Interchangeable Carrier Coupling for Fast Exhaust Workstation Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for connecting components in exhaust systems of internal combustion engines, such as catalytic converters and particle filters, are inefficient and require complex structural measures for rapid and reliable positioning in workstations.
Innovation Solution
An interchangeable carrier system comprising a base unit and a carrier unit with a coupling/fixing arrangement, guided by sliding guide formations and driven by a pressure fluid mechanism, allowing quick and secure attachment and detachment of components in workstations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional welding positioning methods are used, then components can be positioned in workstations, but the positioning process is time-consuming and requires complex structural measures
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into a base unit and interchangeable carrier units. Each carrier unit can be independently attached or detached from the base unit, allowing rapid replacement without complex repositioning structures. The coupling/fixing arrangement is segmented into separate coupling elements on the base unit and corresponding coupling elements on the carrier unit, enabling simple connection and disconnection operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The base unit is designed with universal coupling arrangements that can accommodate multiple different carrier units. The coupling/fixing arrangement serves multiple functions: guiding the carrier unit during attachment, providing positive coupling engagement for secure connection, and enabling rapid detachment. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for complex, specialized positioning structures for each component type.
2Loss of time
If rapid positioning is achieved through complex structural measures, then positioning speed improves, but device complexity and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling/fixing arrangement is designed to perform multiple functions automatically during the attachment process. The sliding guide formations automatically guide the carrier unit into the correct position, the positive coupling engagement automatically secures the connection, and no additional complex mechanisms are required. The system serves itself by integrating guidance, coupling, and fixing functions into a single straightforward attachment motion.
3Reliability
If components are firmly fixed for work processes, then positioning reliability improves, but attachment and detachment time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling/fixing arrangement provides dynamic functionality, allowing the system to transition between two states: a loose state during attachment/detachment operations and a firmly fixed state during work processes. The positive coupling engagement mechanism enables the carrier unit to be quickly attached and firmly secured, then just as quickly detached when the work is complete, optimizing both reliability during operation and productivity during replacement.
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 rapid, reliable, and cost-effective positioning of components for welding processes, facilitating universal application and reducing the need for additional structural measures, thereby enhancing productivity and cost savings.
Implementation Method 1
a coupling member drive which has a first pressure fluid chamber to be fed with pressure fluid in order to move the coupling member in the fixing direction
Data Source
AI summary
An interchangeable carrier system, in particular for workstations for producing components for exhaust systems of internal combustion engines, includes a base unit and a carrier unit, which is to be releasably fixed to the base unit in a working position, wherein a coupling/fixing arrangement is provided on the base unit and a counterpart coupling/fixing arrangement, which can be brought into positive coupling engagement with the coupling/fixing arrangement during a sliding movement of the carrier unit in a sliding movement direction into the working position, is provided on the carrier unit, and wherein, when the carrier unit is positioned in the working position, the carrier unit can be fixed with respect to the base unit by the coupling/fixing arrangement.