TWI698388B - Manufacturing tool and method of manufacture utilizing a multi -frame manufacturing apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

Aspects hereof relate to a multi-frame manufacturing apparatus for manufacturing articles from non-rigid materials and methods for manufacturing articles utilizing a multi-frame manufacturing apparatus. The multi-frame manufacturing apparatus includes a plurality of discrete frames, each frame including a movement mechanism that enables it to move between sequentially arranged processing stations. Each movement mechanism permits substantially horizontal movement forward and backward. The movement mechanism for at least one of the frames permits substantially vertical movement both up and down. Actuation of the movement mechanisms for at least two frames may permit the frames to switch their relative positions. Each frame additionally includes at least one gripping mechanism for temporarily securing non-rigid material in place on the framed for processing.

Description

Manufacturing tool and manufacturing method using multi-frame manufacturing device

[Cross reference of related applications]

Not applicable.

The point of this article is about multi-frame manufacturing devices for manufacturing objects. The viewpoints are more about the method of manufacturing articles using multi-frame manufacturing equipment.

Non-rigid materials can be fed from material stocks containing large rolls or continuous webs to assembly lines or conveyor belt-type manufacturing systems or machines. The processing of such large fragment materials can be cumbersome. This is particularly true when the non-rigid material is substantially stretchable in at least one direction when placed under tension. Attempting to handle non-rigid materials that are in a tensioned state that causes the material to stretch can produce articles that have errors or deformations and are therefore unusable.

The point of view herein relates to a multi-frame manufacturing device for manufacturing articles from non-rigid materials, such as clothing, sock liners, and the like. The multi-frame manufacturing apparatus includes a plurality of discrete frames. Each frame includes a moving mechanism that enables the frame to move between sequentially arranged processing stations in an assembly line or conveyor belt type manufacturing system. Each movement mechanism permits substantially horizontal movement forward and backward. The movement mechanism of at least one of the plurality of frames additionally permits substantially vertical movement upward and downward. The actuation, synchronization or non-synchronization of the moving mechanisms of at least two of the plurality of frames may permit the frames to switch their relative positions between processing stations in the manufacturing system.

Each frame includes at least one clamping mechanism that includes an open material receiving position and a closed material clamping position. When a non-rigid material is loaded onto one of the frames, the clamping mechanism of the frame can be in an open material receiving position. Once the material is in place and in a non-tensioned state (that is, tensioned but not stretched so that the material is not substantially distorted in any direction), the clamping mechanism is closed to a closed material clamping Position so that the clamping mechanism temporarily fastens the non-rigid material to the frame in place for processing. If the material preparation (from which the material is loaded onto the frame) is more than the amount that needs to be processed as a single processing unit, the clamping part of the material can be cut or otherwise separated from the large amount of material so that the clamping part can be Deal with it in a more manageable way.

The point of view here is more about a method of manufacturing an article using a multi-frame manufacturing device included in a manufacturing system having a plurality of processing stations arranged in sequence arranged in an assembly line or conveyor belt type. The non-rigid material is loaded on the first of the plurality of frames in a non-tensioned state. The first frame contains at least one clamping mechanism, once the material is in place on the first frame, the clamping mechanism It is actuated to close the clamping mechanism and temporarily hold the non-rigid material in place on the frame for processing. The non-rigid material fastened to the first frame is under tension, but is not stretched to cause distortion and deformation of the material. The moving mechanism coupled with the first frame causes the frame to move at least substantially horizontally in the first direction along with the material in place. Synchronously or asynchronously, causing the second moving mechanism associated with the second frame to move substantially horizontally and substantially vertically in the opposite direction, thereby causing the first frame and the second frame to switch between Respective positions in the plurality of processing stations.

This [Summary of the Invention] is provided to introduce in a simplified form the selection of concepts further described in [Embodiments] below. This summary does not intend to identify the key features or basic features of the claimed subject matter, and this summary does not intend to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.

100, 600, 1200: Multi-frame manufacturing device

102, 152, 1202: the first frame

104, 160, 1204: second frame

106, 1206: first parallel side rail

108, 1208: second parallel side rail

110, 112, 114, 116, 1210, 1212, 1214, 1216: sidewall

120, 122, 124, 126, 1220, 1222, 1224, 1226: sidewall

118, 128: Center gap

130, 1230: the first moving mechanism

132, 1232: second moving mechanism

131, 133: Mobile actuation device

134: The First Track

135: Piston

136: second track

138, 142, 156, 164: the first clamping mechanism

140, 144, 158, 166: second clamping mechanism

146: Material Loading Mechanism

148: Material Roll

150: loading frame

154: Material loading table

162: Material

168, 1268: longitudinal direction

170, 1270: latitude direction

I-I, II-II, III, IV: line

Hereinafter, the illustrative viewpoints herein are described in detail with reference to the drawings incorporated herein by reference, and wherein: FIG. 1 depicts an exemplary multi-frame manufacturing apparatus according to the illustrative viewpoints herein.

FIG. 2 depicts a cross-sectional view of the multi-frame manufacturing apparatus of FIG. 1 taken along the line I-I of FIG. 1 according to an illustrative viewpoint herein.

FIG. 3 depicts a view of the area circled by the line III in FIG. 1 according to the illustrative viewpoint here.

FIG. 4 depicts a view of the area encircled by the line IV in FIG. 1 according to the illustrative viewpoint here.

FIG. 5 depicts a diagram taken along the line II-II of FIG. 1 according to the illustrative viewpoint here Section 1 of the second moving mechanism.

Fig. 6 depicts an exemplary multi-frame manufacturing apparatus with a cooperating loading mechanism based on the exemplary viewpoint herein.

7 to 11 are cross-sectional views depicting the sequential movement and location switching of the two frames according to the first frame switching mechanism according to the illustrative viewpoint herein.

Figure 12 depicts an exemplary multi-frame manufacturing apparatus with a second frame switching mechanism based on an additional point of view here.

