Guide Module Assembly with Self-Positioning Alignment Features
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Solution Overview
Problem
Assembling module systems with guide devices incorporated into each module becomes complex, especially when connecting three or more modules in an endless circulation type configuration, as precise positioning of guide devices is required to ensure optimal alignment and minimal shifts.
Innovation Solution
The module system incorporates a first positioning portion and a second positioning portion to align modules along a guide direction, ensuring a predetermined gap between guide devices and minimizing axial shifts orthogonal to the guide direction, thereby simplifying the assembly process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If modules with guide devices are connected together to form a module system, then the system can achieve functional integration and modularity, but the positioning work becomes complicated especially when connecting three or more modules
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring positioning portions (positioning protrusions and positioning recesses) on the modules before connection. These positioning portions are designed in advance to automatically align guide devices when modules are connected, eliminating the need for complex manual positioning work during assembly. The positioning portions are pre-formed with specific geometries that ensure proper alignment when engaged.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements self-service through self-aligning positioning portions that automatically position modules relative to each other during connection. The positioning protrusions and recesses are designed to guide the modules into correct alignment as they are brought together, allowing the system to self-position without external intervention or complex positioning procedures.
2Manufacturing precision
If manual positioning is used to align guide devices between modules, then positioning accuracy can be achieved, but the assembly process becomes time-consuming and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning portions automatically perform the alignment function when modules are connected. The positioning protrusions and recesses are designed with complementary geometries that naturally guide the modules into the correct relative position, achieving precise guide device alignment without manual intervention. This self-aligning mechanism maintains high positioning accuracy while dramatically improving assembly efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The positioning portions act as intermediary elements between modules during connection. These positioning features mediate the alignment process by providing physical guidance surfaces that ensure correct relative positioning of guide devices on adjacent modules, replacing the need for manual measurement and adjustment.
3Ease of operation
If positioning portions are added to modules to automate alignment, then assembly ease is improved, but the module structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the positioning function with the module structure itself. The positioning portions (protrusions and recesses) are integrated into the module bodies rather than being separate auxiliary components. This integration achieves automated alignment while minimizing additional structural complexity, as the positioning features become part of the basic module architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The positioning portions serve multiple functions: they provide alignment guidance, maintain predetermined spacing between guide devices on adjacent modules, and ensure proper orientation during connection. This multi-functionality achieves ease of assembly without proportionally increasing complexity, as a single structural feature accomplishes multiple positioning objectives.
Data Source
AI summary
A module system is configured by positioning a first module in which a first guide device is incorporated and a second module in which a second guide device is incorporated along a guide direction. The module system includes a first positioning portion configured to position the first module and the second module in such a manner that a gap between the first guide device and the second guide device is a predetermined distance. The module system further includes a second positioning portion configured to position the first module and the second module in such a manner that a shift between an axial direction of the first guide device and an axial direction of the second guide device in a direction orthogonal to the guide direction in a plan view is equal to or less than a predetermined amount of shift.