The present disclosure relates to an adaptive modular fixture and clamping arrangement. Particularly, but not exclusively, the disclosure relates to a modular fixing device. Aspects of the invention relate to a modular fixing device and to a modular system for holding a workpiece.
BACKGROUND
In the manufacturing industry various machining techniques and assembly operations are employed on workpieces. A workpiece should be fixed securely to a work bed or table to allow the machining or other process to be undertaken on it. If a workpiece is not secured properly then any movement of the workpiece could result in misalignment of the machining equipment causing a miscut for example. Misalignment of the workpiece and machining equipment may result in the workpiece to be wasted as scrap.
Often, not only are the workpieces unique shapes but they may also need to be held in various orientations as different machining or manufacturing methods are applied to the workpiece. Generally, a single workpiece holder is required for each workpiece shape and each workpiece orientation. The result is an expensive system requiring many single use workpiece holders that can only be used for the intended workpiece in one orientation. Due to the specific nature of such workpiece holders they cannot be reused for alternative workpieces. As a result, single workpiece holders are generally scrapped after a production run has ended if they cannot be reused.
A workpiece holding device is therefore required that overcomes the limitations of known workpiece holders.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
Aspects and embodiments of the invention provide a modular fixing device and modular system for holding a workpiece as claimed in the appended claims.

According to a first aspect of the invention, a modular fixing device is disclosed. The modular fixing device comprising:
a housing; at least one stationary pin and a plurality of moveable pins suitable for
mounting a workpiece upon; at least one retention or clamping feature; at least one
mounting element suitable for removably fixing the modular fixing device to a surface;
and a lock;
wherein the at least one stationary pin plurality of moveable pins, the at least one
retention or clamping feature, the at least one mounting element and the lock are
connected to the housing;
wherein the lock is adapted to lock the plurality of moveable pins in a fixed position;
wherein the plurality of moveable pins are moveable in a longitudinal axis relative to
the housing; and
wherein the at least one stationary pin, the plurality of moveable pins and the at least
one retention or clamping feature are adapted to fix a workpiece to the modular fixing
device.
Advantageously the modular fixing device is able to hold a workpiece preventing the workpiece from moving whilst the workpiece is inspected or assembled or machined or worked upon.
The modular fixing device is able to retain a workpiece securely via the combination of moveable pins, stationary pins and the at least one retention or clamping feature.
Beneficially the moveable pins are actuatable such that they move around and cradle the workpiece placed on the modular fixing device. The ability for the moveable pins to adapt in position and form a complementary surface to the workpiece produces a stronger hold than holding the component in a conventional clamping arrangement.
A further advantage of the moveable pins forming a cradle around the workpiece is that any clamping pressure is more uniformly distributed onto the workpiece. Conventional clamps may distribute clamping force onto a single point on a workpiece this may damage the component (deforming metal surfaces or cracking composite structures for example). Advantageously the present invention reduces this issue by distributing forces more evenly.
The lock allows the moveable pins to fixed in a fixed position. For example, the fixed position may be the cradle type surface obtained when the part is placed in the modular fixing device. The lock prevents the moveable pins from moving. Doing so negates the need to re-setup the modular fixing device when one workpiece is taken out of the assembly and replaced with

another similar/identical workpiece in the same orientation. The lock reduces down time between each machining operation for example when the first workpiece is removed, and a second similar workpiece is fixed to the modular fixing device for the same machining operation to occur.
Moreover, the arrangement is a universal fixing arrangement suitable for holding workpieces of many different shapes and in many different orientations. The ability for a universal fixing arrangement of the modular fixing device means that said device can be used for many different workpieces and many different orientations of workpieces. The ability to reuse the modular fixing device for different workpieces and orientations means that the same modular fixing device can be used many times over multiple production runs for different components. A single use workpiece holder by comparison would no longer useable after a production run for a specific workpiece has finished. The present modular fixing device is therefore a greener, more environmentally friendly product due to the reduction in scrapped single use workpiece holders.
The modular fixing device is adapted to hold workpieces of up to 1500 mm in size, up to 1000 mm in size, or up to 500 mm in size.
The stationary pin transfers force from the universal fixing arrangement to the housing. The stationary pin may act as both a datum reference for any robotic or automatic machining or validation techniques.
The modular fixing device has a mounting element that allows for the fixing device to fixed to and uncoupled from a surface such as a worktable or machine bed. Beneficially this means the modular fixing device can be fixed to a surface, used, then removed from the surface and stored when it is not used, for example at the end of a production run. The advantage of this set up means that the modular fixing device does not require being fixed permanently to a machine bed or worktable.
The moveable pins are biased to an extended position. Biasing the pins to an extended position means that they will return to their unactuated shape when the lock is released and/or when a workpiece is removed. The biasing may be achieved by a biasing spring. The pins may therefore be spring loaded pins.
The moveable pins may be rectangular, cylindrical, cuboidal, L-shaped or another such shape.

