AUTOMATIC METHOD FOR PROCESSING WOODEN PANELS AND THE LIKE AND MACHINING UNIT FOR IMPLEMENTING THE METHOD

Abstract

 Automatic method for processing wooden panels and the like and machining unit (1) for implementing it, especially for the furnishing industry, including and implementing the steps of:
- continuously supplying at least one panel (33) at a time according to an axis Y;
- displacing the panel (33) according to said axis Y and/or according to a orthogonal axis X;
- processing the panel (33) using movable automatic tools (19A, 22, 31) at least on a vertical orthogonal axis Z;
comprising:
- operatively consecutively pre-positioning one after the other to form a continuous flow of panels on a translation and work surface (3), laterally fixedly abutting with respect to the introduction front and translation direction on axis Y, at least one panel (33);
- gripping the panel on the introduction side in two points of equilibrium automatically variable on axis X in programmed dimensional function of the introduction front;
- advancement by traction on axis Y of the panel (33) on the introduction front on the translation and work surface up to completing the operative path, at an automatically set pace in a programmed function of traversing the entire translation and work surface on axis X by pendular automatic tools suitable to drill it and/or mill it and/or shape it;
- simultaneous upper and lower traversing of the translation and work surface on axis X by the automatic tools, with to and fro active operative positioning pendular travels, mainly rotatingly operative on axis Z and inclined axes and possibly with appendages possibly rotatingly juxtaposed operative on axis Y;
- simultaneous upper or lower traversing of the translation and work surface on axis X by automatic tools rotatingly operative on axis X, with to and fro active operative positioning pendular travels and displacement on axis Z to engage and disengage the translation and work surface.

Description

Field of the art

[0001] The furnishing industry, and in particular for the field of transformation of wooden panels and panels made of wood surrogate, which forms a major part of the furnishing industry, has the need to meet the demands of two different types of markets.

[0002] On the one hand, through intensive production plants, it meets the needs of large-scale distribution, in which the production and commercial massification do not entail problems related to storage warehouses; the rhythm, quality control, set-up time etc., play a major role in the intensive production regime; batches of component elements or kits at most are processed in this regime.

[0003] On the other hand, the furnishing industry must meet the demands of the retail furnishing sector, with the exclusion of forming just in time storage warehouses, where products are characterised by a wide variety of colours, finishing, materials, and often even off-size articles; on the contrary, orders or groups of orders are processed when operating in the retail furnishing sector.

[0004] Just a few manufacturers operate exclusively in the intensive production regime, a good number operate combining both systems and a very high number operate in the retail furnishing sector only; this does not regard the end producers alone but also regards the tertiary sector.

[0005] The development of the market has seen the expansion of the impact of the production regime for the retail furnishing sector in companies previously equipped for the amount, with empiric, hybrid and non-permanent adaptation solutions, ever anti-economic in that, with the proliferation of product lines and in the presence of inadequate techniques, infrastructural and logistic costs can even widely exceed the costs for processing or transforming the materials.

[0006] At the state of the art, the solution approach consists of what is referred to as batch one production organisation: in the batch one production organisation regime, the centrality of the process shifts from the panel to the entire order and to the management of the various chains that converge for the completion thereof.

[0007] The European patent application n° EP16172436.4 filed on 1 June 2016 by the applicant of the present application illustrates a panel transformation chain aimed at the aggregation thereof into orders, kits and packages with maximum simplicity, avoiding introducing, upstream, transformation poles that require concentration for the type of processing and, downstream, the redistribution of panels for other purposes, i.e. avoiding, with the help of a multifunctional, polyvalent, displaceable and multi-positionable storage organiser, which is subject of a specific claim, subsequent grouping and re-grouping operations, or time transformations, which represent the most dispersive and non-productive steps of the processes; in the chain with the batch one production logic, said storage organiser provides, in an easy fashion, a flow of panels converging into orders, kits and packages, where each step is carried out only once in the path.

[0008] A chain of this type is preferably structured for production units that complete the scheduled orders in real time and, to this end, the machines coming from the field of stand alone processes are difficult to adapt.

[0009] The time to market and delivery promptness, are indispensable factors for the success and competitiveness in the furnishing industry which is required to meet the retail furnishing industry demands; in systems integrated to this end, the investment economy must be assessed based on the pay back time, i.e. the time required to attain a profit equivalent to the initial investment expenditure, rather than based on the price of the single machines, which are thus advantageous proportionally to the extent to which they are conceived for integration: a machine that can be easily integrated is an optimal machine even in stand-alone regime, while the opposite does not apply.

Objects of the invention

[0010] Thus, in this context the main object of the present invention is to provide a method and an automatic machine for processing wooden panels and the like, in the furnishing industry, that is selectively polyvalent and multifunctional as well as suitable to be integrated, both in terms of the structure thereof and in terms of the computerised management software in a production line optimised with the aim of maximising meeting standards and demands of the retail furnishing industry.

[0011] Another object of the present invention is to meet the preceding object through a machine that is particularly quick in the functional polyvalence operation and versatility thereof, so as to be able to adapt to the production flow regimes of the operating line into which it is fitted and the relative changes, without creating bottle necks that require reservoirs or time transformations of any kind.

[0012] Still, another object of the present invention is to attain the preceding objects through a machine particularly suitable to be interfaced with the storage organiser described and claimed in the European patent application n° EP16172436.4 filed on 1 June 2016 and with the nesting optimising device described and claimed in the European patent application n° EP16178171.1 filed on 6 July 2016.

[0013] A further object of the present invention is to attain the preceding objects through a machine that also advantageously operates in stand-alone mode.

[0014] Still, a further object of the present invention is to attain any one of the preceding objects through a machine that is relatively simple and reliably efficient, safe to use and relatively inexpensive considering the actual results attained therewith.