Specifically describe the subject matter in this article to meet legal requirements. However, the description itself is not intended to limit the scope of this patent. In fact, the inventors have anticipated that the claimed subject matter may also be embodied in other ways to include different elements or element combinations similar to the elements or element combinations described in this document, as well as other current or future technologies.

The point of view here encompasses a multi-frame manufacturing device (e.g., a manufacturing device having at least two discrete processing frames) for manufacturing articles (e.g., insoles) from non-rigid materials. The multi-frame manufacturing device provides discrete portions of large material stocks that handle non-rigid materials in a non-tensioned state in a manageable manner (ie, tensioned but not stretched so that the material is not substantially distorted in any direction). For example, in an illustrative point of view, a multi-frame manufacturing device temporarily fastens discrete portions of non-rigid material to the frame for processing. In public opinion, non-rigid materials are along the stretching direction (that is, non-rigid materials have the greatest relative capacity along this direction from a relaxed state, stretched or deformed to a stretched but unstretched state) Fasten to the frame. In this way, the waste caused by manufacturing deformations or other odd-shaped objects is reduced because non-rigid materials are being processed During this period, it is tightened in its non-tensioned state to prevent this deformation of the material. In addition, discrete portions of non-rigid material can be handled in a more manageable manner than continuous processing from a large stock of material.

The point of view here relates to a multi-frame manufacturing device for manufacturing articles (for example, insoles, clothing, or clothing parts) from non-rigid materials. Non-rigid materials may include, by way of example and not limitation, knitted materials, woven materials, mesh materials, non-woven materials, leather materials, foam materials, and the like. Merely by way of example, non-rigid materials utilized in the manufacture of articles are often fed from material stocks (e.g., rolls or webs of material) with large amounts of material. The material from the material preparation can be fed into the manufacturing system at an appropriate processing station of a plurality of processing stations sequentially arranged in the assembly line. Non-rigid materials generally include a direction (referred to herein as the "stretch direction") along which the material has a relaxed state when the material is under tension or strain (e.g., stretched state) The maximum relative ability to stretch or deform to a taut but unstretched state. This tension can cause non-rigid materials to deform during processing, resulting in deformed or odd-shaped articles. Thus, in an illustrative point of view, it may be necessary to maintain the non-rigid material in a non-tensioned state (ie, tensioned but not stretched so that the material is not substantially distorted in any direction) during processing to reduce Deformed and therefore unusable items or parts of items caused by waste.

As will always be discussed, it is contemplated that a multi-frame manufacturing apparatus according to the viewpoints herein may include at least two discrete frames for receiving non-rigid materials and for moving non-rigid materials through multiple frames positioned in a conveyor belt or assembly line configuration. A sequential processing station. In an exemplary point of view, the frame may be substantially rectangular and movably positioned between a pair of side rails. As used herein, it is expected that "substantially rectangular" refers to having a first pair of side walls positioned opposite to each other and positioned opposite to each other and perpendicular to the first The frame of the second pair of side walls to the side walls. The side wall may be formed by one or more wall portions that collectively form a substantially rectangular peripheral side wall surrounding the central void. When multiple wall parts are assembled to form a substantially rectangular peripheral side wall, the point of view here covers that those wall parts that need to be attached to each other may have been cut to an angle of about forty-five degrees (45°) at the end portions, This allows the wall portions to be slanted to form a rectangular structure. It will be understood that an angle slightly deviating from 45° is expected and intended to be within the scope of this viewpoint. Other points of view here encompass that the wall portions with abutting attachment surfaces are combined with respect to each other at about ninety (90°) or any other angle that permits attachment to form a rectangular structure. Any and all such changes and any combination are expected to be within the scope of the views herein. The mechanism for fastening the wall portion may include various screws or other fastening mechanisms known to those skilled in the art.

Each frame may include a movement mechanism that permits substantially horizontal movement forward and backward between the pair of side rails. As used herein, the terms "forward" and "backward" refer to relative movement in the longitudinal direction of the side rails, allowing the side rails to move between opposite directions. In various points of view, the pair of side rails may be positioned parallel to each other and separated from each other by a distance sufficient to permit functional reception of the frame. As used herein, “substantially horizontal movement” refers to horizontal movement in the longitudinal direction of the side rails, which may or may not include vertical movement that is smaller than the horizontal movement. Substantially horizontal movement results in discernible horizontal travel forward or backward, and may include (but does not necessarily include) coexisting discernible vertical travel. The movement mechanism of at least one of the two frames additionally permits substantially vertical movement upward and downward. As used herein, "up" and "down" refer to the relative movement of the side rails in the latitude direction, allowing the side rails to move between opposite directions. As used herein, “substantially vertical movement” refers to the vertical movement in the latitude direction of the side rail, which may or may not include horizontal movement that is smaller than the vertical movement. Essentially vertical movement results in discernible vertical travel up or down, and may include (but does not necessarily include) coexisting discernible horizontal travel. In the viewpoints, the movement mechanism of each of the two frames permits both substantially horizontal movement and substantially vertical movement.

The viewpoint here covers that the actuation of the moving mechanism of the two frames of the multi-frame manufacturing device may permit the two frames to switch positions relative to the conveyor belt or the assembly line processing table. By way of example and not limitation, the processing station may include stations for cutting, pressing, molding, sticking, and similar processing. For example only, if the first of the two frames is at the first treatment station and the second of the two frames is at the second treatment station, and the first and second treatment stations are arranged sequentially relative to each other, then the two The actuation of the moving mechanism of each frame allows the first frame to advance to the second processing station (via substantially horizontal movement or both substantially horizontal and substantially vertical movement) and allows the second frame to advance to the first processing station (again , Via substantially horizontal movement or both substantially vertical and substantially horizontal movement). Those who are generally familiar with the technology will understand and understand that when the "switching position" of the two frames is stated in this article, it is expected that the two frames may not necessarily switch to the exact same position, but the two frames change their relative positions during the manufacturing process. For example, if the first frame is located at a processing station that is later in sequence than the second frame in the manufacturing process, if after switching, the second frame is located in the manufacturing process later in sequence than the first frame At the processing station, it is expected that the two frames have switched positions. In an illustrative point of view, the switching of the frame of the manufacturing process relative to the processing station permits the material associated with one frame to be processed when the material is loaded onto another frame. This increases the manufacturing speed and efficiency because the processing does not stop when new materials are loaded into the processing system.