The moveable pins have replaceable tips. The tips may be rubber, silicone, metal, or other such material. The removable tips may be made of a material that prevents slipping of the workpiece. The removeable tips may be attached to the pins by a screw such as a hex screw or a bolt. The removeable tips may be a consumable provided with the modular fixing device. Alternatively, the removable tips may snap-fit onto the end of the moveable pins. The removable tips may be various shapes depending upon the specific requirements of the end user. For example, they may be flat, pyramidal, semi-cylindrical, hemi-spherical, cuboidal or another shape.
The modular fixing device further comprises at least one platform. The retention or clamping feature is removably connected to the housing via the platform. Advantageously the platform provides a stable base for the retention or clamping feature to be removably attached to the housing.
In one embodiment the retention or clamping feature is one of: a clamp; and/or a plurality of clamps; and/or a side clamp; and/or a plurality of side clamps; and/or an angle clamp; and/or a plurality of angle clamps; and/or a bar; and/or a plurality of fingers.
In one embodiment the retention or clamping feature is a clamp.
In one embodiment the retention or clamping feature is a plurality of clamps.
In one embodiment the retention or clamping feature is a side clamp.
In one embodiment the retention or clamping feature is a plurality of side clamps.
In one embodiment the retention or clamping feature is an angle clamp.
In one embodiment the retention or clamping feature is a plurality of angle clamps.
In one embodiment the retention or clamping feature is a top clamp.
In one embodiment the retention or clamping feature is a plurality of top clamps.
In one embodiment the retention or clamping feature is a bar.
In one embodiment the retention or clamping feature is a plurality of fingers.

In one embodiment the retention or clamping feature is a modular bridge.
In one embodiment the retention or clamping feature is a levelling system.
In an alternative embodiment the modular fixing device may be provided with each one of the following at least one retention or clamping features or a subset of the following retention or clamping features: a clamp; and/or a plurality of clamps; and/or a side clamp; and/or a plurality of side clamps; and/or an angle clamp; and/or a plurality of angle clamps; and/or a bar; and/or a plurality of fingers. Or alternatively, the modular fixing device may be provided with any combination (or subset) of the list of retention or clamping features. The retention or clamping features may be interchanged by the operator of the modular fixing device depending on the specific requirements of the current workpiece being held.
The modular fixing device of any previous embodiment may further have at least one retention or clamping feature that is: pneumatically actuated or mechanically actuated or hydraulically actuated or robotically actuated or electrically actuated. Advantageously the retention or clamping device may therefore be operated as part of an automated system Further, the ability to actuate the retention or clamping feature using one of the above actuation methods means that the retention or clamping feature may be tightened to a degree greater than possible by hand.
In a further embodiment the at least one mounting element may be a mounting clamp or a mounting plate or a mounting rail or a magnet or a mounting rail and a mounting clamp. The magnet may be a permanent or electromagnet. The mounting arrangement allows the modular fixing device to be securely fixed to a surface such as a worktable or machine bed.
In a further embodiment the housing further comprises a removable reference plate suitable for providing a calibration point for an automated manufacturing tool such as a CNC machine. The removable reference plate may be used to provide a datum or origin or (0,0,0) point for positioning the automated manufacturing tool in 3D space.
In a further embodiment the lock comprises a lock bolt; each of the moveable pins have an aperture; and wherein the lock bolt is received in the apertures.
In a further embodiment the lock is pneumatically actuated or hydraulically actuated or mechanically actuated or robotically actuated or electrically. Advantageously this means the

lock actuation can be made as part of an automated system, and further be locked in a secure position.
In a second aspect of the invention a modular system for holding a workpiece is disclosed. The modular system comprises: at least one modular fixing device of any previous embodiment; and a surface. Wherein the at least one modular fixing device is removably coupled to the surface.
In the system of the second aspect a single modular fixing device may be coupled to a surface and a workpiece may be retained by the modular fixing device. In such a scenario the workpiece may be held by the single modular fixing device for assembly or inspection of the workpiece or simple machining/manufacturing techniques may be applied to the workpiece.
Two or more modular fixing devices may be coupled to the surface and used to securely hold a workpiece in a number of different positions at points on the workpiece surface. Advantageously more advanced manufacturing techniques may be undertaken on the workpiece in such a scenario.
In a third aspect of the invention a kit of parts is provided. The kit of parts comprises the modular fixing device of any embodiment of the first aspect or the system of the second aspect.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
One or more embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
Figure 1 is an isometric view of the modular fixing device;
Figure 2 is a section view of the modular fixing device of Figure 1;
Figure 3a-3c is a series of Figures showing the mounting of a workpiece on two modular fixing
devices of Figure 1;
Figure 4 shows an alternative embodiment of the modular fixing device holding a workpiece;
Figure 5 shows two alternative designs of the modular fixing device with alternative mounting
elements to the embodiment shown in Figure 1;
Figure 6 shows an alternative modular system for holding a workpiece using a modular bridge
plate; and
Figure 7 shows an alternative modular system with a levelling system for levelling a workpiece.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION
With the aid of Figures 1 and 2 a modular fixing device will be described. The modular fixing device comprises: a housing 4, at least one stationary pin 50 and a plurality of moveable pins 52 suitable for mounting a workpiece upon; at least one retention or clamping feature 40, 70; at least one mounting element 20, 120, 220 suitable for removably fixing the modular fixing device 1 to a surface; and a lock 30.
The housing 4 comprises of a base plate 10 first side plate 12 and a second side plate 14. The first and second side plates 12, 14 are connected to the base plate 10 by bolts, screws, pins, alternatively they may be welded or brazed or glued together. Alternatively, the base plate 10, first side plate 12 and second side plate 14 may be a formed as a single unit.
The base plate 10 may have channels 11. The channels 11 are suitable for cleaning pins 50, 52 removing oil, dirt, swarf, shavings, or other items that may get stuck within the modular fixing device 1.
The first side plate 12 has a platform 13 extending perpendicular from an upper surface of the side plate 12. The platform 13 may be continuous or contiguous with the side plate 12. The platform 13 may have a through hole for receiving a portion of the retention or clamping feature 40, 70. The hole may be threaded such that the retention or clamping feature 40, 70 may be screwed into place. Alternatively, the hole is sized to permit the retention or clamping feature 40, 70 to be bolted in place. Alternatively, the retention or clamping feature may be fixed using a magnet, bayonet fitting, or other suitable fit.
The second side plate 14 has a platform 15 extending perpendicular from an upper surface of the side plate 14. The platform 15 may be continuous or contiguous with the side plate 14. The platform 15 may have a through hole for receiving a portion of the retention or clamping feature 40, 70. The hole may be threaded such that the retention or clamping feature 40, 70 may be screwed into place. Alternatively, the hole is sized to permit the retention or clamping feature 40, 70 to be bolted in place. Alternatively, the retention or clamping feature may be fixed using a magnet, bayonet fitting, or other suitable fit.
The at least one stationary pin 50, the plurality of moveable pins 52, the at least one retention or clamping feature 40, 70, the at least one mounting element 20, 120, 220 and the lock 30 are connected to the housing 4.

