Ball Roller Transport Device for Heavy Workpiece Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing transport devices struggle to efficiently move and align heavy workpieces on processing machines, especially in confined spaces, due to high friction and error-prone marking systems, which complicates the precise positioning required for multiple processing steps in series production.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising two flat structures with parallel running and contact surfaces, utilizing ball rollers for low-friction movement and adjustable ball transfer units with regulating devices, along with guide grooves and pins for precise positioning, allows for easy handling and alignment of objects.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional direct contact between planar surfaces is used, then structural simplicity is maintained, but friction is high making heavy object movement difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces ball rollers with spherical surfaces between the two planar structures. These ball rollers convert sliding friction into rolling friction, dramatically reducing the force required to move heavy objects. The spherical geometry allows the balls to rotate freely while supporting the load, enabling easy movement of heavy workpieces on machining centers.
2Measurement precision
If markings are used to define positions, then positioning reference is provided, but the system becomes cluttered and error-prone with multiple workpieces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces ball rollers as intermediary elements that mediate between the two planar structures. These ball rollers incorporate positioning features such as recesses or protrusions that engage with corresponding features on the opposing structure, providing precise positioning without requiring markings on the workpieces or machine surfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the marking-based positioning system with a mechanical positioning system using ball rollers. The ball rollers have predefined positions and geometries that mechanically enforce accurate alignment, eliminating the need for visual markings and their associated clutter and errors.
3Ease of operation
If heavy workpieces are moved manually, then flexibility is maintained, but precise alignment and positioning become difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The ball rollers provide smooth rolling motion that makes handling heavy workpieces effortless while maintaining stability. The spherical geometry ensures uniform contact and distribution of forces, enabling operators to easily move and reposition heavy objects.
Solution Approach 2:
The ball rollers act as precision intermediaries between the workpiece and the machining center surface. They incorporate precise positioning features that ensure accurate alignment when the workpiece is placed, combining easy manual handling with precise positioning capability.
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 effortless movement and precise alignment of heavy objects, reducing friction and errors, facilitating efficient transportation and positioning within confined spaces without damaging the device under pressure.
Implementation Method 1
The second structure has at least one ball roller which is in contact with the running surface of the first structure
Implementation Method 2
An object placed or attached to the upper structure can thus be easily moved by sliding the upper structure onto the lower structure. In this way, an object can be transported from one position to another without generating significant friction between the structures
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a device for transporting objects inside a machine. The device consists of a first structure (1) and a second structure (2) which are moveably arranged relative to one another. The second structure (2) has casters (2.2) which allow the structure to be moved easily. Openings (1.2) are provided in the first structure (1), into which openings the casters (2.2) can be inserted. When the casters (2.2) are inserted into the openings (1.2), the first structure (1) and the second structure (2) make contact, thereby preventing further movement. Multiple openings (1.2) allow the definition of different positions of the first structure (1) relative to the second structure (2).