In various points of view, each frame may contain one or more clamping mechanisms, arranged to temporarily hold non-rigid materials in a non-tensioned state (that is, when the material is tensioned but not stretched, The material is fastened to the frame for processing under the condition that the material is not substantially distorted in any direction. If the frame is a substantially rectangular frame, the point of view here covers coupling to each of the two opposed side walls of the frame (for example, pivotally connected to each of the two opposed side walls of the frame) The clamping mechanism. Each clamping mechanism can be configured as a clamping mechanism and can include an open material receiving position and a closed material clamping position. When a non-rigid material is loaded onto the frame, the clamping mechanism of the frame can be in an open material receiving position. Once the material is in the proper position and in a non-tensioned state, the clamping mechanism can be closed to a closed material clamping position, so that the clamping mechanism temporarily fastens the non-rigid material to the frame in place for supply deal with. In various viewpoints, the clamping mechanism clamps the non-rigid material along the stretching direction (that is, the direction along which the non-rigid material has the greatest relative ability to stretch or deform from its relaxed, stretched but unstretched state ). If the material preparation (from which the material is loaded onto the frame) is more than the amount that needs to be processed on the frame, the clamping part of the material can be cut or otherwise separated from the large amount of material so that it can be carried out in a more manageable manner deal with.

As will always be discussed, it is expected that the viewpoints provided herein are also related to methods of manufacturing articles (or parts thereof) formed of non-rigid materials using multi-frame manufacturing devices. By way of illustration and not limitation, the article may include clothing, outerwear, insoles, other parts of footwear, and the like. In an illustrative view, a material loading mechanism is used to load a certain amount of non-rigid material from the material stock onto the first frame. The non-rigid material is loaded onto the first frame at a loading platform, which is one of a plurality of sequential processing stations positioned in a conveyor or assembly line configuration. The viewpoint here covers that the first frame may be substantially rectangular and movably positioned between a pair of parallel side rails.

In various points of view, the first frame may include one or more clamping mechanisms arranged to temporarily fasten non-rigid materials to the first frame in a non-tensioned state for handling (That is, the state of the material in which the material is stretched rather than stretched). When the first frame is substantially rectangular, the point of view here covers the clamping mechanism coupled to each of the two opposing side walls, which are adjacent to the parallel side rails. Each clamping mechanism can be configured as a clamping mechanism and can include an open material receiving position and a closed material clamping position. When the non-rigid material is loaded onto the first frame, the clamping mechanism of the first frame may be in an open material receiving position. Once the material is in the desired manufacturing position and in a non-tensioned state, the clamping mechanism can be closed into a closed material clamping position, thereby temporarily fastening the non-rigid material to the first frame for processing. In various viewpoints, non-rigid materials are clamped along the stretching direction (ie, the direction that has the greatest relative ability to stretch or deform). If the material stock (from which the material is loaded onto the frame) is more than the amount that needs to be processed as a single processing unit, the clamping portion of the material can be cut or otherwise separated from the large amount of material.

The first frame may include at least one moving mechanism coupled thereto, which permits a substantially horizontal movement forward and backward between the pair of parallel side rails. In various viewpoints, the parallel side rails are separated from each other by a distance sufficient to permit the first frame to move between the parallel side rails. In the viewpoints, the moving mechanism may be actuated, thereby causing the first frame with the material in place to move substantially horizontally in the first direction, and at the same time, synchronously or asynchronously, also causing the second frame to be associated The second moving mechanism (according to the point of view here, is also substantially rectangular and movably positioned between the pair of parallel side rails) moves substantially horizontally and substantially vertically in the opposite direction, thereby Cause the first frame and the second frame to switch positions. In an additional point of view, the moving mechanism can be actuated, thereby causing the first frame with the material in place to move substantially horizontally and substantially vertically in the first direction, and at the same time, synchronously or asynchronously, also causing Second mobile machine associated with a second substantially rectangular frame The structure (according to the point of view here, movably positioned between the pair of parallel side rails) moves substantially horizontally and substantially vertically in a direction opposite to the first direction, so that the first frame and the second The two frameworks cooperate to switch their relative positions. Generally, those familiar with the art will understand and understand that when the relative positions of the first and second frames have changed during the manufacturing process, the first and second frames have switched positions according to the viewpoint here.

In the viewpoints, one or more of the moving mechanism of the first frame, the moving mechanism of the second frame, and the clamping mechanism may be manually actuated. In various viewpoints, one or more of the moving mechanism and the clamping mechanism can be actuated by cooperating with a computing device (not shown), which is functionally and/or logically related to the multi-frame manufacturing device , At least one of the processing station and the frame is coupled. Any and all such changes and any combination are expected to be within the scope of the views herein.

Referring now to FIG. 1, an exemplary multi-frame manufacturing apparatus 100 is depicted according to the point of view herein. The multi-frame manufacturing apparatus 100 includes a first frame 102, a second frame 104, and a first parallel side rail 106 and a second parallel side rail 108. It should be understood that in alternative viewpoints, additional elements may be included. In addition, it should be understood that in an alternative illustrative perspective, one or more of the listed elements of the multi-frame manufacturing apparatus 100 may be omitted. In addition, the multi-frame manufacturing apparatus 100 is depicted for illustrative purposes and may have alternative configurations, shapes, sizes, and configurations.

