Method and apparatus for accurately positioning automated modular tooling

摘要

A method for accurately assembling and positioning a modular tooling structure for manipulating a workpiece includes receiving, at one or more computers, three-dimensional model information describing the workpiece; generating, at the one or more computers, three dimensional design information representing a configuration for the modular tooling structure, wherein the three dimensional design information includes position data describing a position for at least one engaging member of the modular tooling structure with respect to the workpiece; positioning a multi-dimensional gauge with respect to a base structure based on the position data; and assembling the modular tooling structure using the design information such that a first end of the modular tooling structure is connected to the base structure and the at least one engagement member is positioned at a second end of the modular tooling structure and is in engagement with the multi-dimensional gauge.

主权项

1. A method for accurately assembling and positioning a modular tooling structure for manipulating a workpiece, comprising:
generating, at one or more computers, three dimensional design information representing a configuration for the modular tooling structure, wherein the three dimensional design information includes position data describing a position for at least one engaging member of the modular tooling structure with respect to the workpiece, the position data comprising an x-value, a y-value, and a z-value; physically positioning a multi-dimensional gauge with respect to a base structure based on the position data; and physically assembling the modular tooling structure independent from the workpiece by using the three dimensional design information such that a first end of the modular tooling structure is removably connected to the base structure and the at least one engagement member is positioned at a second end of the modular tooling structure and is in engagement with the multi-dimensional gauge, wherein the position of the at least one engaging member of the modular tooling structure is maintained when the modular tooling structure is disconnected from the base structure.