Identical Frame Design for C and X Kinematics Welding Pliers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current welding clamps, particularly those with C and X kinematics, lack a unified frame design that allows for synergy in supply, management, and modularity across different sizes and kinematics, leading to inefficiencies in component supply and assembly operations.
Innovation Solution
A clamp design featuring a common, preferably identical, frame for both C and X kinematics that enables a rigid connection between the frame and a carrier element, allowing for modular construction and shared components, thereby simplifying the supply and management of components and enhancing modularity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If different frame designs are used for C and X kinematics clamps, then each clamp can be optimized for its specific kinematics, but component supply and management become complex and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a common frame structure that serves both C and X kinematics clamps. The frame includes standardized mounting locations for the actuator, articulation subassembly, and carrier element connection, allowing the same frame to support different kinematic configurations. This enables component interchangeability and simplifies supply chain management while maintaining kinematics-specific optimization through configurable articulation mechanisms.
2Device complexity
If a common frame is used for both C and X kinematics, then component supply and management are simplified, but the frame must accommodate different kinematic configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the clamp into modular components: a common frame, a configurable articulation subassembly, and interchangeable actuator assemblies. The frame provides the standardized base structure, while the articulation subassembly can be configured for either C or X kinematics. This modular approach allows the common frame to accommodate different kinematic configurations through standardized interfaces and mounting locations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies dynamics by designing the articulation subassembly with adjustable characteristics. The subassembly includes mounting locations and connection points that can be configured to provide either the parallel motion characteristics of C kinematics or the rotational characteristics of X kinematics. This dynamic configurability allows the same frame to support multiple kinematic modes while maintaining structural integrity.
3Reliability
If separate designs are used for C and X clamps, then each design can be optimized for its specific function, but assembly operations and storage become less efficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring the frame with standardized mounting locations, pre-drilled holes, and predetermined attachment points for the articulation subassembly and actuator. This preliminary preparation during frame manufacturing enables rapid assembly of different kinematic configurations without requiring custom fabrication or complex alignment procedures, thereby improving assembly efficiency while maintaining kinematics-specific optimization.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to pliers for clamping plates (1) used in conjunction with a manipulator arm, comprising a rigid frame (10) connected to a carrier such as a rigid stand or robot, and an articulation sub-assembly (12) connected to the frame (10) and comprising a fixed arm (3), a mobile arm (8), and a main actuator (4) for displacing the mobile arm (8) in translation or rotation relative to the fixed arm (3) for closing or opening the pliers and respectively clamping the plate assembly (1) between the arms (3, 8) or releasing said assembly (1), wherein said pliers belong to a family of pliers comprising C- and X-shaped pliers, the frame having a similar shape and appearance for all the pliers of said family. Application mainly in the family of C- and X-shaped resistance-welding pliers having similar and preferably identical frames.