Each of the first frame 102 and the second frame 104 are discrete from each other, and as described more fully below, are arranged to temporarily fasten the discrete part of the non-rigid material and move this part of the non-rigid material through to convey the belt Or multiple sequential processing stations arranged in an assembly line configuration. The first frame 102 includes a first pair of side walls 110 and 112 positioned opposite to each other and a first pair of side walls 110, 112 positioned opposite to each other and perpendicular to the first pair of side walls 110, 112. The second pair of sidewalls 114 and 116 of 112 form a substantially rectangular structure. The side walls 110, 112, 114, 116 may be formed of one or more wall portions that collectively form a substantially rectangular peripheral side wall surrounding the central void 118. The central void 118 provides a material processing area that is not disturbed by the first frame 102. In an exemplary aspect, each of the side walls 110, 112, 114, 116 may be discrete wall portions, and in a configuration the end portions of the wall portions are cut at an angle of about 45°, thereby permitting the wall portions to be mitered to form the first frame 102 has a substantially rectangular peripheral side wall structure. In an exemplary aspect, the side walls 110, 112, 114, 116 may each be discrete wall portions having attachment surfaces that abut each other at about 90° or any other angle that permits attachment to each other, thereby forming a rectangular structure. Any and all such changes and any combination are expected to be within the scope of the views herein.

The mechanism used to fasten the wall parts together can include various screws or other fastening mechanisms known to those skilled in the art. It will be understood that the rectangular peripheral side walls jointly formed by the first pair of side walls 110, 112 and the second pair of side walls 114, 116 may be formed as a continuous structure, or formed by any number of wall portions. Furthermore, within the point of view here, any mechanism for fastening the wall parts to each other can be utilized. The formation of the first frame 102 and/or the mechanism for fastening the wall portion including the first frame 102 is not intended to limit the viewpoint herein in any way. Still further, it should be understood that from the point of view here, a frame having a structure other than a substantially rectangular structure may be utilized. Any and all such changes and any combination are expected to be within the scope of the views herein.

Similar to the first frame 102, the second frame 104 includes a first pair of side walls 120, 122 positioned opposite to each other and a second pair of side walls 124, 126 positioned opposite to each other and perpendicular to the first pair of side walls 120, 122, thereby forming Substantially rectangular structure. The side walls 120, 122, 124, 126 may be formed by one or more wall portions that collectively form a substantially rectangular peripheral side wall surrounding the central void 128, which provides the The processing area disturbed by the second frame 104. When multiple wall portions are assembled to form a substantially rectangular peripheral side wall, the wall portions may include attachment surfaces that abut each other at 45°, 90°, or any other desired angle to allow the wall portions to be combined to form a rectangular structure. The mechanism used to fasten the wall parts together can include various screws or other fastening mechanisms known to those skilled in the art. It will be understood and understood that the rectangular peripheral side walls jointly formed by the first pair of side walls 120, 122 and the second pair of side walls 124, 126 may be formed as a continuous structure, or formed by any number of wall portions. Furthermore, within the point of view here, any mechanism for fastening the wall parts to each other can be utilized. The formation of the second frame 104 and/or the mechanism for fastening the wall portion including the second frame 104 is not intended to limit the viewpoint herein in any way. Still further, it should be understood that from the point of view here, a frame having a structure other than a substantially rectangular structure may be utilized. Any and all such changes and any combination are expected to be within the scope of the views herein.

Although the multi-frame manufacturing apparatus 100 of FIG. 1 includes two frames (first and second frames) 102, 104, the point of view here covers any number of frames. For example, the viewpoints here are equally applicable to a multi-frame manufacturing device with three frames, four frames, five frames, and so on. The number of frames that always include the multi-frame manufacturing device as described is not intended to limit the scope of the ideas here.

As previously explained, each of the first frame 102 and the second frame 104 is configured to move a certain amount of non-rigid material through a plurality of sequentially arranged processing stations positioned in a conveyor belt or assembly line type configuration. Therefore, the first frame 102 includes a first moving mechanism 130 coupled therewith, and the second frame 104 includes a second moving mechanism 132 coupled therewith. Each of the first moving mechanism 130 and the second moving mechanism 132 is permitted to be between the pair of first parallel side rails 106 and the second parallel side rails 108 (for example in its longitudinal direction 168 (see FIG. 6)) Forward and backward substantially horizontally move. The second moving mechanism 132 further allows the second frame 104 to move substantially vertically, for example, in the latitude direction 170 (see FIG. 6) of the first parallel side rail 106 and the second parallel side rail 108. As described more fully below, FIG. 12 illustrates the point of view here, where both the first moving mechanism and the second moving mechanism permit substantially horizontal movement and substantially vertical movement.

Turning now to FIG. 2, which illustrates a cross-sectional view of the multi-frame manufacturing apparatus 100 of FIG. 1, the cross-section is taken along the line I-I of FIG. 1. As illustrated, the first parallel side rail 106 includes a first rail 134 and a second rail 136. The first track 134 is positioned vertically below the second track 136 in its latitude direction 170 (see FIG. 6). Those skilled in the art will understand that although only the first parallel side rail 106 is shown, the second parallel side rail 108 includes the first rail 134 and the second rail described in association with the first parallel side rail 106. 136 similar and opposite structure.

The first moving mechanism 130 (visible with reference to FIGS. 1 and 3) is coupled to each of the first pair of opposed side walls 110 and 112 of the first frame 102 and is configured to movably cooperate with the first rail 134. In various viewpoints, the first moving mechanism 130 may include a moving actuation device 131 (for example, a linear actuator, a motor, or the like) that cooperates with the first track 134 to be substantially horizontal in the forward and backward directions. Advance the first frame 102. The second moving mechanism 132 (see FIG. 1, FIG. 2 and FIG. 4 can be seen) is coupled to each of the first pair of opposed side walls 120, 122 of the second frame 104 and arranged to be movably connected to the second rail 136 Cooperation. Referring to FIG. 5, a cross-sectional view showing the cooperation of the second moving mechanism 132 with the second rail 136 of the first parallel side rail 106 is depicted. The cross-section is taken along the line II-II of FIG. In various viewpoints, the second moving mechanism 132 may include a moving actuation device 133 (for example, a linear actuator, a motor, or the like) that cooperates with the second track 136 to be substantially horizontal in the forward and backward directions Advance second Frame 104. In the illustrative point of view here, the second moving mechanism 132 may also include at least one piston 135 that cooperates with the second frame 104 to push the second frame 104 substantially vertically in the upward and downward directions. As described more fully below, the illustrative configuration allows the second frame 104 to pass vertically above the first frame 102 as the two frames move in opposite horizontal directions, so that when the first moving mechanism 130 and the second When the moving mechanism 132 is actuated, the relative positions of the two frames relative to the multi-frame manufacturing apparatus 100 are switched.

