Flexible Fixture System Quick-Change Interfaces for CNC Machining
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Solution Overview
Problem
CNC machines require extensive setup and time to change base fixtures, making them inefficient for applications with low volume requirements and multiple parts machining, as they are typically dedicated to specific components or operations.
Innovation Solution
A flexible fixture system with quick change clamps and hydraulic/pneumatic quick connectors that can be easily swapped with different fixtures to accommodate various operations without replacing the base fixture, allowing for modular adaptation and efficient operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a dedicated base fixture is used for specific components or operations, then the machining precision and reliability are improved, but the setup time and device complexity increase when changing fixtures
Solution Approach 1:
The base fixture is designed with universal quick-change interfaces that can accommodate multiple different flexible fixtures through standardized mounting mechanisms. This allows a single base fixture to perform multiple functions and support various workpieces, eliminating the need for dedicated fixtures for each component type while maintaining machining reliability through consistent interface standards.
Solution Approach 2:
The fixture system is divided into two independent segments: a permanent base fixture and removable flexible fixtures. The base fixture contains the complex hydraulic and pneumatic controls, while the flexible fixtures are simplified modules that can be quickly exchanged. This segmentation allows the complex infrastructure to remain fixed while only simple modules are changed, reducing setup time without compromising reliability.
2Manufacturing precision
If a dedicated base fixture is used for specific operations, then the manufacturing precision is improved, but the adaptability and productivity decrease when handling multiple parts
Solution Approach 1:
The base fixture incorporates universal mounting interfaces and standardized connection points that enable it to support multiple types of flexible fixtures designed for different workpieces and operations. This universal design maintains machining precision through consistent positioning while significantly improving adaptability to handle various parts and operations with a single base fixture.
Solution Approach 2:
The fixture system transitions from a static, dedicated configuration to a dynamic, reconfigurable system. The flexible fixtures can be quickly attached and detached from the base fixture, allowing the system to adapt its configuration based on the specific workpiece and operation requirements, thereby improving both adaptability and productivity without sacrificing precision.
3Ease of operation
If complex hydraulic and pneumatic controls are integrated into the base fixture, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity and setup time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The complex hydraulic and pneumatic control systems are segregated into the permanent base fixture, while the removable flexible fixtures are designed with simplified, pre-integrated connection interfaces. This segmentation allows the complex controls to remain fixed and optimized, while the simple modules can be quickly exchanged without requiring complex reconfiguration, thus maintaining ease of operation while managing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
Quick-change connectors and standardized interfaces act as intermediaries between the complex base fixture infrastructure and the simple flexible fixtures. These intermediary components translate the complex hydraulic and pneumatic signals into simple connection and disconnection actions, making the operation easier while containing the complexity within the base fixture rather than each individual flexible fixture.
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
Enables CNC machines to handle multiple parts and operations efficiently by reducing setup time and allowing for quick changes, improving adaptability and productivity in machining operations.
Implementation Method 1
quick connects that connect with the base fixture in order to allow hydraulic fluid, air, and water to be communicated from the base fixture to the flexible fixture system
Implementation Method 2
quick connects that connect with the base fixture in order to allow hydraulic fluid, air, and water to be communicated from the base fixture to the flexible fixture system
Data Source
AI summary
A flexible fixture system for a CNC machine is coupled to a base fixture. The flexible fixture includes quick connects that connect with the base fixture in order to allow hydraulic fluid, air, and water to be communicated from the base fixture to the flexible fixture system. The flexible fixture system includes features operable to hold a workpiece within the CNC machine. The flexible fixture system is modular and may be swapped out for a different flexible fixture in order to allow other operations to be performed on the workpiece.