A PLATE BENDING MACHINE WITH LOCK ARM STABILIZATION MECHANISM

Abstract

7. ABSTRACT The present invention relates a plate bending machine (100) for forming plates into cylindrical or conical shapes featuring a novel Lock Arm Stabilization Mechanism that locks the bottom rolls in place to prevent lateral movement and misalignment. The machine includes a top roll (102) that delivers the primary bending force, and at least two bottom rolls (104) positioned below the top roll to support and guide the plate. The bottom rolls are adjustable via a hydraulic cylinder assembly (106) to control positioning and pressure. A linear guide way system (108) ensures precise movement of the bottom rolls, minimizing lateral movement and wear. The machine is managed by a programmable logic controller (PLC) for controlling the top roll, bottom rolls, and hydraulic assembly. It features a pre-pinching roll mechanism for edge preparation, a cone bending mechanism (110) for producing conical shapes, and a tropicalized oil cooling system (112) to maintain optimal hydraulic temperature. The robust frame (114) with interlocks and strengthening ribs provides structural support and alignment, while roll crowning (116) compensates for deflection during bending, ensuring uniform bending quality. This invention improves operational efficiency and precision in plate bending applications. The figure associated with the abstract is Fig. 1.

Specification

Description:4. DESCRIPTION
Technical Field of the invention

The present invention relates to plate bending machines used in metal fabrication for forming plates into cylindrical or conical shapes. More particularly, the invention introduces a Lock Arm Stabilization Mechanism that enhances the stability, precision, and safety of the plate bending process by preventing lateral movement and roll deflection.

Background of the invention

The metalworking and fabrication industries depend heavily on plate bending machines to shape metal plates into cylindrical and conical forms. These machines play a crucial role in various sectors, such as construction, automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing, where precision in forming materials is indispensable. Despite their widespread use, traditional plate bending machines are often limited by several technical challenges that affect the quality, consistency, and efficiency of bending operations. These limitations become increasingly pronounced when handling large, thick, or high-tensile materials, which are commonly used in modern applications that demand robust structures and intricate designs. Addressing these limitations has been an ongoing endeavor within the industry, with several prior innovations focused on improving mechanical alignment, stability, and force application. However, these solutions often fall short in delivering the desired precision and durability required for high-quality bending, especially in complex or high-stress applications.

One of the predominant issues in conventional plate bending machines is roll misalignment, especially in machines with mechanical or swing-arm mechanisms. Roll misalignment occurs when the positioning of the bending rolls deviates during the operation, leading to non-uniform bending and inaccuracies in the desired shape. This is particularly problematic for older machines or those subjected to high-stress applications, where minor deviations in roll positioning can accumulate over time, further compromising alignment and affecting the final product's shape. Misalignment can lead to asymmetrical bends, wavy edges, or inconsistent curvatures, often requiring post-processing or corrective measures that increase production time and cost. Prior attempts to address roll misalignment have included adding mechanical linkages or complex alignment mechanisms, yet these solutions often suffer from increased wear and tear, resulting in frequent maintenance and reduced machine lifespan.

Another significant limitation of traditional plate bending machines is the challenge of achieving even bending pressure across the entire plate. Uniform bending pressure is crucial to ensure a consistent bending radius and accurate shaping of the plate. However, due to the inherent design of conventional machines, the pressure exerted by the hydraulic cylinders or mechanical actuators often varies across the width and length of the plate. This inconsistency is frequently attributed to the limited precision of the control systems and the lack of advanced feedback mechanisms, which are necessary to monitor and adjust the applied force continuously. Uneven pressure distribution can also result from deflection in the rolls, where the applied force causes the rolls to flex and lose contact with parts of the plate. This leads to variations in thickness, curvature, and the need for further adjustments, compromising the productivity and efficiency of the bending process.

Roll deflection and deformation represent additional challenges in the operation of plate bending machines, particularly when bending thick plates or high-tensile materials. The resistance exerted by these materials requires significant force, which can cause the bending rolls to bend or deflect under pressure. When this deflection occurs, it alters the desired bending profile, introducing inconsistencies in the final shape. Although techniques such as roll crowning have been introduced to counteract deflection, they are often inadequate for materials with high resistance, which demand exceptionally stable rolls and consistent force application. The effects of roll deflection are not limited to compromising bending accuracy; they also induce additional stress on the machine's structural components, leading to accelerated wear and reducing the machine's operational lifespan. This issue becomes particularly prominent in high-stress industrial applications, where repeated bending of large or strong materials is required.

