Vibratory Wheel Clamping via Positive-Locking Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for vibratory finishing of vehicle wheels require manual clamping, limiting automation and efficiency in the process.
Innovation Solution
A device with a working container featuring supports and a tensioning element with a form-fitting coupling system that allows for partial or full automation of vehicle wheel clamping, using a shaft through the wheel hub and a positive-locking coupling to secure the wheel, enabling robotic or conveyor system-assisted insertion, clamping, and removal of the wheel for vibratory finishing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If manual clamping is used to secure the vehicle wheel in the working container, then the device structure can be simple, but the automation level and processing efficiency are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping mechanism is divided into separate functional components: a clamping element that directly contacts the wheel, a shaft that positions through the wheel hub, and a form-fitting coupling system that connects these elements. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and facilitates automated operation while maintaining structural clarity
Solution Approach 2:
The traditional threaded screw connection is replaced with a form-fitting coupling system featuring positive-locking couplings. This substitution eliminates the need for threading operations, enabling faster automated clamping and release cycles while reducing mechanical complexity of the connection mechanism
2Stability of the object's composition
If the wheel is clamped tightly against the support, then the wheel position is stable, but the wheel hub may vibrate during the vibratory finishing process
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping function is extracted from the support structure and implemented through a separate clamping element that acts on the wheel hub. This separation allows the support to provide stable positioning while the clamping element applies minimal necessary force, preventing excessive vibration of the wheel hub during vibratory finishing
Solution Approach 2:
The clamping element serves as an intermediary between the shaft and the wheel hub. It transmits the positioning function while distributing clamping forces evenly, thereby stabilizing the wheel position without causing concentrated stress or vibration at the wheel hub during the vibratory process
3Productivity
If a threaded connection is used to attach the clamping element to the shaft, then the connection is secure, but the clamping process becomes time-consuming and difficult to automate
Solution Approach 1:
The threaded mechanical connection system is replaced with a form-fitting coupling system featuring positive-locking couplings. This substitution enables rapid automated engagement and disengagement of the clamping element, dramatically increasing clamping speed and facilitating full automation while simplifying the connection mechanism
Solution Approach 2:
The form-fitting coupling geometry is designed so that the clamping element and shaft are pre-configured to mate directly without requiring threading operations. The positive-locking features are pre-positioned to engage automatically, eliminating time-consuming manual operations and enabling rapid automated clamping
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
Enables quick and secure clamping of vehicle wheels in the working container, allowing for partial or full automation of the process, ensuring effective contact between grinding bodies and the wheel rim and spokes while preventing vibration of the wheel hub, thereby enhancing the efficiency and automation of the vibratory finishing process.
Implementation Method 1
One embodiment of the invention provides one or more spring element(s) on the tensioning element for tensioning the vehicle wheel against the support. The spring element compensates for tolerances in the vehicle wheel in a clamping direction.
Implementation Method 2
A form-fitting coupling detachably connects the clamping element to the shank or the shank to the working container or the support in the working container. A positive-locking coupling for the detachable connection of the tensioning element to the shank and a further positive-locking coupling for the detachable connection of the shank to the working container or the support can also be provided.
Implementation Method 3
A device for vibratory finishing of a vehicle wheel with a drum as a working container, which can be driven to oscillate with vibrators.
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
The invention relates to a device (1) for vibratory finishing a light alloy wheel (2) and proposes clamping the light alloy wheel (2) against a support (8) in a vibratory finishing container (3) using a positive-locking coupling (17). The device (1) according to the invention is suitable for the automated insertion, clamping, and removal of the light alloy wheel (2) after vibratory finishing.