Adjustable Link Sizing Tool for Constrained Workspace Tool Fit
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Solution Overview
Problem
In large assembly environments, standard off-the-shelf tools are often constrained by workspaces, leading to errors and increased time and cost when trying to customize tools using measurement tools like tape measures and protractors.
Innovation Solution
A sizing tool with adjustable links is used to determine the necessary offset locations, lengths, and angles for a manufacturing tool, allowing for direct customization of tools to fit specific workspaces, utilizing a CAD/CAM system for precise fabrication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If measurement tools (tape measures and protractors) are used to estimate tool dimensions, then the approach is simple and requires basic equipment, but errors increase and time and cost increase due to requiring several iterations to refine the design
Solution Approach 1:
A sizing tool with adjustable links acts as an intermediary device between the workspace constraints and the final tool design. This intermediary tool directly measures and transfers the geometric parameters (lengths, angles, offsets) from the workspace to the tool design, eliminating the need for repeated manual measurements and calculations that cause time loss and errors.
Solution Approach 2:
The sizing tool creates a physical copy or template of the desired tool configuration by directly replicating the workspace geometry through its adjustable links. This copying process captures the exact dimensions and angles needed for the final tool in a single operation, avoiding iterative refinement and reducing both time and errors.
2Manufacturing precision
If measurement tools are used to estimate tool dimensions, then basic equipment is required, but the design requires several iterations to refine, increasing cost
Solution Approach 1:
The sizing tool performs preliminary action by pre-determining the exact geometric parameters needed for the final tool before manufacturing begins. By measuring and establishing all critical dimensions, angles, and offsets in advance using the adjustable links, the design is finalized in one step, eliminating costly iterative refinements and reducing overall manufacturing cost.
3Adaptability or versatility
If standard off the shelf tools are used, then no customization is needed, but they cannot fit constrained workspaces
Solution Approach 1:
The sizing tool is segmented into multiple adjustable links that can be independently positioned and locked. This segmentation allows each link to be adjusted to match specific workspace constraints, enabling the tool to adapt to various constrained environments while keeping the overall structure relatively simple and modular.
Solution Approach 2:
The sizing tool incorporates dynamic adjustability through its movable links that can be repositioned along the tool shaft. This dynamic capability allows the tool to adapt to different workspace configurations without requiring a completely different tool design, balancing adaptability with structural simplicity.
Data Source
AI summary
A tool for sizing a workspace includes a first link with a link body and a tool element. The tool includes a second link connected to the first link, where the second link is capable of rotation or translation with respect to the first link, and where the first link and the second link are selectively securable relative to each other. The tool includes a third link connected to the second link, where the third link is capable of rotation or translation with respect to the second link, and where the second link and the third link are selectively securable relative to each other.