Traditional plate bending machines are also hampered by inadequate control systems, which limit their precision and adaptability in high-volume production environments. Many older machines rely on manual adjustments, lacking sophisticated feedback or monitoring capabilities to manage deviations in roll alignment or pressure during bending. This reliance on operator input not only increases cycle times but also introduces inconsistencies, as human adjustments are prone to variability. Although modern advancements in hydraulic and electronic control systems offer enhanced precision, many conventional machines still lack integrated automation features necessary for maintaining repeatable quality over multiple production cycles. The absence of automated controls and feedback mechanisms restricts the machine's capacity to handle complex geometries or varied material types, further reducing its utility in applications where consistency and speed are critical.

The limitations in traditional plate bending machines also extend to their energy consumption and operational costs. Due to their reliance on high-power hydraulic actuators and mechanical linkages, these machines often consume substantial energy, leading to increased operational expenses and an elevated environmental footprint. Many machines are designed without integrated cooling systems, which increases the risk of overheating during prolonged operations, causing inefficiencies and potential damage to the machine's hydraulic components. High energy consumption and overheating are especially problematic in heavy-duty operations, where continuous use over long periods is necessary. While some recent developments in plate bending technology have attempted to incorporate cooling mechanisms and more efficient energy systems, the solutions are either prohibitively costly or too complex for easy integration into existing setups.

Given these cumulative challenges, there is a pressing need for a new generation of plate bending machines that can address the core issues of roll alignment, pressure consistency, deflection, and control efficiency. The industry demands a solution that not only enhances the accuracy and stability of bending operations but also improves energy efficiency and reduces maintenance requirements. A plate bending machine that integrates advanced stabilization, real-time monitoring, and automated control features could revolutionize metalworking processes by enabling consistent, high-quality results even in the most challenging applications. Such a machine would fulfill the unmet needs in the field, allowing manufacturers to achieve higher productivity, lower operational costs, and greater flexibility in working with diverse materials and shapes.

Brief Summary of the invention

The following presents a simplified summary of the disclosure in order to provide a basic understanding to the reader. This summary is not an extensive overview of the disclosure and it does not identify key/critical elements of the invention or delineate the scope of the invention. Its sole purpose is to present some concepts disclosed herein in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

The primary object of the present invention is to provide a plate bending machine with enhanced stability and precision for bending metal plates into cylindrical and conical shapes. This machine incorporates an innovative Lock Arm Stabilization Mechanism that secures the bottom rolls in place, effectively preventing lateral movement and misalignment during bending operations. This feature is particularly beneficial for high-tensile and thick plates, where roll stability and alignment are critical to achieving accurate, consistent results.

Another object of the invention is to integrate a safety interlock system within the Lock Arm Stabilization Mechanism, ensuring that the mechanism automatically disengages when the machine is idle or undergoing maintenance. This interlock system enhances operator safety by reducing the risk of unintended engagement of the rolls, creating a safer working environment and facilitating secure maintenance procedures.

A further object of the invention is to introduce a real-time feedback mechanism for continuous monitoring and adjustments of roll position and bending pressure. This feature improves the precision of bending operations by enabling automated adjustments to minimize deviations during complex bending tasks, ensuring consistent quality in high-volume production runs. The feedback system also helps reduce human intervention, optimizing productivity and accuracy.

The invention also aims to increase the versatility of the plate bending machine by incorporating interchangeable top rolls that can accommodate various plate thicknesses and material types. This adaptability allows the machine to handle a wide range of applications, reducing the need for additional machines or extensive modifications. The interchangeable rolls enhance the machine's usability in different industrial sectors, providing a cost-effective solution for diverse bending requirements.

Another object of the invention is to incorporate a pre-pinching roll mechanism designed to pre-bend the edges of the plate before the main bending operation. This pre-pinching mechanism is adjustable for different plate thicknesses, aligning the plate edges accurately and reducing inconsistencies in the final product. By ensuring uniformity at the initial stages, this feature minimizes the need for corrective processing later in the production line.
Yet another object of the invention is to include a programmable logic controller (PLC) to manage various aspects of the bending process, such as roll positioning, pressure adjustments, and the Lock Arm Stabilization Mechanism. The PLC enables efficient control, monitoring, and storage of multiple bending profiles, reducing setup time and enabling quick adaptation for different bending tasks. The automation capabilities of the PLC contribute to operational efficiency and improve the machine's adaptability for diverse manufacturing needs.

