Axial Locking Support for Adjustable Stress-Free Workpiece Fixturing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Tooling fixtures for manufacturing are expensive and often apply undesirable preload or stress on workpieces, especially when adapting to different geometries, making them economically unviable for small production runs and inefficient for adaptive support.
Innovation Solution
An axial locking mechanism comprising a lock and a rod that transitions between a movable and a fixed state, allowing for adjustable and rigid support of workpieces without adding additional load, using a locking action that restricts axial motion through physical engagement or interference between the lock and rod surfaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If traditional tooling fixtures are used to rigidly support workpieces, then support stability is improved, but cost increases and adaptability to different workpiece geometries decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The support member is made adjustable along the longitudinal axis, transitioning from a fixed to a dynamic configuration. This allows the support member to adapt to different workpiece geometries while maintaining stable support through the locking mechanism that secures the adjusted position.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional tooling fixtures are designed to adapt to different workpiece geometries, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity and preload stress on workpieces increase
Solution Approach 1:
The fixture is divided into modular components: a base member and an adjustable support member. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, simplifying the overall design while maintaining adaptability through the adjustable support member.
Solution Approach 2:
The support member serves multiple functions: it provides support, allows adjustment to different positions, and can be locked securely. This multi-functionality reduces the need for multiple separate components, thereby reducing overall fixture complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional tooling fixtures are designed to adapt to different workpiece geometries, then adaptability is improved, but unwanted preload or stress on workpieces increases
Solution Approach 1:
The support member adjusts to the workpiece geometry through controlled movement along the longitudinal axis, allowing the workpiece itself to dictate the appropriate support position. This self-adjusting mechanism eliminates the need for forced adaptation that would create unwanted preload or stress.
4Ease of operation
If adjustable support mechanisms are added to reduce fixture complexity, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity may increase
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism acts as an intermediary between the adjustable support member and the base member. It provides a simple interface that secures the adjusted position without requiring complex control systems, maintaining ease of operation while preventing unintended movement.
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
The axial locking mechanism provides a cost-effective, adjustable, and stress-free support for workpieces, ensuring secure positioning without applying unwanted loads, suitable for a wide range of part geometries and reducing the complexity and cost associated with traditional tooling fixtures.
Implementation Method 1
The locking action does not move the rod in the axial direction... physical engagement or interference between the lock and rod surfaces
Data Source
AI summary
An axial locking mechanism includes a lock and a rod. The lock includes a lock aperture and an axis passing through the lock aperture. The rod is receivable by the lock aperture along the axis. In a first rotational orientation about the axis, the rod is movable within the lock aperture along the axis and relative to the lock. In a second rotational orientation about the axis, the rod is fixed within the lock aperture along the axis and relative to the lock.