Machine Tool Assembling Apparatus with Swinging Support Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing machine tool assembly processes require large installation spaces and complex systems with multiple stations and conveying mechanisms, making them costly and labor-intensive.

Innovation Solution

A machine tool assembling apparatus with a simplified structure that uses a table, support mechanisms with swinging and rotating capabilities, and a guide member to assemble parts without the need for multiple stations or conveying means, allowing manual operation and reduced space requirements.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If multiple stations and conveying mechanisms are used for assembly, then assembly process can be standardized, but installation space and system complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestandardized assembly processVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple assembly stations and conveying mechanisms into a single integrated workbench structure. The workbench includes multiple work positions (first, second, and third work positions) that can perform assembly operations simultaneously or sequentially without requiring separate stations and conveying systems, thereby reducing system complexity while maintaining standardized assembly processes

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The workbench is designed as a multi-functional device that can perform multiple assembly operations at different work positions. The same workbench structure supports various assembly tasks including joining first and second parts, and joining second and third parts, eliminating the need for specialized equipment for each assembly operation

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

2Ease of manufacture

If multiple stations and conveying mechanisms are used for assembly, then assembly process can be standardized, but installation space increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestandardized assembly processVSAvoidinstallation space
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent consolidates multiple assembly stations into a single compact workbench unit with multiple work positions arranged in a space-efficient configuration. This merging of functions into one location dramatically reduces the installation space required compared to having separate stations connected by conveying mechanisms

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Productivity

If conveying means are used to deliver assemblies between stations, then assembly flow is controlled, but operating cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveassembly flow controlVSAvoidoperating cost
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSUse of energy by stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The workbench is designed to be manually operable without requiring external power supplies or automated conveying systems. Operators can manually move parts and assemblies between work positions, eliminating energy consumption associated with motorized conveying mechanisms while maintaining controlled assembly flow through systematic workflow design

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

4Adaptability or versatility

If inverting mechanism is used to turn assembly upside down, then assembly orientation can be changed, but device complexity and space requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveassembly orientationVSAvoidmechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent arranges work positions in a vertical configuration where the first work position is at a higher level and the second work position is at a lower level. This vertical dimensionality allows parts to be gravity-fed or manually transferred between levels without requiring complex inverting mechanisms, while still achieving the necessary orientation changes for assembly operations

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Data Source

PatentUS8881359B2Machine tool assembling apparatus and method of assembling machine tool using machine tool assembling apparatus
Publication Date: 2014.11.11 HONDA MOTOR CO LTD
  • US8881359B2 patent drawing
  • US8881359B2 patent drawing
  • US8881359B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A machine tool assembling apparatus and a method of assembling a machine tool using the machine tool assembling apparatus are provided. The machine tool assembling apparatus includes a table, a first support mechanism having an arm which is swingable toward and away from the table, and a second support mechanism. The first support mechanism is disposed between the table and the second support mechanism. The first support mechanism is rotated to bring the arm into facing relation to either the table or the second support mechanism.