Optical Referencing Clamp Positioning for Structural Part Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for mounting structural parts, such as in vehicles, are inefficient and lack precision, often resulting in incorrect initial positioning and prolonged installation times due to manual handling and limited automation.
Innovation Solution
A positioning device with a plate, guiding pin, expandable pin, and multiple reflectors and identifiers not on a common straight line, allowing for precise determination and alignment of structural parts using imaging technology for automated fastening.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual positioning and clamping methods are used, then the mounting process can be performed with simple equipment, but the installation time is prolonged and positioning precision is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical positioning with an automated optical measurement system. A positioning device with reflectors and identifiers is mounted on the first structural part, and an imaging device captures images to automatically determine the position and orientation. This substitution of mechanical manual operations with optical-mechanical automation resolves the contradiction by providing both high precision measurement and reduced installation time through automated image processing.
2Manufacturing precision
If the starting position is not correctly positioned, then the structural parts can be quickly placed together, but both parts will be mounted in an incorrect position
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a positioning device as an intermediary component between the structural parts and the mounting process. This device includes reflectors and identifiers that serve as mediators for the imaging system to detect and calculate the precise position and orientation. The intermediary positioning device enables accurate mounting without requiring complex direct measurement systems, as it provides standardized reference elements that simplify the imaging and calculation process.
3Productivity
If multiple fasteners are placed manually, then positioning can be adjusted, but the installation process becomes time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary positioning and measurement actions before the fastening process begins. The positioning device with its reflectors and identifiers is pre-mounted on the first structural part, and the imaging device captures images to determine the exact position and orientation in advance. This preliminary action enables the fastening device to automatically proceed with high-speed fastening without requiring manual positioning adjustments during the process, thus achieving both high productivity and measurement precision.
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 solution enhances the precision and efficiency of mounting structural parts by enabling accurate positioning and orientation, facilitating automated fastening processes and reducing installation time.
Implementation Method 1
A positioning device with a plate, guiding pin, expandable pin, and multiple reflectors and identifiers not on a common straight line, allowing for precise determination and alignment of structural parts using imaging technology
Data Source
AI summary
A positioning device including a plate having a first side and a second side opposite to the first side, a guiding pin mounted to the plate and extending perpendicularly from the first side of the plate, and an expandable pin mounted to the plate. An expandable portion of the expandable pin extends perpendicularly from the first side of the plate. The positioning device further includes at least two reflectors, and an identifier. The at least two reflectors and the identifier are not located on a common straight line. Furthermore, a method for mounting two structural parts to one another using such positioning device is provided.