The plurality of moveable pins 52 comprise a pin shaft, pin tip 54 and an aperture 56. The aperture 56 is a through hole through the pin shaft. The pin tip 54 is located on a distal end of the pin shaft and spaced apart from the aperture 56. The moveable pins 52 are moveable along a Z axis of the modular fixing device 1.
The moveable pins 52 are substantially rectangular as shown in Figure 1. In alternative embodiments the moveable pins 52 may be other shapes, such as cylindrical, L-shaped, cones, oval in cross-section, hexagonal in cross-section, a hexagonal prism, a pyramid (triangular, square, pentagon, hexagon, or octagon based), a triangular prism, a prism, a cube a cuboid, or another alternative geometry.
The moveable pins 52 are spring loaded and biased to an extended position as shown in Figure 1. As shown in Figures 3b and 3c the placing of a workpiece 2 on top of the moveable pins 52 overcomes the spring biasing force. The moveable pins 52 depress and form a complementary mounting surface 6 that cradles the surface of the workpiece 2. Alternatively, the spring may be a wave washer, a diaphragm or bellow, or an elastic member.
The moveable pins 52 may have a maximum and minimum extension and a travel distance between the minimum and maximum positions. The maximum position is the unactuated position. The minimum position may be a height on the z-axis, preferably the height is such that the pin tip 54 of the moveable pin 52 is level with the top of the stationary pin 50.
The travel distance may be between 5 to 150 mm, 5 to 100 mm, 5 to 50 mm, 15 to 45 mm, preferably the travel distance is 30 mm.
The moveable pins 52 are retained in the housing 4 as will be discussed below.
The pin tips 54 may be removable. The pin tips 54 may be removably retained on the end of the pin shaft by a hex screw, screw, bolt, interference fit, bayonet fitting or other suitable fixture.
The pin tips 52 may be shaped as triangular, pyramidal, square, rectangular, double pyramidal, cones, hemi-spheres, semi-cylinders or alternative shapes. A number of pin tips 52 in the plurality of movable pins 52 may have one type of shaped pin tip 54, other pin tips 54 may have alternative shapes. Alternatively, a single pin may have a combination of different shapes on the same pin tip 54, for example a single pin tip 54 may have a pyramidal and hemi¬spherical or rectangular shape.

The pin tips 54 may be made of a material which is non-slip such that it increases the stiction force holding a workpiece 2.
The tip may be made of a polymer, an elastomeric material, a thermoset plastic, a thermoplastic, or rubber.
Alternatively the pin tips 54 may be made of metal, such as stainless steel, steel, aluminium alloy, brass, bronze, copper alloy, titanium alloy, iron alloy, or other suitable metals or alloys. Alternatively the pin tips 54 may be continuous with the pin shaft and are therefore not removable.
Soft materials such as the metal or non-slip materials described above may advantageously not scratch the surface of the component, for example using brass, bronze or polymer pin tips 54 may reduce the likelihood of surface scratching occurring.
The stationary pin 50 is a fixed pin attached to the housing 4 at the base plate 10. The base plate 10 has holes 18 that are suitable to receive bolts or screws. The stationary pin 50 has similar threaded holes (not shown in the drawings) which line up with the holes 18 to permit mounting of the stationary pin 50 on the base plate 10.
The stationary pin 50 has a through hole 51. The through hole 51 is suitable for receiving a portion of the lock 30 as will be described in more detail below.
The modular fixing device 1 of Figure 1 has a single stationary pin 50, either side of the stationary pin 50 there are a plurality of moveable pins 52. In Figure 1 the number of moveable pins 52 either side of the stationary pin 50 is eight. However, any number of moveable pins 52 either side of the stationary pin 50 is conceivable. The number of moveable pins 52 either side of the stationary pin 50 may be any number between 1 and 20, or 4 and 18, or 5 and 15, or 5 and 12. Or the number of moveable pins 52 either side of the stationary pin 50 may be any number within the ranges provided. For example, the number may be 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20. Alternatively the number of moveable pins 52 may not be equal on either side of the stationary pin 50.
Alternatively, a number of stationary pins 50 may be provided in the modular fixing device 1. The number of stationary pins 50 may be interspersed between sets of moveable pins 52. The number of stationary pins 50 may be two, three, four, five or two to five or two to three, or one to five. The number of moveable pins 52 interspersed between the stationary pins 50 may be

