Modular Fixture Plate Alignment With Magnetic Keystone Docking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing manufacturing and inspection processes face challenges in achieving precise and repeatable positioning of workpieces, as traditional fixture plates can be cumbersome and prone to incorrect placement, especially when multiple workpieces need to be processed quickly and efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A modular fixture plate system that includes recessed corners with magnets for secure attachment to keystones or rails, allowing for flexible configurations such as L or T shapes, enabling rapid loading and secure positioning of workpieces on a worksurface, reducing the need for multiple fixture plates and enhancing process efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional fixture plates are used for positioning workpieces, then positioning can be achieved, but the process is cumbersome and prone to incorrect placement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces alignment features including T-slot openings and alignment pins that act as intermediaries between the fixture plate and workpiece. These features guide the workpiece into the correct position, preventing incorrect placement while maintaining ease of operation. The T-slot openings receive alignment pins to automatically position the workpiece accurately on the fixture plate.
2Productivity
If multiple fixture plates are used to process series of workpieces quickly, then processing speed increases, but the likelihood of incorrect positioning increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fixture plate design incorporates universal alignment features such as T-slot openings and threaded holes that can accommodate various workpiece types and positioning requirements. This multi-functionality allows the same fixture plate to be used for different workpieces while maintaining consistent positioning through the standardized alignment features, thus supporting rapid changeover without sacrificing positioning reliability.
3Reliability
If fixture plates are made secure and stable, then positioning accuracy is maintained, but the system becomes less flexible for rapid reconfiguration
Solution Approach 1:
The fixture plate is designed as a modular system with segmented features including multiple T-slot openings at different locations and orientations, along with separate alignment pins and threaded holes. This segmentation allows the fixture plate to be reconfigured for different workpieces by utilizing different slots and mounting points, providing both stability through secure mounting options and flexibility through multiple configuration possibilities.
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 modular system provides flexible and repeatable setups, allowing for quick and accurate positioning of workpieces, reducing the likelihood of errors and increasing processing speed, while minimizing the number of fixture plates required, thus lowering costs and improving workflow efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
Fixture plates include magnets for providing a secure attachment to keystones, rails and other fixture plates
Data Source
AI summary
A modular fixture plate system includes fixture plates and docking stations for securing the fixture plates to a worksurface. Fixture plates include recessed corners for receiving keystones. A keystone may be used as a docking station in addition to or instead of a corresponding rail system. Fixture plates include magnets for providing a secure attachment to keystones, rails and other fixture plates to allow for rapid loading of parts and plates on any CMM or manufacturing system. Fixture plates are designed to be stacked multiple wide to fill the table and maximize coverage of a work surface. The keystone design allows a user to create L configurations or T configurations of plates from a single docking location.