Referring back to FIG. 2, a cross-section of the multi-frame manufacturing apparatus 100 of FIG. 1 is illustrated, taken along the line I-I. The first parallel side rail 106 includes a first rail 134 and a second rail 136, and the first rail 134 is vertically positioned below the second rail 136. The first moving mechanism 130 (see FIG. 1 and FIG. 3) is coupled to the opposite side wall 110 of the first frame 102 and is configured to movably cooperate with the first rail 134. The second moving mechanism 132 is coupled to the opposite side wall 120 of the second frame 104 and is configured to movably cooperate with the second rail 136.

In various viewpoints, the actuation of the first moving mechanism 130 and the second moving mechanism 132 can cause the first frame 102 and the second frame 104 to switch positions relative to the processing tables arranged in sequence. Refer to Figures 7 to 10 to illustrate an exemplary procedure that can occur for this position switching. Referring to FIG. 7, the first frame is illustrated as having moved substantially horizontally in the first direction, and the discernible horizontal advancement relative to the position of the first frame 102 in FIG. 2 is visible. Referring to FIG. 8, the second frame 104 is illustrated as having moved substantially vertically in the upward direction. Referring to FIG. 9, once positioned to clear the first frame 102, the second frame 104 is caused to move substantially horizontally in a horizontal direction opposite to the horizontal direction in which the first frame 102 is caused to move. As shown in FIG. 10, synchronously, the first frame 102 is illustrated as continuing its horizontal advancement in the first direction. As illustrated in Figure 11, The second frame 104 is illustrated as having moved substantially vertically in the downward direction, so that the first frame 102 and the second frame 104 have switched their relative locations in the sequential configuration of the processing table.

Referring back to FIG. 1, each of the first frame 102 and the second frame 104 includes one or more clamping mechanisms configured to temporarily fasten the respective first frame 102 and the second frame 104 in a non-tensioned state Non-rigid materials in the for processing. As illustrated, the first frame 102 includes first and second clamping mechanisms 138, 140, and a first pair of side walls 110, 112 (adjacent to the first parallel side rail 106 and the second parallel side rail 108) opposite to the frame The sidewalls 110, 112) are coupled. Similarly, the second frame 104 includes first and second clamping mechanisms 142, 144, which are coupled to the first pair of opposite side walls 120, 122 of the frame. In various points of view, the first clamping mechanism 138, the second clamping mechanism 140, the first clamping mechanism 142, and the second clamping mechanism 144 may be pivotally connected to the frame (as compared to the first clamping mechanism in FIG. 5). Agency 142). The first and second clamping mechanisms 138, 140 of the first frame 102 and the first and second clamping mechanisms 142, 144 of the second frame 104 can be configured as clamping mechanisms (as shown) and include open material receiving Position and closed material clamping position. The first and second clamping mechanisms 138, 140 of the first frame 102 are illustrated in the open material receiving position (when the second parallel side rail 108 mostly covers the view of the second clamping mechanism 140, the first clamping (Best seen at 138 tight institutions). In the open material receiving position, the first and second clamping mechanisms 138, 140 are in a released state and do not substantially cover the top surface of the first frame 102. In this way, the first frame 102 can freely receive non-rigid materials above the central void 118 and around the peripheral side walls formed by the first pair of side walls 110, 112 and the second pair of side walls 114, 116, as more fully described below Described. The first clamping mechanism 138 of the first frame 102 (in its open material receiving position) is additionally shown in In the cross-sectional view of FIG. 2 and the view of FIG. 3.

Once the desired material is in place on the desired frame and in an untensioned state (ie, in a state where the material is tensioned but not stretched), the clamping mechanism can be closed or clamped to temporarily tighten the non-rigid The material is in place and prevents deformity or other deformation. In Figure 1, the first and second clamping mechanisms 142, 144 of the second frame 104 are illustrated in a closed material clamping position. In the closed material clamping position, the first and second clamping mechanisms 142, 144 are in an activated state and temporarily hold the non-rigid material on the central void 128 and to the first pair of side walls of the second frame 104 The top surface of 120, 122 until the time when the first and second clamping mechanisms 142, 144 are released. The first clamping mechanism 142 of the second frame 104 (in its closed material clamping position) is additionally shown in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 2 and the view of FIG. 4.

The illustrative point of view here also relates to a method of manufacturing an article (or part thereof) formed of a non-rigid material using a multi-frame manufacturing device (for example, a two-frame manufacturing device) configured to make non-rigid materials Rigid material moves through multiple sequential processing stations positioned in a conveyor or assembly line configuration. Turning to FIG. 6, a perspective view of an exemplary multi-frame manufacturing apparatus 600 in cooperation with the material loading mechanism 146 is depicted. The illustrated material loading mechanism 146 includes a non-rigid material roll 148 and a loading frame 150 that is arranged to facilitate a series of sequentially positioned processing stations in a material loading station 154 (eg, conveyor belt or assembly line type configuration) The first station) loads non-rigid materials onto the first frame 152. Non-rigid materials include the longitudinal direction (non-stretching direction) 168 (ie, the direction given when the material is under tension is relatively small) and the latitudinal direction (stretching direction) 170 (ie, the stretch is relatively large Or the direction given when the material is under tension). In an illustrative point of view, when the first and second clamping mechanisms 156, 158 of the first frame 152 are in their open material receiving When in position, the portion of the non-rigid material from the material roll 148 can be loaded onto the first frame 152 at the material loading station 154, as shown. Once the material has reached its desired placement relative to the first frame 152, the first and second clamping mechanisms 156, 158 of the first frame 152 can be closed to their closed material clamping positions, thereby temporarily holding the non-rigid material The part is fastened to the first frame 152. The second frame 160 is illustrated in FIG. 6, and the portion of the material 162 is fastened to the second frame by the closed first and second clamping mechanisms 164, 166. In various points of view, once the material portion is fastened to the frame, the material portion can be cut or otherwise separated from the material roll 148, and the loading frame 150 can be returned to the detached position from the frame.