Summary of the solution concept

[0015] These and other objects are all attained through the
automatic method for processing wooden panels and the like, especially for the furnishing industry, including the steps of:

• continuously supplying at least one panel at a time on a work surface according to a longitudinal conventionally horizontal transition axis Y;
• displacing the panel on the work surface according to said longitudinal axis Y and/or according to a conventionally transversal horizontal orthogonal axis X along a coded operative track;
• returning the panel on the same introduction front or to the rear of the machine;
• processing the panel in constant motion, multi-drilling it and/or milling it and/or shaping it using mobile automatic tools at least on a conventionally perpendicular vertical orthogonal axis Z corresponding to the dimension of the thickness of the panel, to implement an allocated pattern controlled by a computerised logic for managing tools on at least one of the six faces of the panel and on at least one of the three dimensions thereof;

comprising:

• operatively consecutively pre-positioning one after the other to form a continuous flow of panels on a translation and work surface, laterally fixedly abutting with respect to the introduction front and translation direction on axis Y, at least one panel, preferably a pair of laterally adjacently arranged panels, or two superimposed pairs of laterally adjacently arranged panels, even mutually differently dimensioned;
• gripping the panel on the introduction end, or every adjacently arranged panel, or every pair of adjacently arranged superimposed panels, in two points of equilibrium automatically variable on axis X in programmed dimensional function of the introduction front, preferably and advantageously consisting of the greater dimension of the panel or panels, to reduce the number and stroke of the passive travels of the actuator means to the uttermost;
• advancement by traction on axis Y of the panel on the introduction front, or every adjacently arranged panel, or every pair of adjacently arranged superimposed panels, on the translation and work surface up to completing the operative path, at an automatically set pace in a programmed function of traversing the entire translation and work surface on axis X by pendular automatic tools suitable to drill it and/or mill it and/or shape it;
• simultaneous upper and lower traversing of the translation and work surface on axis X by the automatic tools, with to and fro active operative positioning pendular travels, possibly entirely or partly limitedly positionable also on axis Y, mainly rotatingly operative on axis Z and inclined axes and possibly with appendages possibly rotatingly juxtaposed operative on axis Y;
• simultaneous upper or lower traversing of the translation and work surface on axis X by automatic tools rotatingly operative on axis X, with to and fro active operative positioning pendular travels and displacement on axis Z to engage and disengage the translation and work surface.

[0016] These objects are also attained through the machining unit for implementing said method, of the type consisting of a numerical control machine suitable to:

• be supplied with at least one panel according to a longitudinal conventionally horizontal transition axis Y on a translation and work surface;
• displacing it on such surface according to said longitudinal axis Y and/or according to a conventionally transversal horizontal orthogonal axis X by means of translator means along a coded operative track;
• returning it on the same introduction front or to the rear of the machine;
• multi-drilling it and/or milling it and/or processing it in constant motion, to implement an allocated pattern controlled by a computerised logic, through at least one operating unit, mobile at least on one conventionally perpendicular vertical orthogonal axis Z corresponding to the dimension of the thickness of the panel, for managing tools on at least one of the six faces of the panel and on at least one of the three dimensions thereof;

comprising:

• means (3B, 3C, 3D) for positioning and retaining - on a translation and work surface (3) laterally fixedly abutting with respect to the introduction front and the translation direction on axis Y - at least one panel (33), preferably a pair of laterally adjacently arranged panels (33), or two pairs of laterally adjacently arranged superimposed panels (33), even mutually differently dimensioned;
• support means (4, 5) extending superimposed on axis X to define an interspace (7) on axis Z through which there develops on axis Y the operative track (3) for displacing said at least one panel (33), so as to be introduced on one side of the machine (1) and released on the other side on a conveying surface (3) after processing;
• at least two front means (14, 14B) for gripping said at least one panel (33), carried by the upper (4) or lower (5) support, readily suitable to be displaced on axis X in programmed dimensional function of the front for introducing said at least one panel (33), preferably and advantageously consisting of the larger dimension of said at least one panel (33), engaging said at least one panel (33) by the side on the introduction front and operatively mobile on axis Y so as to translate said at least one panel (33);
• at least one pair of superimposed multifunctional operating units (16, 17) superimposed on axis Z, respectively carried by the upper (4) and lower (5) support, suitable to be displaced on axis X along said supports (4, 5) and selectively operatively engage and disengage on axis Z and inclined axes the upper and lower faces of said at least one panel (33) by means of tools (19A, 19B) carried by them, said multifunctional operating units (16, 17) also being, at least with a portion thereof, translating operatively restrictedly on axis Y and possibly having appendages potentially juxtaposed with tools rotatingly operating on axis Y;

at least one lateral multifunctional operating unit (23, 23B, 24, 24B) carried by the upper (4) or lower (5) support, suitable to be operatively displaced on axis X transversely to the direction of advancement of the panels and translating on axis Z so as to be alternatingly levelled occupying and clearing the track (3) of the panels (33) to selectively engage and disengage the lateral sides of the panels (33) in succession motion by means of the tools (31, 31B) rotatingly operating on axis Y carried by said at least one lateral multifunctional operating unit (23, 23B, 24, 24B).

Description of the attached drawings

[0017] Further characteristics and advantages of the automatic method for processing wooden panels and the like and the machining unit for the relative implementation according to the present invention will be more apparent from the following detailed description of preferred but non-exclusive embodiments thereof, represented solely by way of non-limiting example with reference to the attached twelve drawings, wherein:

Figures 1 and 2 show respective front axonometric views of the machining unit according to the present invention in perspective approaches on the two sides of the normal;

Figure 3 shows a rear view of the machining unit according to the present invention;

figure 4 shows a lateral view of the machining unit according to the present invention;

Figures 5 and 6 show respective front axonometric views of a portion of the machining unit according to the present invention in perspective approaches on two different inclinations;

Figures 7 and 8 respectively show a lateral view and a plan view of a first type of operative group or machining group of the machining unit according to the present invention;

Figure 9 shows a perspective view of a second type of operative group or machining group of the machining unit according to the present invention;

Figures 10 and 11 show respective rear axonometric views of a portion of the machining unit according to the present invention in perspective approaches on the two different inclinations;

Figure 12 shows a rear axonometric view of the machining unit according to the present invention in a bottom perspective view;

