How to increase the stiffness of a simple structure

[omarmorocci]

Hello everybody,

I am currently working on desinging a tool, and I would like to get your advice on how to increase it's stiffness.

The tool will be used for correct positioning of a component.
It consists of 2 parts :

And

 

[Nidum]

Need some more information . What is the component being held and how is the holding tool supported ?

 

[CWatters]

Way too little information. In which plane does it need to be stiffer? Any limitations on materials? Manufacturing techniques? Cost?

Simple answer might be to make it out of tubes rather than sheet.

 

[omarmorocci]

Need some more information . What is the component being held and how is the holding tool supported ?

Part one is connection the main frame via nuts and bolts
Part two has 4 teeth like structures that hangs onto the main frame

Way too little information. In which plane does it need to be stiffer? Any limitations on materials? Manufacturing techniques? Cost?

Simple answer might be to make it out of tubes rather than sheet.

The only important direction is the one shown via the arrow.
Material is either sheet metal or aluminium.
no limitation on manufacturing techniques
Cost should be under 50 euros

 

[CWatters]

I'm afraid I still can't really visualise what's fixed and where the load is in relation to that fixed point.

 

[omarmorocci]

I'm afraid I still can't really visualise what's fixed and where the load is in relation to that fixed point.

I will post a complete picture tomorrow to show exactly how everything's connected

 

[omarmorocci]

I'm afraid I still can't really visualise what's fixed and where the load is in relation to that fixed point.

This is how the tool is connectec to the rail.
There is no load on it. The only requirement is that it's position along the rail should not exceed +- 5mm

 

[JBA]

How is the end of the fixture with the tested part vertically supported and what is the weight load on the fixture from the tested part?

If there is any friction force in the direction you indicate then there is no provision in the fixture to prevent the fixture from twisting the vertical attachment arm of the fixture and deflecting the arm in the direction of the load you indicate.