Coupling Device Positioning for Faster Work Center Reconfiguration
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for reconfiguring coupling devices on work centers, such as suction cups or clamps, require numerous manual or automatic operations, making the process time-consuming and economically inefficient, especially when transitioning between machining operations.
Innovation Solution
A method that involves acquiring initial and target arrangements of coupling devices, matching them by type and position, and generating commands to minimize the number of steps required to reposition the devices, using a central control unit and display device to guide operators or automated systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If manual positioning of coupling devices is used, then flexibility in reconfiguration is achieved, but the number of operations and time required increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical positioning operations with an automated control system that uses sensors to detect coupling device positions and a control unit to calculate and execute optimal reconfiguration sequences, thereby reducing repositioning time while maintaining flexibility
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service reconfiguration by automatically detecting the current arrangement of coupling devices, computing the optimal transformation sequence to the target arrangement, and executing the repositioning operations without requiring manual intervention for each individual device
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple coupling devices are repositioned individually, then precise positioning is achieved, but the complexity of the reconfiguration process increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit serves multiple functions: it detects current positions of all coupling devices, stores reference arrangements, calculates optimal reconfiguration sequences, and controls the positioning actuators, thereby managing the complex reconfiguration process through a single multi-functional system
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary detection and calculation of the optimal reconfiguration sequence before actual repositioning begins, allowing all coupling devices to be repositioned in a coordinated manner rather than individually, reducing overall process complexity
3Adaptability or versatility
If coupling devices are removed and repositioned freely, then adaptability to different machining operations is improved, but the number of operations required increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements dynamic reconfiguration by allowing coupling devices to be removed and repositioned based on real-time detection of their current positions and the calculated optimal sequence, enabling rapid adaptation to different machining operations while minimizing the number of handling operations through intelligent sequencing
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a method of positioning (300) coupling devices (Sij ) on a bar (11) of a bar plane (2) of a work center. The present invention also relates to a work center for machining pieces or panels made of wood, plastic, fiberglass, and the like.