Transport-Controlled Locking Mechanism for Type-Variable Joining Stations
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing type-variable joining stations for motor vehicle body parts require complex and time-consuming processes for changing and securing side clamping frames, involving externally powered locks and additional actuators, leading to increased construction and control costs as well as downtime during locking operations.
Innovation Solution
A transport-controlled locking mechanism that automatically secures and releases the clamping frame during transport between rest and ready positions without external power, utilizing a combination of mechanically prestressed locking units and a linear conveyor system to simplify the locking process, reducing the need for additional actuators and energy supply.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If externally powered locks and additional actuators are used to secure the clamping frame, then the clamping frame can be reliably locked in position, but the construction and control costs increase and downtime during locking operations increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism utilizes the transport carriage's own movement to automatically engage and disengage the locking elements. The prestressed locking elements are mechanically activated by the carriage's position changes, eliminating the need for external actuators or power sources on the clamping frame itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The transport carriage serves as an intermediary that transfers the locking action from its movement to the clamping frame. The locking elements on the carriage interact with corresponding elements on the clamping frame through mechanical engagement, using the carriage's motion as the mediating force.
2Reliability
If externally powered locks and additional actuators are used to secure the clamping frame, then the clamping frame can be reliably locked in position, but the construction and control costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses the existing transport carriage movement to activate the locking mechanism, eliminating the need for separate power sources and control systems on the clamping frame. This reduces both manufacturing complexity and cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking function is merged with the transport carriage's existing mechanical structure and movement. The locking elements are integrated into the carriage design, combining two functions (transport and locking) into a single system.
3Stability of the object's composition
If power-operated locks are used to secure the clamping frame during transport, then the clamping frame remains fixed in position, but the locking and release process requires additional time and external power supply
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism operates periodically based on the transport carriage's position - automatically locking when the carriage is stationary and automatically releasing when the carriage moves to the ready position. This periodic operation eliminates manual intervention and reduces changing time.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking elements are prestressed and pre-positioned on the transport carriage, ready to engage with the clamping frame. This preliminary preparation ensures immediate locking upon engagement and eliminates the need for active power operation during the locking process.
4Reliability
If power-operated locks with external actuators are used, then the clamping frame can be securely locked, but the system requires external energy and signal supply which complicates the docking process
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is self-powered through mechanical prestress and the transport carriage's movement. No external energy supply, electrical systems, or signal wiring are required on the clamping frame, eliminating the need for complex docking procedures for energy and signal supply.
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
This solution significantly reduces construction and control costs while minimizing downtime by enabling rapid and automated clamping frame changes, ensuring uninterrupted transport and positioning without the need for external energy or signal supply, thus enhancing operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
prestressed locking elements which are mechanically unlocked when passing through the guideway end region
Implementation Method 2
linear conveyor that causes the clamping frame to be transported between the standby and working positions
Data Source
Figure 1~3b
AI summary
The type variable geometrical welding station comprises a three dimensional translational locking device activated on a first guide web (9) between quiet- and ready positions and on a second guide web (3) diagonal to the first guide web between stand-by- and processing position of guidable chip frame (2) fixing the component on the joining station, where the chip frame is secured diagonally to the position in the ready position. The locking device is automatically disconnected in the chip frame carrier on the first guide web up to the ready position. The type variable geometrical welding station comprises a three dimensional translational locking device activated on a first guide web (9) between quiet- and ready positions and on a second guide web (3) diagonal to the first guide web between stand-by- and processing position of guidable chip frame (2) fixing the component on the joining station, where the chip frame is secured diagonally to the position in the ready position. The locking device is automatically disconnected in the chip frame carrier on the first guide web up to the ready position and at the same time to the chip frame carrier in the direction of the second guide web. The locking device comprises locking units (12) activated with the chip frame movable on the first guide web and during passing the first and second guide web-end area limiting on the ready position, and with the chip frame diagonally to the forward direction to the chip frame carrier on the second guide web. The first locking unit is lockable and/or releasable through a selector slot stationary positioned in the guide web-end area. The second locking unit comprises locking elements relocatably cooperating in movement direction, with a counter element in the chip frame carrier on the first guide web extending over the guide web-end area. The locking element of the second locking unit is tightly connected with thrust member of a linear promoter causing the chip frame carrier on the second guide web and couplably remains with the chip frame during passing through the second guide web. The chip frame is tightly secured through the locking at a carrier sled on rail pieces arranged diagonally to first guide web and is aligned in the ready position under formation of second guide web aligning to stationary rail sections passing to the processing position. The chip frame is docked in the processing position over coupling pieces (5, 6) on the media supply such as energy-/signal supply.