Annular-Ring End Effector for Compact Toolholder Gripping
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for an efficient end effector that can grip a v-ring on a tool holder in CNC machining centers, as existing solutions are inefficient for repetitive tasks and do not allow for compact tool holder placement.
Innovation Solution
A pair of grippers with annular rings oriented perpendicular to the end effector's longitudinal length, capable of lateral movement to match the profile of the tool holder's groove, attached to a robotic arm via adjustable mounting and extension blocks, allowing for precise gripping and compact design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a traditional end effector design is used for gripping tool holders, then the structure is simple, but the tool holder placement spacing is large and manufacturing efficiency is low
Solution Approach 1:
The end effector is divided into multiple independent grippers, each with its own annular ring and mounting block assembly. This segmentation allows each gripper to independently grip a tool holder, enabling closer placement of multiple tool holders on the robotic arm while maintaining structural simplicity through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
The annular rings are oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal length of the end effector, creating a radial gripping dimension. This dimensional change allows tool holders to be placed closer together along the longitudinal axis while the annular rings grip them radially, increasing productivity without compromising structural simplicity
2Manufacturing precision
If the annular ring profile matches the groove profile precisely, then gripping accuracy is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The annular ring incorporates chamfer angles (top chamfer and bottom chamfer both at angle α) that correspond to the groove profile. By standardizing these angular parameters, the design achieves precise gripping accuracy while maintaining ease of manufacture through consistent geometric features that can be produced using standard machining operations
3Adaptability or versatility
If extension blocks are added to adjust longitudinal length, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The extension blocks are designed to be selectively attachable and detachable from the mounting blocks using fasteners and connecting pins. This dynamic configuration allows the longitudinal length of the end effector to be adjusted by adding or removing extension blocks, providing adaptability while maintaining relatively simple assembly through standardized mechanical fastening mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting blocks serve multiple functions: they attach to the robotic arm, provide lateral movement for gripper actuation, and serve as attachment points for extension blocks. This multi-functionality reduces overall device complexity by consolidating multiple features into single components rather than requiring separate elements for each function
Data Source
AI summary
A pair of grippers movable with respect to each other and each of which comprising a body presenting an annular ring oriented perpendicular with respect to a longitudinal length of the end effector. The annular ring of each gripper of the pair of grippers is oriented facing each other so that a space between the annular ring of each gripper of the pair of grippers increases and decreases as the pair of mounting blocks move laterally towards and away from each other.