Ball Cam Adapter for Robot End Effector Exchange
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing end effector exchange devices for robot arms can lead to unexpected detachment of heavy end effectors during manual removal, posing safety risks to operators.
Innovation Solution
An end effector exchange device comprising a first adapter and a second adapter, where a slide portion of the first adapter fits into a slot of the second adapter, with a ball mechanism allowing controlled separation by operating a release button, ensuring the adapters can only be separated intentionally.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a simple detachable connection mechanism is used for end effector exchange, then the ease of operation is improved, but the safety and reliability deteriorate due to unexpected detachment
Solution Approach 1:
The connection mechanism transitions from a static fixed connection to a dynamic controllable connection. The ball member can move between engaged and disengaged positions, allowing the system to adapt between stable connection state and controlled detachment state based on operational needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The ball member acts as an intermediary element between the cam member and the slot opening edge. This intermediary component translates the rotational motion of the cam into linear motion that controls the engagement and disengagement of the connection, providing precise control over the detachment process.
2Device complexity
If only a release button is provided for detachment, then the device complexity is reduced, but the safety deteriorates due to accidental detachment risk
Solution Approach 1:
The cam member is pre-configured with a cam surface that automatically pushes the ball member into the engaged position when the release button is not actuated. This preliminary action ensures that the connection remains stable by default, and only detaches when the operator intentionally presses the release button, preventing accidental detachment.
3Reliability
If the ball member is always engaged, then the connection reliability is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to difficulty in detachment
Solution Approach 1:
The detachment operation is made periodic and controlled through the release button mechanism. The operator must intentionally activate the release button to disengage the ball member, creating a deliberate periodic action rather than continuous engagement. This ensures stable connection during operation while providing controlled detachment when needed.
Data Source
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AI summary
A slide portion (18) of a first adapter (12) is fitted into a slot (42) of a second adapter (34), and a ball (32) is disposed between a cam member (22) supported by the slide portion and an opening edge portion (36b) constituting the slot. The ball can advance toward or retreat from an engagement groove (44) of the opening edge portion by movement of the cam member. By operating a release button (24) connected integrally with the cam member and also sliding the first adapter and the second adapter relative to each other, the ball retreats, and the first adapter and the second adapter are separated from each other.