Parallel Link Casting Device Actuator Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing casting apparatuses with upper mold flip-up systems are complex, large, and heavy due to the high number of actuators required for mold closing, tilting, and removal, leading to increased size and weight, and complexity in structure.
Innovation Solution
A casting apparatus utilizing a parallel link mechanism with a drive unit to simplify the structure by reducing the number of actuators needed, allowing the upper and lower molds to be opened, closed, and tilted using a single drive unit, and enabling mold removal without external actuators, thereby reducing the overall size and weight.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If an upper mold flip-up system is adopted with multiple actuators for mold closing, tilting, and removal, then the casting apparatus can perform all necessary mold operations, but the apparatus increases in size, weight, and structural complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The single actuator is designed to perform multiple functions: mold closing, tilting, and removal operations are all achieved through different phases of the same actuator's reciprocating motion. The link mechanism converts this single actuator's linear motion into the complex coordinated movements required for all mold operations, eliminating the need for separate actuators for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple mold operations that traditionally required separate actuators are merged into a single actuated system. The link mechanism integrates the functions of mold closing, tilting, and removal into one coordinated mechanism driven by a single actuator, reducing the total number of actuators and simplifying the overall structure.
2Strength
If high strength members are used in the flip-up mechanism to handle large loads, then the mechanism can withstand mold closing and removal forces, but the apparatus increases in weight
Solution Approach 1:
The load path is segmented and distributed through the link mechanism's multiple connection points between the movable platform and fixed structure. Instead of concentrating large forces in single heavy members, the mechanism distributes loads across multiple linkages, allowing the use of lighter members that can handle the distributed forces effectively.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanism utilizes dynamic motion paths to reduce peak forces on individual members. By incorporating the tilting phase and arc-shaped movement, the system dynamically redistributes forces during operation, allowing lighter members to withstand the required loads through optimized force distribution rather than relying solely on member strength.
3Ease of operation
If actuators are provided in each mechanism (flip-up, stopper, tilting, mold closing, mold removal), then each function can be precisely controlled, but the number of actuators increases leading to larger apparatus size
Solution Approach 1:
A single actuator is designed to control multiple functions through the link mechanism. The same actuator that performs mold closing also enables tilting and removal operations through different phases of its motion cycle, eliminating the need for separate actuators for each function and reducing the overall apparatus footprint.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple control functions are merged into a single actuated system. The link mechanism combines the control of mold closing, tilting, and removal into one coordinated action driven by a single actuator, reducing the number of actuators from five or more to just one, thereby significantly reducing the apparatus size.
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 parallel link mechanism simplifies the structure, reduces the number of actuators, and decreases the size and weight of the casting apparatus, while maintaining the ability to handle mold closing, tilting, and removal processes efficiently.
Implementation Method 1
an upper end of the first main link member is rotatably coupled to the upper frame, and a lower end thereof is rotatably coupled to the lower frame... The first auxiliary link member is arranged parallel to the first main link member, and an upper end thereof is rotatably coupled to the upper frame as well as a lower end thereof is rotatably coupled to the lower frame
Implementation Method 2
a casting by using an upper mold and a lower mold, being able to be opened, closed, and tilted, which is poured by means of gravity
Data Source
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AI summary
A casting apparatus 50 includes an upper frame 5 to which an upper mold 1 is attached, a lower frame 6 to which a lower mold 2 is attached, an opening/closing mechanism 21, a first main link member 7a whose central portion is provided with a tilt rotating shaft 10, a first auxiliary link member 8a whose central portion is provided with an auxiliary link central portion rotating shaft 15, and a rotation actuator 16. The upper frame 5, the lower frame 6, the first main link member 7a, and the first auxiliary link member 8a constitute a first parallel link mechanism. Accordingly, as compared with an apparatus of an upper mold flip-up system, it is possible to simplify a structure of the casting apparatus 50 to reduce the casting apparatus 50 in size and weight.