Spring Pin Template Bracket for Secure Fixture Changeover
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing template bracket systems for part holding fixtures in manufacturing lines are prone to instability due to the use of removable pins, which can be misplaced or lost, leading to improper template placement and potential damage to parts.
Innovation Solution
A template bracket assembly with a pressure pin assembly that includes a pin that can be shifted between locking and released positions, utilizing a spring element for retention and a ramp surface for easy disengagement, along with a support member and handle for secure and adjustable pin placement, allowing the template to be retained and released without removing the pin from the bracket.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If removable pins are used to secure templates to brackets, then templates can be easily installed and removed, but the pins may be misplaced or lost leading to template instability
Solution Approach 1:
The pin is extracted from being a separate removable component and integrated into the bracket as a fixed element. The spring pin is permanently mounted in the bracket, eliminating the risk of pin loss while maintaining template security through the spring-loaded engagement mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The pin transitions from a static removable element to a dynamic spring-loaded element that automatically engages and disengages. The spring mechanism provides automatic tension to secure the template firmly while allowing easy release when needed.
2Reliability
If two removable pins are used to secure templates, then the template can be firmly locked in place, but workers may fail to insert one or both pins leaving the template unstable
Solution Approach 1:
One pin is extracted from being removable and converted into a fixed spring pin mounted in the bracket. This eliminates the need for workers to manually insert and remember to install multiple pins, while the single spring pin provides sufficient securing force through its elastic engagement.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring pin automatically performs the securing function without requiring worker attention or manual insertion. The spring mechanism self-activates to engage the template slot, providing reliable locking without human intervention.
3Device complexity
If a slot is provided in the template base with a permanently secured pin, then one removable pin can be eliminated, but one removable pin remains required to lock the template
Solution Approach 1:
The second removable pin is extracted from the system entirely. The spring pin provides complete template securing functionality, making the second removable pin unnecessary. This reduces component count and simplifies the assembly process.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring pin's elastic properties enable it to provide sufficient securing force alone, replacing the need for dual pin systems. The dynamic spring mechanism compensates for any single point of contact limitations through its ability to maintain constant engagement pressure.
4Adaptability or versatility
If pins are removed completely from the bracket for template changes, then new templates can be installed, but the pins may be misplaced or lost
Solution Approach 1:
The pin is extracted from the category of removable consumable components and reclassified as a permanent fixture of the bracket. The spring pin remains mounted in the bracket throughout all template exchanges, eliminating the risk of pin loss while maintaining full template exchangeability.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring pin serves multiple functions: it secures different template styles, remains permanently mounted to prevent loss, and enables quick template changes through its automatic engagement mechanism. One pin design universalizes the solution across all template exchange scenarios.
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 solution provides a stable and secure method for holding templates in manufacturing operations, minimizing the risk of template misplacement and damage, while allowing for easy template exchange and adjustment without losing or misplacing pins.
Implementation Method 1
A spring element biases the pin into the locking position
Implementation Method 2
The pressure pin assembly may further comprise a handle that is attached to an outside end of a shaft that extends through the pressure pin assembly and is attached to the pin. The pressure pin assembly may define a seat that receives the handle in the locking position. The handle may be pulled from the seat to move the pin to the released position without separating the pressure pin assembly from the bracket.
Data Source
AI summary
A template holder bracket and method of assembling and disassembling a template from the bracket. The bracket has a spring pin assembly that is secured to the bracket that holds the template in a locked position. The spring pin assembly includes a pin, a housing and a spring that biases the pin into engagement with the template. The template may be removed by rotating the template against a ramp surface on the pin assembly that disengages the pin from the template against the biasing force of the spring.