Robot-Placed Actuator Module for Precise Workpiece Clamping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for fixing and measuring workpieces with complex shapes struggle with reliable clamping and precise adjustment, often requiring human intervention and leading to errors.
Innovation Solution
An automatic positioning system using a flexible actuator module with a pneumatic rod and wireless communication solenoid valve block, controlled by a robot and processing unit, allowing for precise clamping and measurement of workpieces without human intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If conventional locating elements and manual adjustment methods are used, then device complexity is reduced, but manufacturing precision and measurement precision deteriorate due to human error and difficulty in clamping complex shapes
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses self-centering tapered surfaces that automatically center the cylindrical locator bearing member when the clamping holder lifts or the locator downwardly moves within the clamping holder, eliminating the need for manual alignment and reducing human error while maintaining precision
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical adjustment with an automated robot hand that positions rearrangeable elements on a reference table, and uses pneumatic or hydraulic actuators to control the linear movement of locating elements, thereby improving precision while managing system complexity through automation
2Ease of operation
If specialized tools and automated actuators are introduced to handle complex workpiece shapes, then manufacturing precision and ease of operation improve, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping holder is designed with a universal structure that can accommodate different types of locating elements and workpiece shapes through rearrangeable elements and adjustable mechanisms, allowing one device to perform multiple functions without requiring entirely separate specialized tools for each workpiece type
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs dynamically adjustable actuators with variable stroke lengths that can be repositioned and reconfigured based on the specific workpiece geometry, enabling the same actuator mechanism to adapt to different clamping requirements rather than requiring fixed specialized tools for each application
3Reliability
If manual placement and adjustment of linear actuators is performed, then device complexity is minimized, but reliability deteriorates due to human error
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates sensors and control systems that provide feedback on the position and status of locating elements and actuators, allowing the robot and control unit to automatically adjust and verify positioning accuracy, thereby eliminating human error while maintaining reasonable system complexity through intelligent control
Solution Approach 2:
The robot hand pre-positions the rearrangeable elements and actuators on the reference table before the actual clamping operation begins, and the system performs preliminary alignment using self-centering mechanisms, ensuring high reliability from the start of the workpiece handling process without requiring complex real-time corrections
4Adaptability or versatility
If L-blocks and locating pins are used for simple workpieces, then device complexity is low, but adaptability deteriorates for complex sinuous shapes
Solution Approach 1:
The locating system is divided into modular rearrangeable elements that can be independently positioned and configured on the reference table, allowing the system to adapt to different workpiece shapes by rearranging segments rather than requiring entirely different locating elements for each workpiece type
Solution Approach 2:
The cylindrical locator bearing member is nested within the clamping holder with self-centering tapered surfaces, and additional locating elements can be nested within the actuator structure, allowing multiple locating functions to be integrated within a single device structure, increasing adaptability without proportionally increasing overall device complexity
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 achieves high precision and reliability in clamping and measuring complex workpieces, reduces human error, and enables Industry 4.0-level automation with minimal operator intervention.
Implementation Method 1
wireless communication solenoid valve block
Implementation Method 2
flexible actuator module with a pneumatic rod
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
AI summary
The present invention provides an automatic positioning system for measuring workpieces that comprises an actuator module in which a tool is arranged to clamp a workpiece, the actuator module being able to be transported and activated, through a valve block, by a robot commanded by a processing unit, such that the robot is prepared to transport the actuator module and locate it on a work plate, in addition to, once put on said plate, activate said actuator module through the valve block to adjust it in the required position according to each workpiece. The tool for clamping the workpiece is also actuated through the valve block. In this way, a flexible system is obtained, which can be easily adapted to the requirements of the workpiece and wherein human intervention is completely eliminated.