Adjustable tool for manufacture of flat, positive or negative shaped products has matrix of individual punches which can be set in height direction to conform to desired product profile

摘要

The tool can be adjusted to the surface contorts (34) of a required component (32,33) by setting a matrix (31) of individual segment punches (1). Each punch has a side length (2) which determines the maximum definition of the tool and thus a part molded by the tool. The size of the matrix and thus product size is determined by the total number of punches. Setting of the tool punches (1) to a desired surface profile is controlled by data input, particularly 3D-CAD (computer aided design) data supplied by a CNC (computerized numerical control) unit (29). All punches(1) are identical and have a basic square cross-section with side-length (2). Setting of individual punches to a desired profile in the height direction (Z) is effected by an adjusting punch(30) moves along three axes by a control member (23) forming part of a multi-axis table (24). Punches can be locked in their set position by clamping blocks (7-10) and clamping slides (11-14) operated by control members (19-22). A high quality surface finish can be realized by placing an elastic sheet(15) over the top of the matrix (31). All punches are located in a chest (28) which has a grid (5) by which the cylindrical lower shafts (3) of the punches are guided axially. The grid also limits maximum movement of punches. A gas or fluid contained in the chest is covered by a membrane, which seals the medium from the upper part of the chest. When the fluid volume is altered the lower ends of the punches are moved in the vertical direction (Z) by the membrane. Rapid setting of the tool may be achieved by pressurizing the membrane against the lower ends of the punches so that the upper ends contact an original model.