As previously explained with reference to FIGS. 7 to 11 above, according to the point of view here, the moving mechanism respectively associated with each of the first frame 152 and the second frame 160 can actuate the first frame 152 in the first party. Move upward substantially horizontally, and simultaneously, the movement mechanism associated with the second frame can cause the second frame 160 to move substantially horizontally and substantially vertically in the opposite direction, so that the first frame 152 and The second frame 160 switches or changes positions. In this way, the manufacturing with respect to one of the first frame 152 and the second frame 160 can continue, although a non-rigid material is being loaded onto the other of the first frame 152 and the second frame 160.

Referring now to FIG. 12, an exemplary multi-frame manufacturing apparatus 1200 having first and second movement mechanisms that permit both substantially horizontal and substantially vertical movement is depicted based on the viewpoint herein. Like the multi-frame manufacturing device shown in FIGS. 1-11, the multi-frame manufacturing device 1200 includes a first frame 1202, a second frame 1204, and first and second parallel side rails 1206 and 1208. It should be understood that in alternative viewpoints, additional elements may be included. In addition, it should be understood that in an alternative illustrative perspective, one or more of the listed elements of the multi-frame manufacturing apparatus 1200 may be omitted. In addition, the multi-frame manufacturing device 1200 is for illustration It is depicted for sexual purposes and may have alternative configurations, shapes, sizes, and configurations.

Each of the first frame 1202 and the second frame 1204 are discrete from each other, and are arranged to temporarily fasten the discrete parts of the non-rigid material and move the parts of the non-rigid material through multiple sequences positioned in a conveyor belt or assembly line configuration Configured processing station. The first frame 1202 includes a first pair of side walls 1210, 1212 positioned opposite to each other and a second pair of side walls 1214, 1216 positioned opposite to each other and perpendicular to the first pair of side walls 1210, 1212, thereby forming a substantially rectangular structure. The side walls 1210, 1212, 1214, and 1216 may be formed by one or more wall portions that collectively form a substantially rectangular peripheral side wall surrounding a central void (not shown). The central void (not shown in the figure) provides a material processing area that is not interfered by the first frame 1202.

In an exemplary point of view, each of the side walls 1210, 1212, 1214, 1216 may be discrete wall portions having end portions cut at any other angle that permits attachment to each other, thereby forming a rectangular structure. The mechanism used to fasten the wall parts together can include various screws or other fastening mechanisms known to those skilled in the art. It will be understood that the rectangular peripheral side walls jointly formed by the first pair of side walls 1210, 1212 and the second pair of side walls 1214, 1216 may be formed as a continuous structure, or formed by any number of wall portions. Furthermore, within the point of view here, any mechanism for fastening the wall parts to each other can be utilized. The formation of the first frame 1202 and/or the mechanism for fastening the wall portion including the first frame 1202 is not intended to limit the viewpoint herein in any way. Still further, it should be understood that from the point of view here, a frame having a structure other than a substantially rectangular structure may be utilized. Any and all such changes and any combination are expected to be within the scope of the views herein.

Similar to the first frame 1202, the second frame 1204 includes a first pair of side walls 1220, 1222 positioned opposite to each other and positioned opposite to each other and perpendicular to the first pair of side walls. The second pair of side walls 1224 and 1226 of the side walls 1220 and 1222 form a substantially rectangular structure. The side walls 1220, 1222, 1224, 1226 may be formed by one or more wall portions that collectively form a substantially rectangular peripheral side wall surrounding a central void (not shown) that provides uninterrupted by the second frame 1204 Processing area. When multiple wall portions are assembled to form a substantially rectangular peripheral side wall, the wall portions may include attachment surfaces that abut each other at any desired angle to allow the wall portions to be combined to form a rectangular structure. The mechanism used to fasten the wall parts together can include various screws or other fastening mechanisms known to those skilled in the art. It will be understood and appreciated that the rectangular peripheral side walls jointly formed by the first pair of side walls 1220, 1222 and the second pair of side walls 1224, 1226 may be formed as a continuous structure, or formed by any number of wall portions. Furthermore, within the point of view here, any mechanism for fastening the wall parts to each other can be utilized. The formation of the second frame 1204 and/or the mechanism for fastening the wall portion including the second frame 1204 is not intended to limit the viewpoint herein in any way. Still further, it should be understood that from the point of view here, a frame having a structure other than a substantially rectangular structure may be utilized. Any and all such changes and any combination are expected to be within the scope of the views herein.

Although the multi-frame manufacturing apparatus 1200 of FIG. 12 includes two frames (first and second frames) 1202, 1204, the point of view here covers any number of frames. For example, the viewpoints here are equally applicable to a multi-frame manufacturing device with three frames, four frames, five frames, and so on. The number of frames that always include the multi-frame manufacturing device as described is not intended to limit the scope of the ideas here.

As previously explained, each of the first frame 1202 and the second frame 1204 is configured to move a certain amount of non-rigid material through multiple sequential processing stations positioned in a conveyor belt or assembly line type configuration. Therefore, the first frame 1202 includes a first moving mechanism 1230 coupled therewith, and the second frame 1204 includes a The second moving mechanism 1232. Each of the first moving mechanism 1230 and the second moving mechanism 1232 permits, for example, a substantially horizontal forward and backward between the paired first and second parallel side rails 1206, 1208 in its longitudinal direction 1268 mobile. Each of the first moving mechanism 1230 and the second moving mechanism 1232 further permits the first frame 1202 and the second frame 1204 to move upward and downward in the latitudinal direction 1270 of the first and second parallel side rails 1206 and 1208, respectively. The bottom moves essentially vertically.

