3D Positioning Device with Rotating Lever for Compact Multi-Axis Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-axis positioning systems, such as industrial robots, face challenges in achieving high-precision positioning of multiple coupling points on a structural component while being cost-effective and space-efficient, especially when requiring precise deformation recording and force application across numerous closely spaced connection points.
Innovation Solution
A compact actuator-driven coupling structure with bidirectional coupling elements and a rotatable lever, powered by three actuators, allows for precise three-dimensional positioning with minimal height, enabling the transmission of forces and precise positioning of multiple coupling components in a stacked arrangement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple industrial robots are used to position coupling components at numerous spatially closely spaced connection points, then positioning capability is improved, but space requirements and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple positioning functions into a single compact device by integrating three actuators (first actuator for x-axis, second actuator for y-axis, third actuator for z-axis) that work together to position a coupling component at multiple connection points. This merging approach eliminates the need for multiple separate industrial robots, thereby reducing space requirements while maintaining comprehensive positioning capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling component serves multiple functions: it can be positioned at various spatially closely spaced connection points, apply forces up to 50 kN, and record deformations. This multi-functional design allows a single device to replace multiple specialized robots, reducing both space occupation and overall system cost while maintaining versatility.
2Measurement precision
If multiple industrial robots are deployed for high-precision positioning at numerous connection points, then positioning precision is improved, but system cost increases beyond economic limits
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functionality of multiple expensive industrial robots into a single cost-effective device by integrating three coordinated actuators that provide precise positioning along three orthogonal axes. This consolidation maintains high positioning precision (±0.01 mm) while dramatically reducing system cost by eliminating redundant robotic systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the operational parameters by using three actuators with stroke ranges of ±20 mm or more along orthogonal axes, achieving positioning precision of ±0.01 mm. This parameter optimization allows high-precision positioning without requiring multiple high-cost industrial robots, thereby reducing overall system cost while maintaining measurement precision.
3Measurement precision
If a bulky structure extending uniformly along three perpendicular edges is used for 3D positioning, then positioning accuracy is achieved, but device compactness deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent repositions the third actuator outside the common plane formed by the first two coupling elements, with its direction of action forming an angle α (20° ≤ α ≤ 65°, particularly preferably 35° ≤ α ≤ 55°) with the plane. This dimensional rearrangement allows the device to maintain positioning accuracy while achieving a compact footprint suitable for stacking, as the oblique orientation efficiently utilizes three-dimensional space.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces asymmetry by positioning the third actuator at an oblique angle relative to the common plane of the first two actuators, rather than arranging all three actuators symmetrically along orthogonal edges. This asymmetric configuration reduces the device volume while maintaining the full three-dimensional positioning capability, enabling compact stacked arrangements.
4Volume of moving object
If the third actuator is oriented perpendicular to the common plane for stacking, then compactness is improved, but positioning accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes the angle parameter α of the third actuator's orientation relative to the common plane, selecting a range of 20° ≤ α ≤ 65° (particularly preferably 35° ≤ α ≤ 55°). This parameter optimization balances compactness for stacking with maintaining positioning accuracy of ±0.01 mm, avoiding the extremes of perpendicular orientation (which would maximize compactness but reduce accuracy) while achieving both goals simultaneously.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution enables precise positioning of coupling components with an accuracy of ±0.01 mm along three axes and the ability to generate or absorb forces up to 50 kN, allowing for efficient and cost-effective high-precision positioning of multiple components in a small volume, suitable for applications like testing machines for aircraft components.
Implementation Method 1
At least one first coupling element, which has a first longitudinal extension, is mounted so as to be deflected bidirectionally along its first longitudinal extension by means of a first actuator
Implementation Method 2
at least one second coupling element is provided, which has a second longitudinal extension and is mounted so as to be deflected bidirectionally along its second longitudinal extension by means of a second actuator
Implementation Method 3
the lever's force arm is operatively connected to a third actuator in such a way that a torque acting on the lever, oriented around the axis of rotation, can be generated
Data Source
AI summary
The invention pertains to a device for 3-dimensionally positioning a coupling component, which forms part of an actuator-driven coupling structure, wherein said device comprises at least a first coupling element that extends in a first longitudinal direction and can be bidirectionally displaced along its first longitudinal direction by means of a first actuator, a second coupling element that extends in a second longitudinal direction and can be bidirectionally displaced along its second longitudinal direction, which extends orthogonal to the first longitudinal direction, by means of a second actuator, and a lever with a longitudinal lever direction that is mounted pivotably about a pivoting axis, which divides the lever into a work arm and a power arm. The longitudinal lever direction of the lever either extends along the first longitudinal direction and its work arm is on its end fixed on the second coupling element such that it can be pivoted about the second longitudinal direction or the longitudinal lever direction of the lever extends along the second longitudinal direction and its work arm is on its end fixed on the first coupling element such that it can be pivoted about the first longitudinal direction. Furthermore the power arm of the lever is functionally connected to a third actuator in such a way that a torque, which acts upon the lever about the pivoting axis, can be generated.