Automated Vehicle Closure Cycling Device for Testing Efficiency
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for testing vehicle closures, such as doors and hoods, require extensive human resources and are inefficient in terms of time, cost, and worker safety due to the need for repeated cycling under various weather conditions.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle closure cycling device comprising a fixture with a first actuator for opening and a second actuator for closing the vehicle closure at a predetermined speed, controlled by a computing device, which includes sensors for position monitoring and a fluid source with flow control valves to adjust closing speed, allowing for automated and efficient testing cycles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If human resources are deployed for vehicle closure cycling testing, then testing can be performed, but time, cost and human health efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The testing system performs self-service through automated actuators that independently execute opening and closing cycles without human intervention. The controller automatically coordinates the first actuator for opening and the second actuator for closing, eliminating the need for human operators to manually cycle the closure repeatedly.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operation with automated actuation systems. The first actuator and second actuator substitute for human manual handling, while the controller replaces human decision-making and coordination, thereby improving productivity and eliminating time loss associated with manual testing operations.
2Reliability
If manual cycling of vehicle closure is performed, then testing can be conducted, but worker safety deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system eliminates worker safety risks by performing self-service testing. The automated actuators and controller handle all cycling operations independently, removing workers from hazardous environments where manual cycling would be required, thereby improving reliability of worker safety without complicating operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller acts as an intermediary between the testing objectives and the physical cycling operation. It coordinates the first and second actuators to execute opening and closing cycles automatically, mediating the testing process to eliminate direct worker exposure to potential hazards while maintaining operational control.
3Productivity
If automated actuators are used for cycling, then testing speed improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The testing system is segmented into distinct functional components: a first actuator for opening, a second actuator for closing, and a controller for coordination. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, improving testing speed through parallel operation while managing complexity through modular design where each segment has a clear, dedicated purpose.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller serves multiple functions: it coordinates the first actuator for opening cycles, controls the second actuator for closing cycles, monitors test parameters, and manages the overall testing sequence. This multi-functionality consolidates control logic into a single component, improving testing speed through centralized coordination while avoiding the complexity of separate control systems for each actuator.
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 device enables efficient and automated testing of vehicle closures, reducing human intervention and improving testing efficiency across various conditions, thereby enhancing testing speed and safety while maintaining control over the closing speed and angle.
Implementation Method 1
a fluid source and a flow control valve. The flow control valve is responsive to the controller whereby fluid pressure to the second actuator is adjusted as necessary in order to close the vehicle closure at the predetermined and desired closing speed
Implementation Method 2
In one possible embodiment, the first actuator is a pneumatic cylinder. In one possible embodiment, the second actuator is a pneumatic cylinder.
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle closure cycling device is provided. The device includes a fixture, a first actuator mounted to the fixture and displaceable to open the vehicle closure and a second actuator mounted to the fixture and displaceable to close the vehicle closure at a predetermined closing speed. The device also includes a controller configured to cycle the first actuator and the second actuator in sequence to repeatedly open and close the vehicle closure.