How to increase the stiffness of a simple structure

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around strategies to increase the stiffness of a tool designed for the precise positioning of a component. Participants seek to clarify the design parameters, material choices, and structural configurations relevant to the tool's stiffness.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants request additional information about the component being held and the support structure of the holding tool.
  • There are inquiries about the specific plane in which increased stiffness is required, as well as any limitations on materials, manufacturing techniques, and cost constraints.
  • A suggestion is made that using tubes instead of sheet material could enhance stiffness.
  • Participants express difficulty in visualizing the fixed points and load distribution in relation to the tool's design.
  • One participant notes that the tool's position along the rail should not exceed ±5mm, indicating a requirement for precision without load on the fixture.
  • Questions arise regarding the vertical support of the fixture and the weight load from the tested part, highlighting concerns about potential twisting and deflection of the attachment arm.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that more information is needed to provide effective advice. Multiple competing views and uncertainties remain regarding the design specifics and structural requirements.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include unclear definitions of the load conditions, the exact configuration of the tool, and the specific requirements for stiffness in different planes. The discussion also reflects uncertainties about the implications of material choices and manufacturing techniques.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals involved in mechanical design, structural engineering, or tool development may find this discussion relevant.

omarmorocci
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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.
upload_2017-5-29_16-53-46.png


The tool will be used for correct positioning of a component.
It consists of 2 parts :
upload_2017-5-29_16-54-47.png

And
upload_2017-5-29_16-55-4.png
 
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Need some more information . What is the component being held and how is the holding tool supported ?
 
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.
 
Nidum said:
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

CWatters said:
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.
Direction.png

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
 
I'm afraid I still can't really visualise what's fixed and where the load is in relation to that fixed point.
 
CWatters said:
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
 
CWatters said:
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
Capture1.PNG
Capture2.PNG

Capture3.PNG
 

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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.
 

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