Portable Camera Device for Remote Manipulator Gripper
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing camera systems for remote manipulation activities face challenges such as the need for frequent refocusing due to variable distances and the occupation of a second remote-manipulator arm, as well as cumbersome and unsafe replacement procedures when the camera is mounted on a remote-manipulator arm.
Innovation Solution
A portable camera device with complementary connection and brake means, including a spring mechanism for easy assembly and disassembly on a remote-manipulator arm, allowing for precise positioning and orientation, and the option to store the camera when not in use, ensuring efficient use of resources and safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the camera is mounted permanently on a remote-manipulator arm by means of a fixed support, then the camera position is stable, but the arm must be extracted from the cell when the camera has to be replaced, which requires tedious precautions and work
Solution Approach 1:
The camera system is divided into separable components: the camera unit and the support structure mounted on the remote-manipulator arm. The support includes a demountable connection mechanism that allows the camera to be detached and replaced without removing the entire arm from the cell, thus maintaining position stability during operation while enabling easy replacement when needed
Solution Approach 2:
The connection between the camera and remote-manipulator arm transitions from a static fixed support to a dynamic demountable connection. This allows the system to switch between a stable mounted state during operation and an easily replaceable state when maintenance or repositioning is required, eliminating the need for tedious extraction procedures
2Measurement precision
If a second remote-manipulator arm is used to carry the camera, then the camera can be positioned precisely, but it occupies an additional arm resource
Solution Approach 1:
The remote-manipulator arm is designed with a universal mounting interface that can accommodate different camera models and configurations. The support structure includes adjustable positioning mechanisms that enable precise camera placement while utilizing the same arm that performs the primary manipulation task, thus eliminating the need for a dedicated second arm and maximizing resource utilization
3Ease of operation
If the camera is carried by the remote manipulators themselves, then the camera can be positioned at the work location, but it occupies a second remote-manipulator arm
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting support incorporates a universal interface that allows the single remote-manipulator arm to perform both the primary manipulation function and the camera-carrying function simultaneously. The support structure can be quickly attached and detached, enabling the arm to switch between tasks without requiring a dedicated second arm, thus maintaining operational convenience while preserving arm resource availability
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 enables easy and precise mounting/dismounting of the camera on a remote-manipulator arm without requiring a second arm, reducing the need for frequent refocusing and enhancing safety by allowing easy replacement and storage, thus providing effective visual coverage without occupying additional arm resources.
Implementation Method 1
The means for fitting together and brake means comprise first of all a spring in the form of a gripper, which makes it possible to fix the camera on the remote-manipulator arm
Implementation Method 2
When the spring is installed around the arm, it closes on it by return to its initial shape, and the camera is held firmly
Implementation Method 3
the brake means make it possible to lock the device at an assembly position
Data Source
AI summary
A camera for observing the inside of a shielded cell comprises a support provided with a spring in the form of a gripper for mounting it on a remote- manipulation arm performing the task to be observed, by means of another arm, exerting solely a force for opening the branches of the spring, after which the camera is properly held, while being able to be removed without difficulty. A stop means is added in order to provide the correct angular position of the camera while preventing its support from turning about the arm, and thus making it possible to position it correctly by other remote-manipulation means.