Modular Workpiece Locking with Movable Suction Cups for Complex Surfaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing workpiece locking systems for machining centers are costly, complex, and difficult to maintain, with limited adaptability to various workpiece formats and surfaces, particularly for non-flat and composite materials.
Innovation Solution
A modular locking system with vertically movable suction cups supported by independent rods, featuring a modular structure with interchangeable blocks and integrated pneumatic and electric control circuits for flexible positioning and operation, allowing for easy reconfiguration and maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a non-modular locking system is used, then the system structure is simpler, but the adaptability to various workpiece formats and surfaces is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The locking system is divided into multiple independent blocks, each containing a set of suction cups arranged in a matrix. Each block can be independently positioned and configured, allowing the system to adapt to various workpiece formats and surfaces while maintaining a manageable structural complexity through standardized modular units.
2Ease of manufacture
If a non-modular locking system is used, then the engineering process is optimized, but the cost and maintenance difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into identical or similar modular blocks that can be manufactured using standardized processes. This segmentation enables easier maintenance and repair, as individual blocks can be independently replaced or serviced without affecting the entire locking system, reducing both cost and maintenance difficulty.
Solution Approach 2:
Each block is designed as a universal module that can perform the same locking function in different positions and configurations. This universality simplifies the engineering process through standardized design while facilitating easier maintenance, as any block can be replaced with any other identical block regardless of its original position in the system.
3Ease of operation
If locking members are fixed in position, then the system structure is simpler, but the positioning flexibility for non-flat surfaces is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The support rods are designed to be movable along vertical guides within each block, allowing the locking members (suction cups) to be dynamically positioned at different heights. This dynamic positioning capability enables adaptation to non-flat workpiece surfaces while the guided movement mechanism keeps the structural complexity manageable through standardized motion paths.
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 system provides a cost-effective, adaptable, and simplified locking solution for machining centers, enabling efficient handling of non-flat workpieces with complex surfaces and reduced dimensions, optimizing engineering and maintenance processes.
Implementation Method 1
a multiplicity of locking members, for example of the suction type (suction cups)
Data Source
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AI summary
A locking system for locking workpieces for a numerically controlled machining centre is disclosed, comprising a modular structure with a plurality of blocks arranged alongside one another, each lock comprising two or more locking members that define a non-flat locking surface, each locking member being carried by a vertically movable support rod independently of the other support rods, each lock comprising at least one interface surface and at least one pneumatic or electric operating circuit, configured for the operation of the respective lock and being part of said interface surface, said locks being arranged on plate means comprising an interface side interfacing with the interface surfaces of said locks and at least one operating circuit communicating with said operating circuits of the blocks at said interface side.