Modular Manufacturing System Positioning Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
In manufacturing systems with multiple replaceable machine tools, accurately mounting and fixing work machine modules at designated positions on a base is challenging due to positional deviations and the need for efficient attachment and detachment mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
The system employs a base with intersecting rail pairs and wheels, where one wheel engages a rail to prevent positional deviation, and a module fixing mechanism to securely attach the modules at specified positions, ensuring precise placement and easy replacement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If work machine modules are made replaceable for easy maintenance and replacement, then ease of operation is improved, but manufacturing precision deteriorates due to positional deviations during mounting
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning system is segmented into two independent functions: one wheel-rail pair (first wheel, first rail) handles positioning accuracy by preventing positional deviation in the arrangement direction, while the other wheel-rail pair (second wheel, second rail) handles ease of movement by permitting positional deviation. This segmentation allows each subsystem to optimize for its specific function without compromising the other.
Solution Approach 2:
Different wheel-rail interaction characteristics are applied to different wheels. The first wheel is designed with engagement that prohibits positional deviation for precise positioning, while the second wheel is designed with engagement that permits positional deviation for smooth movement. This local differentiation of engagement quality enables simultaneous achievement of precision and ease of operation.
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple wheel-rail pairs are used for positioning, then manufacturing precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of making all wheel-rail pairs identical for simplicity, the system applies different engagement characteristics to different wheels. The first wheel-rail pair provides rigid engagement for positioning accuracy, while the second wheel-rail pair provides flexible engagement for movement. This local quality differentiation achieves precision without requiring overly complex positioning mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a static, uniform wheel-rail engagement design to a dynamic design where the engagement characteristics differ between wheels. The first wheel maintains a fixed, precise engagement for positioning, while the second wheel allows dynamic adjustment and deviation for ease of movement. This dynamic approach simplifies the overall structure while achieving precise positioning.
Data Source
AI summary
A manufacturing system including a base and multiple work machine modules that are arranged in an arrangement direction on base to be attachable to and detachable from base, in which one wheel of a pair provided on work machine module is engaged with one rail of a pair provided on base in a state in which positional deviation in the arrangement direction is prohibited, and the other wheel of the pair is engaged with the other rail of the pair in a state in which positional deviation is permitted in the arrangement direction, thereby the position of work machine modules on the base in the arrangement direction is specified, and work machine modules are fixed at a setting position on the base to be restricted so as to be drawn toward the base by a module fixing mechanism that is provided on the base.