Transforming Tooling Assembly With Quick-Change End Effectors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automated tooling systems for manufacturing and assembly operations require multiple configurations for different workpiece shapes, leading to inefficiencies due to the need for multiple sets of tooling assemblies and end effector tools, which are time-consuming to adjust and costly to maintain.
Innovation Solution
An automated transforming tooling system with motorized joints and a quick-change tooling system that allows for adjustable positioning of end effector tools, enabling a single set of tooling assemblies to accommodate various workpiece configurations by automatically repositioning and quickly exchanging tools, reducing the need for multiple tooling sets.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple sets of tooling assemblies are used for different workpiece configurations, then adaptability to various workpiece shapes is improved, but device complexity and maintenance costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a single universal tooling assembly that can handle multiple workpiece configurations through automated adjustment mechanisms. The end effector tool is designed with motorized joints and linkages that enable it to adapt its positioning and orientation to accommodate different workpiece shapes, eliminating the need for multiple dedicated tooling assemblies for each workpiece type.
Solution Approach 2:
The tooling assembly incorporates dynamic adjustment capabilities through motorized joints and actuated linkages that can change the position and orientation of the end effector tool in real-time. This dynamic repositioning allows the same tooling assembly to be configured for different workpiece geometries, providing versatility without requiring multiple static tooling sets.
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual adjustment of tooling assemblies is performed for each workpiece configuration, then adaptability is improved, but loss of time during tool changes increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tooling assembly is equipped with automated adjustment mechanisms that can reposition the end effector tool without manual intervention. Motorized joints and actuators enable the system to automatically adjust its configuration based on the workpiece type, eliminating the need for operators to manually reposition components and significantly reducing tool changeover time.
Solution Approach 2:
Manual mechanical adjustment operations are replaced with automated motorized systems. The patent employs electric motors and control systems to actuate the linkages and joints that position the end effector tool, substituting human-operated mechanical adjustments with automated electromechanical systems that are faster and more precise.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple end effector tools are maintained for different operations, then versatility is improved, but loss of substance through storage and maintenance costs increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a single end effector tool with universal capabilities that can perform multiple operations on different workpiece types. Through automated positioning and adjustment mechanisms, the same tool can engage various workpiece configurations, eliminating the need to maintain multiple specialized end effector tools and reducing storage and maintenance resources.
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 system enhances flexibility and efficiency by allowing a single set of tooling assemblies to handle multiple workpiece configurations, reducing maintenance and storage costs while improving the speed of tool changes, thereby optimizing industrial operations.
Implementation Method 1
motorized joints to automatically position the at least one transforming tooling assembly in a predetermined position
Implementation Method 2
end effector tool, such as a vacuum cup or a gripper
Data Source
AI summary
An automated transforming tooling system apparatus and method for shuttling a workpiece to and from an industrial operation. The system includes a workstation for complementarily engaging and securing the workpiece, and at least one holder removably secures at least on end effector tool to the workstation. At least one transfer bar is movably positioned with respect to the workstation. At least one automated transforming tooling assembly is connected to the transfer bar and has a plurality of links adjustably connected by motorized joints to automatically position the automated transforming tooling assembly. An automated tool changer is connected to the automated transforming tooling assembly and releasably engages the end effector tool between a disengaged position, wherein the end effector tool is disengaged from the automated tool changer, and an engaged position, wherein the end effector tool is engaged by the automated tool changer.