Vertically Movable Jig Holding Members for Flexible Workpiece Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Workpiece support pins energized by coil springs maintain their fully extended shape until contact with a workpiece, potentially hindering the processing of workpiece sides due to their rigid nature.
Innovation Solution
A jig apparatus with vertically and horizontally movable holding members, controlled by a mechanism that adjusts positions based on the workpiece's shape, allowing for flexible support and processing without obstructing side access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If workpiece support pins are maintained in fully extended shape to provide stable support, then support stability is improved, but processing access to workpiece sides is hindered
Solution Approach 1:
The holding members are designed to be movable in the vertical direction rather than fixed. The control unit selectively moves specific holding members to positions where they hold the workpiece, allowing the system to transition from a static fully-extended state to a dynamic configuration that provides both stability when needed and access when required.
Solution Approach 2:
The support system is divided into multiple independent holding members that can be individually controlled. Instead of a single rigid support structure, the system uses segmented holding members (10) that can be independently positioned, allowing selective engagement to provide stability only where necessary while leaving other areas accessible for processing.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple holding members are used to support workpieces of different shapes, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The holding members are designed with universal functionality to support various workpiece shapes. Each holding member can serve multiple purposes: providing vertical support, preventing horizontal movement, and being selectively positioned. The control unit manages these universal holding members to adapt to different workpiece configurations, eliminating the need for specialized fixtures for each shape.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit automatically determines which holding members to move based on workpiece characteristics. The system has acquisition units that acquire information about workpiece positions and shapes, and the control unit autonomously selects and positions the appropriate holding members without requiring manual reconfiguration, reducing operational complexity.
Data Source
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Figure 5(a)~5(c)
AI summary
A jig apparatus includes holding members 10 on which an object to be processed is placed, which members are supported so that they are able to move in a vertical direction. The jig apparatus also includes control unit 100 that controls positions in the vertical direction of the holding members. Control unit 100 causes second holding members, which are selected from among holding members around first holding members on which the object is placed, to be moved to a place in the vertical direction, and to cause the first and second holding members to cooperate in holding the object.