Figure 13 shows a plane rear view of a portion of the machining unit according to the present invention;

Figures 14 and 15 show respective lateral axonometric views of the machining unit according to the present invention in respectively front and rear perspective approaches;

Figure 16 shows an elevational perspective view of two machining units according to the present invention as arranged in an exemplifying portion of the line for manufacturing wooden panels and the like in the furnishing industry;

Figures 17 and 18 show respective rear axonometric views of the machining unit according to the present invention in an alternative implementation thereof in perspective approaches on the two sides of the normal;

Figures 19 and 20 show respective rear axonometric sections of the machining unit according to the present invention in an alternative implementation thereof in perspective approaches on the two sides of the normal;

Static description of the embodiments

[0018] With reference to such figures, and in particular to figure 1, the machining unit for wooden panels and the like according to the present invention, consisting of a numerical control machine is indicated in its entirety with 1, where the surface for supplying, machining and transfer of the panels 33, translated on a respective operative displacement track according to a longitudinal conventionally horizontal transition axis Y (also see figure 16), on the base 2, is indicated with 3.

[0019] Above and beneath the supply surface 3 there extend, according to a conventionally transversal horizontal orthogonal axis X, at least two upper 4 and lower 5 superimposed beams, carried by lateral imposts 6, to define - on a conventionally perpendicular vertical orthogonal axis Z - an interspace 7 for the transfer of the panels 33, or tunnel 7, with base roller unit 8 displaceable on a line axis Z to indicatively distribute, for descriptive/claim agreement that is adopted, the directions upstream and downstream with reference to the direction of introduction and transfer of the panels 33.

[0020] With such reference, indicative because in the architecture of the machine 1, the positioning of the at least two superimposed beams 4 and 5 and thus that of the tunnel 7 may vary as a mere alternative embodiment, towards upstream of the tunnel 7 there is provided an operative channel 9, or well towards upstream 9, to obtain a first interruption of the supplying, processing and transferring surface 3; towards downstream of the tunnel 7 there is obtained a an operative channel 10 or well 10 towards downstream, to obtain a second interruption of the supplying, processing and transfer surface 3 with respect to the coplanar conveying surface 11 for the exit of the panels 33 further towards downstream or towards the rear (also see figures 14 and 15).

[0021] On the supply side of the surface 3 there are provided means for positioning and retaining the panels 33 functionally designated for the pick up thereof, consisting of pairs of mushroom-like engagements 3B 3C with lateral abutment shanks and upper tightening heads, assisted by pairs of front retention concealable reliefs 3D;

[0022] The pairs of mushrooms 3B and 3C have - with reference to the lateral sides of the machining unit 1 - a fixed lateral element 3B and an inner element 3C movable on axis X, both elements 3B e 3C being provided with heads movable on axis Z.

[0023] The pairs of concealable reliefs 3D, contingently translatable on axis X, tend to take a median interspace position between the pairs of mushroom-like engagements 3B 3C and they movably project on axis Z, so as to engage and disengage the supplying, processing and transferring surface 3.

[0024] Beneath the upper beam 4, two pairs of parallel arms 13, extending on axis Y towards downstream of the tunnel 7 and movable in a known manner on axis X, on which there are hanged respective automatic grippers 14, translatable in a known manner on axis Y along the arms 13, are twinned by coupling bars 12, movably supported in a known manner on axis Z.

[0025] Inside and above the operative channel or well 9, towards upstream of the tunnel 7, two pairs of superimposed multifunctional operative groups or machining groups 16 and 17, conventionally defined vertical for the subsequently illustrated functions thereof, respectively carrying tools 19A and 19B movable and rotating in a known manner on axis Z or inclined axes for engaging and disengaging the track 3 for the operative displacement of the panels 33, are respectively supported in line by the upper 4 and lower 5 beam, displaceable in a known manner on axis X along rack-and-pinions 15,.

[0026] On the juxtaposed faces 18 of the superimposed multifunctional operating units or heads 16 and 17 designated to interface the panels 33, there are distributed, with optimisation criteria according to type, number and arrangement, arrays of tools 19A, carried by respective electro-mandrels 20, independently actuated rotatably and axially in a known manner on axis Z or inclined axes for the performance of the relative functions.

[0027] Smaller portions 21 of the juxtaposed faces 18 of the superimposed multifunctional operating units or heads 16, 17 carrying a limited number of tools 22 project in a peninsular fashion with respect to the larger surfaces 18 and translatable with respect thereto in a known manner on axis Y.

[0028] On the juxtaposed faces 18 of at least one pair of superimposed multifunctional operating units or heads 16 and 17 designated to interface the panels 33, are also preferably installed on cutting tools 19B, such as milling machines.

[0029] In the operative channel or well 10, towards downstream the tunnel 7, there is supported - in line by the lower beam 5 - a pair of operative groups or machining groups 23 and 24, conventionally defined lateral for the subsequently illustrated functions thereof, respectively independently displaceable in a known manner on axis X along a rack and pinion 25, as well as respectively independently movable in a known manner on axis Z to engage and disengage the track 3 for the operative displacement of the panels 33.

[0030] The lateral operative groups or machining groups 23 and 24 are, in the illustrated example, mutually mirror-like symmetrically arranged and respectively made up of, with respect to the lateral sides of the machining unit 1, an outer unit 26 and an inner unit 27 connected by at least one pneumatic plunger 28.

[0031] The inner units 27 carry - at the upper part - a respective vice 29, with a respective upper clamp 30 movable in a known manner, suitable to clamp the edges of the panels 33 on the supplying, processing and transferring surface 3.

[0032] The outer units 26 carry the drive unit connected to the rack and pinion 25 and have, in an appropriate position facing the inner units 27, a respective array of tools 31 extending - in line - on axis Y, carried by respective electro-mandrels 32, independently actuated rotationally and axially on axis X for the execution of the relative operations on the edges or borders of the panels 33.

