Modular Work Positioner With Split Columns for Precise Reconfiguration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional work positioners are inefficient and inaccurate when handling multiple workpieces of different shapes and sizes, often requiring multiple designs and resulting in excessive size and reduced processing accuracy.
Innovation Solution
A modular work positioner with a split support column and adjustable base structure, allowing for customization of the distance between the rotation axis and base to accommodate various workpiece sizes and shapes, using interchangeable support column pieces and rail systems for precise positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional work positioner is designed to adapt to different workpiece shapes and sizes, then multiple work positioners are required, but this increases device complexity and manufacturing cost
Solution Approach 1:
The work positioner employs a universal base structure with multiple threaded holes arranged in a matrix pattern, allowing a single positioner design to accommodate various workpiece shapes and sizes by simply repositioning the support columns to different locations on the base plate
Solution Approach 2:
The support column structure is divided into interchangeable components including base plates, column sections of different lengths, and mounting brackets that can be reconfigured. This segmentation allows the same positioner framework to be adapted to different workpiece dimensions without redesigning the entire system
2Adaptability or versatility
If a work positioner is designed to handle multiple workpiece types, then the positioner size increases, but this adversely affects processing accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The positioner features adjustable and reconfigurable support columns that can be dynamically positioned to different heights and locations based on the specific workpiece requirements. This dynamic adjustability allows the positioner to maintain optimal size and precision for each particular workpiece rather than being oversized for all cases
Solution Approach 2:
The base plate incorporates a matrix of threaded holes with varying densities and distributions in different regions, allowing support columns to be locally positioned according to the specific geometry and size of each workpiece, thereby maintaining processing accuracy while accommodating diversity
3Manufacturing precision
If a work positioner is designed for specific workpiece shapes and sizes, then processing accuracy is improved, but this reduces versatility and requires multiple positioners
Solution Approach 1:
The positioner integrates multiple functions into a single system through the matrix-mounted support columns that can be configured for different workpiece types, eliminating the need for multiple specialized positioners while maintaining accuracy through precise local positioning
Data Source
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AI summary
A work positioner, comprising: a first work retaining portion (110) for retaining a first workpiece; a first drive portion (120) for outputting a first rotational force about a first rotation axis (RAX, RX1) and imparting a first angular movement about the first rotation axis (RAX, RX1) to the first work retaining portion (110); a bearing portion (130) supporting the first work retaining portion (110) in cooperation with the first drive portion (120); a base (140) arranged away from the first rotation axis (RAX, RX1); a first support column (150) extending along a first support axis (FSX) extending from the base (140) toward the first rotation axis (RAX, RX1), the first support column (150) supporting the first drive portion (120); and a second support column (160) extending along a second support axis (SSX) extending between the base (140) and the first rotation axis (RAX, RX1) so as to be parallel to the first support axis (FSX), the second support column (160) supporting the bearing portion (130), wherein the first support column (150) includes a plurality of first support column pieces (151, 250) arranged in a row along the first support axis (FSX).