Rail Coupling Mechanism for Simplified Unit Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rail systems require complex and time-consuming installation processes due to the need for multiple bolts and adjustments to align adjacent units, leading to increased operational steps and a larger equipment footprint.
Innovation Solution
A rail system featuring a coupling mechanism that allows for easy adjustment and fixation of relative positions between units using a coupling member with reference abutment faces and fixing members, enabling units to be coupled in appropriate positions without repeated adjustments during installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If multiple adjustment bolts and support members are used for each unit, then the relative positions of adjacent units can be adjusted, but the number of operation steps increases and installation becomes complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism merges the functions of multiple adjustment bolts and support members into a single integrated coupling member. This coupling member includes a coupling body with reference abutment faces and a coupling screw, eliminating the need for separate adjustment bolts for each unit and reducing the number of operation steps during installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling member serves multiple functions simultaneously: it couples adjacent units together, provides reference surfaces for alignment, and enables position adjustment. The coupling screw acts as both a fastening element and an adjustment mechanism, replacing the need for multiple specialized bolts.
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple position adjustment bolts are provided for each unit, then appropriate relative positions can be achieved, but the rail becomes a large piece of equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism consolidates multiple adjustment bolts and support members into a single coupling member with integrated reference abutment faces. This reduces the overall number of components and the volume occupied by the rail system while maintaining the precision needed for aligning adjacent units.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling member acts as an intermediary element that provides reference surfaces for precise alignment between units. The reference abutment faces on the coupling member serve as mediator surfaces that ensure accurate relative positioning without requiring multiple separate adjustment mechanisms.
3Ease of manufacture
If various bolts are used for adjusting and fixing units, then the rail can be assembled, but the installation process requires many operation steps
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism combines multiple bolts and adjustment operations into a single coupling screw operation. The coupling member integrates the functions of alignment and fastening, allowing units to be assembled with fewer operation steps and reduced installation time.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling member includes pre-formed reference abutment faces that are ready for immediate use during assembly. These reference surfaces are prepared in advance on the coupling member, eliminating the need for additional alignment operations and reducing the time required for installation.
Data Source
AI summary
A rail configured to guide a carriage is provided. The rail includes a first unit and a second unit; and a coupling mechanism. The coupling mechanism is configured to couple a first target member, which is a coupling target that is either a first support or a first rack, to a second target member, which is a coupling target that is a second support or a second rack. The coupling mechanism includes a coupling member; a first fixing member; and a second fixing member. The first fixing member is configured to position the first target member and the coupling member, and the second fixing member is configured to adjust relative positions of the second target member and the coupling member, and is configured to fix the second target member and the coupling member at adjusted relative positions.