Locking Device for Interchangeable Tool Plates
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The complexity and bulkiness of specific tools for different engine versions in vehicle assembly lines lead to increased development and production costs, as well as cluttered and difficult-to-manage assembly lines, due to the need for various mechanical systems for connecting tool holder plates to chassis.
Innovation Solution
A locking device with integral chassis-mounted locking means that allows for three positions: disconnection, isostatic locking, and limited movement, enabling interchangeable plates and simplifying tool implementation, using a movable pin with rotational and translational mechanisms for actuation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple specific tools with different mechanical connection systems are used for different engine versions, then the adaptability to different vehicle versions is improved, but the device complexity and space occupation increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The locking device uses a universal chassis-mounted locking means that can accommodate multiple plate types through a single standardized interface. The locking means includes a movable pin that can engage with different plate configurations, allowing one locking system to serve multiple tool versions for different engine types, thereby reducing the need for version-specific mechanical connection systems
Solution Approach 2:
The tool system is segmented into two independent components: a standardized chassis with integrated locking means, and interchangeable plates carrying specific tools. This segmentation allows the chassis and locking mechanism to remain constant while only the plates need to be changed for different engine versions, simplifying the overall system complexity
2Productivity
If multiple specific tools are stored near assembly lines for rapid adaptation, then the productivity and response time are improved, but the area occupation and clutter increase
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the tool system into interchangeable plates mounted on a standardized chassis, only the plates need to be stored near the assembly line rather than entire specific tools. This significantly reduces the storage space required while maintaining rapid adaptability, as plates can be quickly swapped on the chassis to match different production requirements
Solution Approach 2:
A single standardized chassis can accommodate multiple different plates, each carrying tools for different engine versions. This universality means that instead of storing multiple complete specific tools, the system only needs to store the interchangeable plates, reducing clutter while preserving the ability to rapidly adapt to different production needs
3Manufacturing precision
If isostatic connection systems are implemented for each specific tool, then the manufacturing precision and connection stability are improved, but the implementation time and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The complex isostatic connection system is extracted and replaced with a simpler locking mechanism consisting of a movable pin and engagement features. This locking means provides sufficient connection stability for plate-to-chassis attachment without requiring the elaborate mechanical systems previously needed, thereby reducing implementation time and complexity while maintaining adequate precision
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
The invention relates to a locking device (1) designed to allow the assembly of a plate (2) onto a frame (3), the device (1) comprising locking means (5) integral with the frame (3), designed to cooperate with the plate (2) and movably mounted between a disengagement position, in which the locking means (5) allow the frame (3) and the plate (2) to be disengaged, and a first locking position, in which the locking means (5) allow the plate (2) to be isostatically locked onto the frame (3). The locking means (5) further comprise a second locking position, distinct from the first position, in which the locking means (5) allow limited movement of the plate (2) relative to the frame (3). The invention also relates to a tool (6) comprising the plate (2) and the frame (3) equipped with at least one device (1).