Description of an alternative embodiment

[0033] Figures 17 and 18 illustrate an alternative embodiment of the machining unit 1 for wooden panels 3 and the like according to the present invention, in which the mutual positioning of the gripping means 14 and of the lateral machining groups 23 and 24 is inverted on axis Z with respect to what has been described up to now, with low grippers 14B, conventionally referred to as of the double acting type due to the functions thereof illustrated subsequently, and lateral high machining groups 23B and 24B.

[0034] In such alternative to at least one lower beam 5 there are movably assembled in a known manner on axis X two lower pairs of parallel profiled arms 13B, extending on axis Y towards downstream of the tunnel 7, which - for the functions thereof better illustrated hereinafter - can also be defined as conveying arms 13B, in that they integrate - alone - the conveying surface 11 for the exit of the panels 33.

[0035] To the conveying arms 13B there are retractably associated respective pairs of frontward 14B' and rearward 14B" automatic grippers, which have respective branches juxtaposedly facing frontwards and rearwards, suitable to be concealably levelled on axis Z in the arms 13B for conveying the same and mutually translatable in a known manner on axis Y along the arms 13B, alternatively embedded therein or projecting thereabove.

[0036] In the same alternative embodiment illustrated in figures 17 and 18, towards downstream of the tunnel 7, there is supported - in line by at least one upper beam 4 - a pair of operative groups or machining groups 23B and 24B, conventionally defined upper lateral for the subsequently illustrated functions thereof, respectively independently displaceable in a known manner on axis X along a rack and pinion 25B, as well as respectively independently movable in a known manner on axis Z to engage and disengage the track 3 for the operative displacement of the panels 33.

[0037] The upper lateral operative groups or machining groups 23B and 24B are, in the illustrated example, mutually mirror-like symmetrically arranged and respectively made up of, with respect to the lateral sides of the machining unit 1, an outer unit 26B and an inner unit 27B connected on axis X by at least one pneumatic plunger.

[0038] The inner units 27B carry - at the lower part - a respective pressing element 29B suitable to constrain - being displaced on axis Z - the edges of the panels 33 on the supplying, processing and transferring surface 3, abutting against the elements forming the conveying surface 11 for the exit of the panels 33.

[0039] The outer units 26B carry the drive unit connected to the rack and pinion 25B and have, in an appropriate position facing the inner units 27B, a respective array of tools 31B extending - in line - on axis Y, carried by respective electro-mandrels 32B, independently actuated rotationally and axially for the execution of the relative operations on the edges or borders of the panels 33, for the functions to be specified hereinafter.

Dynamic description of the embodiments

[0040] Thus, having completed the static description of preferred embodiments of the machining units for the implementation of the automatic method for processing wooden panels and the like according to the present invention, following is the dynamic description of the same, i.e. the relative operation:

[0041] Wooden panels or wood surrogate 33, for example and preferably produced by the optimising cutting machineof the movable sheet type, described and illustrated in the European patent application n° EP16178171.1 filed on 6 July 2016, for example and preferably coming therefrom through the storage organiser described and illustrated in the European patent application n° EP16172436.4 filed on 1 June 2016, automatically reach the machining unit 1 on the relative supplying, processing and transferring surface 3, for example and preferably in adjacent or staggered pairs, advantageously even in pairs of superimposed panels 33, typically when the latter are designated to be machined on just one of the larger surfaces.

[0042] The width of the tunnel 7 on axis X is preferably conceived such to confer ease to the introduction on any smaller or larger side to an adjacent pair, or dual pair, adjacent/staggered pair of panels 33 of normal dimensions, within the scope of the current configurations of pieces of furniture; wherein if a panel 33 exceeds the couplability threshold with a similar one or another one, it may be still supplied, machined and unloaded separately, or in a single superimposed pair, on the supplying, processing and transferring surface 3, contingently definitely with considerable size with reference to the size range in the specific industrial sector.

[0043] The polyvalence of the directions and methods of insertion of the panels 33 is thus absolute, but the operative optimisation, to which the machining unit 1 is expressly dedicated, prefers that the panels 33 be inserted on the front of the larger dimensions thereof, so that the return travel of the only displaced means of the machining unit 1 that do not have an operative return travel, i.e. high 14 or low 14B translation grippers which, as described hereinafter are the only unit without active return, have the shortest passive return travel possible.

[0044] This kind of optimisation concept implies a relatively considerable width size of the machining unit 1, but modern brushless drive units enable quick displacement of the vertical 16 and 17, lateral low 23 and 24 and lateral high 23B and 24B operative groups, in the transversal direction with respect to the direction of introduction (axis X) which easily overcomes such width within the operative speed limit of the entire machining unit 1.

[0045] Thus said, assuming the introduction of an adjacent/staggered pair of panels 33 on the supplying, processing and transferring surface 3 of the machining unit 1, each panel 33 of the pair, or at least one if the pair is staggered or if only one panel 33 is inserted into the machining unit 1, it is, with the aim of being pre-positioned for the subsequent steps, intercepted at the front part and stopped by a respective pair of concealable reliefs 3D, in this step contingently projecting from the supplying, processing and transferring surface 3.

[0046] At the same time, each panel 33, or as described above at least one, is laterally controlled by lateral abutment shanks of the pairs of mushroom engagement means 3B and 3C, which also clamp it on axis Z by lowering the relative tightening heads.

[0047] The panels retained in such pre-positioning conditions are gripped on the respective introduction edge by a pair of grippers 14, which - suitably programmed by the management software which controls the machining unit 1 and thus, preferably, the entire production line therewith - wait for them, at the end of a previous production cycle, in a corresponding position as well as mutual appropriate interspacing and arrangement.

[0048] Specifically, the single grippers 14 can also be provided with respective clamps dimensionally modular on the gripping front thereof, so that, in possible limit situations of maximum extension of the machining areas of the vertical tools 19A and 19B (from there henceforth) near the edges of the panels 33, such areas are not hindered by the clamps of the grippers 14.

