Boss-and-Pocket Workpiece Positioning for Fast Precise Setup
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for positioning a work piece are often time-consuming and require iterative adjustments to achieve the desired positional tolerance, and they may require specialized equipment or complex setup operations.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a first body with a boss and a second body with a pocket, where the boss and pocket have corresponding inner and outer mating profiles with radial lobes, allowing for precise and rapid securing of a work piece in one of several possible locations and orientations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If traditional fixtures and jigs with screws, clamps, and vises are used to secure a work piece, then the work piece can be held in position, but the positioning process becomes time-consuming due to iterative adjustments required to achieve acceptable positional tolerance
Solution Approach 1:
The boss and pocket features are pre-configured with precise geometric profiles that automatically establish the correct position when assembled. The radial lobes on the boss perimeter and corresponding pocket perimeter surfaces are designed to mate together, preliminarily setting the work piece position before any clamping or securing operations occur. This eliminates the need for iterative adjustments during the positioning process.
Solution Approach 2:
The boss and pocket mating features are self-aligning and self-positioning through their geometric profiles. When the boss is inserted into the pocket, the radial lobes automatically engage with the pocket perimeter surfaces, causing the work piece to self-adjust to the correct position without requiring external adjustment mechanisms or iterative manual positioning.
2Reliability
If traditional positioning methods are used, then work pieces can be secured, but specialized equipment and complex setup operations are required
Solution Approach 1:
The boss and pocket features serve multiple functions simultaneously: they provide precise positioning through their geometric profiles, act as alignment features through the radial lobes, and function as securing elements when combined with the work-holding body. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate positioning devices, alignment tools, and securing mechanisms, thereby reducing setup complexity while maintaining positioning accuracy.
3Manufacturing precision
If iterative displacement methods are used to achieve desired position, then positional tolerance can be met, but the process efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The precise geometric profiles of the boss and pocket features are predetermined and pre-configured during manufacturing. When assembled, these features automatically establish the correct position within acceptable tolerance limits, performing the positioning action in advance before any operational adjustments are needed. This preliminary configuration ensures both precision and speed.
Solution Approach 2:
The work piece positioning system is self-positioning through the mating radial lobes on the boss and corresponding pocket surfaces. When the boss is inserted into the pocket, the geometric profiles automatically guide and settle the work piece into the correct position without requiring external intervention or iterative adjustments, thereby achieving both high precision and rapid positioning.
Data Source
AI summary
In a general aspect, a system for selectively positioning a work piece includes multiple bodies. A first body includes a first exterior surface and a boss extending from the first exterior surface along a boss axis. The boss includes a boss end surface that terminates the boss. Boss perimeter surfaces define a perimeter of the boss and extend between the first exterior surface and the boss end surface. A second body includes a second exterior surface and a pocket extending from the second exterior surface into the second body along a pocket axis. The pocket is shaped to receive the boss in a discrete number of positions when the boss axis and the pocket axis are aligned. Pocket perimeter surfaces define a perimeter of the pocket and extend into the second body from the second exterior surface.