Bi-Adjustable Coupling Interface for Tolerance-Aligned Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
The coupling of constructional parts in assembly processes, such as aircraft constructions, is cumbersome due to constructional variances leading to unstable connections and increased mounting time, hindering automation.
Innovation Solution
A connection interface comprising a connector with a primary and secondary fastening region and an aligner that adjusts in multiple spatial directions, using alignment elements and a measuring device to compensate for geometric differences, enabling automated alignment and assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a dedicated joint is used to connect constructional parts, then stable connection is achieved, but mounting time increases and automatization is hampered
Solution Approach 1:
The connection interface is segmented into separate functional components: a connector for stable connection and an aligner for positioning. This segmentation allows the alignment function to be independently adjusted, enabling faster mounting while maintaining connection stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The aligner incorporates adjustable elements that can dynamically adapt to constructional variances in the constructional parts. This dynamic adjustment capability allows the interface to compensate for tolerances automatically, reducing mounting time while maintaining reliable connection.
2Manufacturing precision
If alignment is provided via the joint, then constructional variances are compensated, but mounting time is enhanced and automatization is hampered
Solution Approach 1:
The aligner acts as an intermediary element between the connector and the constructional parts. It provides the alignment function separately from the connection function, enabling standardized connectors to be used with automated positioning mechanisms, thus facilitating assembly automation while maintaining alignment precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces complex mechanical alignment procedures with a standardized aligner mechanism that can be easily adjusted and potentially automated. This substitution simplifies the alignment process, making it more suitable for automated assembly systems while maintaining manufacturing precision.
3Adaptability or versatility
If constructional variances are accepted, then adaptability is improved, but connection stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connection interface employs local quality adjustment through the aligner, which can be specifically tuned to compensate for constructional variances in each particular application. This localized adjustment maintains connection stability while accepting broader overall adaptability to different constructional configurations.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a connection interface (10) for mounting a building component (12) to a support structure (14). In order to provide an improved way of joining constructional parts, the connection interface comprises at least one connector (16) and at least one aligner (18). The connector comprises: a primary fastening region (20) at a first end (22) configured to be fastened to one of a first plurality of mounting points (24) at the support structure and a secondary fastening region (26) at a second end (28) configured to be fastened to one of a second plurality of mounting points (30) at the building component (12). The aligner is arranged between the first end and the second end; and wherein the aligner is configured to align the connector in an oriented manner according to an alignment value for bringing the building component and the support structure in an alignment arrangement (32). The aligner provides an adjustment in at least two spatial directions.