Exchangeable Docking Plates for Flexible Vehicle Part Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge in automotive production is the need for frequent modifications to workstations to accommodate different motor vehicle types, which requires changing positioning and holding devices due to varying geometries, leading to inefficiencies and increased time lags in production.
Innovation Solution
A method and device utilizing exchangeable docking plates with receivers that can be easily connected to a base module on a base frame, allowing for rapid adaptation to different motor vehicle types without modifying the base frame or base modules, enabling the same equipment to be reused across various vehicle types.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If positioning and holding devices are modified or exchanged to accommodate different motor vehicle types, then adaptability to different vehicle geometries is improved, but device complexity and production time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning system is segmented into a permanent base frame and exchangeable docking plates. Each docking plate is a self-contained module with specific receivers for different vehicle types, allowing the system to be divided into reusable base infrastructure and interchangeable adaptive components.
Solution Approach 2:
The base frame and base modules serve multiple functions across different vehicle types, while the exchangeable docking plates provide vehicle-type-specific functionality. This multi-functionality allows a single workstation to produce various motor vehicle types without requiring complete reconfiguration.
2Adaptability or versatility
If positioning and holding devices are exchanged for different motor vehicle types, then adaptability is improved, but production time and efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The docking plates are prepared in advance with specific receiver configurations for different vehicle types. This preliminary preparation allows rapid exchange during production setup, eliminating the need for time-consuming on-site modifications of positioning devices when switching between vehicle types.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a static, permanently configured positioning system to a dynamic system where docking plates can be exchanged based on production requirements. This dynamic adaptability enables the workstation to efficiently accommodate different vehicle types without sacrificing production efficiency.
3Adaptability or versatility
If work stations are modified to produce different motor vehicle types, then adaptability is improved, but loss of time and production lag worsen
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the workstation into a permanent base frame and exchangeable docking plates, the system enables rapid reconfiguration. Only the docking plate needs to be changed for different vehicle types, significantly reducing the time lag compared to modifying the entire workstation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows for the efficient discarding of a docking plate for one vehicle type and recovery/replacement with a docking plate for another vehicle type. This streamlined process minimizes downtime and time lag when transitioning between different motor vehicle type production.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for production of a motor vehicle that includes providing a device for positioning motor vehicle parts that comprises a base frame having at least one base module arranged thereon, and at least one exchangeable docking plate configured for connection to the base module, the at least one exchangeable docking plate having arranged thereon a plurality of receivers configured to hold the motor vehicle parts, transferring the at least one exchangeable docking plate to the base frame, connecting, at a configuration station, the at least one exchangeable docking plate to the base module, fitting, at a work station, a motor vehicle part to the at least one exchangeable docking plate, such that the motor vehicle part is held by the receivers, and equipping the motor vehicle part with add-on parts.