Fixture Tool Indexing Using Sensor-Detected Reference Features
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current manufacturing methods for indexing workpieces in automated machines are time-consuming and expensive, especially for large structures like aircraft components, and are not conducive to continuous manufacturing processes.
Innovation Solution
An indexing apparatus and method that includes a fixture tool, an indexing feature, and a sensor system with a controller to accurately and repeatably determine the location of the workpiece relative to the machine, allowing for quick and precise indexing without extensive setup.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional probing or fixture methods are used to index workpieces, then accurate positioning is achieved, but setup time and costs increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The indexing feature is pre-integrated into the fixture tool during manufacturing, eliminating the need for time-consuming probe measurements or fixture adjustments during setup. The sensor can directly detect the pre-positioned indexing feature, providing immediate accurate positioning information.
Solution Approach 2:
An indexing feature serves as an intermediary element between the fixture tool and the sensor system. This feature contains encoded position information that the sensor can rapidly detect, bridging the gap between physical fixture positioning and digital positioning data without requiring complex probing procedures.
2Measurement precision
If extensive probing or large fixtures are used for large structures, then accurate indexing is achieved, but device complexity and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The indexing function is extracted from the complex fixture system and embodied in a separate, simple indexing feature attached to the fixture tool. This feature contains all necessary positioning information in a compact form that the sensor can read without requiring complex fixture structures or multiple probe points.
Solution Approach 2:
Traditional mechanical indexing methods using extensive probing or large precision fixtures are replaced with an optical/electronic sensing system that reads position information from the indexing feature. This substitution eliminates complex mechanical measurement systems while maintaining or improving indexing accuracy.
3Reliability
If traditional indexing methods are used, then workpiece positioning is achieved, but productivity decreases due to repeated setup requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The indexing feature serves multiple functions: it provides positioning information for the sensor, acts as a reference for the fixture tool, and enables rapid repeatability across different workpieces and locations. This multi-functional element supports both high reliability and high productivity by eliminating setup bottlenecks.
Solution Approach 2:
The indexing feature enables continuous manufacturing by allowing rapid, repeatable positioning without interrupting the production flow for extensive setup procedures. The sensor can quickly acquire position data from the indexing feature, maintaining continuous operation and maximizing manufacturing throughput.
Data Source
AI summary
An indexing apparatus includes a fixture tool, movable relative to an operation cell, and an indexing feature, fixed relative to the fixture tool. The indexing apparatus also includes a sensor, configured to detect the indexing feature. The indexing apparatus further includes a controller, in communication with the sensor. The controller is configured to locate the fixture tool relative to the operation cell from an indexing-feature location of the indexing feature, identified by the sensor.