The first moving mechanism 1230 is coupled to each of the first pair of opposed side walls 1210, 1212 and the opposed first and second parallel side rails 1206, 1208 of the first frame 1202 and is arranged to be movably connected to the first The first and second parallel side rails 1206 and 1208 cooperate. In various viewpoints, the first moving mechanism 1230 may include one or more moving actuation devices (for example, linear actuators, motors, or the like) that cooperate with the first and second parallel side rails 1206, 1208 to The first frame 1202 is propelled substantially horizontally in the forward and backward directions and substantially vertically in the upward and downward directions. The second moving mechanism 1232 is coupled to each of the first pair of opposed side walls 1220, 1222 and the opposed first and second parallel side rails 1206, 1208 of the second frame 1204 and is also arranged to movably and The first and second parallel side rails 1206 and 1208 cooperate. In various points of view, the second moving mechanism 1232 may include one or more moving actuation devices (for example, linear actuators, motors, or the like) that cooperate with the first and second parallel side rails 1206, 1208 to The second frame 1204 is propelled substantially horizontally in the forward and backward directions and substantially vertically in the upward and downward directions. The illustrated configuration allows the second frame 1204 to pass vertically above the first frame 1202 as the two frames move in opposite horizontal directions and/or allows the first frame 1202 to pass vertically above the second frame 1204 so that When the first moving mechanism 1230 and the second moving mechanism 1232 are activated, the relative positions of the two frames with respect to the multi-frame manufacturing apparatus 1200 are switched.

In various viewpoints, the actuation of the first moving mechanism 1230 and the second moving mechanism 1232 can cause the first frame 1202 and the second frame 1204 to switch positions relative to the processing tables arranged in sequence. Those skilled in the art will understand that the clamping mechanism as described with respect to the viewpoints illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 11 is included in the multi-frame manufacturing apparatus 1200 of FIG. 12 and functions as previously explained.

As can be seen, the point of view here pertains to a multi-frame manufacturing device for manufacturing articles formed of non-rigid materials (for example, insoles). The viewpoint here is more about the method of manufacturing an article (for example, an insole) using a multi-frame manufacturing device. A multi-frame manufacturing device having a structure as described herein allows for the interchangeability of the positions of many manufacturing frames, so that the processing of one or more items can be performed while the material of another item is being loaded on the device. A multi-frame manufacturing device with a structure as described herein more permits the processing of parts of non-rigid materials separated from larger material stocks, which are kept in a non-tensioned state during processing, and correspondingly reduced deformation caused by Waste caused by unusable items.

Although the multi-frame manufacturing device and the method of using the multi-frame manufacturing device to manufacture articles formed of non-rigid materials are described above with reference to specific viewpoints, it should be understood that without departing from the scope of the expected protection provided by the following patent applications Under circumstances, modifications and changes can be made. It should be understood that certain features and sub-combinations have utility and can be used without reference to other features and sub-combinations. This situation is expected from the scope of the patent application and is within the scope of the patent application.

Although specific elements and steps are discussed with respect to each other, it should be understood that regardless of whether any other elements and/or steps are explicitly deployed, any elements and/or steps provided herein can be combined with any other elements and/or steps, and at the same time Still within the scope provided in this article. Because it can be carried out without departing from the scope of this disclosure There are many possible viewpoints in this disclosure, so it should be understood that all substances described in this article or shown in the accompanying drawings should be interpreted as illustrative and not in a restrictive sense.

As used herein and in conjunction with the scope of patent applications listed below, the term "any of claims" or similar variations of the term is intended to be interpreted so that the features of the scope of patent applications can be Combine any combination. For example, item 4 of the exemplary scope of patent application may indicate the method/device described in any one of items 1 to 3 of the scope of patent application, which is intended to be interpreted so as And the features described in item 4 can be combined, such as the elements described in items 2 and 4 of the scope of patent application can be combined, and the elements described in items 3 and 4 of the scope of patent application can be combined. The components described in items 1, 2, and 4 of the scope of patent application can be combined, and the components described in items 2, 3, and 4 of the scope of patent application can be combined, as in the scope of patent application. The elements described in item 1, item 2, item 3, and item 4 can be combined and/or other variations. In addition, the term "any of claims" or similar variations of the term is intended to include "any one of claims" or other variations of this term. As indicated by some of the examples provided above.

100: Multi-frame manufacturing device

102: The first frame

104: second frame

106: The first parallel side rail

108: second parallel side rail

110, 112, 114, 116, 120, 122, 124, 126: sidewall

118, 128: Center gap

130: The first mobile agency

132: The second moving mechanism

138, 142: first clamping mechanism

140, 144: second clamping mechanism

I-I, II-II, III, IV: line

Claims (20)

