TWM550227U - Manufacturing tool - 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

[Cross-Reference to Related Applications]

Not applicable.

The views herein relate to a multi-frame manufacturing apparatus for manufacturing articles. The opinions are more related to a method of manufacturing an article using a multi-frame manufacturing apparatus.

Non-rigid materials can be fed from material stocks containing large rolls or continuous webs to assembly line or conveyor belt type manufacturing systems or machines. The processing of such large fragment materials can be cumbersome. This is especially true when the non-rigid material is stretchable in at least one direction when placed under tension. Attempting to treat a non-rigid material in a tensioned state that causes the material to stretch can result in an article that is erroneous or deformed and therefore unavailable.

The present paper is directed to a multi-frame manufacturing apparatus for making articles (eg, garments, sock liners, and the like) from non-rigid materials. Place The multi-frame manufacturing apparatus includes a plurality of discrete frames. Each frame contains a moving mechanism that enables the frame to move between successively configured processing stations in an assembly line or conveyor belt type manufacturing system. Each moving mechanism permits a substantially horizontal movement forward and backward. The moving mechanism of at least one of the plurality of frames additionally permits substantially vertical movement up and down. Actuation, synchronization or non-synchronization of the moving mechanism of at least two of the plurality of frames may permit the frame to switch its relative position 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 the 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 (ie, tensioned but not stretched so that the material does not substantially deform in any direction), the clamping mechanism is closed to close the material clamp The position is such that the clamping mechanism temporarily secures the non-rigid material to the frame in place for processing. If the material stock (from which the material is loaded onto the frame) is more than the amount that needs to be handled as a single processing unit, the clamping portion of the material can be cut or otherwise separated from the bulk of the material such that the clamping portion can Processed in a more manageable manner.

The point herein is more related to a method of manufacturing an article using a multi-frame manufacturing apparatus included in a manufacturing system having a plurality of sequentially arranged processing stations in an assembly line or conveyor belt type configuration. The non-rigid material is loaded onto the first of the plurality of frames in a non-tensioned state. The first frame includes at least one clamping mechanism that is actuated once the material is in position on the first frame such that the clamping mechanism is closed and temporarily non-rigid material It is held on the frame in place for processing. Fastened to the first frame The material is under tension, but is not stretched to cause distortion of the material. A moving mechanism coupled to the first frame causes the frame to move at least substantially horizontally in a first direction along with the material in position. Synchronously or asynchronously causing the second moving mechanism associated with the second frame to move substantially horizontally in the opposite direction and move substantially vertically, thereby causing the first frame and the second frame to switch between them Individual locations in the plurality of processing stations.

This [invention] is provided to introduce a conceptual selection, which is further described below in [Embodiment], in a simplified form. This Summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, and the summary is not intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.

100, 600, 1200‧‧‧ multi-frame manufacturing equipment

102, 152, 1202‧‧‧ 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‧‧‧ side walls

120, 122, 124, 126, 1220, 1222, 1224, 1226‧‧‧ side walls

118, 128‧‧‧ center gap

130, 1230‧‧‧ First mobile agency

132, 1232‧‧‧ second mobile agency

131,133‧‧‧Mobile actuated devices

134‧‧‧First track

135‧‧‧Piston

136‧‧‧second track

138, 142, 156, 164‧‧‧ first clamping mechanism

140, 144, 158, 166‧‧‧ second clamping mechanism

146‧‧‧Material loading mechanism

148‧‧‧material roll

150‧‧‧Loading frame

154‧‧‧Material loading platform

162‧‧‧Materials

168, 1268‧‧‧ longitudinal direction

170, 1270‧‧‧ latitude direction

I-I, II-II, III, IV‧‧‧ lines

The illustrative views herein are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings, which are incorporated herein by reference, and wherein: FIG. 1 depict an exemplary multi-frame manufacturing apparatus in accordance with the exemplary aspects herein.

2 depicts a cross-sectional view of the multi-frame manufacturing apparatus of FIG. 1 taken along line I-I of FIG. 1 in accordance with an exemplary aspect herein.

3 depicts a view of a region circled by line III in FIG. 1 in accordance with an exemplary aspect herein.

4 depicts a view of a region circled by line IV in FIG. 1 in accordance with an exemplary aspect herein.

Figure 5 depicts a cross-sectional view of the second moving mechanism of Figure 1 taken along line II-II of Figure 1 in accordance with an exemplary aspect herein.

6 depicts an exemplary multi-frame manufacturing apparatus with an exemplary view herein, There are loading agencies that work with them.

7 through 11 are cross-sectional views depicting sequential movement and site switching of two frames in accordance with a first frame switching mechanism in accordance with an exemplary aspect herein.

Figure 12 depicts an exemplary multi-frame manufacturing apparatus having a second frame switching mechanism in accordance with additional aspects herein.

The subject matter herein is specifically described to comply with statutory requirements. However, the description itself is not intended to limit the scope of the patent. Rather, the inventors have contemplated that the claimed subject matter can be embodied in other ways to include different elements or combinations of elements in the elements or combinations of elements described in this document, as well as other present or future technologies.

