Sub-Assembly Positioning Tool With Conforming Supports for Installation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The assembly of large structures, such as airplanes, is hindered by labor-intensive and time-consuming manual processes for positioning and installing sub-assemblies, leading to inefficiencies in assembly line operations.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a tool with a sub-assembly support and conforming devices that automatically positions and secures sub-assemblies within an assembling body, utilizing actuators and conforming devices to align and maintain the shape of the sub-assembly during installation, enhancing automation and efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual processes are used for positioning and installing sub-assemblies, then flexibility and simplicity are maintained, but installation time and labor intensity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning system uses self-aligning features where the sub-assembly automatically aligns with the assembling body through guide rails and positioning pins, eliminating the need for manual alignment operations while maintaining ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces manual positioning operations with an automated mechanical positioning device that uses actuators to move and position sub-assemblies, thereby increasing productivity without requiring complex manual operations
2Productivity
If automated positioning systems are implemented, then installation speed and productivity improve, but system complexity and initial labor requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning system is divided into modular components including separate positioning devices for different axes, individual actuators for each degree of freedom, and distinct conforming devices, which reduces overall system complexity while maintaining high productivity
Solution Approach 2:
The positioning device is designed with universal features that can accommodate different sub-assembly types and configurations, allowing a single system design to handle multiple installation scenarios without requiring complex customization
3Manufacturing precision
If conforming devices are used to maintain sub-assembly shape, then positioning precision improves, but device complexity and installation time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The conforming devices apply localized support only at critical contact points on the sub-assembly rather than providing uniform support across the entire structure, thereby achieving positioning precision without requiring complex device structures
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
Disclosed herein in a system for positioning a sub-assembly for installation. The system comprises a tool comprising a base and a sub-assembly support. The sub-assembly support is positioned above the base and pivotably mounted to the base at a pivot axis. The tool is positioned adjacent to an interior surface of an assembling body and configured to support a sub-assembly. The system also comprises at least one actuator that is selectively operable to tilt a first surface of the sub-assembly support toward an opening in the assembling body and adjust an angle of the sub-assembly support, relative to the base. The system further comprises an interior conforming device attached to the tool and configured to interface with the interior surface of the assembling body. The system additionally comprises an exterior conforming device configured to interface with the exterior surface of the assembling body.