Tool With Positive Positioning For Corrugated Panel Operations
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional tools, such as T-squares, are inefficient and awkward when used on corrugated panels with irregular surfaces due to their inability to be positively positioned and retained, leading to slow and inaccurate customizing operations like cutting and drilling.
Innovation Solution
A tool with a head portion and tail portion, featuring a leg for engaging one part of the workpiece and a support with recesses for engaging another part, allowing for precise positioning and retention, along with operation-performing devices like pins that create visible targets for accurate operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional T-square is used on corrugated panels, then the tool can be applied to standard flat surfaces, but it cannot be positively positioned or retained on irregular surfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The tool incorporates engagement features with specific geometric configurations that match the local geometry of corrugated panel surfaces. The engagement features include protrusions and recesses designed to fit into the wave pattern of the corrugations, providing reliable positioning while adapting to the irregular surface topology.
Solution Approach 2:
The engagement features utilize curved surfaces and contoured geometries that can conform to the wave-like shape of corrugated panels. This curvature allows the tool to make positive contact with the irregular surface, enabling reliable positioning and retention during operations.
2Productivity
If a conventional T-square is used for customizing operations, then basic operations can be performed, but the operations are slow and awkward
Solution Approach 1:
The tool includes pre-configured engagement features that automatically align with and lock onto the corrugated panel surface upon contact. This preliminary positioning action eliminates the need for manual adjustment and alignment during operation, significantly improving both speed and ease of use.
Solution Approach 2:
The engagement features are designed to self-align and self-retain on the corrugated surface without requiring operator intervention. The geometric configuration of the engagement features causes them to naturally fit into the wave pattern, allowing the tool to position itself automatically during operation.
3Reliability
If a flat engagement surface is used, then the tool can contact the workpiece, but it cannot be retained in position on irregular surfaces
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of a uniform flat surface, the engagement interface incorporates localized geometric features including protrusions and recesses that are specifically shaped to match the corrugation pattern. These localized features provide positive mechanical engagement and retention on the irregular surface.
Solution Approach 2:
The engagement features utilize asymmetric geometries that are specifically configured to fit the asymmetric wave pattern of corrugated panels. This asymmetric design ensures proper orientation and prevents rotation or slippage, providing reliable retention during operations.
Data Source
AI summary
A tool that can be retained in a predetermined position relative to a workpiece and to perform an operation on the workpiece includes a head portion and a tail portion. The head portion includes a leg that is adapted to engage a first portion of a workpiece when the tool is in a predetermined position relative to the workpiece. The tail portion extends from the head portion and includes a support having a recess that is adapted to engage a second portion of the workpiece when the tool is in a predetermined position relative to the workpiece. An operation-performing device is supported on the tail portion and is operable to perform an operation on the workpiece when the tool is in the predetermined position relative to the workpiece.