The paper presents the novel concept of a reconfigurable swarm fixture. In existing fixturing systems the configuration of the supports cannot be modified significantly without removing the workpiece; reconfiguration is usually manual and time consuming. In contrast, in the system we are currently developing, supports are mobile agents controlled to behave as a swarm and able to reposition automatically during the manufacturing of the workpiece. The goal is to create a simple to operate, modular, and cost-effective fixturing system with a relatively small number of supports, allowing the uninterrupted machining of large thin parts like those used in the production of aircraft and automobiles.
Reconfigurable swarm fixtures
MOLFINO, REZIA;ZOPPI, MATTEO;ZLATANOV, DIMITER
2009-01-01
Abstract
The paper presents the novel concept of a reconfigurable swarm fixture. In existing fixturing systems the configuration of the supports cannot be modified significantly without removing the workpiece; reconfiguration is usually manual and time consuming. In contrast, in the system we are currently developing, supports are mobile agents controlled to behave as a swarm and able to reposition automatically during the manufacturing of the workpiece. The goal is to create a simple to operate, modular, and cost-effective fixturing system with a relatively small number of supports, allowing the uninterrupted machining of large thin parts like those used in the production of aircraft and automobiles.I documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.