any number, between 1 and 20, or 4 and 18, or 5 and 15, or 5 and 12 or 8. Or the number of moveable pins 52 interspersed between the stationary pins 50 may be any number within the ranges provided. For example, the number may be 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or20.
The stationary pin 50 is used to transfer and transmit the clamping force and weight of the workpiece 2 through the mounting surface 6 to the modular device 1 mounting element(s) 20, 120, 220.
The stationary pin 50 may have a pin tip similar in design to the pin tips 54 of the moveable pins 52 as described above.
The stationary pin 50 may be the same size and shape as the moveable pins 52. Alternatively, the stationary pin 50 may be wider than the moveable pins 52 as shown in Figure 1, for example the stationary pin 50 may be two or three times the width of the moveable pin 52.
There may be a clearance between the pins 50, 52 and the base plate 10, the clearance may up to 500 urn, or between 50 to 500 urn, or between 100 to 500 urn or between 200 to 500 urn, or between 200 to 300 urn. The clearance may be used to let oil or fluid or swarf or shavings or other dirt or grit out of the modular fixing device 1. For example, by using an air gun blowing on the pins 50, 52 the air pressure may remove any contaminants via the clearance and also the channels 11.
The retention or clamping feature 40, 70 may be removably attached to the platform 13, 15. Removably attaching the retention or clamping feature 40, 70 allows for one type of retention or clamping feature 40, 70 to be swapped for an alternative feature.
In the embodiment shown in Figure 1 the retention or clamping feature 40 is a clamp 40. The clamp 40 acts with the plurality of moveable pins 52 to retain and hold the workpiece 2 as shown in Figure 3c. Preferably the clamp 40 has a clamp shaft 42 and a clamp arm 40 and is spring biased to force the clamp arm 40 into engagement with the top of the workpiece 2.
In alternative embodiments alternative retention or clamping features may be provided. For example, a plurality of clamps 40; a side clamp 70; a plurality of side clamps; an angle clamp; a plurality of angle clamps; a bar; a plurality of fingers; or modular bridge; or a levelling system.

In the embodiment shown in Figure 4 the retention or clamping feature is a side clamp system 70. The side clamp system 70 comprises a side clamp plate 72, a side clamp 74, a moveable clamp jaw 76, and a clamp screw 78. The side clamp 74 is removably received in one of a plurality of holes 73 on the side clamp plate 72. The number of holes 73 are located at different points on the side clamp plate 72 to permit the user to mount a side clamp 72 in any one of the holes 73. Alternatively, the user may wish to use a plurality of side clamps 72 to hold a workpiece 2 and therefore they can mount several side clamps 72 at the same time in the side clamp plate. Alternatively, a top clamp 40 may be used and retained in the holes 73. Alternatively, a combination of clamps or retention or clamping devices may be used.
In a further embodiment, the user may mount a finger clamping system. The finger clamping system (or pin clamping system) may be mounted on the platform or a bar attached to the platform 13, 15 and can be used to clamp a workpiece 2. Advantageously the finger clamping system can be used to cradle the side of the workpiece in an x-y plane to complement the z axis clamping of the present modular fixing device 1.
In a further embodiment the retention or clamping features 40, 70 may be pneumatically actuated or mechanically actuated or hydraulically actuated or robotically actuated or electrically actuated. In such case the retention or clamping features 40, 70 may be controlled by an automatic system or computer to enable a workpiece 2 to be automatically retained and removed.
In a further embodiment shown in Figure 6 an alternative retention feature 80 is shown. The modular bridge system 80 is adapted to be removably received on platforms 13a or 15a of a first modular fixing device 1a and on the platforms 15b or 13b of a second modular fixing device 1b.
The modular bridge system 80 comprises a modular bridge plate 82, a plurality of holes 84 and clamps 40, side clamps 70 or any other retention or clamping device described above that is suitable for being retained in the holes 84. The holes 84 are spaced along the modular bridge plate 82 such that the user can fix clamps 40, 70 or other features in locations of their choice (this is shown in Figure 6).
As shown in Figure 6, a first side of the modular bridge 82 is removably attached to platform 13a of modular fixing device 1a. The other second end of the modular bridge 82 is removably connected to platform 15b of the second modular fixing device 1b. The modular bridge 82 may be mounted between platforms 15a and 13b alternately.

