Tool Support With Parallelogram Linkage for Confined Space Drilling
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Solution Overview
Problem
In the aeronautical field, particularly in confined areas of aircraft, drilling and complex machining operations are challenging due to difficulties in correctly positioning tools and applying forces, leading to lengthy and complex operations, with no multipurpose machining device capable of performing drilling and machining with a guidance system spaced apart from the tool.
Innovation Solution
A tool support system comprising a fixed and moving part with pivoting links and articulation axes, allowing rotational and translational movements, along with a pointer and tool axis, enabling a multipurpose machining device that can perform drilling and machining operations by copying, with features like immobilizers for rotational control and shock absorption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a drilling template is used to guide the tool, then the positioning precision of the tool is improved, but the operator cannot be correctly positioned in confined areas to facilitate tool positioning and force application
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanical linkage system (parallelogram mechanism with articulation axes) that mediates between the template positioning function and the tool positioning function. This mechanism allows the tool to be positioned correctly through the movement of the linkage, eliminating the need for the operator to be in a difficult position to manually align the tool with the template hole.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical alignment operation with an automated mechanical linkage system. The parallelogram mechanism with parallel articulation axes automatically maintains the correct orientation and position of the tool relative to the template, substituting the operator's manual positioning and force application with a mechanical system that performs these functions automatically.
2Manufacturing precision
If the operator manually positions the tool relative to the template hole, then the positioning can be achieved, but the operation becomes lengthy and complex in confined areas
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-configuring the mechanical linkage system with articulation axes that are parallel to each other and to the tool axis. This pre-established geometric relationship ensures that when the template is positioned, the tool automatically follows the correct path and orientation, eliminating the need for time-consuming manual adjustments during the drilling operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the slow manual positioning process with a mechanical linkage system that automatically translates the template position into the correct tool position and orientation. The parallelogram mechanism with parallel articulation axes provides automatic guidance, significantly increasing the speed of the drilling operation while maintaining precision.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a hand-held portable drill is used in confined areas, then the tool can reach the work area, but the operator cannot correctly position the tool and apply force in the required direction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a mechanical linkage intermediary (the parallelogram mechanism with articulation axes) that mediates between the portable drill's position and the required hole axis alignment. This intermediary mechanism ensures that regardless of the operator's position or the drill's initial orientation, the tool is guided to align correctly with the hole axis through the mechanical constraints of the parallel articulation axes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal positioning mechanism that works regardless of the specific confined area geometry. The mechanical linkage system with parallel articulation axes provides a universal solution that adapts to different work areas while consistently ensuring correct tool alignment and force application direction, making the system versatile for various confined space configurations.
Data Source
AI summary
A tool support is disclosed including-a fixed part, a moving part that is movable relative to the fixed part, a first crossmember linked to the moving part and a second crossmember. A tool includes a tool axis linked to the first and second crossmembers by pivoting links including articulation axes. A pointer is provided with a pointer axis parallel to the tool axis, the pointer being linked to the first and second crossmembers by pivoting links including articulation axes, with the articulation axes being parallel to one another. The tool support includes an immobilizer of occupy a first immobilized state in which it prevents a rotational movement on at least one articulation axis and a second released state in which it allows rotational movement on the articulation axes.