Adjustable Clamping Table for Multi-Workpiece Welding Fixtures
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Solution Overview
Problem
Clamping tables require expensive and inefficient reconfiguration or replacement of clamp fixtures for different workpieces, leading to increased labor and costs in manufacturing processes.
Innovation Solution
A clamping table with multiple actuated clamping fixtures that can accommodate workpieces of varying dimensions and shapes without reconfiguration, using bi-directional movement and actuated clamping assemblies with hydraulic or pneumatic pistons to secure workpieces in place, and a conveyor frame for positioning, allowing continuous welding operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If product-specific clamp fixtures are used to hold workpieces in place, then welding and fabrication operations can be performed, but the fixtures must be swapped or relocated for different workpiece types, increasing labor and cost
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp fixture is designed with a universal base structure that can accommodate multiple workpiece types through adjustable components. The base frame with parallel rails and movable clamping assemblies allows the same fixture to hold different workpiece configurations without requiring complete fixture replacement, thus achieving multi-functionality while maintaining positioning stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamping fixture incorporates movable and adjustable elements rather than fixed rigid structures. The clamping assemblies can be repositioned along the base frame rails, and individual clamps can be adjusted to accommodate varying workpiece dimensions and shapes, enabling dynamic adaptation to different workpiece types while maintaining secure holding.
2Adaptability or versatility
If clamp fixtures are swapped or relocated for different workpiece types, then adaptability to different products is achieved, but labor time and reconfiguration costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The base frame is pre-configured with multiple mounting positions and guide rails that allow clamping assemblies to be quickly repositioned without requiring complete disassembly or complex reconfiguration. The standardized interface and pre-marked positions enable rapid setup for different workpiece types, reducing reconfiguration time while maintaining adaptability.
3Manufacturing precision
If product-specific clamping fixtures are created for each workpiece type, then precise workpiece holding is achieved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping fixture is divided into modular components: a standardized base frame and interchangeable clamping assemblies. This segmentation allows the expensive precision components to be minimized to only what is necessary for each specific workpiece holding task, while the majority of the structure uses standardized, lower-cost components that can be reused across different workpiece types.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables efficient and cost-effective manufacturing by securing workpieces in fixed positions for welding and other fabrication processes, reducing labor and reconfiguration costs, and facilitating continuous welding with robotic systems.
Implementation Method 1
A jaw actuator with a movable piston to the jaw and the jaw actuator operates to open and close the jaw of each clamping assembly during the operation of the table
Implementation Method 2
using bi-directional movement and actuated clamping assemblies with hydraulic or pneumatic pistons to secure workpieces in place
Implementation Method 3
fixing a third workpiece on top of the arcuate surfaces of the opposing wedge slides of the one or more clamping assemblies
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus and methods thereof used to clamp and secure workpieces of varying shapes and dimensions into position for welding, machining, and other fabrication activities. A plurality of opposing clamping assemblies attached to the clamping table operate to move and orient separate workpieces into a desired assembly position. The oriented workpieces are then clamped and held in a fixed position for welding, machining, or other fabrication activities.