Curving Tool Support Modules for Variable-Width Framing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing structural framing member shaping tools require costly downtime and modification processes when switching between framing members of different width dimensions, as they need to be detached and partially disassembled to accommodate varying widths.

Innovation Solution

An adjustable support fixture system that allows for modification to accommodate different width structural framing members without detaching the tool from its support platform, utilizing a base with indenting blades, a blade control apparatus, and removable workpiece support modules that can be secured to a master base plate, enabling quick adjustments without disassembly.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the existing shaping tool is modified to accommodate different width framing members, then the tool can handle various width dimensions, but the tool must be detached and partially disassembled which causes operational downtime

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveability to accommodate different width framing membersVSAvoidoperational downtime for modification

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The support fixture is divided into multiple adjustable support elements that can be independently positioned along the length of the framing member. Each support element can be moved to different locations to accommodate various width dimensions without requiring disassembly of the entire tool

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The support fixture incorporates movable and adjustable components that allow dynamic reconfiguration during operation. The support elements can be quickly repositioned along guide rails or tracks to adapt to different framing member widths while the tool remains attached to the support platform

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If the support fixture is modified to accommodate different width framing members, then the tool becomes more versatile, but the modification process requires detachment from support platform which increases complexity

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveability to accommodate different width framing membersVSAvoidmodification process complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The support fixture is designed with universal adjustment mechanisms that can accommodate a range of framing member widths using the same basic structure. Adjustable support elements with standardized mounting systems allow the fixture to handle different widths without requiring different tool configurations or detachment from the support platform

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS11794232B1Tool for curving structural framing components

Publication Date: 2023.10.24 SIMPSON STRONG TIE

AI summary

A system for shaping a workpiece, which may be in the form of a structural framing component, includes a tool with first and second indenting blades for indenting the workpiece as driven by a blade control apparatus. The workpiece is supported at the tool by one or more workpiece support modules that are each selectively and removably securable to the tool. A base plate is provided at the tool for removably securing the workpiece support modules to the tool without having to detach the tool from a platform of substructure. The workpiece support modules may therefore be quickly replaced to coordinate with workpieces of various size and shape.