Automatic Jig Replacement with Detected Bolt Positioning

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing systems face challenges in automatically replacing jigs on machine tools due to varying bolt positions based on jig designs and mounting configurations, making it difficult for working apparatuses to perform bolt tightening/loosening tasks consistently.

Innovation Solution

An automatic jig replacement system utilizing a detection apparatus, robot, and bolt tightening/loosening apparatus to determine and adjust to the bolt tightening/loosening positions of jigs, enabling automated replacement by detecting predetermined portions of the jig, such as T-nut end faces, convexes, tool holes, or bolt heads, and using robots to transport and secure the jigs with precise bolt tightening/loosening.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Extent of automation

If a working apparatus is used to perform automatic jig replacement, then automation is improved, but the system cannot adapt to varying bolt positions on different jig designs

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveautomatic jig replacementVSAvoidadaptability to varying bolt positions
Core Design Contradiction:
Extent of automationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The detection apparatus performs preliminary detection of the jig's predetermined portion before the bolt tightening/loosening operation. The control apparatus uses this detection result to determine the bolt position in advance, allowing the bolt tightening/loosening apparatus to adjust its position before performing the tightening or loosening operation, thereby enabling automatic adaptation to different jig designs

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements a feedback mechanism where the detection apparatus continuously detects the predetermined portion of the jig, and the control apparatus adjusts the bolt tightening/loosening position based on the detection results. This closed-loop control enables the system to adapt to varying bolt positions on different jig designs while maintaining automation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Measurement precision

If the bolt tightening/loosening position is specified for each jig design, then positioning accuracy is improved, but the complexity of the system increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebolt position determination accuracyVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The detection apparatus detects a predetermined portion that is commonly present on various jig designs (such as a specific geometric feature or marking). The control apparatus uses this universal detection method to determine bolt positions for different jig types, eliminating the need for separate positioning systems for each jig design while maintaining positioning accuracy

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS12544873B2Automatic jig replacement system
Publication Date: 2026.02.10 KITAGAWA IRON WORKS CO LTD
  • US12544873B2 patent drawing
  • US12544873B2 patent drawing
  • US12544873B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An automatic jig replacement system includes a detection device, a robot, a bolt tightening/loosening device, and a control device. The detection device is configured to be capable of detecting a predetermined part of a jig. The robot is configured to be capable of conveying the jig. The bolt tightening/loosening device is configured to be capable of tightening/loosening a bolt for securing the jig. The control device determines a bolt tightening/loosening position, on the basis of a result of detecting the predetermined part by the detection device. The robot is caused to unload the jig from the mounting position, or to load the jig to the mounting position. The bolt tightening/loosening device is moved to the bolt tightening/loosening position, and is caused to tighten or loosen the bolt.