METHOD OF, AND APPARATUS FOR PRODUCING MULTI- DIMENSIONALLY BENT ELONGATE ARTICLES

摘要

A multi-dimensional bending method and apparatus are disclosed, wherein the entire length of the product is divided into a plurality of imaginary segments which are identified by detecting the contiuously supplied length of an elongate material. This material is bent multi-dimensionally by a bending device including horizontal and vertical bending mechanisms and an axial twisting mechanism having the respective actuators arranged remote from the movable elements of the mechanisms, and individually actuated in response to the detected supplied length of the material. Multi-dimensionally bent, continuously supplied material is cut into the length of the product by means of a cutting device also actuated in response to the detected supplied length of the material, and includes fixed and movable blade members which, during the cutting operation, are movable also in the direction in which the material is supplied. The cutting operation is effected without requiring an interruption of the continuous supply of the material. (Fig. 7)