Configurable Object Attachment Handler for Automated Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing automated manufacturing systems require significant time and expertise to design and adapt hardware and control software for attaching objects with varying dimensions and attachment types, making it inefficient to switch between different configurations.
Innovation Solution
A software-configurable object attachment handler for robotic arms that automatically reconfigures grippers and fastening tools based on defined object dimensions and attachment mechanisms, allowing for rapid adjustment and handling of various objects with different attachment types.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If customized hardware and control software are designed for each heat sink configuration, then manufacturing precision and reliability are improved, but device complexity and implementation time increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal attachment handler that can handle multiple heat sink configurations through software configuration rather than hardware redesign. The system uses a standardized robotic arm with programmable grippers and positioning systems that can be reconfigured via software parameters (attachment locations, dimensions, attachment types) to accommodate different heat sink variants, eliminating the need for customized hardware tooling for each configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters (attachment locations, heat sink dimensions, attachment types) through software configuration rather than physical hardware modification. By storing configuration data as adjustable parameters that can be loaded and modified digitally, the system achieves high manufacturing precision for different heat sink types without increasing device complexity.
2Manufacturing precision
If fully customized tooling is designed and fabricated for each heat sink type, then manufacturing precision is improved, but loss of time and productivity decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary software configuration and parameter setup before actual heat sink attachment operations. Configuration data including attachment locations, dimensions, and attachment types are pre-programmed and stored in the system memory, allowing rapid switching between different heat sink types without time-consuming hardware redesign or fabrication processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical/customized tooling system with a software-controlled robotic system. Instead of physically designing and fabricating custom tooling for each heat sink type, the system uses programmable robotic arms with configurable grippers and positioning systems controlled by software parameters, dramatically reducing design and implementation time while maintaining attachment precision.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the assembly station is adapted to assemble different types of heat sinks with customized hardware, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity and implementation difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements dynamic reconfiguration capability through software rather than static hardware modifications. The robotic arm, grippers, and positioning systems are designed with dynamic adjustability through programmable parameters that can be changed in real-time based on the heat sink type being assembled, allowing high adaptability without increasing hardware complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment handler is designed as a universal system capable of handling multiple heat sink configurations through a single standardized hardware platform. Software configuration parameters (attachment locations, dimensions, attachment types) enable the same physical system to adapt to different heat sink types, achieving versatility without hardware reconfiguration complexity.
4Manufacturing precision
If expert users implement customized control software for each heat sink configuration, then manufacturing precision is improved, but ease of operation and ease of manufacture worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables operators to configure different heat sink types through user-friendly software interfaces without requiring expert knowledge of control programming. The software automatically manages the configuration parameters (attachment locations, dimensions, attachment types) based on simple input, allowing non-expert users to achieve precise attachment operations for different heat sink variants.
Data Source
AI summary
An object attachment handler comprising a configurable gripper, configured to define an open and closed position, based on a software definition of an object to be attached, and a fastening tool, automatically configured to apply a defined force curve at defined positions, to complete attachment of the object, based on the software definition of the object.