The views herein encompass multi-frame manufacturing devices (eg, manufacturing devices having at least two discrete processing frames) for making articles (eg, insoles) from non-rigid materials. The multi-frame manufacturing apparatus provides discrete portions of a large amount of material stock that are disposed in a manageable manner in a non-tensioned state (ie, tensioned but unstretched such that the material does not substantially deform in any direction). For example, in an exemplary aspect, a multi-frame manufacturing apparatus temporarily secures discrete portions of non-rigid material to a frame for processing. In the broad view, the non-rigid material is the maximum relative ability along the direction of stretching (ie, the state in which the non-rigid material has a self-relaxing state in which it is stretched or deformed to a tensioned but unstretched state) Fasten to the frame. In this way, the waste caused by the manufacture of deformation or otherwise odd-shaped items is reduced because the non-rigid material is fastened in its untensioned state during processing to prevent this deformation of the material. In addition, discrete non-rigid material sections can be managed more continuously than from a large number of material preparations. Disposal.

The point herein relates to a multi-frame manufacturing apparatus for making an article (eg, an insole, garment, or garment portion) from a non-rigid material. Non-rigid materials may include, by way of illustration and not limitation, knit materials, woven materials, mesh materials, non-woven materials, leather materials, foam materials, and the like. By way of example only, non-rigid materials utilized in the manufacture of articles are often fed from material stocks (eg, roll or web of material) having a large amount of material. Material from the material stock can be fed into the manufacturing system at a suitable processing station of a plurality of processing stations that are sequentially disposed in the assembly line. A non-rigid material typically includes a direction (referred to herein as a "stretching direction") along which the material has its relaxed state when the material is under tension or strain (eg, stretched state). The maximum relative ability to stretch or deform to a tensioned but unstretched state. This tension can cause the non-rigid material to deform during processing, resulting in a deformed or odd shaped article. Thus, in an exemplary aspect, it may be desirable to maintain the non-rigid material in a non-tensioned state during processing (ie, tighten but not stretched so that the material is not substantially distorted in any direction) to reduce Waste caused by the production of parts or parts that are deformed and therefore unavailable.

As will always be discussed, it is contemplated that a multi-frame manufacturing apparatus according to the teachings herein can include at least two discrete frames for receiving non-rigid materials and for moving non-rigid materials through positioning in a conveyor belt or assembly line configuration. A processing station that is configured in sequence. In an exemplary aspect, the frame can be substantially rectangular and movably positioned between a pair of side rails. As used herein, it is contemplated that "substantially rectangular" refers to a frame having a first pair of sidewalls positioned opposite one another and a second pair of sidewalls positioned opposite each other and perpendicular to the first pair of sidewalls. The sidewalls may be formed from one or more wall portions that collectively form a substantially rectangular perimeter sidewall around the central void. When multiple walls Where the portions are assembled to form a substantially rectangular perimeter sidewall, the views herein encompass that the wall portions that need to be attached to each other may have been cut at an end portion to an angle of about forty-five degrees (45°) to allow the The wall portions are mitered to form a rectangular structure. It will be appreciated that an angle slightly offset from 45° is contemplated and is intended to be within the scope of this concept. Other views herein encompass that wall portions having contiguous attachment surfaces are joined relative to one another at about ninety (90[deg.]) or any other angle that permits attachment to form a rectangular structure. Any and all such variations and any combinations thereof are contemplated as being within the scope of the teachings herein. The mechanism for the fastening wall portion can 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, permitting movement of the side rails between opposite directions. In various aspects, the pair of side rails can be positioned parallel to each other and spaced apart from one another by a distance sufficient to permit functional reception of the frame. As used herein, "substantially horizontally moving" refers to a horizontal movement in the longitudinal direction of the side rails, which may or may not include a vertical movement that is less than a horizontal movement. Substantially horizontal movement results in a discernable horizontal progression forward or backward, and may include, but does not necessarily include, coexistence of discernible vertical travel. The moving mechanism of at least one of the two frames additionally permits substantially vertical movement up and down. As used herein, "upward" and "downward" refer to the relative movement in the latitudinal direction of the side rails, permitting movement of the side rails between opposite directions. As used herein, "substantially vertically moving" refers to a vertical movement in the latitudinal direction of a side rail, which may or may not include a horizontal movement that is less than a vertical movement. Substantially vertical movement results in discernable vertical travel up or down, and may include (but does not necessarily include) discernible horizontal travel of coexistence. In the views, in two frameworks Each of the moving mechanisms permits both a substantially horizontal movement and a substantially vertical movement.

