Tool Unit Threading with Vibration-Based Rivet Self-Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Automated threading of riveting tools onto rivets in aircraft construction is hindered by alignment issues due to tolerances, leading to complex measurement and control sequences, high costs, and potential damage from misalignment.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus with a vibration unit and elastic coupling system that generates a periodic transverse force to counteract misalignment during the threading process, allowing the tool unit to oscillate and align with the rivet axis, reducing the need for precise initial orientation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If complex measurement and control sequences are used to ensure exact alignment, then manufacturing precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies mechanical vibration through a vibration unit that generates periodic transverse forces during the threading process. This vibration enables the tool unit to oscillate and self-align with the rivet axis, eliminating the need for complex measurement and control sequences while maintaining alignment precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical measurement and control systems with a simpler vibration-based self-alignment mechanism. The elastic coupling unit combined with vibration substitution creates a passive self-aligning system that eliminates sensors and complex control algorithms.
2Manufacturing precision
If sensors and complex control are used to detect position and angle deviations, then manufacturing precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The vibration unit and elastic coupling unit create a self-aligning system that automatically corrects misalignment without external sensors or control systems. The tool unit itself performs the alignment function through vibration-induced oscillation, making the system self-servicing rather than requiring separate detection and control mechanisms.
3Device complexity
If rigid connection is used between holding arrangement and tool unit, then device complexity is reduced, but manufacturing precision worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the rigid static connection into a dynamic elastic connection that allows controlled movement. The elastic coupling unit enables the tool unit to oscillate and adapt its orientation dynamically during threading, achieving alignment precision while maintaining a relatively simple coupling structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the mechanical parameter of the coupling from rigid (zero compliance) to elastic (controlled compliance). This parameter change allows the coupling to absorb misalignment through elastic deformation while maintaining structural simplicity, resolving the contradiction between complexity and precision.
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 apparatus enables easy, reliable, and cost-effective automated threading by ensuring alignment and preventing misalignment, thereby reducing damage and process time while maintaining tool orientation during crimping operations.
Implementation Method 1
a vibration unit which is connected to the tool unit and which is configured to generate a periodic force in at least one first spatial direction that runs transversely with respect to the tool axis
Implementation Method 2
an elastic coupling unit with a first coupling component and with a second coupling component, which are held elastically on one another
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for threading a tool unit onto an elongate structural element. The apparatus has a holding arrangement for holding it on a feed device, a tool unit to be threaded onto the elongate structural element. The tool unit has a tool axis and a vibration unit connected to the tool unit and configured to generate a periodic force in at least one first spatial direction that runs transversely with respect to the tool axis. First and second coupling components, held elastically on one another, are provided. The first coupling component is connected to the holding arrangement, the second coupling component is connected to the tool unit. The vibration unit is operated, during a feed movement of the holding arrangement for threading the tool unit onto the elongate structural element, to add an additional, periodically varying transverse component to a feed force acting on the tool unit.