Unitary Tool Cradle Support Arm for Faster Bodymaker Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing forward mounting assembly for bodymakers is time-consuming to install, requires precise alignment, and can cause damage if misaligned, occupying valuable industrial space and interfering with other operations.
Innovation Solution
A unitary forward mounting assembly with a cradle portion and integrated support arms, eliminating the need for machined coupling surfaces and alignment processes, allowing assembly at a remote location before integration with the bodymaker frame.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional separate cradle and support arm assembly is used, then flexibility in installation location is improved, but alignment precision deteriorates and installation time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the cradle and support arms into a single unitary forward mounting assembly that is cast as one integrated piece. This eliminates the need for separate alignment of multiple components while maintaining installation flexibility, as the entire assembly can be positioned and installed as a single unit without requiring precise alignment between separate cradle and support arm components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional separate cradle and support arm assembly is used, then adaptability is improved, but installation time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The unitary forward mounting assembly integrates the cradle and support arms into one component, eliminating the time-consuming alignment and assembly processes required when using separate parts. The integrated design allows the entire assembly to be installed as a single unit, significantly reducing installation time while maintaining the adaptability to be installed at various locations on the bodymaker frame.
3Ease of manufacture
If traditional separate cradle and support arm assembly is used, then ease of assembly is improved, but risk of damage increases
Solution Approach 1:
By casting the cradle and support arms as a single unitary assembly, the patent eliminates the risk of damage that occurs during the assembly of separate components. The integrated design ensures that all structural connections are formed during the casting process, eliminating the risk of misalignment or damage during field assembly operations.
4Adaptability or versatility
If traditional separate cradle and support arm assembly is used, then component flexibility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The unitary forward mounting assembly reduces device complexity by integrating multiple components into one. Instead of managing separate cradles, support arms, and their interconnections, the design provides a single integrated component that simplifies the overall system architecture while maintaining the functional flexibility needed for various installation configurations.
Data Source
AI summary
A unitary forward mounting assembly for a bodymaker includes a unitary forward mounting body with a cradle portion, a first support arm portion and a second support arm portion. The cradle portion has a forward side, a rear side, a right side, and a left side. The first support arm portion is disposed at the cradle portion right side. The second support arm portion is disposed at the cradle portion left side.