Workpiece Positioning via 3D Scanning and Matrix Calculation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing positioning methods for workpieces require large and complex equipment setups, leading to high costs and increased setup times, especially when dealing with multiple car models, as they necessitate multiple positioning mechanisms and extensive installation spaces.
Innovation Solution
A positioning method and device that utilize a simple configuration involving a grip part, point group data obtaining section, translation matrix operation, and inverse matrix operation to position workpieces using a 3D scanner and laser tracker, allowing for accurate positioning without dedicated positioning mechanisms like molds or jigs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a dedicated positioning mechanism (mold or jig) is used to position workpieces, then positioning accuracy is improved, but equipment cost increases and installation space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical positioning mechanism (mold or jig) with an optical measurement system (3D scanner and laser tracker) combined with computational methods. The system captures point group data of the workpiece, calculates translation matrices through shape fitting, and determines positioning information through coordinate system transformations, thereby eliminating the need for dedicated mechanical positioning devices and reducing equipment cost and installation space.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a digital copy of the workpiece by scanning its surface to obtain point group data. This digital model is then used for positioning calculations instead of requiring a physical positioning mechanism. The translation matrix is calculated by fitting the scanned point cloud data to the reference CAD model, enabling positioning through data processing rather than mechanical means.
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple positioning mechanisms corresponding to the number of car models are provided, then positioning accuracy for different models is improved, but the number of set-up changes increases and total set-up change time becomes longer
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal positioning system that can handle multiple car models using the same equipment setup. The system scans the actual workpiece, obtains its point group data, and calculates the translation matrix specific to that model by fitting the scanned data to the corresponding CAD model. This eliminates the need for model-specific positioning mechanisms and reduces set-up change time, as the system adapts to different models through software processing rather than physical reconfiguration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic adaptability to the positioning system by enabling real-time scanning and calculation for each workpiece. Instead of static, model-specific fixtures, the system dynamically captures the actual workpiece geometry, computes the translation matrix on-the-fly, and adjusts positioning information accordingly. This dynamic approach allows rapid adaptation to different car models without physical reconfiguration.
3Manufacturing precision
If large-scale optical imaging devices with multiple components are used for positioning, then positioning capability is improved, but device complexity and configuration simplicity deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the functions of multiple large-scale optical imaging devices into a simplified integrated system. Instead of using separate cameras, driving units, and angle measurement units as in conventional systems, the patent employs a streamlined configuration with a 3D scanner and laser tracker that work together through a unified control unit. The control unit integrates data from both devices, performs shape fitting calculations, and outputs positioning information, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining positioning capability.
Data Source
AI summary
There are provided a positioning method and a positioning device that can position workpieces by a simple method and configuration. A positioning method includes: gripping at least one of first and second workpieces; obtaining point group data of the at least one gripped workpiece of the first and second workpieces; calculating a translation matrix of shape fitting point group data obtained by adjusting a position of the point group data to reference data in a position adjustment state of the first and second workpieces; calculating an inverse matrix based on the translation matrix; and positioning the first and second workpieces by moving the at least one gripped workpiece of the first and second workpieces based on at least one of the translation matrix and the inverse matrix.