[0049] Thus said, while, implementing the programme, the pairs of grippers 14 draw along the axis Y and position - in appropriate advancement succession - the respective panels 33 above the machining surface 3, when implementing the interpolated programme, the two pairs of superimposed vertical operative groups 16 and 17 are displaced at the well towards upstream 9 by means of brushless driven pinions along the rack and pinion 15, above and beneath the panels 33, and machine them simultaneously, where and if required, with the respective tools 19A and 19B, on the two faces and in the portions which are carried to interface the tools 19A and 19B in the steps for advancing the panels 33 on axis Y, combined with the translations of the superimposed vertical operative groups 16 and 17 on axis X.

[0050] In the multiplicative operative options regarding which the machining unit 1 according to the present invention is modularly capacious and innovatively dedicated, where there is supplied at least one superimposed pair, or typically an adjacent superimposed dual pair of panels 33, the superimposed vertical operative groups 16 and 17 machine the larger outward faces of the juxtaposed panels 33 only, while the faces confined in mutual contact remain intact; this operativeness, though limiting by way of principle (irrespective of the perspectives for machining the intact faces in other cycle steps), is actually arranged in a supporting position in the philosophy of the method and device of relative embodiment according to the present invention, which aims at attaining a maximum productivity not flattened in all functions, but rather targeted where required, combining polyvalence and targeted productivity maximisation, with saving naturally arising from giving up maximisation where it is not required in the specific intended use of the technology in most cases.

[0051] The superimposed vertical operative groups 16 and 17 can, as a function of the operative programme contingently set with reference to the combination of the times and methods for optimising the machining operations required by the processed specific pairs or dual pairs of panels 33, being displaced transversely along the entire extension of the processed pairs or dual pairs of processed panels 33 interposed between them, "moving like a pendulum" on axis X in combined and/or in mutual independence fashion transversely to the entire supplying, processing and transferring surface 3.

[0052] The superimposed vertical operative groups 16 and 17, or portions thereof, are preferably also provided with a limited mobility on axis Y, so that the relative tools 19A and 19B can reach the non-aligned positioning on axis X even in a single operation, saving the advancement steps of the grippers 14 to achieve the same purpose, where the operative optimisation on a determined portion of the panels 33 induces to opting for a displacement function with respect to the other on the same axis Y.

[0053] Subsequently and then simultaneously, the panels 33 drawn by the grippers 14 on the machining surface 3 pass through the tunnel 7 and the linear roller unit 8 lowers on axis Z to enable the transfer of the grippers 14, raising again immediately thereafter to form and/or contribute to forming a support of the panels 33 transferred step-by-step controlled by the machining stations programmed by the computerised logic as a function of what is contingently required to be obtained in the panels,

[0054] Thus, the panels 33 surmount the well towards downstream 10 and implementing the same interpolated programme the pair of lateral operative groups 23 and 24 is displaced in relative correspondence through brushless driven pinions along the rack and pinion 25, under the panels 33 of respective reference and, after arranging them adjacent at the level of the conveying surface 3 re-emerging thanks to their mobility on axis Z, they are locked thereto engaging them through the upper clamp 30 of the vice 29 of the respective inner units 27.

[0055] At this stage, the tools 31 forming the array extending in line on axis Y, carried by the electro-mandrels 32 of the outer units 26, rotatably and axially actuated independently, perform their programmed functions on the edges or borders of the stationary panels 33, in the advancement steps of the latter controlled by the drawing programming of the grippers 14.

[0056] The advancement of the tools 31 against the edges or borders of the stationary panels 33, locked through the upper clamp 30 of the vice 29 of the respective inner units 27, is actuated by induced vacuum in the pneumatic plungers 28 for connecting inner units 27 and outer units 26 of the lateral operative groups 23 and 24;
thus, with a single drive unit on the outer units 26 coupled to the rack and pinion 25 there is obtained the advancement and receding operative travel; returning the pressure to the pneumatic plungers 28 for connecting inner units 27 and outer units 26 of the lateral operative groups 23 and 24 - when returning - aimed at attaining the rigidity of the relative assemblies.

[0057] Also the lateral operative groups 23 and 24 can, as a function of the operative programme contingently set with reference to the combination of the times and methods for optimising the machining operations required by the processed specific pairs of dual pairs of panels 33, being displaced transversely along the entire succession of the processed pairs or dual pairs of panels 33 interposed between them, "moving like a pendulum" on axis X in combined and/or in mutual independence fashion transversely to the entire supplying, processing and transferring surface 3.

[0058] Once through with machining the edges or borders of a pair or dual pair of panels 33, the lateral operative groups 23 and 24 are withdrawn on axis Z beneath the supplying, processing and transferring surface 3 and the panels 33 exit from the machining unit 1 on an evacuation conveyor 11, while the grippers 14 perform a return travel on axis Y so as to be repositioned and pick a new pair or dual pair of panels 33 thereof in the meanwhile pre-positioned against the concealable reliefs 3D and between the engagements mushrooms 3B and 3C for another operating cycle and so on and so forth.

Operation of the alternative embodiment

[0059] In the alternative embodiment illustrated in figures 17 and 18 the arrangement of the translation grippers 14B and the lateral operative groups or machining groups 23B and 24B is inverted on axis Z with respect to the primarily described embodiment, in that the translation grippers 14B are carried by a lower beam 5 while the lateral operative groups or machining groups 23B and 24B are carried by an upper beam 4.

[0060] Instead of performing their function by picking the panels 33 and drawing them on axis Y over the entire extension of the lower profiled arms 13B, the lower grippers 14B, are preferably provided with a double action:

Pairs of grippers 14B' with frontward branches, respectively projecting from pairs of lower profiled arms 13B displaced in a parallel fashion as programmed on axis X in mutual appropriate interspacing and arrangement, pick the panels 33 waiting for them in corresponding arrangement and position them in appropriate advancement succession on the machining surface 3, drawing them on axis Y for part of the extension of the lower profiled arms 13B;

In a given programmed state of advancement, from the lower profiled arms 13B project and rearward of the panels 33 pairs of grippers 14B" with rearward branches that engage the panels 33 and push them exiting, while the pairs of grippers 14B' with frontward branches release the panels 33, lower and, sliding embedded in the lower profiled arms 13B under the panels 33 pushed exiting, pick up new ones and so on and so forth.

