Wheel Assembly Docking Station for Valve Stem and TPMS Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wheel assembly systems require separate tools and stations for assembling valve stems and TPMS sensors, leading to inefficiencies and a need for improved assembly methods.
Innovation Solution
A dual-staged system and method utilizing a docking station with two docks and robots to simultaneously manage the assembly of valve stems and TPMS sensors, allowing for efficient installation and loading of parts onto wheels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate tools and stations are used for assembling valve stems and TPMS sensors, then each component can be assembled with dedicated equipment, but the assembly process becomes time-consuming and less efficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple assembly operations (valve stem installation and TPMS sensor installation) into a single integrated tool that can perform both functions simultaneously or in sequence on the same wheel, eliminating the need for separate tools and stations for each component type
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated tool is designed with multiple engagement mechanisms that can universally handle different wheel types and both valve stems and TPMS sensors, allowing a single tool to perform multiple assembly functions that previously required separate dedicated tools
2Ease of manufacture
If multiple separate assembly stations are used for different wheel components, then each station can be optimized for specific tasks, but the system complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple assembly stations into one integrated tool head that can accommodate both valve stem engagement mechanisms and TPMS sensor engagement mechanisms, reducing the number of separate stations required in the assembly line
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated tool is designed with modular segments that can be independently configured for different wheel types and assembly tasks, allowing optimization of each functional segment while maintaining overall system integration
Data Source
AI summary
A system comprises a docking station and a robot. The docking station includes a first dock and a second dock. The first dock is configured to removably-receive a first plate. The first plate is configured to removably-receive a first plurality of parts. The second dock is configured to removably-receive a second plate. The second plate is configured to removably-receive a second plurality of parts. The robot includes an end effector configured to engage the first plate and the second plate.