The modular bridge system 80 provides a stable platform from which various retention or clamping fixtures can be fitted.
Alternatively, a levelling system 100 can be removably fixed to the modular bridge system 80. The levelling system shown in Figure 7 is used to level the top of the workpiece 2 prior to any machining operation beginning. The levelling system 100 comprises a levelling bar 102 and at least one (but preferably two) levelling legs 104. The levelling bar 102 is attached to the at least one levelling leg 104. The levelling bar 102 may be attached to the at least one levelling leg 104, or it may be removable attached. The levelling bar 102 may be attached to the at least one levelling leg 104 by a drivable bolt that allows the level of the levelling bar 102 to be raised or lowered to the surface of the workpiece 2.
The levelling system 100 may have a bubble level or water level or accelerometer or laser leveller that allows the user to level the top of the workpiece 2. Alternatively, the levelling system 100 may provide a surface (levelling bar 102) that the user can place a spirit level or any other levelling device on the surface.
The user may level the workpiece 2 before locking lock 30. As such the workpiece 2 may only need levelling one time and once the operation has been finished on workpiece 2 a new workpiece 2 can be fitted to the system shown in Figure 7 without the need to relevel the components as the moveable pin 52 height has previously been set.
Alternatively, the levelling system 100 may be mounted on a side clamp plate 72.
The mounting element 20 shown in Figure 1 is a clamp 22. The clamp 22 is used to fix the modular fixing device 1 to a surface 90. The mounting of the modular fixing device 1 on surface 90 is shown in Figure 4. The surface 90 may be a workbench, workbed, machine bed or any other surface.
In the embodiment shown in Figures 1 and 4 the clamps 22 are complementary to grooves in surface 90. Tightening clamps 22 fixes the modular fixing device 1 to the surface 90 by engaging with the groove 92. In alterative embodiments the clamp 22 may be a G-cramp, G-clamp, pipe clamp, spring clamp, bench clamp, web clamp, quick action clamp, a quick grip clamp, a trigger clamp, a toggle clamp, a step clamp, a hydraulicly actuated clamp, a pneumatically actuated clamp, an electrically actuated clamp, or any other clamp. The clamp 22 may be taken from a subset of the list.

Alternatively, a mounting element 120 may be provided as shown in Figure 5. The mounting element 120 has a mounting plate 122 with mounting holes 124. The mounting holes may receive bolts or screws or other fixtures to fix or removably couple the modular fixing device 1 to the surface 90.
In a further embodiment, the mounting element 220 may be a rail 222. The rail 222 is complementary to groove 92 on surface 90. For example, where the groove 92 is a t-slot the rail 222 is complementary to the groove 92 and will not permit the modular fixing device 1 to be removed by pulling the device upwards. The mounting element 220 may also be provided with a bolt that locks the rail 222 to the groove 92 to prevent the modular fixing device 1 from moving. Alternatively, the mounting element 220 may be further provided with a clamp 224 as shown in Figure 5. The clamp 224 fixes the modular fixing device 1 to the groove 92 of the surface 90. The clamp 224 can be used to quickly release and move the modular fixing device 1.
In a further embodiment the mounting element may be a magnet (not shown graphically). The magnet fixes the modular fixing device 1 to the surface 90. The magnet may be a permanent magnet or an electromagnet.
In the present embodiment shown in Figure 1 the modular fixing device has two mounting elements 20 both of which are mounting clamps 22. Alternatively, only a single mounting element 20 may be provided. Alternatively, three or four, or five, or one to five, or one to four, or one to three mounting elements 20 may be provided. There may be a combination of the different mounting elements 20 described above used in the modular fixing device.
The mounting element 20 of the present invention is removable such that alternative mounting elements 20, 120, 220 may be used depending upon the operation to be carried out. For example, for example, a mounting clamp 22 may be exchanged for a rail 222 and clamp 224 or one of the other mounting elements described above. For example, the user may wish to use the modular fixing device 1 with a machine with a machine bed that has bolt holes for retaining fixtures. The user can remove the mounting element 20 (which may be held to the housing 4 by bolts, screws or other fixtures) and replace the mounting element 20 with the mounting plate 120. The mounting plate 120 can then be used to bolt the modular fixing device 1 to the machine bed.