[0061] Such alternative embodiment with double acting lower grippers 14B, though increasing the costs considering the increase of the drive axis (that the entire solution alternative of the lower gripping means entails in any case), reduces the passive travels and increases the overall operative speed and productivity of the machining unit.

[0062] In the alternative embodiment with low grippers 14B the two pairs of superimposed vertical operative groups 16 and 17 perform the functions thereof as described above, not being substantially involved in the variant embodiment.

[0063] In the alternative embodiment with low grippers 14B the upper pair of lateral operative groups or machining units 23B and 24B is displaced through brushless driven pinions along the rack and pinion 25B, above the panel 33 of respective reference and, after arranging it adjacent to the level of the conveying surface 3 lowering due to the mobility thereof on axis Z, it is locked thereto constraining it through the pressing means 29B of the respective inner units 27B on the supplying, processing and transferring surface 3 thereof, abutting against the elements forming the conveying surface 11 for the exit of the panels 33, i.e. conveying surface arms 13B, in that they independently integrate the conveying surface 11 for the exit of the panels 33 in this alternative embodiment

[0064] At this stage, the tools 31B forming the array extending in line on axis Y, carried by the electro-mandrels 32B of the outer units 26B, rotatably and axially actuated independently, perform their programmed functions on the edges or borders of the stationary panels 33, in the advancement steps of the latter controlled by the drawing programming of the grippers 14.

[0065] The advancement of the tools 31B against the edges or borders of the stationary panels 33, locked through pressing means 29B of the respective inner units 27B, is actuated by induced vacuum in the pneumatic plungers for connecting inner units 27B and outer units 26B of the lateral operative groups 23B and 24B.

[0066] At the end of the cycle the lower grippers 14B are retracted into the pairs of parallel arms 13B to lie beneath the panels 33 in the return travel thereof and re-emerge upstream to pick new panels 33 to be processed and so on and so forth.

[0067] In figure 16 two machining units 1 combined - in line - for further exemplifying purposes of the relative functions; in such line there is illustrated - downstream - the unloading and stacking of the panels 33 according to the storage organiser described and claimed in the European patent application n° EP16172436.4 filed on 1 June 2016 regarding an optimisation management method and system for lean production in panel production lines in the furnishing industry.

Further alternative embodiments

[0068] It is obvious that in further alternative embodiments still falling within the innovation concept subject of the embodiment illustrated above and claimed below, the machining units for implementing the automatic method for processing wooden panels and the like, according to the present invention, may be implemented through technical and mechanical equivalents, i.e. with further supplementary solutions, same case applying to all configurations of the relative components can be varied to suit the purpose.

[0069] In particular:

the machine, though preferably inserted in an optimised automatic industrial line for producing a batch one due to the polyvalence and adaptability characteristics thereof is also appropriate for insertion into any operative line and also suitable for stand alone use, even at artisan level.

[0070] As previously mentioned in the description text, the grippers for picking and displacing the panels can be structured with dual (or multiple) branch, with alternative tightening tightening, to enable operative interventions of the designated groups even in areas occupied by the branches, which can release the grip transferring the function to the homologous ones for interventions on each surface piece.

[0071] The tools of the superimposed multifunctional operating heads and of the lateral operative groups can be provided within any number, type and arrangement appropriate for the purpose, even movable on axes orthogonal to the operative ones.

[0072] The vertical units may carry lateral machining groups at the head structured as apical appendages at the head and/or tail projecting at the lower part carrying tools with machining axis in Y coplanar to the supplying, processing and transferring surface of the panels.

Advantages of the invention

[0073] As observable from the preceding detailed description of preferred embodiments and some variant embodiments, the machining unit for the relative implementation according to the present invention offers advantages corresponding to the attainment of these and other pre-set objects:

as a matter of fact, it integrates a functional, modular, polyvalent and relatively economic automatic device suitable to operate with maximum flexibility on a plurality of panels arranged adjacent to each other variously dimensioned, so as to be connected to the batch one production lines at any level thereof and without creating production bottlenecks in relative correspondence, combining production maximisation and saving purposes, by providing operative means that are dynamic, functional and quick to the maximum in the series of operations and machinings most frequently carried out and operative means most sensitive to saving needs as concerns operations and machinings carried out less frequently; the entirety also combining operative times so that the concept/structural double purpose thereof does not affect the speed of execution.

KEY TO REFERENCE NUMBERS

[0074] 

1)

machining unit in its entirety

2)

base

3)

supplying, processing and transferring surface

3B)

fixed lateral mushroom like engagements of the supply surface

3B)

movable inner mushroom like engagements of the supply surface

3D)

concealable stop reliefs of the supply surface

4)

upper beams

5)

lower beams

6)

lateral imposts

7)

tunnel

8)

concealable linear roller unit of the tunnel

9)

operative channel or well upstream of the tunnel

10)

operative channel or well downstream of the tunnel

11)

conveying surface for the exit of panels

12)

bars for coupling the arms of the grippers

13)

arms of the grippers

13B)

arms of the lower variant grippers

14)

grippers

14B)

lower variant grippers

14B')

lower variant grippers, low grippers with frontward branches

14B")

lower variant grippers, low grippers with rearward branches

15)

rack-and-pinions of the superimposed multifunctional operative groups or machining groups

16)

first pair of superimposed multifunctional operative groups or machining groups

17)

second pair of superimposed multifunctional operative groups or machining groups

18)

faces of the superimposed multifunctional operative groups or machining groups

19A)

drilling tools of the superimposed multifunctional operative groups or machining groups

19B)

milling tools of the superimposed multifunctional operative groups or machining groups

20)

electro-mandrels of the tools of the superimposed multifunctional operative groups or machining groups

21)

peninsular portions of the faces of the superimposed multifunctional operative groups or machining groups

22)

tools of the peninsular portions of the faces of the superimposed multifunctional operative groups or machining groups

