Integrated Suction Positioning for Plate Workpiece Machining
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional suction positioning devices for machining have a complex configuration due to separate components for suction and positioning, requiring a suction member moved by a robot and positioning pins that are movable vertically.
Innovation Solution
The suction positioning device simplifies its configuration by using an output rod with an elastically deformable sleeve to both position and suction the workpiece, eliminating the need for a separate suction member and vertically movable positioning pins.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate suction member and positioning pins are provided, then suction and positioning functions are achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the suction member and positioning pins into a single integrated output rod structure. The output rod includes both the suction function (through air discharge passages) and positioning function (through positioning pins that can move vertically), eliminating the need for separate components and simplifying the overall device configuration while maintaining both functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The output rod is designed as a multi-functional component that simultaneously performs suction and positioning operations. The positioning pins are integrated into the output rod and can move vertically to adapt to different workpiece shapes, allowing the same component to handle both suction and positioning tasks that previously required separate devices.
2Adaptability or versatility
If positioning pins are made movable vertically, then adaptability to complex shapes is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning pins are designed to be movable in the vertical direction relative to the housing, allowing them to dynamically adjust to different workpiece shapes and surfaces. This dynamic capability enables the device to adapt to complex geometries while the pins remain integrated with the output rod, avoiding the need for entirely separate positioning mechanisms.
3Reliability
If separate suction member and positioning pins are used, then functional reliability is maintained, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the suction member and positioning pins into a single output rod assembly, the patent reduces the total number of parts that need to be manufactured, assembled, and maintained. The integrated design simplifies the manufacturing process while ensuring that both suction and positioning functions work together reliably through a unified structure.
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
This configuration allows for accurate horizontal positioning and suction of plate-like workpieces prone to flexing, reducing the device's complexity and enhancing machining precision.
Implementation Method 1
The sleeve (4) is elastically deformed to have a reduced diameter, so as to position the output rod (3) in the vertical direction with respect to the housing (2)
Implementation Method 2
the output rod (3), which has been positioned thusly, suctions the workpiece via the air discharge passage formed inside the output rod
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2D
Figure 3A~3D
AI summary
An embodiment of the present invention simplifies the configuration of a suction positioning device. An embodiment of the present invention includes: an output rod (3) having an air discharge passage (11); a sleeve (4) which has a tapered outer circumferential surface (12) and is elastically deformable so as to have a reduced diameter; a transmission member (5) having a tapered inner circumferential surface (13); a plurality of balls (B) which are inserted between the tapered inner circumferential surface (13) and the tapered outer circumferential surface (12); and a suction pad (7) attached to the output rod (3) so as to communicate with the air discharge passage (11).