The views herein encompass that actuation of the moving mechanisms of the two frames of the multi-frame manufacturing device may permit the two frames to be in a position to switch to each other relative to the conveyor belt or assembly line processing station. By way of illustration and not limitation, the processing station can include a table for cutting, pressing, molding, adhering, and the like. For example only, if the first of the two frames is in the first processing station and the second of the two frames is in the second processing station, the first and second processing stations are sequentially arranged relative to each other, then Actuation of the moving mechanisms of the frames may permit the first frame to advance to the second processing station (via substantially horizontal movement or substantially horizontal and substantially vertical movement) and permit the second frame to advance to the first processing station (again , via substantially horizontal movement or substantially vertical and substantially horizontal movement). As will be understood and appreciated by those skilled in the art, when two frames "switching positions" are set forth herein, it is contemplated that the two frames do not necessarily switch to exactly the same position, but the two frames change their relative positions during the manufacturing process. For example, if the first frame is at a processing station that is later in the manufacturing process than the second frame in sequence, then after switching, the second frame is 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 exemplary aspect, the switching of the frame of the manufacturing process relative to the processing station permits processing of the material associated with one frame while loading the material onto another frame. This increases manufacturing speed and efficiency because the process does not stop when new materials are loaded into the processing system.

In various aspects, each frame may include one or more clamping mechanisms configured to temporarily hold the non-rigid material in a non-tensioned state (ie, the material is tensioned but not stretched such that the material is in any direction It is fastened to the frame for processing without being substantially distorted. If the frame is a substantially rectangular frame, then the point here A clamping mechanism is coupled to each of the two opposing side walls of the frame (eg, pivotally coupled to each of the two opposing side walls of the frame). 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 frame, 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, the clamping mechanism can be closed into a closed material clamping position such that the tightening mechanism temporarily secures the non-rigid material to the frame in place for the non-rigid material deal with. In various aspects, the clamping mechanism clamps the non-rigid material along the direction of the stretch (ie, the direction in which the non-rigid material has the greatest relative ability to stretch or deform from its relaxed, tensioned, but unstretched state. ). If the material preparation (from which the material is loaded onto the frame) is greater than the amount of material to be treated on the frame, the clamping portion of the material can be cut or otherwise separated from the bulk of the material so that it can be carried out in an increasingly manageable manner. deal with.

As will always be discussed, it is contemplated that the ideas provided herein also relate to methods of fabricating articles (or portions thereof) formed from non-rigid materials using multi-frame manufacturing devices. By way of illustration and not limitation, the article may include a garment, a garment, an insole, other portions of footwear, and the like. In an exemplary aspect, a quantity of non-rigid material is loaded from the material stock onto the first frame using a material loading mechanism. The non-rigid material is loaded onto the first frame at the loading station, the loading station being one of a plurality of processing stations configured in a conveyor or assembly line configuration. The views herein encompass that the first frame can be substantially rectangular and movably positioned between a pair of parallel side rails.

In various aspects, the first frame can include one or more clamping mechanisms configured to temporarily secure the non-rigid material to the first frame for processing in a non-tensioned condition (ie, the material is tensioned rather than pulled Stretched material state). When the first frame is substantially rectangular, the views herein encompass a clamping machine coupled to each of the two opposing side walls The two opposite side walls 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 can be in an open material receiving position. Once the material is in the desired manufacturing position and in a non-tensioned condition, the clamping mechanism can be closed into a closed material clamping position to temporarily secure the non-rigid material to the first frame for processing. In various aspects, the non-rigid material is clamped along the direction of stretching (ie, the direction of maximum relative ability to stretch or deform). If the material stock (from which it is loaded onto the frame) is more than the amount that needs to be treated as a single processing unit, the clamped portion of the material can be cut or otherwise separated from the bulk of the material.

The first frame can include at least one moving mechanism coupled thereto that permits forward and rearward substantially horizontal movement between the pair of parallel side rails. In various views, the parallel side rails are spaced apart from one another by a distance sufficient to permit movement of the first frame between the parallel side rails. In various aspects, the moving mechanism can be actuated to cause the first frame having the material in place to move substantially horizontally in the first direction, while simultaneously or asynchronously, also causing association with the second frame a second moving mechanism (which is also substantially rectangular and movably positioned between the pair of parallel side rails according to the point herein) moves substantially horizontally in the opposite direction and moves substantially vertically, thereby The first frame and the second frame are caused to switch positions. In an additional aspect, the moving mechanism can be actuated such that the first frame of material having the appropriate position moves substantially horizontally in the first direction and moves substantially vertically, while simultaneously or asynchronously a second moving mechanism associated with the second substantially rectangular frame (movably positioned between the pair of parallel side rails according to the views herein) moves substantially horizontally in a direction opposite the first direction And move vertically vertically Moving so that the first frame and the second frame cooperate to switch their relative positions. It will be understood and appreciated by those skilled in the art that when the first and second frames have changed their relative positions during the manufacturing process, the first frame and the second frame have been switched in accordance with the views herein.

In various aspects, one or more of the moving mechanism of the first frame, the moving mechanism of the second frame, and the clamping mechanism can be manually actuated. In various aspects, one or more of the moving mechanism and the clamping mechanism can be actuated by cooperation with a computing device (not shown) that functionally and/or logically interacts with the multi-frame manufacturing device At least one of the processing station and the frame is coupled. Any and all such variations and any combinations thereof are contemplated as being within the scope of the teachings herein.