A further object of the invention is to incorporate a cone bending mechanism that allows for the formation of conical shapes with precision. This electronically controlled mechanism enables the bottom rolls to incline as needed for cone bending operations, expanding the machine's application range. The cone bending mechanism is synchronized with the Lock Arm Stabilization Mechanism to maintain stability throughout the bending process, ensuring consistency and accuracy even for challenging geometries.

Another objective is to implement a tropicalized oil cooling system that maintains optimal hydraulic temperatures, especially during continuous, heavy-duty operations. This cooling system enhances the machine's reliability by preventing overheating, reducing maintenance needs, and ensuring continuous operation under high temperatures. By preserving the hydraulic components' efficiency and durability, the cooling system contributes to the machine's longevity and cost-effectiveness.

The invention also aims to address roll deflection issues by integrating a roll crowning feature in both the top and bottom rolls. The crowning compensates for deflection, maintaining uniform contact with the plate during bending operations. This feature is essential for producing consistent results, particularly when bending thicker or wider plates that exert higher forces on the machine's rolls.

In one aspect of the present invention, a plate bending machine for high-precision shaping of metal plates into cylindrical and conical configurations is disclosed. The machine comprises a top roll that provides the primary bending force and at least two bottom rolls situated below it to support and guide the plate throughout the bending process. The top roll and bottom rolls are constructed from high-strength materials and are designed to accommodate various plate thicknesses and material types, thereby enhancing the machine's versatility and applicability across multiple industries.

According to an aspect of the invention, the Lock Arm Stabilization Mechanism is a key innovation that stabilizes the bottom rolls during bending operations. Mounted on the machine frame, this mechanism engages locking arms with each bottom roll to prevent lateral movement and misalignment, crucial for maintaining precision when working with thick or high-tensile materials. The mechanism's locking arms automatically engage when the plate is positioned between the rolls, effectively securing the rolls in place and eliminating deflection risks. By ensuring uniform bending force application across the plate, the Lock Arm Stabilization Mechanism significantly improves bending quality and consistency.

The plate bending machine is also equipped with a hydraulic cylinder assembly that controls the vertical movement of the bottom rolls. Each roll is connected to an independent hydraulic cylinder, allowing for precise adjustments based on the material's thickness and properties. This assembly enables accurate pressure control, working in tandem with the Lock Arm Stabilization Mechanism to maintain stability even during high-pressure bending operations. The hydraulic cylinders are operated through a linear guide way system that ensures precise movement, minimizing lateral movement and wear. The linear guide way transfers forces directly from the hydraulic system to the rolls, ensuring accurate, repeatable bending results and extending the machine's operational lifespan.
To further enhance precision and automation, the machine incorporates a programmable logic controller (PLC) as the central control unit. The PLC manages the positioning and engagement of the rolls, bending pressure, and Lock Arm Stabilization Mechanism, allowing for efficient control and storage of multiple bending profiles. This feature simplifies the setup for different bending tasks and reduces cycle time by allowing for quick adaptation to various configurations. Additionally, the PLC is integrated with electronic sensors and feedback systems to continuously monitor bending parameters, enabling real-time adjustments for improved accuracy and consistency in high-volume production settings.

The invention also includes a pre-pinching roll mechanism for edge preparation before the main bending operation. This mechanism ensures the alignment of plate edges, reducing potential inconsistencies in the final shape. The pre-pinching feature is adjustable for varying plate thicknesses and material types, offering a versatile solution that enhances both ease of use and productivity.

In a further aspect, the machine integrates a cone bending mechanism, allowing for the production of conical shapes by inclining the bottom rolls. Controlled electronically and synchronized with the PLC, this mechanism provides precise control over the conical shape's dimensions. The Lock Arm Stabilization Mechanism remains engaged during cone bending, ensuring stability and preventing roll deflection.

