Linear Slide Platform with Segmented Locking Units
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for moving processing apparatuses in manufacturing motor vehicle body parts are limited by large overall dimensions and lack flexibility in adjusting stop positions, making them inflexible and less effective in securing the platform at precise locations.
Innovation Solution
A compact device with a rotary motor and adjustable securing units, featuring toothings and pins/holes for precise and reversible locking, allowing the platform to be secured at any position along its stroke, using a screw/nut-screw coupling and actuator cylinders for precise positioning and braking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional fixing means with switches and fluid lines are used, then the platform can be secured at predetermined positions, but the overall dimensions of the device become large and dependent on the maximum stroke length
Solution Approach 1:
The fixing system is segmented into multiple independent securing units distributed along the platform's stroke path. Each securing unit operates independently with its own braking member and activation mechanism, allowing the platform to be secured at any position without requiring a continuous fluid line throughout the entire stroke length. This segmentation reduces the overall device dimensions while maintaining reliable securing capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from a linear arrangement of fixing components along the stroke direction to a distributed spatial arrangement where multiple securing units are positioned at different locations. The braking members can engage with the platform from below, utilizing the vertical dimension to secure the platform without extending the horizontal dimensions proportionally to the stroke length.
2Reliability
If traditional fixed-position switches are used, then the platform can be stopped at predetermined positions, but the device lacks flexibility in adjusting stop positions
Solution Approach 1:
The securing units are designed with movable braking members that can be dynamically activated and deactivated. Each braking member is connected to an activation mechanism that allows it to move between an engaged position (securing the platform) and a disengaged position (allowing free movement). This dynamic capability enables flexible adjustment of stop positions along the entire stroke range without requiring physical repositioning of the securing units themselves.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates sensors that detect the platform's position and provide feedback to the control system. Based on this feedback, the control system selectively activates specific securing units to stop the platform at the desired position. This feedback mechanism enables precise and flexible positioning while maintaining reliable securing capability at any location along the stroke.
3Length of stationary object
If a compact design with distributed securing units is used, then the device dimensions are reduced and flexibility is improved, but the complexity of the securing mechanism increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple securing units are designed with identical or standardized components, including the same braking member geometry, activation mechanism type, and sensor configuration. This universality allows the system to achieve compact dimensions and flexible positioning while controlling complexity through standardization. The repeating modular units can be manufactured and installed efficiently, reducing the overall system complexity despite the increased number of components.
4Measurement precision
If multiple securing units with movable braking members are used, then precise positioning and secure locking are achieved, but the number of components and activation mechanisms increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention combines multiple functions into integrated components. Each securing unit merges the braking member, activation mechanism, and sensor into a compact assembly that works together as a unified system. The braking members are designed to engage with corresponding features on the platform, combining the locking and positioning functions in a single integrated action. This merging reduces the effective number of discrete components while maintaining precise positioning capability.
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
The device is highly adaptable, compact, and securely locks the platform at any position, ensuring precise and reliable operation even under high loads, with adjustable stop positions and reversible movement for flexible use.
Implementation Method 1
Each securing unit is provided with an actuator cylinder, which is susceptible of moving the second toothing from its first inactive position, in which it is spaced from the platform, to its second active position, in which it engages the first toothing of the platform, or vice versa.
Data Source
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Figure 5
AI summary
A linearly movable sled device comprises a base plate (12), a platform (18) which is linearly slidably mounted with respect to the base plate (12) and is provided with connection members to connect a processing apparatus, and translation means (20, 26, 30) carried by the base plate (12) for moving the platform (18). The translation means of the platform (18) comprise a rotary motor (20) connected to the base plate (12), adapted to cause rotation of a threaded shaft (26) extending along the sliding direction of the platform (18), which engages a nut-screw (30) fixed to the platform (18). The device (10) comprises also fixing means (32) for securing the platform (18) in at least one predetermined position with respect to the base plate (12).