Referring now to Figure 1, an exemplary multi-frame manufacturing apparatus 100 is depicted in accordance with the teachings herein. The multi-frame manufacturing apparatus 100 includes a first frame 102, a second frame 104, and first and second parallel side rails 106 and 108. It should be understood that additional elements may be included in alternative perspectives. Moreover, it should be understood that one or more of the listed elements of multi-frame manufacturing apparatus 100 may be omitted in alternative exemplary aspects. Moreover, multi-frame manufacturing device 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 provided to temporarily secure discrete portions of the non-rigid material and to move this portion of the non-rigid material through the conveyor belt Or multiple sequential configuration processing stations that are positioned in an assembly line configuration. The first frame 102 includes a first pair of sidewalls 110, 112 that are positioned opposite each other and a second pair of sidewalls 114, 116 that are positioned opposite each other and perpendicular to the first pair of sidewalls 110, 112 to form a substantially rectangular configuration. The sidewalls 110, 112, 114, 116 may be formed substantially in a substantially rectangular shape surrounding the central void 118 One or more wall portions of the perimeter sidewall are formed. The central void 118 provides a material processing zone that is unaffected by the first frame 102. In an exemplary aspect, each of the side walls 110, 112, 114, 116 can be a discrete wall portion that is cut at an angle of about 45[deg.] in one configuration to permit the wall portion to be mitered to form the first frame. A substantially rectangular perimeter sidewall structure of 102. In an exemplary aspect, each of the sidewalls 110, 112, 114, 116 can be a discrete wall portion having attachment surfaces that abut each other at about 90° or any other angle that permits attachment to each other to form a rectangular structure. Any and all such variations and any combinations thereof are contemplated as being within the scope of the teachings herein.

The mechanism for fastening the wall portions together may include various screws or other fastening mechanisms generally known to those skilled in the art. It will be appreciated that the rectangular perimeter sidewalls formed collectively by the first pair of sidewalls 110, 112 and the second pair of sidewalls 114, 116 can be formed as a continuous structure or from any number of wall portions. Moreover, within the point of view herein, any mechanism for fastening the wall portions 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 views herein in any way. Still further, it should be understood that a frame having a substantially rectangular configuration may be utilized in accordance with the teachings herein. Any and all such variations and any combinations thereof are contemplated as being within the scope of the teachings herein.

Similar to the first frame 102, the second frame 104 includes a first pair of sidewalls 120, 122 positioned opposite each other and a second pair of sidewalls 124, 126 positioned opposite each other and perpendicular to the first pair of sidewalls 120, 122 to form A substantially rectangular structure. The sidewalls 120, 122, 124, 126 may be formed by one or more wall portions that collectively form a substantially rectangular perimeter sidewall that surrounds the central void 128, the central void providing a processing zone that is undisturbed by the second frame 104. When a plurality of wall portions are assembled to form a substantially rectangular peripheral side wall, the wall portion may comprise 45°, 90° or any other The attachment surfaces are to be angled to each other to allow the wall portions to combine to form a rectangular structure. The mechanism for fastening the wall portions together may include various screws or other fastening mechanisms generally known to those skilled in the art. It will be understood and appreciated that the rectangular perimeter sidewalls formed collectively by the first pair of sidewalls 120, 122 and the second pair of sidewalls 124, 126 may be formed as a continuous structure or from any number of wall portions. Moreover, within the point of view herein, any mechanism for fastening the wall portions 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 views herein in any way. Still further, it should be understood that a frame having a substantially rectangular configuration may be utilized in accordance with the teachings herein. Any and all such variations and any combinations thereof are contemplated as being within the scope of the teachings herein.

Although the multi-frame manufacturing apparatus 100 of FIG. 1 includes two frames (first, second frames) 102, 104, the views herein encompass any number of frames. For example, the views herein are equally applicable to a multi-frame manufacturing apparatus having three frames, four frames, five frames, and the like. The number of frames that always include the multi-frame manufacturing device as described is not intended to limit the scope of the views herein.

As previously explained, each of the first frame 102 and the second frame 104 are configured to move a quantity of non-rigid material through a plurality of sequentially configured processing stations positioned in a conveyor belt or assembly line configuration. Thus, the first frame 102 includes a first moving mechanism 130 coupled thereto, and the second frame 104 includes a second moving mechanism 132 coupled thereto. Each of the first moving mechanism 130 and the second moving mechanism 132 is permitted between the pair of first parallel side rails 106, second parallel side rails 108 (eg, in its longitudinal direction 168 (see Figure 6)) The forward and backward movements are substantially horizontal. The second moving mechanism 132 further permits the second frame 104 to be upward, for example, in the latitudinal direction 170 (see FIG. 6) of the first parallel side rail 106, the second parallel side rail 108 (see FIG. 6). The downward vertical movement is substantially vertical. As described more fully below, Figure 12 illustrates the point herein in which both the first moving mechanism and the second moving mechanism permit substantially horizontal movement and substantially vertical movement.

