Robotic Workpiece Support Fixture for Wet Machining Reliability
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing universal fixtures for holding contoured workpieces in machining operations are unreliable, especially in wet environments, due to actuator malfunctions and inability to verify proper positioning, leading to machining errors and inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
A workpiece support assembly with a pedestal, support tube, and offset arm, featuring fully immobilized fixture elements that provide up to six degrees of kinematic freedom, allowing for precise adjustment and verification using robotic units and automated systems, eliminating the need for electronic components or motors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If motor driven screws or fluidic actuators are used to actuate workpiece engaging rods, then the system can actively adjust and position workpieces, but the reliability deteriorates in wet environments due to actuator malfunctions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes all electronic actuators, motors, and valves from the fixture system. Instead of using motor driven screws or fluidic actuators, the invention employs purely mechanical adjustment mechanisms that can be manually positioned and then locked in place, eliminating the components that fail in wet environments.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs simple mechanical adjustment mechanisms rather than complex electronic actuators. These mechanical components are designed to be robust, simple, and replaceable, focusing on reliability through simplicity rather than through sophisticated control systems.
2Adaptability or versatility
If workpiece engaging end effectors pivot freely to provide adjustability, then the system can adapt to different workpiece positions, but the ability to detect and verify position deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates predefined adjustment positions with corresponding verification features. Before machining operations begin, the fixture elements can be adjusted to predetermined positions and then verified using automated methods such as spindle probes, coordinate measuring machines, or laser scanning systems to ensure proper positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables automated position verification through feedback mechanisms. Automated systems can measure the position of fixture elements and provide feedback to confirm proper positioning, allowing detection and correction of positioning errors before machining begins.
3Extent of automation
If electronic components and motors are used in the fixture system, then automated control and positioning can be achieved, but the system becomes vulnerable to water damage and component failure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces electronic control systems with purely mechanical adjustment and locking mechanisms. The fixture elements can be manually positioned and secured without requiring motors, sensors, or electronic components, making the system immune to water damage while maintaining adjustability.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple actuated rods are used to hold contoured workpieces, then flexible positioning is achieved, but the complexity of the system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the fixture system into multiple independent, modular workpiece engaging elements. Each element can be independently adjusted and locked, providing flexible positioning capability while keeping each individual component simple and manageable.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for supporting workpieces during machining. The system comprises one or more adjustable workpiece support assemblies and a robotic unit. Each workpiece support assembly comprises a pedestal and a rotatable fixture element. The robotic assembly comprises means of mobilizing and immobilizing each support assembly, so that the fixture element may be secured in a particular orientation. The robotic unit moves along a frame, and manipulates and fixes the position of the fixture elements to match the contour of a workpiece. Vacuum forces may be applied through the workpiece support assemblies to secure the workpiece against the fixture elements.