Workpiece Positioning via Inverted Interlocking Features
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing positioning structures for workpieces lack sufficient interlocking force without using a positioning jig, and their complexity hinders press-forming capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A positioning structure and method that utilize inverted and protruding portions on workpieces, allowing face-to-face overlapping with engaging features like protruding, receiving, fixing, and stopper portions to achieve precise alignment and interlocking without a jig, enabling mechanical control of movement and press-forming.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a positioning structure without a positioning jig is used, then the complexity of the assembly process is reduced, but the interlocking force between workpieces is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning structure is divided into multiple functional elements: inverted portions for alignment, protruding portions for insertion, and receiving portions for engagement. This segmentation allows each element to perform its specific function efficiently, achieving sufficient interlocking force through the coordinated action of multiple simple components rather than a single complex positioning jig.
Solution Approach 2:
The protruding portion of one workpiece is inserted into the receiving portion of another workpiece, creating a nested configuration. This nesting arrangement provides strong interlocking force while maintaining structural simplicity, as the engagement features are integrated directly into the workpieces themselves rather than requiring separate positioning components.
2Manufacturing precision
If a positioning structure with multiple bulging portions is used, then the positioning accuracy is improved, but the press die load-bearing capacity is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of forming multiple bulging portions that protrude outward from the workpiece surface, the invention uses inverted portions that are recessed into the workpiece. This inversion maintains positioning accuracy through the recessed geometry while preserving the load-bearing capacity of the press die, as the inverted portions do not create stress concentration points that would weaken the structure under pressing loads.
3Manufacturing precision
If a positioning structure with complex open portions is used, then the positioning capability is improved, but the press-forming capability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces complex open portions with inverted portions that are recessed into the workpiece. This design simplifies the overall structure, making it compatible with press-forming processes, while still achieving accurate positioning through the inverted geometry that guides alignment during assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The inverted portions are strategically positioned at specific locations on the workpieces where positioning is required, while the rest of the workpiece maintains its simple press-formed structure. This localized approach to positioning allows the majority of the workpiece to be manufactured using standard press-forming processes, preserving ease of manufacture while achieving the necessary positioning capability.
Data Source
Figure 1A~1C
Figure 2A~2C
Figure 3A~3C
AI summary
A positioning structure that positions two workpieces 1, 2 includes a one positioning portion la that is provided on one of the workpieces 1 and includes one inverted portion 5 and a protruding portion 10; and a other positioning portion 2a that is provided on the other workpiece 2 and includes another inverted portion 8 and a receiving portion 21, the two positioning portions positioning the two workpieces, by overlapping an end portion of the one positioning portion face-to-face with an end portion of the other positioning portion. The two inverted portions are each such that alignment of the positioning portion is inverted when the one positioning portion is overlapped with the other positioning portion, the protruding portion is arranged on the end portion side of the one positioning portion and is provided protruding toward an overlapping side, and the receiving portion engages with the protruding portion when the one positioning portion is overlapped with the other positioning portion.