Fixtures are custom-made work-holding and positioning devices used in many assembly and manufacturing operations to secure, support, and locate a workpiece. If we divide them into two categories, they are fixtures used for detailed part manufacturing as milling, measurement fixtures, or layup tools and fixtures used during assembly operations such as assembly fixtures, apply fixtures, or drill fixtures.
Fixtures are created by combining fixture bodies, supports, locators, and clamps. Fixtures components come in a variety of options that designers choose between depending on the workpiece and operation.
As Precision Machining Consultancy, we are also designing ground support equipment and test structures. Those specific designs may include electronic requirements as well as mechanical requirements. At this point, we take professional support from our business partners.
The main objectives we take into account when we start to design a project are as follows:
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Cost-effective design
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Ergonomy aspect
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Lightweight design
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Design for manufacturability
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Flexible design
Steps
Assembly Sequence
Definition of assembly sequence and accordingly defining its impact on the concept design.
Locating & Clamping Principle
Defining the immobilization method of parts and components on the fixture
Tolerance Distribution
Understanding tolerance requirements of the fixture and implementing tolerances to the structre.
Design Activities
Starting design activities on any CAD platform concerning design for manufacturability principle and weight concern.
Manufacturing and Installation
All requirements are validated by quality control devices like Faro, CMM or Laser Tracker.
Abilities
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Extensive knowledge in design for manufacturability aspect.
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In-depth knowledge of GD&T and ASME Y14.5-2009 and ISO GPS.
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Ability to define assembly sequence.
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Lightweight and stiff design activities.
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Designing structures regarding accessibility.
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Executing foolproof design of jigs and fixtures that does not permit a tool or workpiece to be placed in any other way other than the intended one.