Compact Workpiece Positioning Device with Integrated Rotation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional production lines using orthogonal three-axis workpiece positioning devices face challenges in space efficiency and footprint reduction, especially when handling larger workpieces like automobile bodies, which often require multiple devices.
Innovation Solution
A workpiece positioning device comprising a first moving unit for horizontal movement, a second moving unit for vertical movement, and a rotating unit, where the second and rotating units are confined within the width of the first moving unit, allowing for reduced footprint through compact design and directional movement optimization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple orthogonal three-axis workpiece positioning devices are used to fix large workpieces, then the workpiece can be securely positioned, but the footprint and process area increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple positioning functions (horizontal movement, vertical movement, and rotation) into a single integrated device. The first moving unit provides horizontal movement, the second moving unit provides vertical movement, and the rotating unit provides rotation, allowing one device to replace multiple orthogonal three-axis devices while maintaining positioning accuracy for large workpieces
Solution Approach 2:
The positioning device is designed with multi-functionality to handle various workpiece sizes and positioning requirements. The combination of horizontal movement, vertical movement, and rotation capabilities enables a single device to perform the work that would otherwise require multiple specialized devices, reducing the overall process area
2Adaptability or versatility
If orthogonal three-axis workpiece positioning devices are arranged to handle various workpieces, then versatility is improved, but space efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces rotational movement as an additional dimension to the traditional two-axis horizontal positioning. By adding the rotating unit that can rotate the workpiece around a vertical axis, the device achieves versatility in handling various workpiece orientations and sizes without requiring multiple separate devices, thereby improving space efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple positioning functions are merged into one compact device structure. The first moving unit (horizontal), second moving unit (vertical), and rotating unit work together in an integrated system, allowing the device to adapt to different workpiece requirements while occupying minimal footprint space
Data Source
AI summary
A workpiece positioning device according to an embodiment includes a first moving unit that is movable in a horizontal direction, a second moving unit that is movable in a vertical direction, and a rotating unit that is placed on either an upper end or a lower end of the second moving unit. The second moving unit and the rotating unit are kept within the width of the first moving unit that is perpendicular to the moving direction of the first moving unit on a horizontal plane.