Connector Assembly Slots for Accurate Robotic Gripping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical connectors are difficult for robotic manipulators to accurately grip and manipulate due to random positioning and lack of optimized features for grasping and connector mating, leading to inefficient manual operations in vehicle assembly.
Innovation Solution
A connector assembly design with parallel and askew slots on the connector and robotic manipulator gripping arms, along with parking devices and locking features, ensures precise alignment and secure attachment of connectors for robotic handling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional automotive electrical connectors are used with random positioning, then the connector design is simple and flexible, but robotic manipulators cannot accurately grip and manipulate them
Solution Approach 1:
The connector assembly includes predetermined alignment features (slots and ridges) that are pre-configured to guide the robotic manipulator's gripping arms into the correct position and orientation before gripping occurs, eliminating the need for complex real-time positioning control
Solution Approach 2:
Alignment features act as intermediaries between the connector assembly and robotic manipulator, providing a mechanical interface that ensures accurate positioning and gripping without requiring complex control systems or sensors
2Manufacturing precision
If fixed alignment features such as pins or grooves are used to ensure proper alignment, then positioning accuracy is improved, but flexibility and adaptability to different robotic manipulators are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The connector assembly incorporates multiple slots extending in different directions (first slots parallel to first axis, second slots parallel to second axis) that can accommodate various ridge configurations on different robotic manipulators, making the connector universally compatible while maintaining precise positioning
Solution Approach 2:
The alignment system allows for adjustable positioning where the robotic manipulator can be positioned at different locations along the slots, enabling adaptation to different manipulator types and configurations while maintaining accurate alignment through the slot-ridge engagement
3Stability of the object's composition
If mechanical fasteners or clamps are used to secure the connector assembly, then connection stability is improved, but assembly complexity and installation time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connector assembly features self-aligning slots and self-locating ridges that automatically guide and secure the robotic manipulator into the correct position through mechanical engagement, eliminating the need for additional fasteners, clamps, or complex assembly procedures
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
This disclosure presents a connector assembly (100, 600, 1000) featuring a first slot (204, 606, 1006) on a first outer surface and a corresponding first slot (204, 606, 1006) on a second outer surface, both extending parallel to a first axis (Y). Additionally, a second slot (206, 608, 1008) on the first outer surface and a corresponding second slot (206, 608, 1008) on the second outer surface, extending parallel to a second axis (X) askew to the first axis (Y), are provided. These slots (204, 606, 1006, 206, 608, 1008) are designed to receive ridges (302, 304) on gripping arms (202) of a robotic manipulator (200), thereby ensuring precise alignment and positioning of the connector assembly (100, 600, 1000).