figure 10A is a partially enlarged perspective view of the apparatus of Figure 1 during another period of folding of the sheet of Figure 2A, 10B and 10C are partial plan views of Fig. 1A. Figure 11A is another step of the apparatus of Figure 1 in which the sheet of Figure 2A is folded & A partially enlarged perspective view of the period and Fig. 11C are partial plan views of the figure. Figure 1 2 A is a partially enlarged perspective view of the apparatus of Figure 1 during another stage of folding the sheet of Figure 2A, 12B and 12C are fragmentary plan views of Fig. 12A. -31 - 200904560 Figure 13 is an enlarged view of a leveling device of the apparatus of Figure 1. Figure 14 is an enlarged plan view of the leveling device of Figure 13; Wherein the leveling device is in a flat position. Figure 15 is an enlarged plan view of the leveling device of Figure 13; Wherein the leveling device is in another flattened position. Figure 16A, Figure 16B, Figure 16C, 16D and 16E are schematic illustrations of another constraining assembly that can be used in the apparatus of Fig. 1. Figure 17A is a partially enlarged perspective view of another apparatus similar to the apparatus of Figure 1. And Figure 17B, Figure 17C, Figure 17D and Figure UE are perspective views of the apparatus in a continuous stage of folding a sheet similar to that of Figure 2A. Figure 18A is a partial enlarged block diagram of another apparatus similar to the apparatus of Figure 1, And Figure 18B, Figure 18C, Figure 18D, Figure 18E, Fig. 18F'Fig. 18G and Fig. 18H are perspective views of the apparatus in a continuous stage of folding a sheet similar to Fig. 2A. [Main component symbol description] 3 〇 : Folding tool system 3 2 : Sheet 33 : Folding line 3 5 : Folding line 3 7 : Folding line 3 9 : Folding line 4〇: Low flange (narrow flange) -32 - 200904560 42 : Touch lock flange 44 : Lateral high flange (deep side wall) 46 : End high flange (deep end wall) 47 : Skeleton 4 9 : Constraint assembly 5 1 : Low flange assembly 5 3 : High flange assembly 54 : Length 5 6 : Constraint rod 5 8 : Constraint block 60: Double action air pressure actuator 6 1 : Double action air pressure actuator 6 3 : Air bag 65 : Platform 67: Power applicator 6 8 : Strength applicator 7 0 : Power applicator 72 : Cam actuator 74 : Lateral high flange actuator 75 : Lateral high flange actuator 77 : Double action air pressure actuator 79 : Arm 8 1 : Bottom 82: Shoulder -33 200904560 84 : Programmable Logic Controller 89: Leveling device 91 : Ontology 93 : Adjustment lever 9 5 : Pivot assembly 96 : Push rod 4 9 a : Constraint assembly 9 8 : Resting rod base 5 6 a : Constraining rod 44a: Lateral high flange 40a: Peripheral low flange 1 0 0 : Pivot 3 0b : Folding tool system 42b: Touch lock flange 44b: Lateral flange 74b'. lateral high flange actuator 67b: Low flange applicator 68b: Low flange applicator 70b: Contact lock flange applicator 4 0 b : Narrow flange 102: Gap lock flange adjuster 74b’ : Swing plate 46b: End flange 32b: Sheet -34 200904560 8 8 b : Contact lock assembly 3 0 c : Folding tool system 6 5 c : Platform 1 06 : Raiser 1 〇 8 : Bending applicator 3 2 c : Sheet 1 1 〇 : Bending line 1 1 1 : Constraint 3 2 c ’ : Flange 1 1 〇 ’ : Bending line 1 1 2 : Tortuous point -35