Automated Connector Fitting Device with 3D Movable Arm

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Solution Overview

Problem

Manual connector fitting operations are burdensome for operators, necessitating a reduction in operator intervention for connector fitting in hybrid vehicle electrical connections.

Innovation Solution

A connector fitting device with a movable arm body and gripper capable of moving in a three-dimensional space and direction, allowing for automatic positioning and fitting of connectors, eliminating the need for manual operator intervention.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If manual connector fitting operation is performed, then the operator can complete the fitting task, but the operator burden increases and efficiency decreases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnector fitting efficiencyVSAvoidoperator burden

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The connector fitting device performs the fitting operation autonomously without requiring manual intervention. The movable arm body automatically positions and fits connectors, while the gripper mechanically grasps and manipulates connector components, enabling the system to serve itself in completing the fitting task.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the manual mechanical operation with an automated mechanical system. The movable arm body and gripper constitute a mechanical automation system that substitutes human hands and operations, performing connector fitting through coordinated mechanical movements in three-dimensional space.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Extent of automation

If automated fitting device is introduced, then operator burden is reduced, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnector fitting automationVSAvoidfitting device structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Extent of automationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The movable arm body is designed with multi-functionality, capable of performing multiple operations including moving the gripper to arbitrary positions in three-dimensional space, orienting the gripper in arbitrary directions, and executing the fitting motion. This universal design reduces the need for multiple specialized components, thereby managing device complexity while achieving high automation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Manufacturing precision

If manual fitting operation is performed, then simple device structure is maintained, but fitting precision and consistency deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnector fitting precisionVSAvoidfitting device structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The automated movable arm body and gripper system replaces manual operations to achieve consistent and precise connector fitting. The mechanical system provides repeatable positioning and motion control, ensuring uniform fitting quality across multiple operations without the variability inherent in manual dexterity and judgment.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentUS11417996B2Connector fitting device

Publication Date: 2022.08.16 YAZAKI CORP

AI summary

A connector fitting device for fitting a female connector to a male connector includes a movable arm body connected to a base on a base end side of the movable arm body and a gripper connected to a distal end side of the movable arm body. The connector fitting device is configured to move the gripper to an arbitrary position in a three-dimensional space and in an arbitrary direction in the three-dimensional space. The movable arm body includes a device main body, a first arm, a second arm, and a third arm.