Abstract: The present invention relates generally to bending a workpiece to form a desired configuration and, in particular, to a method and apparatus for forming bends “out of sequence,” i.e., in a time sequence different from the spatial sequence of the bends on the workpiece. The apparatus of the present invention include a bending system for bending a workpiece and a positioning system for positioning the workpiece relative to a bending region so that bends can be formed in various locations across the bending region. By virtue of the disclosed structures, a series of bends can be formed on a workpiece at various locations within the bending region. Bends can be formed out sequence and without advancing the workpiece relative to the bending region.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to bending a workpiece to form a desired configuration and, in particular, to a method and apparatus for forming bends "out of sequence," i.e., in a time sequence different from the spatial sequence of the bends on the workpiece. The apparatus of the present invention include a bending system for bending a workpiece and a positioning system for positioning the workpiece relative to a bending region so that bends can be formed in various locations across the bending region. By virtue of the disclosed structures, a series of bends can be formed on a workpiece at various locations within the bending region. Bends can be formed out sequence and without advancing the workpiece relative to the bending region.

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 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 including a programmable system for calculating the positions and shapes of bends for bending the stock to the selected design and a sequence for making the bends, and a printer 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 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.