Ball Joint Connection Tool for Fast Robotic Component Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for connecting components are complex and time-consuming, particularly in series vehicle production, where simple and quick interconnection solutions are needed.
Innovation Solution
A tool with gripping elements and a retaining means is used to securely fasten a ball to one component, which is then inserted into an opening of another component, utilizing frictional and interlocking connections, and a robot means for automated alignment and connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional tools and methods are used to connect components, then the connection can be achieved, but the process is complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The tool is divided into distinct functional modules: gripping elements for holding the ball, a punching element for creating the opening, and a retaining means for holding the component. This segmentation allows each element to perform its specific function efficiently, reducing overall process complexity and time
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple operations (gripping the ball, punching the opening, and retaining the component) are combined into a single integrated tool that performs all functions simultaneously. This merging eliminates the need for multiple separate tools and operations, directly improving productivity while maintaining manageable complexity
2Extent of automation
If manual connection methods are used, then flexibility is maintained, but automation and precision are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The tool design ensures that the gripping elements, punching element, and retaining means are positioned in predetermined, geometrically precise relationships to each other. This creates an equipotential working condition where all elements operate from optimally positioned starting points, enabling automated operation with high precision
Solution Approach 2:
The tool acts as an intermediary device between the automated robot means and the components to be connected. It translates automated motion into precise mechanical actions (gripping, punching, retaining), thereby enabling automation while maintaining manufacturing precision through its carefully designed geometric relationships
3Reliability
If simple connection methods are used, then speed is improved, but connection security is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The gripping elements are designed to securely hold the ball in a predetermined position before the punching operation begins. The retaining means is pre-positioned to immediately secure the component once the opening is created. These preliminary actions ensure connection security is established before the actual connection occurs, preventing errors and rework that would waste time
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
Enables a secure, fast, and efficient connection of components by automating the process, reducing errors and cycle times through a simple and intuitive tool design.
Implementation Method 1
The ball inserted in the opening can be connected to the other component by means of a frictional connection and/or an interlocking connection to a wall defining the opening of the other component
Implementation Method 2
The ball inserted in the opening can be connected to the other component by means of a frictional connection and/or an interlocking connection to a wall defining the opening of the other component
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for connecting a first component to a second component by a ball which is fastened to the first component and which is fastenable in an opening of the second component includes a tool which includes two gripping elements and a retainer. The ball can be encompassed and pulled into the opening in a fastening direction by the two gripping elements. The second component is holdable in a position relative to the tool along the fastening direction by the retainer. The two gripping elements are movable relative to the retainer along the fastening direction to pull the ball into the opening until the first and second components are in contact with one another. The tool is movable in three dimensions by a robot.