Anti-Backlash Gear Reduction Unit for Precise Robotic Arm Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing anti-backlash systems in gear reduction units for industrial robotic arms are bulky and limit precision positioning, leading to inaccuracy and wear due to backlash in gear trains.
Innovation Solution
A compact gear reduction unit with an anti-backlash mechanism using internal gears with different tooth counts and transfer gears that are freely rotatable relative to a drive plate, applying spring forces to minimize backlash through gear alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional anti-backlash mechanisms are used in gear reduction units, then backlash is reduced and positioning accuracy is improved, but the device becomes bulky and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the anti-backlash function directly into the gear reduction unit by integrating spring-loaded transfer gears that simultaneously provide gear reduction and backlash elimination. This merging of functions eliminates the need for separate anti-backlash mechanisms, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining positioning accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamically adjustable spring forces that automatically compensate for backlash variations during operation. The spring-loaded transfer gears can adapt to different loading conditions and maintain optimal tooth contact, providing continuous backlash elimination without requiring complex mechanical adjustments or multiple components.
2Measurement precision
If traditional anti-backlash mechanisms are used in gear reduction units, then backlash is reduced and positioning accuracy is improved, but the device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent nests the anti-backlash mechanism within the existing gear reduction structure by placing spring-loaded transfer gears inside the gear train. The transfer gears are positioned between the input and output gears, utilizing the existing space in the reduction unit rather than adding external components, thereby eliminating backlash without increasing device volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs flexible spring elements that can be compressed and expanded to maintain tooth contact while occupying minimal space. These thin, flexible components provide the necessary anti-backlash force without requiring bulky mechanical structures, enabling compact integration into the gear reduction unit.
3Power
If gear reduction is implemented with different tooth counts, then speed reduction and torque multiplication are achieved, but backlash occurs between meshing gears
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary anti-action by using spring forces to pre-load the gear teeth in the direction that eliminates backlash before motion occurs. The spring-loaded transfer gears continuously press the mating gear teeth together, preventing any clearance or play from developing during operation, thus eliminating the harmful backlash effect while maintaining torque multiplication.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces transfer gears as intermediary elements between the input and output gears. These intermediate gears, equipped with spring loading, mediate the power transmission by maintaining constant tooth contact and eliminating backlash, while still achieving the required speed reduction and torque multiplication through the overall gear train configuration.
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
The solution significantly improves precision and accuracy in robotic arm positioning by reducing backlash, while maintaining a compact design.
Implementation Method 1
spring forces between the two transfer gears and the output and input gears result in the reduction of backlash
Data Source
AI summary
A gear reduction assembly for industrial robotics arms with an anti-backlash mechanism for precise positioning of the robotic arm. The gear reduction assembly includes two transfer gears and two internal gears. The two internal gears include a fixed gear that is fixedly coupled to a gear housing and an output gear that is coupled to an output shaft. The gear reduction assembly further includes a drive plate that is integral to the input shaft and is of an elongated profile. The two transfer gears are mounted to the drive plate, spaced apart from each other, and can freely rotate relative to the drive plate. The two transfer gears mesh with the fixed gear and the output gear, wherein the input shaft passes through the center of the fixed gear. The number of teeth in the fixed gear and the output gear are different which results in gear reduction.