Modular Vise System for Fixture Plate Efficiency
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional dovetail vises have limitations such as fixed size, inefficient use of space, and potential damage when drilling through work-pieces, leading to reduced fixture plate efficiency and increased risk of vise damage.
Innovation Solution
A modular vise system comprising adjustable and fixed vise members with interchangeable grippers, allowing for precise positioning and secure holding of work-pieces of various sizes and shapes without the need for sacrifice plates, utilizing multipurpose locating apertures and adjustable fastening systems for enhanced flexibility and efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a fixed-size dovetail vise with multiple sliding pads is used, then the work-piece can be secured from the sides, but the fixture plate efficiency decreases because the vise consumes a larger surface area than needed for smaller work-pieces
Solution Approach 1:
The vise body is divided into multiple separate vise members (first vise member, second vise member, etc.) that can be independently positioned and secured to the fixture plate. Each vise member has its own fastening system, allowing them to be placed only where needed to secure the work-piece, thereby reducing the total surface area consumed on the fixture plate while maintaining reliable work-piece securing capability.
2Device complexity
If a fixed-size dovetail vise is used, then the structure is simple, but the adaptability to different work-piece sizes and shapes is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The vise members are made adjustable and repositionable along the fixture plate using sliding mechanisms and fastening systems. This dynamic positioning capability allows the same simple vise structure to adapt to various work-piece sizes and shapes by reconfiguring the number and position of active vise members, without requiring complex predetermined adjustments.
3Reliability
If the work-piece rests on the bottom of the vise and is secured from the sides, then the side pads can hold the work-piece, but damage to the vise could occur when holes are drilled through the entire height
Solution Approach 1:
The vise members are designed as separate, removable components that can be selectively positioned only at locations where work-piece securing is needed. During drilling operations, vise members can be omitted from areas where holes will be drilled, eliminating the risk of damage to the vise structure while maintaining adequate work-piece holding capability at the necessary locations.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a modular vise system with multiple independent vise members is used, then the adaptability to different work-pieces increases, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
All vise members are designed with identical or standardized structures, fastening systems, and sliding mechanisms. This universality allows the same component design to be reused across multiple vise members, reducing the actual complexity despite having multiple members. The standardized interfaces and interchangeable parts simplify assembly, adjustment, and maintenance while maintaining high adaptability to different work-pieces.
Data Source
AI summary
A modular vise system for holding working objects having a bottom surface, the modular vise system includes a fixture plate and an adjustable vise member configured to secure the working object to the fixture plate. The adjustable vise member includes an elongated body forming a cavity; a flange extending from a side of the elongated body, the flange having an elongated hole extending through a thickness of the flange; a fastener configured to engage with and extend through the elongated hole, the fastener and elongated hole allowing the body to selectively translate relative to the fixture plate; a moveable assembly housed at least partially disposed within the cavity of the body and configured to selectively translate relative to the body; and a gripper coupled to the moveable assembly and configured to secure to the working object.