Cardanic Angle Compensation Unit for High Axial Load Handling

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing angle compensation units lack high load-bearing capacity, particularly for axial forces, which is crucial for reliable operation in automation systems.

Innovation Solution

The angle compensation unit features a cardanic suspension with a bearing frame and bearing flange, allowing forces to be distributed across different bearing components, and includes a control piston and locking piston for precise control and locking of the compensating part.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If a simple pivot connection is used between base part and compensating part, then the device complexity is reduced, but the load-bearing capacity particularly for axial forces deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructure complexityVSAvoidload-bearing capacity
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The pivot connection is segmented into a cardanic suspension system with multiple independent bearing components (bearing frame, bearing flange, pivot pins) that can separately handle different force components. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for specific load types while maintaining overall structural manageability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The solution transitions from a simple single-axis pivot to a cardanic suspension system operating in multiple dimensions (x-axis and y-axis rotation capabilities). This dimensional expansion enables the structure to distribute axial forces across multiple bearing surfaces and components, significantly increasing load-bearing capacity without proportionally increasing complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Adaptability or versatility

If the compensating part is designed to be movable for angle compensation, then the adaptability is improved, but the stability deteriorates due to unwanted rotations and movements

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveangle compensation capabilityVSAvoidpositional stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The control piston acts as an intermediary element between the actuating force and the cardan joint. It provides controlled resistance through a pivoting moment that prevents unwanted rotations about the x-axis and y-axis, allowing the compensating part to move only when intentionally actuated while maintaining stability during stationary phases

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The system dynamically changes the resistance parameter (pivoting moment) provided by the control piston based on operational requirements. The piston can adjust the force threshold needed to initiate movement, enabling the system to maintain stability at desired positions while still allowing controlled angle compensation when needed

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Stability of the object's composition

If a control piston is added to prevent unwanted movements, then the positional stability is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepositional stabilityVSAvoidcontrol mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The control piston is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it provides the pivoting moment to prevent unwanted rotations, controls the threshold for intentional movement initiation, and works in conjunction with the locking piston for coordinated control. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate control elements, managing complexity while maintaining stability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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

This design achieves high load-bearing capacity, particularly for axial forces, ensuring reliable operation and continuous adjustment of the pivoting moment, which is essential for horizontal applications and varying tool center of gravity positions.

Implementation Method 1

The combination of the bearing frame and the bearing flange is based on a cardanic suspension. The bearing frame is mounted on the base part so that it can rotate around the x-axis. The bearing flange is mounted in the bearing frame so that it can rotate around the y-axis.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCardanic suspension: Gimbal

Implementation Method 2

the control piston is provided, such the cardan joint and thus the compensating part can only be moved above a certain pivoting moment. Consequently, the force acting on the compensating part must first overcome the pivoting moment in order to move the compensating part from the basic position to the compensating position.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPivoting moment: Torque

Implementation Method 3

the force of the locking piston is transferred to the control piston by means of the first spring means. Consequently, the bearing flange and thus the compensating part is locked by means of the control piston.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSpring force: Spring

Data Source

PatentUS20250170712A1Angle compensation unit with control and locking piston, clamping and/or gripping device, and handling device
Publication Date: 2025.05.29 SCHUNK GMBH & CO KG
  • US20250170712A1 patent drawing
  • US20250170712A1 patent drawing
  • US20250170712A1 patent drawing

AI summary

This disclosure relates to an angle compensation unit for a handling device, having a base part and a compensating part. The compensating part is pivotable relative to the base part about an x-axis and about a y-axis running perpendicular to the x-axis between a basic position and a compensating position. A bearing frame and a bearing flange are arranged in the base part, wherein the bearing frame is mounted in the base part in a manner allowing rotation about the x-axis. The bearing flange is mounted in the bearing frame in a manner allowing rotation about the y-axis.