Alternatively, where the machine bed has grooves or t-slots for fixing components the user can select the rail 222 and clamp 224 mounting arrangement 220 and attach it to the modular fixing device 1 in a similar fashion as described above.
The ability for the user to change mounting arrangements 20, 120, 220 quickly and easily is beneficial as it reduces downtime. Moreover, it allows the user flexibility to use the same kit of components in multiple applications without requiring the user to buy clamps which are specific to one machine bed.
The lock 30 will be described in detail with the aid of Figures 1 and 2. Figure 2 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the modular fixing device 1. The modular fixing device 1 includes a retaining tube 60 (e.g., a hollow cylinder) disposed through respective slots of the moveable pins 52, e.g., the aperture 56 of the moving pin 52, and through the through-hole 51 of the stationary pin 50. As such, the retaining tube 60 extends transversely with respect to the sets of pins 50, 52. As described below, the retaining tube 60 is configured to retain the sets of pins 52 such that the sets of pins 52 are precluded from moving along the y-axis. In an example, the retaining tube 60 may also be configured to preclude the sets of fingers 52 from rotating or rocking about the x-axis during operation of the modular fixing device 1 as described below.
As best shown in Figure 2, the fixed side plates 12, 14 each has a respective through-window that is generally rectangular, or oval, circular, square, or hexagonal. The retaining tube 60 extends transversely and is disposed between the fixed housing plates 12, 14. The retaining tube 60 is also received partially within the respective through windows thereof.
The retaining tube 60 is configured to limit respective strokes of the sets of pins 52 in the z-axis direction. For example, referring to the moveable pin 52, when the moveable pin 52 is pulled in the negative z-axis direction, the moveable pin 52 can move until the interior distal surface of aperture 56 contacts the retaining tube 60, which then precludes further movement in the negative z-axis direction. When the moveable pin 52 is actuated in the positive z-axis direction, it can move until the interior proximal surface of aperture 56 contacts the retaining tube 60, which then precludes further movement in the positive z-axis direction.
The modular fixing device 1 further comprises a driving wedge 34 and a driven wedge 62 received through the rectangular window of the side plate 12. The driving wedge 34 contacts the driven wedge 62 along an inclined plane as described below. The modular fixing device 1 similarly includes a driving wedge 35 and a driven wedge 63 received through the

rectangular window of the side plate 14. The driving wedge 35 contacts the driven wedge 63 along an inclined plane as described below.
The modular fixing device 1 further includes a lock bolt 32 mounted transversely through the driving wedge 34, the driven wedge 62, the retaining tube 60 (which is hollow), the respective slots of the sets of moveable pins 52, the driven wedge 35, and the driving wedge 34. The lock bolt 32 has a bolt head 33 resting against a clamping bolt washer 1814, which in turn contacts the driving wedge 62.
The modular fixing device 1 further includes a first wave spring 36 disposed within the driven wedge 62. The first wave spring 36 rests against a shim, which in turn rests against a shoulder or step formed by the exterior surface of the retaining tube 60. The first wave spring 36 is preloaded to apply a biasing force in an outward direction on the driven wedge 62 and the driving wedge 34.
Similarly, the modular fixing device 1 includes a second wave spring 36 disposed within the driven wedge 63. The second wave spring 36 rests against a shim, which in turn rests against a shoulder or step formed by the exterior surface of the retaining tube 60. The second wave spring 36 is preloaded to apply a biasing force in an outward direction on the driven wedge 63 and the driving wedge 35.
In an example, the lock bolt 32 is configured as a lead screw, such that rotary motion of the lock bolt 32 about an axis causes it to translate or move linearly along the x-axis, and thereby causing the driving wedge 34 to move therewith. Particularly, in an example, the lock bolt 32 has male threads (exterior threads) formed on an exterior peripheral surface at an end portion of the lock bolt 32. For instance, the male threads can be Acme or trapezoidal threads. However, other types of threads (e.g., square threads) may be used.
The driving wedge 34 has female threads (interior threads) in a tapped hole through which the lock bolt 32 extends and configured to engage with the male threads of the lock bolt 32. The male threads of the lock bolt 32 and the female thread of the driving wedge 35 are configured such when the lock bolt 32 is rotated and translates in a given direction, the driving wedge 35 moves in the opposite direction.
For instance, if the lock bolt 32 is rotated clockwise, it translates in the negative x-axis direction, pushing the driving wedge 34 in the negative x-axis direction, and pulling the driving wedge 35 in the positive x-axis direction. Conversely, if the lock bolt 32 is rotated counter-

clockwise, it translates in the positive x-axis direction, allowing the driving wedge 34 to move in the positive x-axis direction (via the biasing force of the first wave spring 36), and causing the driving wedge 35 to move in the negative x-axis direction.
Figure 2 illustrates the modular fixing device 1 in an unlocked or undamped state. In this unlocked state, the lock bolt 32 is unscrewed (i.e., is moved in the positive x-axis direction), and the first wave spring 36 pushes the driven wedge 62 and the driving wedge 34 outward such that there is a gap between the driven wedge 62 and the moveable pin 52. Similarly, the movement of the clamping bolt 32 in the positive x-axis direction causes the driving wedge 35 to move in the negative x-axis direction, and the second wave spring 36 pushes the driven wedge 63 toward the driving wedge 35 such that there is a gap between the driven wedge 93 and the moveable pin 52.
In the unlocked position, a gap separates the bottom surface of the driven wedge 62 from the interior surface of the side plate 12. Similarly, in the unlocked position, a gap separates the bottom surface of the driven wedge 63 from the interior surface of the side plate 14.
The retaining tube 60 is disposed through respective holes in the driven wedges 62, 63 such that the exterior surface of the retaining tube 60 contacts the interior surfaces of the driven wedges 62, 63 bounding their respective holes. Thus, when the driven wedges 62, 63 are shifted upward, the retaining tube 60 is also shifted upward.
In the unlocked position, the operator can adjust the longitudinal positions of the moveable pins 52 as desired. Once the moveable pins 52 are actuated or adjusted to a particular configuration that matches a desired shape of the workpiece 2, the lock bolt 32 is screwed in (e.g., rotated clockwise) to move in the negative x-axis direction. As the lock bolt 32 moves, it causes the driving wedge 34 to move therewith in the negative x-axis direction and causing the driving wedge 35 to move in the positive x-axis direction as described above.
As the driven wedges 62, 63 move they move the retaining tube 60 downward therewith. The driven wedges 62, 63 and the retaining tube 60 can move downward until the retaining tube 60 contacts the interior bottom surfaces of the moveable pins 52.
Further, the retaining tube 60 now contacts the interior bottom surfaces of the moveable pins 52, and the gap no longer exists. As such, the retaining tube 60 and the driven wedges 62, 63 are precluded from moving further downward along the y-axis.

