Modular Coating Apparatus with Coupled Frames

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing coating booth systems require significant time to install and are inflexible in terms of size adjustment, necessitating changes to the overall framework to modify the coating operation area.

Innovation Solution

The coating apparatus is modularized into interchangeable modules, including a first and second module with frames that can be coupled together, allowing for easy adjustment of the coating area size by changing the number of modules, and incorporating a control panel, air supply, and electrostatic atomization for efficient coating.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the coating booth is designed as a fixed overall framework, then structural stability is ensured, but the size of the coating operation area cannot be easily changed

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesize adjustment of coating areaVSAvoidoverall framework structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The coating booth is divided into multiple independent modules (first module, second module, third module) that can be coupled together. Each module has its own frame structure and can be independently assembled or disassembled, allowing the overall coating area size to be adjusted by changing the number of coupled modules without redesigning the entire framework.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Loss of time

If the automatic coating machine is preassembled in a factory and mounted as a complete unit, then installation time at the construction site is shortened, but the ability to adjust the coating area size is lost

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinstallation time at construction siteVSAvoidcoating area size adjustment
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of timeVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The coating system is segmented into modular units that can be preassembled in a factory and transported to the construction site. These modules can be quickly coupled together to form the complete coating booth, reducing on-site installation time while maintaining the flexibility to adjust the coating area by adding or removing modules.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The module coupling mechanism allows for dynamic reconfiguration of the coating booth size. Modules can be easily connected or disconnected at the construction site, enabling the coating area to be adjusted according to specific project requirements without requiring complete disassembly or complex structural modifications.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If the coating booth framework is redesigned to change the coating area size, then adaptability is improved, but the structural integrity and stability may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecoating area configurationVSAvoidframework structural integrity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

By segmenting the framework into standardized modules with uniform coupling interfaces, the structural integrity is maintained through consistent connection methods. Each module is designed to be structurally sound on its own, and the coupling mechanism ensures that when modules are joined, the overall structure maintains its stability and strength.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The module coupling mechanism is designed with universal applicability, allowing the same coupling method to be used across all modules regardless of the total number of modules. This standardized approach ensures that structural integrity is maintained while allowing flexible adjustment of the coating area configuration.

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

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

This modular design significantly reduces installation time, allows for flexible sizing of the coating area, and enhances energy efficiency and CO2 emission reduction through downsized apparatus and electrostatic atomization.

Implementation Method 1

The coating robot may include a spray gun configured to spray a coating material toward the coating target by electrostatically atomizing the coating material.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrostatic atomization: Electrostatics

Data Source

PatentUS11642689B2Coating apparatus including modular coating areas
Publication Date: 2023.05.09 TOYOTA JIDOSHA KK
  • US11642689B2 patent drawing
  • US11642689B2 patent drawing
  • US11642689B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A coating apparatus includes a first module and a second module constituting a coating area where a coating target is coated. The first module includes a first frame and a coating robot. The second module includes a second frame. When the first module and the second module are arranged to adjoin each other in a movement path direction in which the coating target relatively moves along the coating area, the first frame of the first module and the second frame of the second module that are arranged to adjoin each other are configured to be coupled together.