Turning now to FIG. 2, a cross-sectional view of the multi-frame manufacturing apparatus 100 of FIG. 1 is illustrated, taken along line I-I of FIG. As illustrated, the first parallel side rail 106 includes a first track 134 and a second track 136. The first track 134 is vertically positioned below the second track 136 in its latitudinal direction 170 (see Figure 6). It will be understood by those skilled in the art that, although only shown with respect to the first parallel side rails 106, the second parallel side rails 108 include the first rails 134 and the second rails as illustrated with respect to the first parallel side rails 106. 136 similar and opposed structure.

A first movement mechanism 130 (see FIGS. 1 and 3) is coupled to each of the first pair of opposing sidewalls 110, 112 of the first frame 102 and is configured to movably cooperate with the first rail 134. In various aspects, the first moving mechanism 130 can include a mobile actuating device 131 (eg, a linear actuator, motor, or the like) that cooperates with the first track 134 to be substantially horizontal in the forward and rearward directions. The first frame 102 is advanced. A second moving mechanism 132 (see FIGS. 1, 2, and 4) is coupled to each of the first pair of opposing sidewalls 120, 122 of the second frame 104 and disposed to movably and the second rail 136 Cooperation. Referring to Figure 5, a cross-sectional view showing the second moving mechanism 132 cooperating with the second track 136 of the first parallel side rail 106 is depicted, taken along line II-II of Figure 1. In various aspects, the second moving mechanism 132 can include a mobile actuating device 133 (eg, a linear actuator, motor, or the like) that cooperates with the second track 136 to be substantially horizontal in the forward and rearward directions. The second frame 104 is advanced. In the exemplary view herein, the second moving mechanism 132 can also include at least one piston 135 that cooperates with the second frame 104 in the upward and downward directions. The second frame 104 is advanced substantially vertically. As described more fully below, the illustrative configuration permits the second frame 104 to pass vertically above the first frame 102 as the two frames move in opposite horizontal directions such 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 Figure 2, a cross section of the multi-frame manufacturing apparatus 100 of Figure 1 is illustrated, taken along line I-I thereof. The first parallel side rail 106 includes a first track 134 and a second track 136 that are vertically positioned below the second track 136. The first moving mechanism 130 (see FIGS. 1 and 3) is coupled to the opposite sidewall 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 opposing sidewall 120 of the second frame 104 and is configured to movably cooperate with the second rail 136.

In various aspects, actuation of the first moving mechanism 130 and the second moving mechanism 132 may cause the first frame 102 and the second frame 104 to switch positions relative to each other to the sequentially disposed processing stations. An illustrative procedure in which this positional switching can occur is illustrated with reference to Figures 7-10. Referring to Figure 7, the first frame is illustrated as having moved substantially horizontally in a first direction, visible relative to a discernable level of position of the first frame 102 in Figure 2 . Referring to Figure 8, the second frame 104 is illustrated as having moved substantially vertically in the upward direction. Referring to Figure 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 a downward direction such that the first frame 102 and the second frame 104 have been switched in the sequential configuration of the processing station. Relative location.

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 secure the respective first frame 102, second frame 104 in a non-tensioned state. Non-rigid materials in the process for processing. As illustrated, the first frame 102 includes first and second clamping mechanisms 138, 140, a first pair of sidewalls 110, 112 opposite the frame (adjacent to the first parallel side rail 106 and the second parallel side rail 108) The sidewalls 110, 112) are coupled. Similarly, the second frame 104 includes first and second clamping mechanisms 142, 144 coupled to opposing first pair of side walls 120, 122 of the frame. In various aspects, the first clamping mechanism 138, the second clamping mechanism 140, the first clamping mechanism 142, and the second clamping mechanism 144 can be pivotally coupled to the frame (eg, relative to the first clamping of 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 a clamping mechanism (as shown) and include an 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 an open material receiving position (when the second parallel side rail 108 largely masks the field of view of the second clamping mechanism 140, in the first clip) The tight mechanism 138 is best seen). In the open material receiving position, the first and second clamping mechanisms 138, 140 are in a released state and do not substantially obscure the top surface of the first frame 102. In this manner, the first frame 102 can freely receive non-rigid material over the central void 118 and around the perimeter sidewall formed by the first pair of sidewalls 110, 112 and the second pair of sidewalls 114, 116, as described more fully below Description. The first clamping mechanism 138 of the first frame 102 (in its open material receiving position) is additionally shown in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 2 and the view of FIG.

Once the desired material is in place and above the desired frame In the tensioned state (i.e., in a state where the material is tensioned but not stretched), the clamping mechanism can be closed or clamped to temporarily secure the non-rigid material to the proper position and prevent malformation 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 actuated state and temporarily hold the non-rigid material over the central void 128 and are retained to the first pair of sidewalls of the second frame 104. The top surface of 120, 122 until 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.

