Engine Assembly Pallet with Rotating Base and Removable Interface
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current engine assembly pallets lack flexibility and precision, making them unsuitable for automated assembly lines and diesel engines, as they are either too rigid or lack ergonomic design, and are often expensive to achieve the necessary accuracy.
Innovation Solution
A motor assembly device with a horizontal base, two axes of rotation, and a removable interface that allows for precise centering and fixing of the engine, enabling adaptation to various engines and automated lines while minimizing manual adjustments and costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If conventional unitary pallets are used, then manufacturing precision is good and cost is low, but flexibility is poor and access to engine is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The pallet is divided into a base and multiple superimposed plates that can be independently positioned and fixed. This segmentation allows each plate to be adjusted to specific positions to accommodate different engine types while maintaining overall structural precision through the base platform.
Solution Approach 2:
The pallet transitions from a static unitary structure to a dynamic modular structure where plates can be added, removed, or repositioned. This enables the same base to adapt to various engine configurations while maintaining precision through controlled positioning mechanisms.
2Ease of operation
If flexible pallets with many elements are used, then access to engine is easier, but manufacturing precision deteriorates and cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the pallet into a stable base and adjustable plates, the design provides flexibility for engine access through plate manipulation while maintaining precision through the rigid base structure and controlled plate positioning systems.
Solution Approach 2:
Different parts of the pallet have different properties: the base provides rigid precision support, while the superimposed plates provide flexible access. This local differentiation allows each component to optimize its function without compromising overall precision.
3Adaptability or versatility
If pallets with many ribs are used, then adaptability to different engines improves, but manufacturing precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of adding ribs to a monolithic structure, the pallet uses separate superimposed plates that can be positioned and fixed at specific locations. This provides adaptability for different engine configurations while maintaining precision through controlled positioning rather than complex rib structures.
4Productivity
If automated assembly stations are used, then productivity increases, but precision requirement becomes more stringent (less than 1.4 mm)
Solution Approach 1:
The pallet is pre-configured with a precise base structure and positioning mechanisms before engine assembly. This preliminary precision setup enables automated stations to operate within their stringent tolerance requirements while maintaining high productivity through efficient, pre-planned assembly sequences.
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
The solution provides a flexible, ergonomic, and cost-effective assembly device that can be easily adapted to different engines and automated assembly lines, significantly reducing tolerance intervals and ensuring precise assembly and control.
Implementation Method 1
The horizontal plate is in contact with the base via rolling elements, thus allowing a first 360° rotation around an axis perpendicular to the horizontal base.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
Figure 4a~4b
AI summary
Device for assembling an engine, designed to be integrated in an assembly line, comprising a horizontal base (2), first means for rotation (3) relative to a first axis of rotation perpendicular to the base (2), second means for rotation (4) relative to a second axis of rotation (X) perpendicular to the first axis of rotation, and a connection interface (13) designed to connect the engine (M) to the base (2). The device for assembling an engine comprises means for reversibly attaching (14) the interface (13) to the base (2).