Mechanical Alignment Fixture for Precise Vehicle Component Assembly
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for assembling and disassembling large underwater vehicles and similar equipment face challenges in precise positioning, often leading to damage and misalignment due to the lack of fine adjustment and alignment features, particularly in constrained environments and remote locations.
Innovation Solution
A precision positioning and handling system utilizing threaded screws for precise adjustments in multiple directions, suitable for harsh environments, and designed for use in enclosed spaces without the need for flooding or large infrastructure, featuring corrosion-resistant materials and mechanical components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual handling or swinging jig methods are used to maneuver LDUUV segments, then the equipment can be moved and assembled, but the positioning precision deteriorates leading to collisions and damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual handling and swinging jig methods with a precision positioning system that uses threaded screws and mechanical actuators to control the position of LDUUV segments. This substitution eliminates the imprecision of manual operations while maintaining mechanical control, allowing for accurate alignment without collisions or damage to components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces fine adjustment capabilities by incorporating threaded screws with precise pitch dimensions that allow operators to make small, controlled changes in position. This parameter control enables positioning precision at the level of thousandths of an inch, transforming the coarse manual positioning into fine-tuned accurate alignment.
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple attempts or small movements are made to align components, then alignment may be achieved, but the assembly time and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates preliminary alignment features directly into the positioning system, including pre-configured threaded screws and mechanical guides that establish correct component positions before final assembly. This preliminary action eliminates the need for multiple trial-and-error attempts, as components are pre-positioned with the required accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses precision-machined reference surfaces and alignment features that replicate the exact required geometry and positioning. These reference copies allow components to be positioned accurately in a single operation rather than through repeated adjustments, significantly reducing assembly time.
3Productivity
If forcing one part to join with another is attempted, then assembly may proceed, but the risk of accidents and component damage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates preliminary anti-action by designing the positioning system to prevent misalignment before assembly occurs. The threaded screws and mechanical guides establish correct positioning in advance, creating a counter-force against potential forcing actions. This preliminary protective measure eliminates the need to force components together, thereby preventing damage while maintaining assembly productivity.
4Manufacturing precision
If water flooding and tank systems are used for assembling XLUUV, then alignment can be achieved, but the system complexity and infrastructure requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the alignment capability from the complex water flooding and tank system, isolating the essential function of positioning and alignment. By removing the unnecessary tank and flooding infrastructure, the invention achieves the same alignment precision using only the essential mechanical positioning components, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining manufacturing precision.
5Ease of operation
If large overhead cranes and extensive shop floors are used for XLUUV assembly, then components can be maneuvered, but the space requirements and infrastructure costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the nesting principle by integrating the positioning and maneuvering functions into a compact system that fits within or near the assembly area rather than requiring separate large-scale infrastructure. The precision positioning system is nested within the assembly fixture itself, eliminating the need for extensive shop floor space and large overhead cranes while maintaining full component maneuverability.
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 system enables precise alignment and handling of large equipment components, reducing the risk of damage and misalignment, and is suitable for various applications where precise alignment is required, including underwater, remote, and space-related environments.
Implementation Method 1
threaded screws for precise adjustments in multiple directions
Data Source
AI summary
A mechanical assembly to precisely position large objects and align them to be joined with other objects with precision. The assembly does not require power to operate and can therefore be used in a variety of remote and harsh locations.