The machine's efficiency and durability are enhanced by a tropicalized oil cooling system, which maintains the hydraulic system's temperature, especially during continuous, high-temperature operations. This cooling system includes heat exchangers, cooling tanks, and temperature sensors that collectively protect hydraulic components from overheating, reducing maintenance costs and extending machine life.

To address roll deflection, the machine includes roll crowning on both the top and bottom rolls. The crowning compensates for deflection during bending, ensuring consistent roll contact with the plate and improving the accuracy of the final product. This feature is particularly useful for handling thicker or wider plates, where deflection risks are higher.

Overall, the invention provides a plate bending machine with enhanced stability, precision, and versatility, capable of handling various plate sizes, thicknesses, and material types. By integrating advanced control, stabilization, and cooling mechanisms, the invention offers a reliable, efficient solution that meets the growing demands of modern metalworking applications, reducing operational costs and improving productivity across a range of industries.

Further objects, features, and advantages of the invention will be readily apparent from the following description of the preferred embodiments thereof, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

The invention will be further understood from the following detailed description of a preferred embodiment taken in conjunction with an appended drawing, in which:

Fig. 1 illustrates schematic diagram of the plate bending machine designed for bending of plates into cylindrical and conical shapes, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 2 illustrates the detailed view of the cone bending mechanism, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

Detailed Description of the invention

It is to be understood that the present disclosure is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The present disclosure is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways. In addition, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting.

The use of "including", "comprising" or "having" and variations thereof herein is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items. The terms "a" and "an" herein do not denote a limitation of quantity, but rather denote the presence of at least one of the referenced items. Further, the use of terms "first", "second", and "third", and the like, herein do not denote any order, quantity, or importance, but rather are used to distinguish one element from another.

According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a plate bending machine for high-precision bending of plates into cylindrical and conical shapes is disclosed. The system comprises top roll and bottom rolls, hydraulic cylinder assembly, Lock Arm Stabilization Mechanism, programmable logic controller (plc), pre-pinching roll mechanism, cone bending mechanism, tropicalized oil cooling system, robust frame with interlocks and strengthening ribs, roll crowning.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the machine includes a top roll that delivers the primary bending force and at least two bottom rolls positioned below it to support and guide the plate during the bending process. These rolls are constructed from high-strength materials to withstand the forces applied during bending and are machined to precise tolerances for enhanced accuracy.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the bottom rolls are configured to adjust vertically using the hydraulic cylinder assembly, ensuring that they can accommodate various plate thicknesses and achieve the desired bending radius.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the Lock Arm Stabilization Mechanism consists of locking arms mounted on both sides of each bottom roll, which are designed to engage and secure the rolls in place during bending operations. When a plate is positioned between the top and bottom rolls and the bending process begins, the locking arms automatically engage with the sides of the bottom rolls. This locks the rolls in place, preventing any lateral movement or misalignment during the bending process.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the mechanism eliminates the risk of roll deflection and lateral deviation. By holding the rolls firmly in position, the lock arm mechanism ensures that the bending force is applied uniformly across the plate, resulting in consistent bending quality. This mechanism is particularly beneficial when working with thicker plates or high-tensile materials, where roll stability is crucial for maintaining precision.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the hydraulic cylinder assembly controls the vertical movement of the bottom rolls. Each bottom roll is connected to an independent hydraulic cylinder, allowing for fine adjustments based on the thickness and material properties of the plate. This assembly ensures that the bottom rolls can be positioned accurately to achieve the required bending pressure, and it works in conjunction with the lock arm mechanism to maintain roll stability during high-pressure bending operations.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the linear guide way system is integrated into the machine's frame to provide precise movement and alignment of the bottom rolls. This system minimizes lateral movement and wear, ensuring that the rolls move along a fixed path during bending. The linear guide way system transfers forces directly from the hydraulic cylinders to the rolls, preventing any deviation caused by mechanical linkages. This results in a more accurate and repeatable bending process, even when forming complex shapes or working with challenging materials.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the machine is equipped with a programmable logic controller (PLC) that serves as the central control unit for managing the operations of the top roll, bottom rolls, hydraulic cylinder assembly, and lock arm mechanism.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the PLC allows for automated control of roll positioning and locking, as well as monitoring of bending parameters such as roll pressure and plate thickness. It can store multiple bending profiles, enabling quick setup for different bending tasks and reducing cycle times.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the pre-pinching roll mechanism is designed to pre-bend the edges of the plate before the main bending operation. This pre-bending step ensures that the edges are properly aligned and reduces the risk of inconsistencies in the final shape. The pre-pinching mechanism is adjustable to handle various plate thicknesses and material types, ensuring that it can accommodate a wide range of applications.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the machine features an electronically controlled cone bending mechanism that allows the bottom rolls to be inclined, creating conical shapes with high precision. The lock arm mechanism ensures that the rolls remain stable during cone bending, preventing roll deflection and maintaining consistent pressure throughout the process. The PLC manages the inclination of the bottom rolls, enabling precise control of the conical shape's dimensions.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the machine includes a tropicalized oil cooling system to maintain optimal temperatures in the hydraulic system, especially during continuous and heavy-duty operations. This system consists of cooling tanks, heat exchangers, and temperature sensors, ensuring that the machine operates within safe temperature limits. By preventing overheating, the cooling system enhances the longevity and reliability of the hydraulic components, reducing maintenance needs and operational downtime.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the machine's frame is constructed from heavy-duty plates and reinforced with interlocks and strengthening ribs to provide structural stability. This robust construction ensures that the frame remains rigid during bending operations, preventing any vibrations or misalignments that could affect bending quality. The lock arm mechanism is securely mounted on the frame, providing additional stability to the rolls. The frame design contributes to consistent bending quality and minimizes the impact of external forces or vibrations.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the machine incorporates roll crowning in both the top and bottom rolls to compensate for roll deflection during the bending process. Crowning ensures that the rolls maintain uniform contact with the plate, especially when working with thicker or wider plates.
This feature enhances the accuracy of the bending process and reduces the risk of inconsistencies in the final shape.

