Configurable End-of-Arm Tool for Robotic Arms
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing end-of-arm devices for robotic arms require manual adjustment, which is time-consuming and prone to errors, limiting their versatility in handling workpieces of multiple designs across various applications.
Innovation Solution
A configurable end-of-arm tool with a rail element, a machine-adjustable swing arm, an extendable shaft, and a rotator set, allowing for precise configuration in x-axis, y-axis, z-axis positions, and rotational angles, enabling automated adjustment for different workpiece orientations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If manual adjustment is used to configure the end-of-arm device for different workpieces, then the device can be adapted to multiple workpiece designs, but the adjustment process consumes time and is prone to errors
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-configures multiple tool configurations with stored positional and orientational data for different workpiece types. Before actual adjustment is needed, all possible configurations are prepared and stored in memory, allowing instant retrieval and execution without manual reconfiguration during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
Manual mechanical adjustment is replaced with an automated control system that uses sensors, processors, and actuators to configure the end-of-arm device. The system electronically stores and executes configuration data, substituting human operators with automated machinery controlled by computer programs.
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual adjustment is used to configure the end-of-arm device, then flexibility in handling different workpieces is achieved, but adjustment accuracy is reduced due to human error
Solution Approach 1:
Manual adjustment operations are completely replaced by automated control systems with electronic positioning. The system uses sensors to detect workpiece characteristics and automatically calculates the required tool configurations, eliminating human error in measurement and positioning while maintaining full flexibility for different workpiece types.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates sensors that detect workpiece characteristics and provide feedback to the control processor. This feedback loop allows the system to automatically adjust configurations based on actual workpiece measurements, ensuring high precision while maintaining adaptability to various workpiece designs.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the end-of-arm device is made highly adjustable to handle multiple workpiece designs, then versatility is improved, but the complexity of the device increases
Solution Approach 1:
The end-of-arm device is divided into modular components, each with specific adjustment functions. The tool can be segmented into interchangeable modules that can be independently configured and replaced based on the specific workpiece requirements, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining high versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The device employs universal interfaces and standardized mounting mechanisms that allow a single base structure to accommodate multiple tool configurations. This multi-functionality approach enables the same hardware platform to handle diverse workpieces through software-controlled adjustments rather than requiring complex dedicated structures for each application.
4Productivity
If automated machine adjustment is implemented, then adjustment speed and precision are improved, but the device complexity and initial setup requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates self-calibration and self-configuration capabilities where the automated device can detect its own state and adjust without external intervention. The control system automatically generates configuration parameters based on workpiece sensors, eliminating the need for complex manual programming and reducing setup complexity while maintaining high adjustment speed.
Solution Approach 2:
Configuration parameters and tool paths are pre-calculated and stored in the system memory during the design phase. This preliminary action allows the automated system to execute adjustments by simply retrieving pre-programmed data, reducing the computational complexity during actual operation while achieving high adjustment speeds.
Data Source
AI summary
A configurable end-of-arm tool attachable to an articulable robotic arm is described. The end-of-arm tool comprises a rail element, a machine-adjustable swing arm, a machine-adjustable extendable shaft attached to the swing arm. A machine-adjustable rotator set is attached to the extendable shaft, and a workpiece interface tool is attached to the extendable shaft. The swing arm, the extendable shaft, and the rotator set are machine-adjustable to place the workpiece interface tool at a predetermined position.