Telescoping Fixturing System with Rotating Lock Collar
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current variable height fixturing systems are either difficult to set up, prone to damage, or require a large inventory of components, failing to balance ease of use, precision, and adaptability for semi or full automation applications.
Innovation Solution
A variable height telescoping and indexed fixturing system featuring a base with axial movement, a rotating lock collar, and a digital display, allowing for single-turn locking and reduced component usage, enabling precise positioning and measurement with minimal setup complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a variable height fixturing system uses multiple unique components to meet all positioning requirements, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity and inventory requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal fixturing system where a single base unit with adjustable piston mechanism can accommodate multiple positioning requirements. The piston can be adjusted to various heights and positions, and the base can be configured in different orientations, allowing one universal unit to replace what would traditionally require multiple specialized fixtures. This reduces component inventory while maintaining full adaptability to different workpiece positioning needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic adjustment mechanisms including a telescoping piston that can be extended or retracted to achieve different heights, and a base that can be rotated or tilted to change orientation. These dynamic features allow the fixture to adapt to various positioning requirements without requiring multiple static, specialized fixtures. The adjustable nature of the components enables a single unit to perform multiple functions.
2Device complexity
If a variable height fixturing system uses a single base and piston design, then device complexity is reduced, but ease of operation and precision may worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates self-aligning and self-locking features that reduce setup complexity. The piston and base include geometric features that automatically guide assembly and positioning, eliminating the need for complex alignment procedures. The locking mechanism automatically engages at predetermined positions, providing precision without requiring skilled operators. This self-service capability allows operators to quickly adjust and lock the fixture without extensive training or complex procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent pre-configures the base and piston with predetermined adjustment positions and alignment features before use. The base includes pre-marked reference surfaces and the piston has pre-positioned locking points, so that when assembled, the fixture is ready for immediate use without requiring complex setup or calibration. This preliminary preparation simplifies operation by eliminating time-consuming setup procedures.
3Strength
If a variable height fixturing system uses traditional locking mechanisms, then strength is maintained, but ease of operation and setup time worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional multi-step mechanical locking mechanisms with a simplified single-turn locking system. Instead of requiring multiple bolts, nuts, or complex fastening sequences, the invention uses a single rotational movement of a locking collar or cam mechanism that simultaneously engages multiple locking points. This substitution maintains the strength and reliability of traditional locking while dramatically reducing setup time and operational complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple locking functions into a single integrated locking mechanism. The locking collar or cam structure simultaneously engages the piston at its extended position, secures the base orientation, and locks the height setting in one unified action. This merging of multiple locking steps into a single operation maintains the strength of traditional locking while improving ease of operation and reducing setup time.
Data Source
AI summary
A variable height fixturing system is provided. The system includes a base having a top base end and an opposing bottom base end; an aperture located within the top base end having an outer and inner aperture walls; a telescoping piston having axial cutouts along an external piston wall and capable of axial relative movement within the aperture, where the aperture configured to restrict the piston to sliding axially up and down; a rotating lock collar having one or more mating extrusions, where the one or more mating extrusions are configured to be received in the one or more external relief cutouts of the collar capture section; and a handle connected to the rotating lock collar. The base includes a collar capture section having one or more external relief cutouts; a connecting mechanism; and a main base body integrally connected between the collar capture area and the connecting mechanism.