Rotatable Fixturing Platform
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional welding tables lack flexibility and modularity, making it difficult to efficiently configure and reconfigure working surfaces for various welding tasks, especially when dealing with complex or bulky workpieces.
Innovation Solution
A rotatable fixturing platform with a modular design, featuring a rotisserie, extensible frame, and mounting assembly that allows for the attachment of multiple fixturing platforms, enabling rotation and reconfiguration of working surfaces through interchangeable mounting brackets and a gear box or servo motor for automated rotation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional welding table with fixed surface and array of holes is used, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the flexibility and modularity are poor, making it difficult to reconfigure working surfaces for different tasks
Solution Approach 1:
The welding table surface is divided into multiple modular fixturing platforms that can be independently configured and repositioned. Each platform can be attached to different locations on the rotatable frame, allowing the working surface to be segmented and reconfigured for various welding tasks without redesigning the entire table structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The welding table incorporates a rotatable frame mechanism that allows the entire assembly or individual platforms to be rotated and repositioned dynamically. This dynamic capability enables the same physical structure to serve multiple functions by changing its orientation and configuration based on task requirements.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple fixtures and tools are used to achieve various welding configurations, then the adaptability is improved, but the cost increases and efficiency decreases due to the need to manage and reposition multiple separate items
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple fixturing platforms are merged into a single integrated rotatable assembly, allowing them to be moved and reconfigured as one unit rather than individually. This combining of multiple functional elements into a unified system maintains configuration flexibility while improving operational efficiency by reducing the time and effort required to reposition separate fixtures and tools.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a rotatable fixturing platform with modular design and automated rotation is implemented, then the versatility and space utilization are improved, but the device complexity and initial cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The rotatable fixturing platform is designed as a universal system where the same mechanical structure can accommodate various welding configurations, tool arrangements, and workspace requirements. The standardized rotatable frame and modular platforms create a multi-functional system that eliminates the need for multiple specialized fixtures, thereby justifying the increased initial complexity through long-term operational versatility and cost savings.
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 modular design provides a flexible and reconfigurable working surface that can be easily adapted for different welding tasks, ensuring precise alignment and efficient handling of complex or bulky workpieces, while also being portable and cost-effective by utilizing modular components for multiple functions.
Implementation Method 1
The extensible frame includes a plurality of support assemblies and a plurality of extensible arms. Each extensible arm extends from one of the support assemblies and has a bearing. The mounting assembly includes a plurality of mounting brackets coupled to the fixturing platform and an axle assembly. The axle assembly is secured to the bearings of the extensible arms.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, methods, and apparatus for a rotatable fixturing platform having a rotisserie, a modular fixturing platform, and a mounting assembly. The rotisserie includes a base with an extensible frame. The extensible frame includes a plurality of support assemblies and a plurality of extensible arms. Each extensible arm extends from one of the support assemblies and has a bearing. The mounting assembly includes a plurality of mounting brackets coupled to the fixturing platform and an axle assembly. The axle assembly is secured to bearings of the extensible arms.