Movable Pneumatic Clamping Fixtures for Continuous Workpiece Throughput
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing workpiece clamping systems face inefficiencies in throughput due to non-productive time spent on setup and processing, as they require manual handling and setup changes, which disrupt the continuous processing flow.
Innovation Solution
A workpiece table design featuring multiple pneumatic workpiece-clamping fixtures that can be adjusted and moved relative to the frame, allowing for continuous processing without interrupting the workflow by enabling simultaneous processing and setup changes, with each fixture capable of being pivoted or rotated to accommodate different workpieces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual handling and setup changes are used in existing workpiece clamping systems, then the system structure remains simple, but the throughput time decreases due to non-productive time spent on setup and processing
Solution Approach 1:
The workpiece table is divided into multiple independent workpiece-clamping fixtures (first fixture, second fixture, etc.), each capable of independent operation. This segmentation allows different fixtures to be at different stages of the processing cycle simultaneously, enabling continuous throughput while one fixture is being set up while another is being processed.
Solution Approach 2:
While one workpiece-clamping fixture is occupied with processing, the next fixture is prepared in advance with new workpieces already positioned and clamped. This preliminary action ensures that when the current processing completes, the next workpiece is ready for immediate processing, eliminating setup wait time and maximizing productivity.
2Productivity
If multiple workpiece-clamping fixtures are added to enable continuous processing, then productivity increases, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple workpiece-clamping fixtures are designed with identical or similar structures, each capable of performing the same clamping and processing functions. This universality means that while the number of fixtures increases, each fixture remains a standardized unit, making the system easier to control and manage despite the increased number of components.
Solution Approach 2:
The workpiece-clamping fixtures are designed to be movable relative to the frame, allowing dynamic reconfiguration and positioning. This dynamic capability enables the fixtures to be adjusted optimally for different workpieces and processing stages, maintaining operational efficiency while managing the complexity of having multiple fixtures through flexible positioning rather than fixed rigid arrangements.
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
This design significantly reduces non-productive time by allowing for seamless transitions between processed and new workpieces, enhancing the overall throughput and efficiency of the processing station.
Implementation Method 1
at least one first workpiece-clamping fixture (33) having a plurality of individually height-adjustable pneumatic workpiece-clamping elements (70, 71)
Data Source
AI summary
A workpiece table includes a frame and at least one workpiece-clamping fixture having a plurality of individually height-adjustable pneumatic workpiece-clamping elements. The workpiece table has at least one second workpiece-clamping fixture having a plurality of pneumatic workpiece-clamping elements. All the workpiece-clamping fixtures can be moved relative to the frame. The workpiece table increases the throughput time of a batch of workpieces at a processing station.