Abstract:
A side panel assembly is disclosed which is of simple construction and provides easy access to the assembly contents for servicing or the like. The side panel assembly includes a front wall (14), a back wall (12) and a side wall (16) which is bent to match the shape of the front (14) and/or back (12) wall. The front wall (14) is connected to the side wall (16) by inserting a fastener (30) through the front wall (14) and a pull-out tab (26) extending from the side wall (16). A method and apparatus for use in constructing the side panel (16) are also provided. The method and apparatus allow for automation of the lay-out, cutting to length, flanging and notching of the side panel (16).
Abstract:
A method and apparatus for use in bending sheet stock to form a selected design is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a controller (12) including a programmable system for calculating the position and shapes of bends for bending the stock (16) to the selected design and a sequence for making the bends, and a printer (14) for printing instructions regarding the positions, shapes and sequence of the bends. The printer can print instructions directly on the stock or on a label (18) for attachment to the stock. The instructions can be utilized by an operator or machine in bending the sheet stock. The invention improves the efficiency and accuracy of the process for bending sheet stock.