Modular Portable Compressor Assembly with Alignment Features
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional portable compressors with single integrated unit designs are difficult to assemble, leading to increased assembly time and physical strain due to sequential mounting of components, which has not been effectively addressed by modular techniques in other industries.
Innovation Solution
A modular assembly method for portable compressors involving a sub-frame module, containment frame module, and canopy module with alignment features and tooling to facilitate easy assembly, reducing assembly time and physical strain by allowing simultaneous assembly of components and providing structural support and protection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If components are mounted sequentially on a single chassis, then the compressor maintains structural integrity, but assembly time increases and physical strain occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The compressor is divided into multiple modular sub-assemblies (power module, compressor module, tank module, etc.) that can be manufactured and prepared independently, then quickly connected during assembly, dramatically reducing assembly time and physical strain
2Ease of manufacture
If all components are mounted on a single chassis, then the structure remains simple, but assembly becomes difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
Components are pre-assembled into complete sub-modules (power module with engine and alternator, compressor module with motor and compressor, tank module with pressure vessel) before final assembly, allowing parallel preparation and reducing on-site assembly time
3Productivity
If components are assembled simultaneously in modular fashion, then assembly time reduces, but alignment precision becomes challenging
Solution Approach 1:
Alignment pins and mounting plates serve as intermediary elements that guide and constrain the relative positions of modular sub-assemblies during connection, ensuring precise alignment while enabling simultaneous assembly operations
Data Source
AI summary
A method of assembling a portable compressor package comprises steps of assembling a sub-frame module that comprises the mechanical components of an apparatus for ease of assembly to associated structural modules for minimisation of assembly time and ease of assembly.