23)

first lateral machining group

23B)

first upper variant lateral machining group

24)

second lateral machining group

24B)

second upper variant lateral machining group

25)

rack and pinion of the lateral groups

25B)

rack and pinion of the upper variant lateral groups

26)

outer units of the lateral groups

26B)

outer units of the upper variant lateral groups

27)

inner units of the lateral groups

27B)

inner units of the upper variant lateral groups

28)

respective pneumatic plunger for connecting inner and outer units of the lateral groups

29)

respective upper vice of the inner units of the lateral groups

30)

respective clamp of the respective upper vice of the inner units of the lateral groups

31)

tools arranged in line of the inner units of the lateral groups

31B)

tools arranged in line of the inner units of the upper variant lateral groups

32)

respective electro-mandrels of the tools arranged in line of the inner units of the lateral groups

32B)

respective electro-mandrels of the tools arranged in line of the inner units of the upper variant lateral groups

33)

panels

Claims

1. Automatic method for processing wooden panels and the like, especially for the furnishing industry, including the steps of:

- continuously supplying at least one panel at a time on a work surface according to a conventionally horizontal transfer axis Y;

- displacing the panel on the work surface according to said longitudinal axis Y and/or according to a conventionally transversal horizontal orthogonal axis X along a coded operative track;

- returning the panel on the same introduction front or to the rear of the machine;

- processing the panel in constant motion, multi-drilling it and/or milling it and/or shaping it using automatic tools mobile at least on a conventionally perpendicular vertical orthogonal axis Z corresponding to the dimension of the thickness of the panel, to implement an allocated pattern controlled by a computerised logic for managing tools on at least one of the six faces of the panel and on at least one of the three dimensions thereof;

characterised in that it comprises:

- operatively consecutively pre-positioning one after the other to form a continuous flow of panels on a translation and work surface, laterally fixedly abutting with respect to the introduction front and translation direction on axis Y, at least one panel, preferably a pair of laterally adjacently arranged panels, or two superimposed pairs of laterally adjacently arranged panels, even mutually differently dimensioned;

- gripping the panel on the introduction end, or every adjacently arranged panel, or every pair of adjacently arranged superimposed panels, in two points of equilibrium automatically variable on axis X in programmed dimensional function of the introduction front, preferably and advantageously constituted by the greater dimension of the panel or panels, to reduce the number and stroke of the passive travels of the actuator means to the uttermost;

- advancement by traction on axis Y of the panel on the introduction front, or every adjacently arranged panel, or every pair of adjacently arranged superimposed panels, on the translation and work surface up to completing the operative path, at an automatically set pace in a programmed function of traversing the entire translation and work surface on axis X by pendular automatic tools suitable to drill it and/or mill it and/or shape it;

- simultaneous upper and lower traversing of the translation and work surface on axis X by the automatic tools, with to and fro active operative positioning pendular travels, possibly entirely or partly limitedly positionable also on axis Y, mainly rotatingly operative on axis Z and inclined axes and possibly with appendages possibly rotatingly juxtaposed operative on axis Y;

- simultaneous upper and lower traversing of the translation and work surface on axis X by automatic tools rotatingly operative on axis X, with to and fro active operative positioning pendular travels and displacement on axis Z to engage and disengage the translation and work surface.

2. Machining unit for implementing the method according to claim one, of the type constituted by a numerical control machine suitable to:

- to be supplied with at least one panel according to a conventionally horizontal transfer axis Y on a translation and work surface;

- displacing it on such surface according to said longitudinal axis Y and/or according to a conventionally transversal horizontal orthogonal axis X by means of translator means along a coded operative track;

- returning it on the same introduction front or to the rear of the machine;

- multi-drill it and/or mill it and/or process it in constant motion, to implement an allocated pattern controlled by a computerised logic, through at least one operating unit, mobile at least on one conventionally perpendicular vertical orthogonal axis Z corresponding to the dimension of the thickness of the panel, for managing tools on at least one of the six faces of the panel and on at least one of the three dimensions thereof;

characterised in that it comprises:

- support means (4, 5) extending superimposed on axis X to define an interspace (7) on axis Z through which there develops on axis Y the operative track (3) for displacing said at least one panel (33), so as to be introduced on one side of the machine (1) and released on the other side on another conveying surface (3) after processing;

- at least two front means (14, 14B) for gripping said at least one panel (33), carried by the upper (4) or lower (5) support, readily suitable to be displaced on axis X in programmed dimensional function of the front for introducing said at least one panel (33), preferably and advantageously constituted by the larger dimension of said at least one panel (33), engaging said at least one panel (33) by the side on the introduction front and operatively mobile on axis Y so as to translate said at least one panel (33);

- at least one pair of multifunctional operating units (16, 17) superimposed on axis Z, respectively carried by the upper (4) and lower (5) support, suitable to be displaced on axis X along said supports (4, 5) and selectively operatively engage and disengage on axis Z and inclined axes the upper and lower faces of said at least one panel (33) by means of tools (19A, 19B) carried by them, said multifunctional operating units (16, 17) also being, at least with a portion thereof, translating operatively restrictedly on axis Y and possibly having appendages potentially juxtaposed with tools rotatingly operating on axis Y.

3. Machining unit according to claim two characterised in that it comprises at least one lateral multifunctional operating unit (23, 23B, 24, 24B) carried by the support (4) or lower (5) support, suitable to be operatively displaced on axis X transversely to the direction of advancement of the panels and translating on axis Z so as to be alternatingly levelled occupying and clearing the track (3) of the panels (33) to selectively engage and disengage the lateral sides of the panels (33) in succession motion by means of the tools (31, 31B) rotatingly operating on axis Y carried by said at least one lateral multifunctional operating unit (23, 23B, 24, 24B).

