Runner-Based Fitting Assembly for Fast Configuration Changeovers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing assembly methods for fitting arrangements, such as those for windows and furniture, face challenges in flexibility and efficiency when switching between different configurations, leading to prolonged changeover times and manual intervention.
Innovation Solution
An assembly device with a track and movable runners, each equipped with holders for fitting elements, allows for independent control and movement along the track, enabling flexible and precise transportation of fitting elements between assembly stations, eliminating the need for a dedicated carrier element and facilitating automated configuration changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a rigid carrier element is used to transport fitting elements between assembly stations, then the fitting elements can be reliably positioned, but the changeover time when switching between different configurations is prolonged
Solution Approach 1:
The rigid carrier element is divided into multiple separate holders that can be independently positioned and adjusted. Each holder can be individually moved to the required position for the specific fitting arrangement configuration, eliminating the need to reposition entire rigid structures and significantly reducing changeover time while maintaining positioning reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The holders are designed to be movable and adjustable rather than fixed in rigid positions. This dynamic capability allows the holders to be quickly repositioned between different configurations, enabling rapid changeover while ensuring that each holder can still reliably position its associated fitting element during assembly operations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the carrier element is converted manually for different configurations, then the positioning can be adjusted, but the manual intervention increases changeover time and reduces productivity
Solution Approach 1:
Manual mechanical repositioning of holders is replaced with an automated control system. The control device receives configuration data and automatically actuates the holders to the correct positions, eliminating manual intervention entirely. This substitution maintains full configuration adaptability while dramatically increasing productivity by removing human operation from the changeover process.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs its own reconfiguration automatically without external manual intervention. The control device manages the repositioning of holders based on the required configuration, enabling the system to serve itself during changeover operations. This self-service capability maintains adaptability while preserving productivity by eliminating downtime associated with manual reconfiguration.
3Productivity
If multiple assembly stations are used to distribute assembly steps, then the throughput can be increased, but the transport and coordination between stations becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The holders are designed with universal functionality to work at multiple assembly stations. Each holder can accommodate different fitting elements and maintain positioning accuracy regardless of which assembly station it is at. This universality simplifies the coordination between stations, as the same holder design and control logic can be applied throughout the entire assembly line, reducing system complexity while maintaining high throughput.
Data Source
Figure 1~4
Figure 5
AI summary
In a method for assembling fitting arrangements (11, 13), in particular fitting arrangements for windows, doors, items of furniture or the like, wherein fitting arrangements of at least a first configuration and a second configuration differing from the first are assembled, the use of an assembly device (23) is provided which comprises a running track (25) and a plurality of runners (27) which are arranged movably on the running track, wherein the runners each have at least one mount for temporarily arranging one or more respective fitting elements (15, 17, 19, 21, 39) and can be controlled individually to move along the running track in order to pass through a plurality of assembly stations (29) provided along the running track. Furthermore, there is provision that, for the assembly of a respective fitting arrangement of the first configuration, the runners of a group (31) of runners are controlled to be arranged in a first relative arrangement with respect to one another and, in particular while maintaining the first relative arrangement, to move from assembly station to assembly station, and that, for the assembly of a respective fitting arrangement of the second configuration, the runners of a, in particular of the same, group of runners are controlled to be arranged in a second relative arrangement which is different from the first relative arrangement and to move, in particular while maintaining the second relative arrangement, from assembly station to assembly station.