Laser Positioning Fixture for Tool Placement Beyond Field of View
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Solution Overview
Problem
Lasers used for positioning tools on workpieces are limited by their field of view, preventing accurate placement of components outside the visible area.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a laser projection system and a fixture with a laser indicator and tool receptacle, allowing the laser to project a point within its field of view and the fixture to position tools outside it, using a control system to align the fixture with the laser indicator and receive tools for precise placement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a laser is used to position tools on workpieces, then positioning accuracy within the field of view is improved, but the ability to position tools outside the field of view deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
A mechanical fixture with a laser indicator serves as an intermediary between the laser projection system and the tool. The fixture receives the laser point within its field of view, translates it to a laser indicator, and uses that indicator to position tools outside the original field of view. This mediator extends the effective working range while maintaining positioning accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates a copy of the laser positioning function through the fixture's laser indicator. Instead of directly positioning tools outside the field of view, the system projects a laser point, copies its position information to the laser indicator on the fixture, and uses this copied information to guide tool placement in areas otherwise inaccessible to the direct laser beam.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the laser field of view is expanded to cover more areas, then the ability to position tools outside current boundaries is improved, but the precision within the original field of view may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning system is segmented into two functional zones: the laser's field of view for reference point establishment, and the extended area covered by the fixture's laser indicator for actual tool positioning. This segmentation allows each component to optimize its function - the laser maintains high precision within its limited field of view, while the fixture extends coverage without compromising the reference accuracy.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a fixture with laser indicator is introduced to extend positioning capability, then the ability to position tools outside laser field of view is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fixture serves multiple functions: it holds the tool in precise positions, provides a laser indicator for positioning guidance, and acts as a mechanical reference frame. By combining these functions into a single universal device, the system extends positioning capability without proportionally increasing complexity, as the fixture integrates several necessary components into one unit.
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
Enables accurate and precise placement of tools and components on workpieces beyond the laser's field of view, enhancing manufacturing accuracy in vehicle, machinery, and implement assembly.
Implementation Method 1
a laser configured to project a laser point on the workpiece
Data Source
AI summary
A system for positioning a tool or a component on a workpiece may include a laser configured to project a laser point on the workpiece. The laser may include a field of view and the laser may project the laser point upon objects within the field of view of the laser. The system for positioning a tool on a workpiece may also include a fixture configured to position the tool on the workpiece. The fixture may include a laser indicator configured to be aligned with the laser point projected on the workpiece. The fixture may also include a first tool receptacle configure to receive the tool and locate the tool on a portion of the workpiece outside the field of view of the laser.