A manufacturing tool comprising: a first rectangular frame having at least one peripheral side wall surrounding a first central gap; a second rectangular frame having at least one peripheral side wall surrounding a second central gap; a first moving mechanism, the The two opposite sides of the first rectangular frame include the first moving mechanism, and the first moving mechanism is continuously fixed on the two opposite sides of the first rectangular frame, and the The first movement mechanism permits at least one of horizontal movement and vertical movement between the first parallel side rail and the second parallel side rail; and a second movement mechanism, wherein two opposite sides of the second rectangular frame include The second moving mechanism, the second moving mechanism is continuously fixed on the two opposite sides of the second rectangular frame, and the second moving mechanism allows the first parallel side rail to be connected to the At least one of horizontal movement and vertical movement between the second parallel side rails; wherein the two opposite sides of each of the first rectangular frame and the second rectangular frame include A clamping mechanism for temporarily clamping non-rigid materials; and wherein each of the first parallel side rail and the second parallel side rail includes a first rail and a second rail, wherein the first rectangular frame The first moving mechanism is coupled with the first track, and wherein the second moving mechanism of the second rectangular frame is coupled with the second track. The manufacturing tool described in item 1 of the scope of patent application, wherein the clamping mechanism is a clamping machine having an open material receiving position and a closed material clamping position Structure. The manufacturing tool according to any one of items 1 to 2 of the scope of the patent application, wherein the non-rigid material includes a stretching direction and a non-stretching direction, and wherein the clamping mechanism is along the stretching Directionally clamp the non-rigid material. The manufacturing tool according to claim 1, wherein the first moving mechanism of the first rectangular frame is coupled with the first rail to permit horizontal movement, and wherein the second rectangular frame is The second moving mechanism is coupled with the second track to permit horizontal movement and vertical movement. The manufacturing tool described in item 4 of the scope of patent application further includes at least one linear actuator that causes the horizontal movement of the first rectangular frame and the second rectangular frame. The manufacturing tool described in item 5 of the scope of patent application further includes at least one piston that causes the vertical movement of the second rectangular frame. The manufacturing tool according to claim 6, wherein the at least one linear actuator and the at least one piston cooperate with each other to permit the first rectangular frame and the second rectangular frame to switch positions. The manufacturing tool described in claim 1 further includes a material loading mechanism for loading the non-rigid material on one of the first rectangular frame and the second rectangular frame. A manufacturing tool includes: a first frame having a first pair of side walls positioned opposite to each other and a second pair of side walls positioned opposite to each other and perpendicular to the first pair of side walls, so that the first pair of side walls and The second pair of side walls form a first rectangular structure, and each side wall of the first pair of side walls of the first frame includes a first moving mechanism, and the first moving mechanism continuously Fixed on the first pair of side walls of the first frame; a second frame having a first pair of side walls positioned opposite to each other and a second pair of side walls positioned opposite to each other and perpendicular to the first pair of side walls , So that the first pair of side walls and the second pair of side walls form a second rectangular structure, each side wall of the first pair of side walls of the second frame includes a second moving mechanism, and the second moving mechanism continues Ground fixed to the first pair of side walls of the second frame; and a first parallel side rail and a second parallel side rail, each of the first parallel side rail and the second parallel side rail Comprising a first rail and a second rail, the first moving mechanism is coupled to the first rail of each of the first parallel side rail and the second parallel side rail, the second moving The mechanism is coupled to the second rail of each of the first parallel side rail and the second parallel side rail, and the first parallel side rail and the second parallel side rail are sufficient to enable The first frame and the second frame are movably positioned at a distance between the first parallel side rail and the second parallel side rail; wherein the first frame and the second frame Movably positioned between the first parallel side rail and the second parallel side rail to permit substantially horizontal movement forward and backward, wherein at least one of the first frame and the second frame One is movably positioned between the first parallel side rail and the second parallel side rail to permit substantially vertical movement upward and downward, and wherein the first pair of the first frame Each side wall of the side wall and each side wall of the first pair of side walls of the second frame includes a clamping mechanism for temporarily clamping a non-rigid material. As the manufacturing tool described in item 9 of the scope of patent application, the item The clamping mechanism of each of the first pair of side walls of a frame and the first pair of side walls of the second frame is a clamp having an open material receiving position and a closed material clamping position mechanism. The manufacturing tool according to any one of claims 9 to 10, wherein the non-rigid material includes a stretching direction and a non-stretching direction, and wherein the clamping mechanism is along the stretching Directionally clamp the non-rigid material. The manufacturing tool according to claim 9, wherein the first moving mechanism is coupled to the first rail of each of the first parallel side rail and the second parallel side rail, To permit horizontal movement, and wherein the second moving mechanism is coupled to the second track of each of the first parallel side rail and the second parallel side rail to permit horizontal movement and vertical movement . The manufacturing tool described in item 9 of the scope of patent application further includes at least one linear actuator that causes the first frame and the second frame to move substantially horizontally. The manufacturing tool described in item 13 of the scope of the patent application further includes at least one piston that causes the at least one of the first frame and the second frame to move substantially vertically. The manufacturing tool according to claim 14, wherein the at least one linear actuator and the at least one piston cooperate with each other to permit the first frame and the second frame to switch positions. The manufacturing tool described in item 9 of the scope of the patent application further includes a material loading mechanism for loading the non-rigid material on one of the first frame and the second frame. A manufacturing method using a multi-frame manufacturing device, which includes: Load the non-rigid material on the first rectangular frame at the loading platform. The first rectangular frame has opposite sides each including a clamping mechanism and a first moving mechanism, and the first moving mechanism is continuously fixed on On the opposite sides of the first rectangular frame; causing the clamping mechanism to temporarily clamp the non-rigid material to the first rectangular frame; causing the first moving mechanism to cause the first A rectangular frame moves substantially horizontally in a first direction, wherein the first moving mechanism includes at least one linear actuator that causes the horizontal movement of the first rectangular frame, and simultaneously causes it to be continuously fixed at The second moving mechanism on the opposite side of the second rectangular frame moves substantially horizontally and substantially vertically in the opposite direction, so that the second rectangular frame and the first rectangular frame change positions, wherein The second movement mechanism includes at least one linear actuator that causes the horizontal movement of the second rectangular frame. The manufacturing method using a multi-frame manufacturing device as described in the scope of patent application, wherein the clamping mechanism is a clamping mechanism having an open material receiving position and a closed material clamping position. The manufacturing method using a multi-frame manufacturing device as described in any one of the scope of patent application items 17 to 18, wherein the non-rigid material includes a stretching direction and a non-stretching direction, and wherein the clamping mechanism The non-rigid material is clamped along the stretching direction. The manufacturing method using a multi-frame manufacturing device as described in the scope of patent application, wherein the second moving mechanism further includes at least one piston that causes the vertical movement of the second rectangular frame.

Images