Tank Track Moving Support Clamping for Accurate Batch Machining

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current technologies for tank track moving support processing face challenges in automation, flexibility, and accuracy due to the variety of workpieces and complex geometric structures, leading to poor fixture universality, positioning errors, and potential deformation from unreliable clamping or excessive clamping force.

Innovation Solution

A technological equipment featuring a zero-point positioning system, workpiece identifying system, and a clamping apparatus with a tooling plate, clamp, and pressing device, which includes special-shaped grooves and pressing parts with adjustable components to accommodate different sizes and shapes of moving supports, ensuring precise and reliable clamping.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Extent of automation

If manual cooperation with machine tools is used for clamping and positioning, then the device can satisfy basic clamping function, but the production efficiency is low and automation cannot be achieved

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveautomation of clampingVSAvoidproduction efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Extent of automationVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual mechanical operations with automated systems. Specifically, it introduces automated clamping devices and positioning systems that can automatically clamp and position workpieces without manual intervention, thereby achieving automation while improving production efficiency

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements self-service mechanisms where the clamping and positioning system can automatically adjust and secure workpieces without human assistance. The system includes automated detection and adjustment mechanisms that enable the equipment to service itself during the clamping process

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Manufacturing precision

If traditional clamping devices are used, then the structure is simple, but the positioning accuracy is poor and positioning errors occur

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepositioning accuracyVSAvoidfixture structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the positioning system into multiple independent modules, each responsible for specific positioning functions. This segmentation allows for higher precision through modular design while maintaining manageable complexity through standardized interfaces and configurations

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent designs universal positioning fixtures that can accommodate multiple workpiece types and sizes. These multi-functional fixtures reduce positioning errors through standardized reference surfaces and adjustable positioning elements, eliminating the need for multiple specialized fixtures

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Reliability

If fixed clamping force is applied, then the clamping is simple, but the workpiece may be deformed due to excessive force or unreliable clamping

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveclamping reliabilityVSAvoidclamping operation
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs dynamic clamping systems that can automatically adjust clamping force based on workpiece characteristics and processing requirements. This dynamic adjustment ensures reliable clamping without excessive force that could deform the workpiece, while maintaining ease of operation through automated control

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements variable clamping parameters including adjustable clamping force, position, and duration. These parameter changes allow the system to adapt to different workpieces and processing stages, ensuring reliable clamping while preventing deformation through optimized force application

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

4Adaptability or versatility

If specialized fixtures are designed for each workpiece variety, then the clamping is accurate, but the fixture universality is poor and production costs increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefixture universalityVSAvoidproduction cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent designs universal fixtures with adjustable and reconfigurable components that can accommodate multiple workpiece varieties. These fixtures maintain clamping accuracy through standardized positioning reference surfaces while reducing production costs by eliminating the need for multiple specialized fixtures

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements dynamically adjustable fixtures that can be reconfigured for different workpieces through programmable positioning and clamping mechanisms. This adaptability maintains accuracy across various workpiece types while reducing overall production costs through fixture reuse

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS11872664B2Technological equipment for tank track moving supports
Publication Date: 2024.01.16 QINGDAO CABOS INTELLIGENT MFG CO LTD
  • US11872664B2 patent drawing
  • US11872664B2 patent drawing
  • US11872664B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A technological equipment for tank track moving supports is provided and includes a zero-point positioning system, a workpiece identifying system and a clamping apparatus in cooperation with the moving support, the clamping apparatus includes a tooling plate, a clamp and a pressing device for pressing the moving support are detachably connected to the tooling plate, the moving support is located between the clamp and the pressing device, and the pressing device abuts against the moving support. The moving support with different shapes and sizes can be clamped, and the clamping is stable and convenient to operate.