Development of a Shape-memorable Adaptive Pin Array Fixture

TL;DR

This paper introduces an adaptive pin-array fixture utilizing a shape-memorable mechanism that conforms to various part shapes, enabling versatile clamping with a common pin configuration.

Contribution

It presents a novel shape-memorable pin array mechanism that adapts to different part contours, improving fixture versatility and efficiency.

Findings

Successfully fixed multiple shaped parts with a single pin configuration

Demonstrated effective shape adaptation through peg-in-hole tasks

Validated the fixture's ability to conform to diverse contours

Abstract

This paper proposes an adaptive pin-array fixture. The key idea of this research is to use the shape-memorable mechanism of pin array to fix multiple different shaped parts with common pin configuration. The clamping area consists of a matrix of passively slid-able pins that conform themselves to the contour of the target object. Vertical motion of the pins enables the fixture to encase the profile of the object. The shape memorable mechanism is realized by the combination of the rubber bush and fixing mechanism of a pin. Several physical peg-in-hole tasks is conducted to verify the feasibility of the fixture.