Machine Tool Piece Positioning via Hydrostatic Support and Inclinometer Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Positioning large and heavy mechanical pieces on machine tool tables is challenging due to deformation issues when not properly aligned, which affects machining tolerances, as conventional methods like overhead cranes may not ensure precise placement.
Innovation Solution
A positioning system that includes a piece-holder table with sensors and a processing unit to detect and adjust the position of the piece, using a combination of sensors like inclinometers and a motorized overhead crane, allowing for precise alignment of the piece's barycentre with the table's barycentre, ensuring accurate and efficient placement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional overhead crane positioning systems are used, then the positioning process is simple and quick, but the positioning precision is insufficient leading to piece deformation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where sensors (inclinometers, position sensors) continuously monitor the piece position and table orientation, and the control unit adjusts the hydrostatic support means accordingly to achieve precise positioning. This closed-loop feedback system resolves the contradiction by automatically correcting positioning errors without requiring complex manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical positioning systems with a hybrid system combining hydrostatic support means and electronic sensors. The hydrostatic supports provide precise, deformation-free positioning by using fluid pressure instead of mechanical contact, while sensors and control units replace manual positioning operations, achieving high precision without proportionally increasing mechanical complexity.
2Manufacturing precision
If the piece is not properly positioned on the table, then positioning time is reduced, but the piece undergoes deformations affecting machining tolerances
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary positioning actions by using sensors to detect the piece's initial position and calculating the optimal placement location before actual positioning. The control unit pre-adjusts the hydrostatic support means to the correct position, ensuring the piece is accurately positioned in one operation rather than requiring multiple adjustments during machining setup.
Solution Approach 2:
The positioning system performs self-service through automatic detection and adjustment. Sensors continuously monitor piece position and table orientation, and the control unit automatically commands the hydrostatic supports to make necessary adjustments without operator intervention. This self-correcting capability ensures machining tolerances are maintained while minimizing positioning time.
3Measurement precision
If sensors and processing units are added to detect and adjust piece position, then positioning precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit serves multiple functions: it processes sensor data, calculates optimal piece position, controls hydrostatic support adjustments, and monitors machining parameters. By making the control unit multi-functional, the patent avoids adding separate dedicated devices for each function, thereby improving measurement precision without proportionally increasing overall system complexity.
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 precise and rapid positioning of large mechanical pieces, minimizing deformations and achieving required machining tolerances by calculating and implementing necessary shifts based on sensor data and surrounding conditions.
Implementation Method 1
a piece-holder table (1103) provided with support means, preferably hydrostatic, suitable for supporting the piece (Q)
Implementation Method 2
at least one sensor (120) applied to a control portion (110') of the table plate (1110), said sensor being suitable for detecting the variation of position or disposition of said control portion (110') in relation to a reference
Implementation Method 3
a processing unit (200) operatively connected to said sensors (120) to acquire measurement information from said sensors (120), perform processing of said measurement information, obtain shift information and transform said shift information to an operator
Data Source
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AI summary
A system of positioning a mechanical piece (Q) to be worked, comprising a support device (100), a processing unit (200), a visualisation unit (300) and raising and shifting means, suitable for raising and shifting said piece (Q). The support device is fitted with at least one sensor (120), constituted by an inclinometer, suitable for measuring measurement information relative to the position or disposition of a control portion (110')in relation to a reference and the processing unit acquires the measurement information and produces shift information on the basis of which to manoeuvre the raising and shifting means, so as to achieve a positioning target.