Stabilizing Devices for Workpiece Cleaning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cleaning processes for workpieces often result in vibration or detachment during cleaning operations due to inadequate stabilization, and fixed attachment limits cleaning effectiveness, especially when using methods like dry ice blasting.
Innovation Solution
A device with a conveyor system and stabilizing devices that move in a specific direction, maintaining a distance of at least twice the cross-sectional diameter from the workpieces to prevent contact and ensure complete cleaning, while adjustable stabilizing devices form a network for enhanced stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If workpieces are fixedly attached to a workpiece support, then they are stable during cleaning, but they cannot be cleaned completely on the support surfaces where they are fixed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces stabilizing devices as intermediary elements between the workpiece support and the workpieces. These stabilizing devices extend from the support surface toward the workpieces but maintain a distance of at least 2D from them, preventing direct contact. This intermediary arrangement provides stabilization while allowing cleaning media to access all surfaces of the workpieces, including those that would otherwise contact the support.
2Manufacturing precision
If workpieces are not properly secured with the work support, then they can be cleaned completely, but they vibrate or become detached during cleaning operations
Solution Approach 1:
The stabilizing devices serve as intermediary elements that provide stabilization without direct contact. By extending toward the workpieces while maintaining a distance of at least 2D, they create a protective presence that prevents vibration and detachment during cleaning operations, while still allowing complete access of cleaning media to all workpiece surfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical fastening systems (clamps, screws, adhesives) with a field-based stabilization approach. The stabilizing devices create a virtual constraint field through their positioning and orientation, eliminating the need for direct mechanical contact while maintaining stabilization during the cleaning process.
3Reliability
If stabilizing devices are placed close to workpieces, then they provide effective stabilization, but they create shadowing or pressure points that prevent thorough cleaning
Solution Approach 1:
The patent establishes a specific parameter relationship for the distance between stabilizing devices and workpieces: d ≥ 2D, where d is the distance and D is the cross-sectional diameter of the stabilizing device. This quantitative parameter ensures that stabilizing devices are positioned far enough to eliminate shadowing and pressure points, while still providing effective stabilization through their orientation and spacing.
Data Source
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AI summary
Device (10) for stabilizing workpieces (20, 20~) during cleaning comprises first stabilizing units (50) extending parallel to each other in a first direction (R) and arranged at a distance d from the workpieces during cleaning. An independent claim is also included for a method for stabilizing workpieces during cleaning using the above device. Preferred Features: The first stabilizing units are made from a material selected from plastic, aluminum, steel, iron, plastic fibers, natural fibers and carbon fibers. The distance d is 0.1-50 mm, preferably 1-10 mm, especially 1-3 mm.