The exemplary point herein also relates to a method of manufacturing an article (or a portion thereof) formed of a non-rigid material using a multi-frame manufacturing device (eg, a two-frame manufacturing device) configured to The rigid material moves through a plurality of sequential processing stations that are positioned in a conveyor or assembly line configuration. Turning now to Figure 6, a perspective view of an exemplary multi-frame manufacturing apparatus 600 in cooperation with 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 configured to facilitate processing in a series of sequentially positioned processing stations in a material loading station 154 (eg, a conveyor belt or assembly line configuration) The first one) loads the non-rigid material onto the first frame 152. The non-rigid material comprises a longitudinal direction (non-stretching direction) 168 (ie, a direction in which the stretching is relatively small when the material is in a tensioned state) and a latitudinal direction (stretching direction) 170 (ie, the stretching is relatively large) Or the direction given when the material is under tension). In an exemplary aspect, portions of the non-rigid material from the roll of material 148 may be at the material loading station 154 when the first and second clamping mechanisms 156, 158 of the first frame 152 are in their open material receiving positions. Loaded onto the first frame 152 as shown. Once the material has reached its relative With the first frame 152 to be placed, the first and second clamping mechanisms 156, 158 of the first frame 152 can be closed into their closed material clamping positions to temporarily secure portions of the non-rigid material to the first Frame 152. The second frame 160 is illustrated in Figure 6, with portions of the material 162 secured to the second frame by the closed first and second clamping mechanisms 164, 166. In various views, once the material portion is secured to the frame, the portion of material can be cut or otherwise separated from the roll of material 148 and the loading frame 150 can be returned to a position that is disengaged from the frame.

As previously explained with reference to Figures 7 through 11 above, in accordance with the views herein, a moving mechanism associated with each of the first frame 152 and the second frame 160, respectively, can actuate the first frame 152 in the first party. Moving substantially horizontally upwards, while, synchronously, the movement mechanism associated with the second frame can cause the second frame 160 to move substantially horizontally in the opposite direction and move substantially vertically such that the first frame 152 and The second frame 160 switches or changes position. In this manner, fabrication regarding one of the first frame 152 and the second frame 160 may continue, although non-rigid materials are being loaded onto the other of the first frame 152 and the second frame 160.

Referring now to Figure 12, an exemplary multi-frame manufacturing apparatus 1200 having first and second moving mechanisms that permit both substantially horizontal movement and substantially vertical movement is depicted in accordance with the teachings herein. Like the multi-frame manufacturing apparatus of FIGS. 1 through 11, the multi-frame manufacturing apparatus 1200 includes a first frame 1202, a second frame 1204, and first and second parallel side rails 1206, 1208. It should be understood that additional elements may be included in alternative perspectives. Moreover, it should be understood that one or more of the listed elements of multi-frame manufacturing apparatus 1200 may be omitted in alternative exemplary aspects. Moreover, multi-frame manufacturing device 1200 is depicted for illustrative 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 arranged to temporarily secure discrete portions of the non-rigid material and move portions of the non-rigid material through a plurality of sequentially configured processing stations positioned in a conveyor belt or assembly line configuration. The first frame 1202 includes a first pair of sidewalls 1210, 1212 that are positioned opposite each other and a second pair of sidewalls 1214, 1216 that are positioned opposite each other and perpendicular to the first pair of sidewalls 1210, 1212 to form a substantially rectangular configuration. The sidewalls 1210, 1212, 1214, and 1216 can be formed by one or more wall portions that collectively form a substantially rectangular perimeter sidewall that surrounds a central void (not shown). A central void (not shown) provides a material processing zone that is unaffected by the first frame 1202.

In an exemplary aspect, each of the sidewalls 1210, 1212, 1214, 1216 can be a discrete wall portion having end portions that are cut at any other angle that permits attachment to one another to form a rectangular structure. The mechanism for fastening the wall portions together may include various screws or other fastening mechanisms generally known to those skilled in the art. It will be appreciated that the rectangular perimeter sidewalls formed collectively by the first pair of sidewalls 1210, 1212 and the second pair of sidewalls 1214, 1216 can be formed as a continuous structure or from any number of wall portions. Moreover, within the point of view herein, any mechanism for fastening the wall portions 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 views herein in any way. Still further, it should be understood that a frame having a substantially rectangular configuration may be utilized in accordance with the teachings herein. Any and all such variations and any combinations thereof are contemplated as being within the scope of the teachings herein.

Similar to the first frame 1202, the second frame 1204 includes a first pair of sidewalls 1220, 1222 that are positioned opposite each other and a second pair of sidewalls 1224, 1226 that are positioned opposite each other and perpendicular to the first pair of sidewalls 1220, 1222 to form A substantially rectangular structure. Side walls 1220, 1222, 1224, 1226 can be collectively formed around the center One or more wall portions of substantially rectangular peripheral sidewalls of the gap (not shown) are formed that provide a treatment zone that is undisturbed by the second frame 1204. When a plurality of wall portions are assembled to form a substantially rectangular perimeter sidewall, the wall portions can include attachment surfaces that abut each other at any desired angle to allow the wall portions to combine to form a rectangular structure. The mechanism for fastening the wall portions together may include various screws or other fastening mechanisms generally known to those skilled in the art. It will be understood and appreciated that the rectangular perimeter sidewalls formed collectively by the first pair of sidewalls 1220, 1222 and the second pair of sidewalls 1224, 1226 can be formed as a continuous structure or from any number of wall portions. Moreover, within the point of view herein, any mechanism for fastening the wall portions 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 views herein in any way. Still further, it should be understood that a frame having a substantially rectangular configuration may be utilized in accordance with the teachings herein. Any and all such variations and any combinations thereof are contemplated as being within the scope of the teachings herein.

