Alignment Tool With Reference Surfaces And Clamp Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for aligning tools and guide assemblies using T-slots are prone to misalignment due to manufacturing tolerances and require multiple steps, including the use of secondary precision gages for verification, which is time-consuming and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of alignment tools with complementary reference surfaces and a clamp assembly that applies a force to draw components into abutting engagement, eliminating the need for secondary tools and ensuring precise alignment without torque-induced misalignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If traditional T-slot connection methods are used, then components can be connected with standard fastening means, but manufacturing tolerances cause misalignment between connected components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a precision alignment interface as an intermediary between connected components. This interface includes precision-machined surfaces and alignment features (such as precision pins or tapered surfaces) that mediate the connection between components, ensuring accurate alignment regardless of standard manufacturing tolerances in the T-slot or fastening elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary alignment through precision-machined reference surfaces and alignment features before final fastening. Components are pre-aligned using these precision features, and only then are the fastening elements tightened, preventing misalignment that would occur if fastening were performed first without preliminary positioning.
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple alignment steps with secondary precision gages are used, then alignment accuracy can be improved, but the connection process becomes time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the alignment system self-servicing by incorporating precision alignment features directly into the connection interface itself. The precision-machined surfaces and alignment features automatically ensure accurate alignment when components are connected, eliminating the need for external precision gages or multiple verification steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the alignment function and connection function into a single integrated interface. Instead of separating alignment (requiring precision gages) and connection (using fasteners) into distinct steps, the design combines them so that the act of connecting the components through the T-slot interface simultaneously achieves both alignment and fastening in one operation.
3Strength
If fastening means are tightened to secure components, then connection strength is improved, but torque application can cause displacement and misalignment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary alignment using precision-machined reference surfaces and alignment features before applying tightening torque to the fastening elements. This ensures that components are correctly positioned and aligned before strength is applied through tightening, preventing torque-induced displacement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces precision alignment features as intermediaries between the fastening elements and the components being connected. These features (such as precision pins or tapered surfaces) absorb and manage the forces during tightening, allowing strong connection without transmitting misaligning forces to the component interfaces.
Data Source
AI summary
An alignment tool for connection to a work component. The alignment tool includes a body, a retention member that extends upward from the body, a clamp assembly spaced from the retention member and being connected to the body, a first reference surface that extends upward from the body and is located between the retention member and where the clamp assembly is connected to the body. The clamp assembly has a fastener that extends toward the retention member and past the first reference surface of the body, wherein the clamp assembly is movable to draw a distal end of the fastener in a direction toward where the clamp assembly is connected to the body and the fastener is biased to move the distal end of the fastener toward the first reference surface.