Referring to figures, Figure 1 illustrates the plate bending machine (100) is shown in a side view, illustrating its key components and layout for bending metal plates. The machine's top roll (102) provides the primary bending force necessary to shape the plate, while the bottom rolls (104) are positioned below to support and guide the plate during the bending process. The top and bottom rolls are crafted from high-strength materials to withstand the force applied during bending and are machined to precise tolerances, allowing for smooth and accurate operation.

One of the main innovations, the Lock Arm Stabilization Mechanism, is mounted on the machine frame and is designed to engage with the bottom rolls (104) to prevent lateral and vertical movement. This locking feature eliminates roll misalignment and deflection risks, ensuring a uniform bending process even under high pressure. The locking arms automatically engage when a plate is positioned between the rolls, securing the rolls firmly in place and maintaining alignment throughout the bending operation. This feature is particularly beneficial when working with thick or high-tensile plates, which require stable support for precise bending.

The hydraulic cylinder assembly (106), as shown in Figure 2, is connected to each bottom roll and controls the vertical movement of the rolls. This assembly provides precise control over roll positioning, allowing adjustments based on the material thickness and desired bending radius. The hydraulic system operates through a linear guide way system (108) integrated into the frame, which directs force efficiently from the cylinders to the rolls and minimizes wear. This setup ensures consistent, repeatable results, even when dealing with complex shapes or challenging materials.

A programmable logic controller (PLC) is the central control unit of the machine, automating the operations of the top roll, bottom rolls, hydraulic cylinders, and Lock Arm Stabilization Mechanism. The PLC monitors critical parameters such as roll pressure, plate thickness, and roll engagement, storing multiple bending profiles to allow for quick setup adjustments. This automated control reduces setup time and increases production efficiency, especially in high-volume manufacturing settings. Additionally, the PLC integrates with electronic sensors and feedback systems to enable real-time adjustments, enhancing precision and consistency across various bending tasks.

For improved edge alignment, the machine incorporates a pre-pinching roll mechanism, which pre-bends the edges of the plate before the main bending operation. This feature ensures that the plate edges are correctly aligned, reducing inconsistencies in the final shape and improving overall bending quality. The pre-pinching roll mechanism is adjustable to accommodate different plate thicknesses and materials, making it adaptable for diverse applications.

The machine's cone bending mechanism (110), detailed in Figure 2, allows the bottom rolls to incline, enabling the formation of conical shapes with high accuracy. Controlled electronically and synchronized with the PLC, this mechanism maintains stability by keeping the Lock Arm Stabilization Mechanism engaged during cone bending, preventing deflection and ensuring consistent pressure across the plate. This feature expands the machine's versatility, allowing it to produce a wider range of shapes with precise control.