Although the multi-frame manufacturing apparatus 1200 of FIG. 12 includes two frames (first, second frames) 1202, 1204, the views herein encompass any number of frames. For example, the views herein are equally applicable to a multi-frame manufacturing apparatus having three frames, four frames, five frames, and the like. The number of frames that always include the multi-frame manufacturing device as described is not intended to limit the scope of the views herein.

As previously explained, each of the first frame 1202 and the second frame 1204 is configured to move a quantity of non-rigid material through a plurality of sequential configuration processing stations positioned in a conveyor belt or assembly line configuration. Thus, the first frame 1202 includes a first moving mechanism 1230 coupled thereto, and the second frame 1204 includes a second moving mechanism 1232 coupled thereto. Each of the first moving mechanism 1230 and the second moving mechanism 1232 permits, for example, in a pair of first and second parallels in its longitudinal direction 1268 The forward and backward movements between the side rails 1206, 1208 are substantially horizontal. 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 respectively upward and upward, for example, in the latitudinal direction 1270 of the first and second parallel side rails 1206, 1208, respectively. Substantially vertical movement.

The first moving mechanism 1230 is coupled to and is movably coupled to each of the first pair of opposing sidewalls 1210, 1212 of the first frame 1202 and the opposing first and second parallel side rails 1206, 1208 The first and second parallel side rails 1206, 1208 cooperate. In various aspects, the first moving mechanism 1230 can include one or more motion actuating devices (eg, linear actuators, motors, or the like) that cooperate with the first and second parallel side rails 1206, 1208 to The first frame 1202 is advanced 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 opposing sidewalls 1220, 1222 of the second frame 1204 and the opposing first and second parallel side rails 1206, 1208 and is also configured to be movably The first and second parallel side rails 1206, 1208 cooperate. In various aspects, the second moving mechanism 1232 can include one or more motion actuating devices (eg, linear actuators, motors, or the like) that cooperate with the first and second parallel side rails 1206, 1208 to The second frame 1204 is advanced substantially horizontally in the forward and backward directions and substantially vertically in the upward and downward directions. The illustrated configuration permits the second frame 1204 to pass vertically above the first frame 1202 as the two frames move in opposite horizontal directions and/or permit the first frame 1202 to pass vertically above the second frame 1204 such that When the first moving mechanism 1230 and the second moving mechanism 1232 are actuated, the relative positions of the two frames relative to the multi-frame manufacturing device 1200 are switched.

In various aspects, actuation of the first moving mechanism 1230 and the second moving mechanism 1232 may cause the first frame 1202 and the second frame 1204 to be disposed relative to the sequence. The processing stations switch positions to each other. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the clamping mechanism as described with respect to the views illustrated in Figures 1-11 is included in the multi-frame manufacturing apparatus 1200 of Figure 12 and functions as previously explained.

As can be seen, the point herein relates to a multi-frame manufacturing apparatus for making an article (eg, an insole) formed from a non-rigid material. The point herein is more about a method of manufacturing an article (eg, an insole) using a multi-frame manufacturing device. A multi-frame manufacturing apparatus having a structure as described herein permits interchangeability of the positions of a plurality of manufacturing frames such that processing of one or more items can be performed while material of another item is being loaded onto the apparatus. A multi-frame manufacturing apparatus having a structure as described herein further permits processing of portions of non-rigid material that are separated from larger material stocks that remain in a non-tensioned state during processing and are accordingly reduced by deformation Waste caused by items that are not available.

Although a multi-frame manufacturing apparatus and a method of manufacturing an article formed of a non-rigid material using a multi-frame manufacturing apparatus are described above with reference to a particular point of view, it should be understood that without departing from the scope of the intended protection provided by the scope of the following claims. In case of circumstances, modifications and changes may be made. It will be appreciated that certain features and sub-combinations are of utility and can be used without reference to other features and sub-combinations. This situation is anticipated by 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 is to be understood that any elements and/or steps provided herein may be combined with any other elements and/or steps, whether or not any other elements and/or steps are explicitly constructed. Still within the scope of this article. Since many possible points of the present disclosure can be made without departing from the scope of the disclosure, it should be understood that all matter set forth herein or as illustrated in the accompanying drawings should be construed as illustrative. Not restrictive To interpret.