Thereafter, as the lock bolt 32 continues to move the driving wedges 34, 35 inwards (i.e., toward the moveable pins 52), the driven wedges 62, 63 are forced to move inward in a linear direction along the x-axis. Particularly, the driven wedge 62 moves toward and contacts the first moveable pin 52 of a first set of moveable pins 52 (located on one side of the stationary pin 50), thereby compressing the first wave spring 36, and the driven wedge 63 moves toward and contacts the first moveable pin 52 of the second set of moveable pins 52 (located on the other side of the stationary pin 50), thereby compressing the second wave spring 36.
As such, the driven wedges 62, 63 go through a two-phase movement as the lock bolt 36 is rotated to clamp the moveable pins 52. Initially, the driven wedges 34, 35 move downward along the y-axis until the retaining tube 60 contacts the interior bottom surfaces of the moveable pins. The driven wedges 34, 35 move linearly along the x-axis toward the respective moveable pins 52.
As the driven wedge 62 presses against the first moveable pin 52, the first moveable pin 52 in turn presses against an adjacent moveable pin 52, and so forth, until the first set of moveable pins 52 are squeezed against each other and between the driven wedge 62 on one side and the stationary pin 50 on the other side. Similarly, as the driven wedge 63 presses against the first moveable pin 52 of the second set of moveable pins 52, the first moveable pin 52 in turn presses against an adjacent moveable pin 52, and so forth, until the second set of moveable pins 52 are squeezed against each other and between the driven wedge 63 on one side and the stationary pin 50 on the other side. As a result, the sets of moveable pins 52 are secured in a locked position.
Notably, the modular fixing device 1 is symmetric such that the lock bolt 32 may be flipped to facilitate operating it from either side. In other words, the lock bolt 32, the bolt washer, the driving wedges 34, 35, and the driven wedges 62, 63 can be removed and flipped to be mounted on the opposite side of the housing base plate 10. This way, the lock bolt 32 can be operated (i.e., screwed and unscrewed) from either side of the modular fixing device 1, and particularly whichever side is more convenient to the operator given and the setup of the machine. In addition in situations where two or more modular fixing devices 1 are used to secure a workpiece 2, the orientation of the respective lock bolts 2 can be matched so that the operator can adjust the two or more modular fixing devices 1 from the same side rather than having to walk or move around the assembly.
In the present embodiment the lock 30 and lock bolt 32 may be manually operated by the user, for example using a wrench or spanner or other suitable tool. In alternative embodiments the

lock 30 and lock bolt 32 may be actuated using pneumatic, hydraulic, mechanical, electrical, or robotic means.
The modular fixing device 1 may further comprise a reference plate 16 removably mounted on the base plate 10 of the housing 4. The reference plate 16 is mounted on the base plate 10 at reference plate mounting holes 17 located on a top face of the base plate 10. Alternatively, the reference plate 16 has a slot/groove that can be slid on to the base plate 10.
The reference plate 16 is an optional feature that may be attached for using with automated machining or other automated manufacturing or measurement systems. The reference plate 16 is used to provide a datum (0, 0, 0) point for positioning an automated system.
The reference plate 16 extends from the housing 4 above the top of the stationary pin 50 tip such that the top surface of the reference plate 16 is higher than the stationary pin 50. Alternatively, the reference plate 16 may be provided with a top surface that is the same height as the stationary pin 50 tip when the reference plate 16 is attached to the housing 4.
Moreover, the reference plate 16 may be used to provide further support to a workpiece 2. The workpiece 2 may abut against the reference plate 16 to further prevent movement of the workpiece 2.
The mounting of a workpiece 2 will be described with reference to Figures 3a-3c in more detail.
In Figure 3a, two modular fixing devices 1a, 1b are fixed to surface 90 via the mounting element 20. The modular fixing devices 1 are mounted to the surface 90 so that the modular fixing devices 1 face each other. The moveable pins 52 in this case are in their normal extended position.
In Figure 3b the workpiece 2 is placed onto the moveable pins 52. Placing the workpiece 2 on the moveable pins 52 depresses the moveable pins 52 as it overcomes the biasing spring force of the moveable pins 52. The workpiece 2 moves the moveable pins 52 down until the workpiece 2 rests upon the top of the stationary pin 50. The moveable pins 52 and stationary pin 50 cradle the surface of the workpiece 2.
The next step, as shown in Figure 3c is to secure the workpiece using the clamps 40 by moving the clamp arms to secure the top surface of the workpiece 2 and to press the workpiece 2 firmly onto the mounting surface 6.