4. Machining unit according to claim two or three characterised in that it comprises means (3B, 3C, 3D) for positioning and retaining - on a translation and work surface (3) laterally fixedly abutting with respect to the introduction front and the translation direction on axis Y - at least one panel (33), preferably a pair of laterally adjacently arranged panels (33), or two pairs of laterally adjacently arranged superimposed panels (33), even mutually differently dimensioned;

5. Machining unit according to any one of claims two to four, characterised in that said upper (4) and lower (5) support means - extending on axis X to define an interspace (7) on axis Z through which there develops on axis Y the surface (3) for supplying, processing and transferring at least one panel (33) - are constituted by at least two upper (4) and lower (5) superimposed beams that extend above and beneath the surface (3) for supplying, processing and transferring the panels (33), to define on axis Z an interspace or tunnel (7) for the transfer of panels (33).

6. Machining unit according to the preceding claim, characterised in that upstream of said tunnel (7) with reference to the direction of introduction and transfer of the panels (33) there is an upstream operative channel or well (9) to form a first interruption of the supplying, processing and transfer surface (3) and towards downstream the tunnel (7) there is obtained a downstream operative channel or well (10) to form a second interruption of the supplying, processing and transfer surface (3) with respect to the coplanar conveying surface (11) for the exit of the panels (33).

7. Machining unit according to any one of claims two to six, characterised in that said at least two means (14) for gripping the panels (33), carried by at least one of the upper (4) or lower (5) support means are constituted by automatic grippers (14) translating on axis Y along respective parallel arms (13), said arms (13) being mobile on axis X along the bars (12) that support them in a coupled fashion, said coupling bars (12) being moveably associated on axis Z preferably to said upper support (4).

8. Machining unit according to any one of claims two to six, characterised in that said at least two means (14) for gripping the panels (33) carried by at least one of the upper (4) or lower (5) support means are constituted by automatic grippers (14B) carried by respective parallel arms (13B) developing on axis Y and translating on axis X to which said automatic grippers (14B) are retractably associated in a concealable levelable fashion on axis Z in the arms (13B) and translatable in a known fashion on axis Y along the arms (13B).

9. Machining unit according to any one of claims two to eight, characterised in that said at least one pair of multifunctional operating units (16, 17) superimposed on axis Z, respectively carrying at least one of the upper (4) or lower (5) support means is constituted by two pairs of operative groups (16, 17) displaceable on axis X to engage and disengage the supplying, processing and transfer surface (3) for the operative displacement of the panels (33) through juxtaposed faces (18) interfacing the panels (33) on which there are distributed, with optimisation criteria according to type, number and positioning, arrays of tools (19) carried by respective electro-mandrels (20) rotatably and axially autonomously driven moveable on axis Z or inclined axes for executing the relative operations on the faces of the panels (33).

10. Machining unit according to claim nine, characterised in that smaller portions (21) of said juxtaposed faces (18) of said superimposed multifunctional operating units or heads (16, 17) carry a small number of tools (22) and they are articulated with respect to the larger surfaces (18) and translatable with respect thereto in a known manner on axis Y.

11. Machining unit according to claim nine, characterised in that smaller portions 21 of said juxtaposed faces 18 of said superimposed multifunctional operating units or heads (16, 17) carry a small number of tools 22 and they project in a peninsular fashion with respect to the larger surfaces 18 and translatable with respect thereto in a known manner on axis Y.

12. Machining unit according to any one of claims two to eleven, characterised in that said at least one lateral multifunctional operating unit (23, 24) carried by at least one of the upper (4) or lower (5) support means is constituted by a pair of operative groups (23-23B, 24-24B) respectively independently positionable on axis X, as well as respectively independently moveable in a known manner on axis Z to engage and disengage the supplying, processing and transferring surface (3) for the operative displacement of the panels (33), said lateral operative groups (23-23B, 24-24B)being mutually mirror-like symmetrical and respectively made up, with respect to the lateral aspect of the machining unit (1), of an outer unit (26-26B) and an inner unit (27-27B) connected by at least one pneumatic plunger (28).

13. Machining unit according to claim twelve, characterised in that said inner units (27) of said lateral multifunctional operating units (23, 24) carry a respective vice (29) with a respective automatic clamp (30) suitable to grip the edges of the panels (33) on the surface (3) for supplying, processing and transferring the same.

14. Machining unit according to claim twelve, characterised in that said inner units (27B) of said lateral multifunctional operating units (23B, 24B) carry a respective pressing element (29B) suitable to constrain the edges of the panels (33) on the surface (3) for supplying, processing and transferring the same, in abutment against elements forming the conveying surface (11) for the exit of the panels (33).

15. Machining unit according to claim twelve, characterised in that said outer units (26-26B) bear the displacement means on axis X and they have - facing said inner units (27-27B) - a respective array of tools (31-31B) linearly developing on axis Y carried by respective electro-mandrels (32-32B) rotatably and axially autonomously driven to execute the relative operations on the edges or sides of the panels (33).

16. Machining unit according to any one of claims 5 to 15 characterised in that on at least one lower beam (5) there are moveably assembled in a known manner on axis X to lower pairs of parallel shaped arms (13B) developing on axis Y towards downstream the tunnel (7) to which there are retractably associated respective pairs of forward-facing (14B) and backward-facing (14C) automatic grippers having respective branches - oppositely juxtaposed forward-facing and backward-facing - concealably levelable on axis Z in the conveying arms (13B) and mutually translatable in a known manner on axis along the arms (13B) alternatively embedded thereinto or projecting therefrom.

17. Machining unit according to the preceding claim characterised in that said parallel shaped arms (13B) developing on axis Y towards downstream the tunnel (7) to which there are retractably associated respective pairs of automatic forward-facing (14B) and backward-facing (14C) grippers alone constitute the conveying surface (11) for the exit of the panels (33).

18. Machining unit according to any one of claims 2 to 17, characterised in that said at least one pair of multifunctional operating units (16, 17) superimposed on axis Z, respectively carried by the upper (4) and lower (5) support translate on axis X in and at said upstream operative channel or well (9).

19. Machining unit according to any one of claims 3 to 17, characterised in that said at least one pair of lateral multifunctional operating units (23, 24) carried by the upper (4) or lower (5) support constituted by a pair of operative groups (23, 24) translates on axis X in and at said upstream operative channel or well (10).

Drawing