Sheet Metal Feeder

This example shows a feeding mechanism of a sheet metal cutter. Two slitted rolls are driven by a torque motor through two mechanical drivetrains. Each drivetrain consists of a spur gear train, worm gear, and a chain drive. The sprocket of the chain drive is connected to its respective slitted roll. The interaction between the rolls and the sheet metal is simulated by the Loaded Contact Translational Friction blocks.

The driver uses a torque motor power unit and two disk friction clutches. The drive clutch periodically connects the flywheel to the transmissions to advance the stock. The brake clutch engages during idle intervals to fix the rollers in intermediate positions.

Model

Simulation Results from Simscape Logging

The plot below shows the shaft speeds of the sheet metal feeder and the position of the stock. When the driver clutch is closed, the stock advances. When the brake clutch is closed, the stock remains still.