The tropicalized oil cooling system (112) is another crucial component designed to keep the hydraulic system's temperature within safe operating limits during continuous or heavy-duty operations. The system includes cooling tanks, heat exchangers, and temperature sensors to prevent overheating, enhancing the longevity and efficiency of the hydraulic components.

The machine's robust frame (114) is constructed from heavy-duty plates reinforced with interlocks and strengthening ribs to maintain structural stability during bending. This design supports the alignment and precise positioning of both the top and bottom rolls, minimizing vibrations and external impacts. The frame includes roll crowning (116) in both the top and bottom rolls, a feature that compensates for roll deflection and maintains uniform contact with the plate, especially important when working with thicker or wider materials.

The Plate Bending Machine (100) as depicted in Figure 3, the graph diagram, is engineered with key mechanisms and reference numerals to enhance precision, stability, and versatility in metal forming operations. Central to the machine is the Top Roll (102), which applies the primary bending force needed to shape plates into cylindrical or conical forms. Positioned beneath the top roll are the Bottom Rolls (104), which provide support and guidance throughout the bending process.

The Lock Arm Stabilization Mechanism plays a critical role in securing the bottom rolls, preventing lateral movement and ensuring alignment during high-pressure bending operations. This stability is further reinforced by the Hydraulic Cylinder Assembly (106), which precisely controls the vertical positioning of the bottom rolls, allowing adjustments based on the plate's thickness and material properties.

To ensure accurate movement, the Linear Guide Way System (108) is integrated into the machine's frame, reducing wear and maintaining roll alignment under heavy loads. For producing conical shapes, the Cone Bending Mechanism (110) electronically adjusts the bottom rolls' inclination, providing high precision in cone formation.

The Oil Cooling System (112) maintains optimal hydraulic temperatures during continuous operations, thus preserving the longevity and efficiency of the hydraulic components. The Programmable Logic Controller (PLC), serving as the machine's central control unit, automates various operations and stores bending profiles for quick setup and adjustment, enhancing productivity and consistency across tasks.

Additional components include the Pre-pinching Roll Mechanism, which aligns plate edges before bending to improve final product quality, and Roll Crowning (116) on both top and bottom rolls, which compensates for deflection, ensuring uniform force distribution and reducing shape inconsistencies in thicker plates.

This configuration of the Plate Bending Machine enables high-precision, repeatable bending operations suited for applications requiring complex shapes and handling high-tensile materials.

Method of Manufacturing:
The machine is manufactured using high-strength materials for durability and precision. Components like the top roll, bottom rolls, and frame are machined to tight tolerances to ensure stability and accuracy. The hydraulic cylinders, locking arms, and guide way system are precision-assembled to allow for smooth operation under high pressure. The Lock Arm Stabilization Mechanism is integrated with electronic sensors and the PLC for automated control, enhancing its engagement and disengagement accuracy. The tropicalized oil cooling system is also installed with advanced temperature sensors and heat exchangers to maintain optimal hydraulic temperatures.

Method of Use:
To operate the machine, the plate is first positioned between the top roll (102) and bottom rolls (104). The Lock Arm Stabilization Mechanism then engages, locking the bottom rolls in place to prevent lateral movement. The operator, or the PLC, adjusts the bottom rolls via the hydraulic cylinders to achieve the desired bending pressure. Once set, the top roll applies force to bend the plate, with the stabilization mechanism maintaining alignment and pressure distribution. For conical shapes, the cone bending mechanism inclines the bottom rolls, allowing precise control of the shape. The pre-pinching roll mechanism prepares the edges of the plate to ensure uniform bending. After the bending operation, the stabilization mechanism disengages, allowing for repositioning or removal of the plate.

Advantages
The present invention offers several advantages over conventional plate bending machines. The Lock Arm Stabilization Mechanism enhances stability and precision, minimizing misalignment and roll deflection. The hydraulic assembly and linear guide way ensure consistent bending pressure, improving repeatability and efficiency. The PLC enables automated control and real-time adjustments, reducing human intervention and cycle time. The interchangeable top rolls and pre-pinching mechanism increase versatility, making the machine suitable for various materials and plate thicknesses. The tropicalized cooling system reduces maintenance needs and extends the hydraulic system's lifespan, enabling continuous operation in high-stress environments.

