Wheel Attachment Module With 3-Axis Positioning for Automated Installation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional systems for internal transport in plants lack efficient automation for precise positioning and installation of wheels on motor vehicles, relying on manual labor and limited precision.
Innovation Solution
A mobile part equipped with an attachment module featuring a base plate, wheel holding unit, and a system of interlocking linear axles that allow for precise positioning and automatic installation of wheels, enabling fully automated fine positioning and screw-fitting without manual intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If manual labor is used for wheel positioning and installation, then operational simplicity is maintained, but manufacturing precision and productivity are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning system is segmented into three independent linear axles (first, second, and third linear axles), each responsible for a specific degree of freedom. This segmentation allows precise control of the wheel holding unit's position and orientation without requiring a complex monolithic positioning mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical positioning with an automated linear axle system that provides precise, repeatable positioning. The linear axles substitute for manual labor while maintaining operational simplicity through automated control.
2Productivity
If automated positioning systems are implemented, then manufacturing precision improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment module is designed as a universal unit that can be mounted on various mobile parts and perform multiple functions: transporting wheels, positioning them precisely using three linear axles, and facilitating automated installation. This multi-functionality justifies the complexity by consolidating multiple operations into a single integrated system.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses three linear axles arranged at non-vanishing angles to each other, creating a three-dimensional positioning capability. This dimensional approach allows full control of the wheel holding unit's position and orientation in space, enabling complete automation of the wheel installation process.
3Manufacturing precision
If the wheel holding unit is made movable for precise positioning, then positioning precision improves, but reliability decreases due to potential disengagement
Solution Approach 1:
The wheel holding unit is designed to be dynamically movable during the positioning phase, allowing precise adjustment via the linear axles. Once positioning is complete, the system transitions to a static locked state, providing reliability during the installation and operation phases. This dynamic-to-static transition resolves the contradiction between movability for positioning and stability for retention.
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 solution enables precise and automated transportation and installation of wheels, improving efficiency and reducing manual labor, while ensuring safety through locking mechanisms and contactless energy transmission.
Implementation Method 1
on its underside the mobile part has a secondary winding for the contactless transmission of electric power from a long primary conductor installed on the floor, i.e., on the movement plane, to the secondary winding
Data Source
AI summary
A mobile part includes at least one attachment module situated on the mobile part. The attachment module has a base plate and a wheel holding unit. A first linear axle is situated on the base plate, and a second linear axle is situated so as to be movable by the first linear axle. The wheel holding unit is situated so as to be movable via a third linear axle, which is situated so as to be movable by the second linear axle, and each one of the linear axles has a non-vanishing angle with respect to each of the other linear axles, in particular a right angle.