Tapered Securing Pin Assembly for Automated Hot-Formed Part Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional hot-forming presses are expensive, require costly maintenance, and have unpredictable downtime, with manual part loading and unloading posing safety risks and resulting in contour variations due to operator variability.
Innovation Solution
A forming die and hot box system with a removable securing pin featuring a tapered surface and flange for automated part handling, allowing for safer and more precise loading and unloading, and a press assembly design where both lower and upper press assemblies are movable along a vertical axis to reduce stress on components and maintenance needs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual part loading and unloading is used, then operators can directly handle parts, but safety risks increase and contour variations occur due to operator variability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an automated loading/unloading system with robotic end effectors as intermediaries between operators and hot parts. The end effectors grip parts through securing pins without direct operator contact, eliminating variability from manual handling while maintaining operational capability. This mediator approach resolves the contradiction by enabling consistent part handling without requiring operators to directly manipulate components.
2Reliability
If automated loading and unloading is implemented, then operator safety improves and part contour consistency increases, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The automated loading system is segmented into modular components: end effectors with independent gripping mechanisms, securing pins as separate attachment elements, and robotic arms as distinct positioning devices. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining reliability. The modular design enables easier maintenance and operation compared to integrated automated systems.
3Reliability
If conventional hot-forming presses are used, then part forming capability is achieved, but maintenance costs are high and downtime is unpredictable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the forming die from the conventional press system, allowing it to be removed and replaced independently. The forming die can be taken out for maintenance or replacement without affecting the entire press system, reducing downtime and maintenance costs. This extraction approach separates the maintenance requirements of the forming tool from the press itself, enabling easier repair and more predictable operation.
4Ease of repair
If both lower and upper press assemblies are movable along a vertical axis, then stress on press components is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic press assemblies where both lower and upper sections can move independently along vertical axes. This dynamic configuration reduces stress on fixed components by distributing mechanical loads during operation and maintenance. The movable design allows easier access for repair while maintaining structural integrity, resolving the contradiction between reduced stress and increased complexity through controlled mobility.
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 system reduces maintenance and repair costs by minimizing stress on press components, provides a safer operating environment by automating part handling, and ensures consistent part contour through precise positioning and handling.
Implementation Method 1
The lower portion of the removable securing pin comprises a tapered surface that is clearance fit into the lower pin receiving opening that is reciprocally tapered to provide for removal and positioning of the part
Data Source
AI summary
A forming die for forming a part is disclosed. The forming die includes a lower forming die portion comprising a lower pin receiving opening for receiving a lower portion of a removable securing pin that secures a lower surface of a part to be formed to the lower forming die; and an upper forming die portion, positionable above the lower forming die portion, comprising an upper pin receiving opening for receiving an upper portion of the removable securing pin that secures an upper surface of the part to be formed to the upper forming die portion.