Applications
The plate bending machine is ideal for industries requiring high precision, including aerospace, automotive, construction, and heavy machinery. Its ability to handle thick and high-tensile materials makes it suitable for manufacturing components like pipes, tanks, and structural frames. The conical bending feature allows the machine to produce complex geometries, making it valuable in applications that demand varied shapes and high customization.

Testing and Results
The machine's performance is tested according to international standards for precision and durability in metalworking machinery. Roll alignment and stabilization are evaluated using laser alignment tools, ensuring minimal deviation during operation. The bending accuracy is tested across different material thicknesses to verify consistency, while the hydraulic and cooling systems undergo endurance testing under high-temperature conditions to assess reliability. The results show a marked improvement in precision, with consistent bending quality across multiple cycles. Energy consumption tests confirm reduced operational costs, demonstrating the machine's efficiency in high-duty applications.
, Claims:CLAIMS
I/We Claim:
1. A plate bending machine with lock arm stabilization mechanism, comprising:
a top roll (102) configured to provide primary bending force to a plate;
at least two bottom rolls (104) positioned below the top roll, wherein the bottom rolls are adapted to support and guide the plate during the bending process;
a lock arm stabilization mechanism comprising locking arms mounted on the machine frame, configured to engage with the bottom rolls and prevent lateral or vertical movement during bending operations;
a hydraulic cylinder assembly (106) connected to the bottom rolls to adjust their position and pressure;
a linear guide way system (108) integrated into the machine frame to ensure precise movement of the bottom rolls and minimizes lateral movement and wear;
a control system with a programmable logic controller (PLC) to manage the top roll, bottom rolls, hydraulic cylinder assembly, and lock arm mechanism;
a pre-pinching roll mechanism configured to pre-bend the edges of the plate adjustable operation for different plate thicknesses;
a cone bending mechanism (110) to incline the bottom rolls for producing conical shapes, controlled electronically;
a tropicalized oil cooling system (112) adapted to maintain the hydraulic system's temperature;
a robust frame (114) with interlocks and strengthening ribs for structural support and precise alignment of the top roll and bottom rolls;
roll crowning (116) integrated into the top roll and bottom rolls to compensate for roll deflection during bending.

2. The plate bending machine (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the lock arm stabilization mechanism is integrated with electronic sensors and feedback systems to monitor roll engagement and disengagement, ensuring precise control.

3. The plate bending machine as claimed in claim 1, wherein the lock arm stabilization mechanism is designed to automatically engage when the bending process is initiated and disengage when adjustments are required.

4. The plate bending machine (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the linear guide way system (108) is designed to provide positive guidance and direct force transfer to the bottom rolls.

5. The plate bending machine (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the control system includes electronic sensors and feedback mechanisms to ensure precise return to parallel settings after cone bending operations, improving the accuracy of repetitive tasks.

6. The plate bending machine (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein an interchangeable top roll (102) assembly that allows for modification of roll diameters to accommodate various plate sizes and enhance the machine's versatility.

7. The plate bending machine (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the pre-pinching roll mechanism includes an automated adjustment feature for varying plate thicknesses and material types, providing ease of use and efficiency.

8. The plate bending machine (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the cooling system (112) is designed to operate effectively in high-temperature environments and includes features that reduce operational downtime.

9. The plate bending machine (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the cone bending mechanism (110) is controlled electronically and integrated with the control system to enable precise cone bending and ensure accurate results.

10. A method for forming plates into cylindrical or conical shapes using a plate bending machine, comprising the steps of:
positioning the plate between the top roll and the bottom rolls of the machine;
engaging a Lock Arm Stabilization Mechanism to lock the bottom rolls in place, preventing lateral movement during the bending operation;
adjusting the bottom rolls using hydraulic cylinders to apply bending pressure to the plate;
applying bending force from the top roll to the plate while maintaining engagement of the Lock Arm Stabilization Mechanism;
optionally pre-bending the edges of the plate using a pre-pinching roll mechanism to ensure uniformity;
controlling the bending process through a programmable logic controller (PLC) to automate adjustments for different bending tasks; and
disengaging the Lock Arm Stabilization Mechanism after the bending operation is complete to allow for further adjustments or repositioning of the plate.

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