As used herein and in conjunction with the scope of the claims listed below, the term "any of claims" or similar variations of the terms are intended to be interpreted such that the features of the claimed scope can be Combine any combination. For example, the fourth aspect of the exemplified patent application can be directed to the method/apparatus as described in any one of claims 1 to 3, which is intended to be interpreted such that the scope of claim 1 is And the features described in item 4 can be combined, and the components described in items 2 and 4 of the patent application can be combined, and the components described in items 3 and 4 of the patent application can be combined. The components described in items 1, 2, and 4 of the patent application can be combined, and the components described in the second, third, and fourth claims of the patent application can be combined, such as the scope of patent application. The elements described in items 1, 2, 3, and 4 may be combined, and/or other variations. In addition, the term "any of claims" or a similar variation of the terms is intended to include "any one of claims" or other variations of the term, As indicated by some of the examples provided above.

100‧‧‧Multi-frame manufacturing equipment

102‧‧‧ first frame

104‧‧‧second framework

106‧‧‧First parallel side rail

108‧‧‧Second parallel side rail

110, 112, 114, 116, 120, 122, 124, 126‧‧‧ side walls

118, 128‧‧‧ center gap

130‧‧‧First mobile agency

132‧‧‧Second mobile agency

138, 142‧‧‧ first clamping mechanism

140, 144‧‧‧ second clamping mechanism

I-I, II-II, III, IV‧‧‧ lines

Claims (16)

A manufacturing tool comprising: a first rectangular frame having at least one perimeter sidewall surrounding a first central void; and a second rectangular frame having at least one perimeter sidewall surrounding the second central void, wherein the first rectangle The two opposing sides of the frame and each of the second rectangular frames include a clamping mechanism that temporarily clamps the non-rigid material and permits horizontal movement between the first parallel side rail and the second parallel side rail and A moving mechanism of at least one of the vertical movements. The manufacturing tool of claim 1, wherein the clamping mechanism is a clamping mechanism having an open material receiving position and a closed material clamping position. The manufacturing tool according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the non-rigid material comprises a stretching direction and a non-stretching direction, and wherein the clamping mechanism is along the stretching The non-rigid material is clamped in a direction. The manufacturing tool of claim 1, wherein each of the first parallel side rail and the second parallel side rail comprises a first rail and a second rail, wherein the first rectangular frame The moving mechanism is coupled to the first track to permit horizontal movement, and wherein the moving mechanism of the second rectangular frame is coupled to the second track to permit horizontal and vertical movement. The manufacturing tool of claim 4, further comprising at least one linear actuator that causes the horizontal movement of the first rectangular frame and the second rectangular frame. The manufacturing tool of claim 5, further comprising at least one piston that causes the vertical movement of the second rectangular frame. The manufacturing tool of 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 of claim 1, further comprising a material loading mechanism for loading the non-rigid material onto one of the first rectangular frame and the second rectangular frame. A manufacturing tool comprising: a first frame having a first pair of side walls positioned opposite each other and a second pair of side walls positioned opposite each other and perpendicular to the first pair of side walls, such that the first pair of side walls and The second pair of side walls form a first rectangular structure; the second frame has a first pair of side walls positioned opposite each other and a second pair of side walls positioned opposite each other and perpendicular to the first pair of side walls, such that The first pair of side walls and the second pair of side walls form a second rectangular structure; and the first parallel side rail and the second parallel side rail, the first parallel side rail and the second parallel side rail are sufficient for the The first frame and the second frame are movably spaced apart from each other by a distance between the first parallel side rail and the second parallel side rail; wherein the first frame and the second frame are Momentally 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 Momovably positioned on the first parallel side rail and Said second parallel between the side rails, to permit the upward and downward substantially vertical movement, And wherein each side wall of the first pair of side walls of the first frame and each side wall of the first pair of side walls of the second frame comprise a clamping mechanism for temporarily clamping a non-rigid material. The manufacturing tool of claim 9, wherein the clamping mechanism of each of the first pair of side walls of the first frame and the first pair of side walls of the second frame A clamping mechanism having an open material receiving position and a closed material clamping position. The manufacturing tool of any one of clauses 9 to 10, wherein the non-rigid material comprises a stretching direction and a non-stretching direction, and wherein the clamping mechanism is along the stretching The non-rigid material is clamped in a direction. The manufacturing tool of claim 9, wherein each of the first parallel side rail and the second parallel side rail comprises a first rail and a second rail, and wherein the first frame Each side wall of the first pair of side walls includes a first movement mechanism coupled to the first track of each of the first parallel side rail and the second parallel side rail to permit a level Moving, and wherein each side wall of the first pair of side walls of the second frame includes coupling to the second track of each of the first parallel side rail and the second parallel side rail The second moving mechanism permits horizontal movement and vertical movement. The manufacturing tool of claim 9, further comprising at least one linear actuator that causes substantially horizontal movement of the first frame and the second frame. The manufacturing tool of claim 13, further comprising at least one piston that causes substantially vertical movement of the at least one of the first frame and the second frame. The manufacturing tool of 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 of claim 9, further comprising a material loading mechanism for loading the non-rigid material onto one of the first frame and the second frame.