Once the clamping has been completed the lock 30 can be actuated as described above and the moveable pins 52 will be fixed into position.
Once the machining or other operation has completed, the workpiece 2 can be removed from the system and replaced with a new workpiece 2 which has not yet been machined or otherwise had an operation performed thereupon. As the system has already been set up and locked the new workpiece 2 can be placed directly onto the locked mounting surface 6 and clamped using clamps 40. Doing so reduces the time between each changeover of parts.

REFERENCE NUMBER FEATURE
1, 1a, 1b MODULAR FIXING DEVICE
2 WORKPIECE
4 HOUSING
6 MOUNTING SURFACE
10 BASEPLATE
11 CHANNEL
12 SIDE PLATE
13 PLATFORM
14 SIDE PLATE
15 PLATFORM
16 REFERENCE PLATE
17 REFERENCE PLATE MOUNTING HOLES
18 HOLES
20 MOUNTING ELEMENT
22 MOUNTING CLAMP
30 LOCK
32 LOCK BOLT
33 BOLT HEAD
34 DRIVING WEDGE
35 DRIVING WEDGE
36 WAVE SPRING
40 CLAMP
42 CLAMP SHAFT
50 STATIONARY PIN
51 THROUGH HOLE
52 MOVEABLE PINS
52 PIN SHAFT
54 PIN TIP
56 APERTURE
60 RETAINING TUBE
62 DRIVEN WEDGE
63 DRIVEN WEDGE
70 SIDE CLAMP SYSTEM
72 SIDE CLAMP PLATE
73 HOLE

74 SIDE CLAMP
76 MOVEABLE CLAMP JAW/PAD/SWIVEL
78 CLAMP SCREW
80 MODULAR BRIDGE SYSTEM
82 MODUALR BRIDGE PLATE
84 HOLE
90 WORKBED/SURFACE
92 GROOVE
100 LEVELLING SYSTEM
102 LEVELLING BAR
104 LEVELLING LEG
120 MOUNTING ELEMENT
122 MOUNTING PLATE
124 MOUNTING HOLES
220 MOUNTING ELEMENT
222 RAIL
224 CLAMP
Z AXIS

HEAD

I/We Claim:

1. A modular fixing device (1) comprising:
a housing (4);
at least one stationary pin (50) and a plurality of moveable pins (52) suitable for
mounting a workpiece upon;
at least one retention or clamping feature (40, 70);
at least one mounting element (20, 120, 220) suitable for removably fixing the modular
fixing device (1) to a surface; and
a lock (30);
wherein the at least one stationary pin (50), the plurality of moveable pins (52), the at
least one retention or clamping feature (40, 70), the at least one mounting element (20,
120, 220) and the lock (30) are connected to the housing (4);
wherein the lock (30) is adapted to lock the plurality of moveable pins (52) in a fixed
position;
wherein the plurality of moveable pins (52) are moveable in a longitudinal axis (Z)
relative to the housing (4); and
wherein the at least one stationary pin (50), the plurality of moveable pins (52) and the
at least one retention or clamping feature (40, 70) are adapted to fix a workpiece to the
modular fixing device (1).
2. The modular fixing device (1) of claim 1, wherein the moveable pins (52) are biased to an extended position; and/or wherein the moveable pins (52) have replaceable tips (54).
3. The modular fixing device (1) of any previous claim, wherein the housing (4) further comprises at least one platform (13, 15), and wherein the at least one retention or clamping feature (40, 70) is removably connected to the housing (4) via the platform (13, 15).
4. The modular fixing device (1) of any previous claim, wherein the at least one retention or clamping feature (40, 70) is one of:
a clamp (40); and/or
a plurality of clamps (40); and/or
a side clamp (70); and/or
a plurality of side clamps (70); and/or
a top clamp (40); and/or
a plurality of top clamps (40); and/or
an angle clamp; and/or

a plurality of angle clamps; and/or a bar; and/or
a plurality of fingers; and/or a modular bridge (82); and/or a levelling system (100).
5. The modular fixing device (1) of any previous claim, wherein the retention or clamping feature (40, 70) is: pneumatically actuated or mechanically actuated or hydraulically actuated or robotically actuated or electrically actuated.
6. The modular fixing device (1) of any previous claim, wherein the at least one mounting element (20) comprises: a mounting clamp (22), or a mounting plate (122), or a mounting rail (222), or a magnet, or a mounting rail (222) and mounting clamp (22).
7. The modular fixing device (1) of any previous claim, wherein the housing (4) further comprises a removable reference plate (16) suitable for providing a calibration point for an automated manufacturing tool such as a CNC machine.
8. The modular fixing device (1) of claim 1, wherein the lock (30) comprises a lock bolt (32); each of the moveable pins (52) have an aperture (56); and wherein the lock bolt (32) is received in the apertures (56).
9. The modular fixing device (1) of any previous claim, wherein the lock (30) is pneumatically actuated or hydraulically actuated or mechanically actuated or robotically actuated or electrically actuated.
10. A modular system for holding a workpiece comprising:
at least one modular fixing device (1) according to any previous claim; and a surface; and wherein the at least one modular fixing device (1) are removably coupled to the surface