Head-Guided Element Switch for Selective Rivet Feeding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing joining devices require complex switching technologies and maintenance to selectively feed different self-piercing rivets or connecting elements to a setting tool, leading to increased construction complexity and space requirements.
Innovation Solution
A non-path-variable element switch with a modular design that uses positive-locking, head-guided profiled tracks to feed connecting elements directly to a processing tool, eliminating the need for switching technology by defining fixed paths and ensuring position-oriented feeding without the need for complex path changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If complex switching technology and magazines are used to selectively feed different connecting elements to a setting tool, then the ability to handle different connecting element configurations is improved, but the device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into multiple independent feeding tubes, each dedicated to a specific connecting element configuration. Each tube has its own actuator that can independently feed elements to the setting tool. This eliminates the need for complex switching mechanisms while maintaining the ability to handle different configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses selectively controllable actuators that can dynamically activate or deactivate specific feeding tubes based on the required connecting element configuration. This dynamic control allows the system to adapt to different configurations without physical reconfiguration or complex switching.
2Adaptability or versatility
If individual actuators control each feeding tube for different connecting elements, then the selective feeding capability is improved, but the maintenance requirements and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
Each feeding tube with its actuator forms an independent modular unit. If one tube or actuator requires maintenance, it can be serviced independently without affecting the other feeding tubes. This segmentation simplifies maintenance procedures and reduces downtime.
Solution Approach 2:
The system is designed so that each feeding tube can operate independently, and the actuators are positioned to allow easy access for maintenance. The modular design enables individual components to be replaced or serviced without complex disassembly procedures.
3Loss of time
If feeding tubes are arranged to end in immediate proximity of the setting tool, then the feeding time is reduced, but the weight of the element switch increases due to constant movement by robot
Solution Approach 1:
The element switch is segmented into multiple stationary feeding tubes that are fixed in position near the setting tool. Each tube is independently positioned to minimize feeding distance. This eliminates the need for a single heavy movable element switch while achieving the same time reduction benefit.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of moving the entire element switch, the system uses selectively controllable actuators that remain stationary but can dynamically direct different connecting elements to the setting tool. This dynamic control achieves rapid feeding without the weight penalty of moving the entire switch structure.
Data Source
AI summary
A non-path-variable element switch, in particular for connecting elements, which can be passed continuously by the elements being positive-lockingly guided, in particular head-guided, therein only in a feeding direction, from a plurality of profiled tracks into a number of profiled tracks, which is reduced compared to the plurality of profiled tracks. With the non-path-variable element switch, a plurality of feeding sources with different elements are connected to a processing tool. Thereby, the element switch is characterized in that it comprises no mechanically switchable elements.