2.2011
trends in automation
Synergies
32
–
33
and, with just a little pressure, moves
the machine – which weighs 270 kg –
sideways, where he sets the bedplate
down on a workpiece carrier. This ends
the tour de force, which is now child’s
play since the machine’s power has been
tamed by engineering skill.
Power needs precision
Let’s take a look at the technical details
of the system to understand why this
latest development is so special. The
so-called bedplate lies under the engine
block of the Aston Martin V8 and together
they encompass the crankshaft. It is
called a bedplate because the crankshaft
“rests” inside it – at least when the
British powerhouse is in the garage.
During driving, it transmits a maximum
power of 430 bhp at 7,300 rpm to the
transmission system of the V8 Vantage S.
This is sufficient for a top speed of
305 km/h and a brutish pulling power
of 490 Nm at 5,000 rpm.
Precision is essential in manufacturing.
That is why the bedplate and engine
block must be tightly connected during
machining of the crankshaft bearing
channel. However, subsequent processing
requires the workpieces to be separated
again. Coolant residue could pose a
problem if it were to leak into the two
aluminium workpieces, causing unwanted
adhesion in addition to the mechanical
guide sleeves.
Fluidic muscles
The previous system mechanically pulled
the bedplate from the engine block on
materials with the greatest protection
possible, giving this technology the licence
to let go!
Playful tour de force
By simultaneously pressing the start
lever, the operator gently but forcefully
sets the system in motion. It lowers and
attaches itself to the bedplate using
technology for which the developers from
Cologne have applied for a patent. The
operator then switches the lever pair, the
inner machine unit lifts up slightly and a
uniform vibration releases the bedplate
with a resonant sound. Within less than
a second, it floats unattached above the
massive Aston Martin V8 engine block.
The bedplate is automatically rotated
180° and reveals its interior. At this point,
the operator presses the start lever again
The bedplate and engine block
of the Aston Martin V8 are still
connected to each other, but
the vibrations of the pneumatic
muscles will soon separate
them (left).
The decisive moment:
The
bedplate has been released,
the inner machine unit is lifted
away from the engine block with
the weight compensated by
a standard cylinder (top).
Elegant swing:
After being
rotated 180 degrees, the
bedplate is ready to be set
down on the workpiece carrier
(bottom).