Machine Tool Single Rail Transverse Arm Articulated Unit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing machine tools for performing operations on large, complex surfaces like aircraft fuselages are cumbersome due to the need for two parallel rails, which limits their applicability to surfaces with significant double curvature and increases implementation complexity.
Innovation Solution
A machine tool design featuring a single longitudinal rail with a transverse arm and a motorized unit that includes a pivot mechanism for adaptable orientation, allowing operations on double-curvature surfaces, along with a displacement system using suction cups and a vacuum generation device for secure positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If two parallel rails are used to support the machine tool, then the structure provides stable support for machining operations, but the device complexity increases and the ability to handle double-curvature surfaces decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts one of the two parallel rails from the system, reducing from two rails to a single longitudinal rail. This simplifies the overall structure while maintaining functional capability through the articulated motorized unit that can adapt its position on the single rail to compensate for the reduced support structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The motorized unit is made articulated with respect to the transverse arm through a pivot with an axis parallel to the transverse arm. This dynamic articulation allows the motorized unit to adapt its orientation and position, enabling stable machining operations on double-curvature surfaces despite using only a single longitudinal rail.
2Adaptability or versatility
If two parallel rails are positioned on the structure, then the machining width and surface reach are defined, but the adaptability to surfaces with significant double curvature is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The articulated motorized unit can dynamically adjust its position and orientation along the single longitudinal rail, allowing it to adapt to surfaces with significant double curvature. The pivot mechanism enables the unit to change its angular position, matching the contours of complex surfaces that would be inaccessible to rigid two-rail systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The motorized unit is divided into separable components including the transverse arm and the articulated unit, allowing independent positioning and adjustment. This segmentation enables each component to be optimized for specific functions while maintaining overall adaptability to various surface geometries.
3Ease of manufacture
If a single longitudinal rail is used, then the implementation is simplified and positioning is easier, but the structural support for large transverse arms must be ensured
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces traditional mechanical support structures with a motorized articulated unit that uses controlled positioning and articulation to maintain transverse arm stability. The motorized actuation provides precise control over the unit's position, substituting passive mechanical support with active controlled positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The articulated motorized unit dynamically adjusts its position and orientation to maintain proper support for the transverse arm. The pivot mechanism allows real-time adjustment of the unit's angle and position, ensuring continuous structural integrity and proper load distribution along the single longitudinal rail.
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 machine tool simplifies installation, enables precise operations on large, curved surfaces, and accommodates various tools, enhancing operational efficiency and adaptability for complex structures.
Implementation Method 1
a vacuum generation device, configured to place the suction cup under depression
Implementation Method 2
a caterpillar whose tread comprises a plurality of suction cups
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a machine tool adapted for performing operations, particularly machining, on a large workpiece (P). The machine tool comprises a longitudinal rail (1) and a transverse arm (3), perpendicular to the longitudinal rail (1), fixed at one end (31) by sliding along the longitudinal rail (1). A second end (32) of the transverse arm (3) is provided with at least one unit (5) having at least one suction cup for holding the unit (5) in position on the workpiece (P) during an operation. The unit (5) is motorized and includes a movement system for crawling along the workpiece, parallel to the longitudinal rail (1). The transverse arm (3), carrying a tool (4), is thus precisely positioned on the workpiece (P). The unit (5) is articulated with respect to the transverse arm according to a pivot with axis (A) parallel to said transverse arm, to adapt to the curvature of the part (P) along the longitudinal rail (1).