When designing a machine, an engineer typically gives the least thought to the fasteners, handles, and knobs. These simple accessories seem the smallest of a designer's worries.

Ironically, however, these little things can mean a lot when it comes to making machinery faster, more functional, and safer. By giving careful consideration to these basic components, you can make a huge difference in the efficiency and reliability of the completed machine.

Let's start by considering the example of a machine designed without considering these components: a piece of material handling equipment that utilizes "traditional" fasteners. In order for the user to adjust cross blocks and move guide rails, he must use a hex key wrench to remove cap screws. That means the wrench must be kept handy for whenever a change or adjustment is needed. And it's not long before the inevitable moment when, during adjustment, a screw is lost and must be replaced from stock somewhere. Or, worse yet, it falls into the machinery in a manner that damages the equipment and costs the company downtime and repair expense.

A better design for this machine would substitute adjustable levers for the cap screws. These components allow tool-free adjustments and do not involve a fastener being removed from the machine and possibly lost.

The general principle of "tool-free" design can make any machine requiring adjustment more convenient and efficient. Here's a short list of some great quick-changeover components:

• Adjustable Levers: The ratcheting characteristic of adjustable levers means they can be used in tight spaces. Their design also allows for easier visual adjustment to specific positions, and their ergonomic shape makes them user-friendly. They are ideal for situations where more torque is required than can be achieved with a simple knob.


• Handwheels: Implementation of a handwheel for positioning may be preferable to a crank if there are space constraints or there is a need for more torque. Handwheels with crank handles are an option, as are handwheels with handles that fold down out of the way.


• Position indicators: The combination of a position indicator with a handwheel is ideal for equipment where precise adjustments are required. Many options for readouts are available to suit the specific needs of the application. Position indicators may also be used with cranks or hand knobs.


• Knobs: Knobs can be used for quick adjustment, and also can function well as clamps. For applications where torque is needed for clamping, adjustable levers are preferable.

All of these parts are available as standard components, making them quick and easy to acquire as well as affordable.

Avoiding a custom solution is not the only value of using standard quick changeover components. The time saved by making quick adjustments on the production line is money in the bank, especially when costly downtime can be avoided by these tool-free solutions. Greater accuracy in adjustments and better safety for operators are additional bonuses that can make a huge difference and save literally thousands of dollars.

So when designing a machine, remember to consider the humble, simple components that can make a huge difference. Spec in tool-free, quick changeover standard parts to make that equipment better, safer, and more cost-effective.