Multi-Joint Bending Structure With Segmented Cord Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

The operability of multi-joint bending structural bodies is deteriorated due to the bending of the base end side when the distal end side is operated, causing unwanted movement and reduced efficiency.

Innovation Solution

A bending structural body with a first and second elastically bendable part connected by a higher rigidity connection part, featuring cord-like members that are divided and dispersed to control bending, allowing independent operation of the parts.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple bending pieces are connected in series to form a multi-joint bending structural body, then the versatility and range of motion are improved, but the operability deteriorates due to unwanted coupling between adjacent bending pieces

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverange of motionVSAvoidoperability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The cord-like member is divided into multiple divided parts (first, second, third, fourth divided parts) that are dispersed in the circumferential direction within the connection part. This segmentation allows selective engagement with different bending pieces, enabling independent operation of each bending piece while maintaining the multi-joint structure's versatility

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Different divided parts of the cord-like member are positioned at different radial positions and circumferential locations within the connection part. The first and second divided parts are positioned to engage the first bending piece, while the third and fourth divided parts engage the second bending piece, creating localized control zones that prevent unwanted coupling between adjacent bending pieces

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

2Ease of operation

If a single cord-like member passes through multiple bending pieces to enable bending operation, then the bending function is achieved, but the complexity of controlling individual bending pieces increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebending functionVSAvoidcontrol complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The cord-like member is segmented into multiple divided parts that can be independently positioned and engaged with specific bending pieces. This allows the operator to control each bending piece separately by pulling the appropriate divided part, reducing control complexity while maintaining the bending function

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The connection part acts as an intermediary structure that houses the divided parts of the cord-like member and provides a mechanism for selective engagement with different bending pieces. This intermediary structure simplifies the control system by providing clear separation between control zones for each bending piece

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 suppresses unwanted bending of the second part during operation of the first part, improving overall operability and simplifying the bending process by reducing unnecessary loads.

Implementation Method 1

a first bending part (3) and a second bending part (5) that are elastically bendable

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElastic deformation: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

a connection part (7) connecting between the first bending part (3) and the second bending part (5) and having higher bending rigidity than the first bending part (3) and the second bending part (5)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectBending rigidity:

Data Source

PatentUS12466088B2Bending structural body
Publication Date: 2025.11.11 NHK SPRING CO LTD
  • US12466088B2 patent drawing
  • US12466088B2 patent drawing
  • US12466088B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention comprises: a first bending part and a second bending part which are capable of bending elastically; a connection part which connects the first bending part and the second bending part, and which has higher bending rigidity than the first bending part and the second bending part; and a plurality of first cord-like members which are attached to the first bending part, which are inserted through the first bending part, the connection part, and the second bending part, and which are capable of bending the first bending part via tension on the second bending part side. The first cord-like members each have a plurality of divided parts which are divided in the connection part and dispersed in the circumferential direction, and which are inserted through the second bending part in this dispersed state.