Drive Target Buffer Layout for Easier Elastic Element Replacement
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Solution Overview
Problem
The performance of series elastic actuators (SEAs) is restricted by the spring characteristics of the elastic elements, requiring frequent replacement and making it laborious to attach and remove the elastic elements, especially when disposed between the speed reducer and the joint portion.
Innovation Solution
A drive device comprising a motor portion, a speed reducer, and a buffer device with an elastic portion, where at least a part of the buffer device is disposed on a side opposite to the motor portion and the speed reducer with the drive target interposed between them, allowing for easy attachment and removal of the buffer device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the elastic element is disposed between the speed reducer and the joint portion, then the motor and speed reducer are protected from damage, but it becomes laborious to attach and remove the elastic element
Solution Approach 1:
The drive device is segmented into distinct modules: motor portion, speed reducer, and buffer device. The buffer device containing the elastic element can be independently attached or removed from the drive target without affecting the motor or speed reducer, thus protecting them while simplifying maintenance operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic element is extracted from the conventional position between the speed reducer and joint portion, and placed in a buffer device that can be separately mounted on the drive target. This extraction allows the elastic element to maintain its protective function while enabling easy removal and replacement without disturbing the motor or speed reducer.
2Reliability
If the elastic element is disposed between the speed reducer and the joint portion, then force control and shock absorption are achieved, but replacement requires labor and time
Solution Approach 1:
The buffer device is designed as a separate, self-contained module that can be quickly replaced on the drive target. This segmentation allows maintenance personnel to replace the elastic element by simply detaching the buffer device, significantly reducing replacement time while maintaining force control and shock absorption capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The buffer device is pre-configured with the elastic element and mounting interfaces before being installed on the drive target. This preliminary preparation allows for rapid replacement without requiring complex assembly procedures, thus reducing maintenance time while ensuring proper force control and shock absorption functionality.
3Ease of operation
If the buffer device is disposed on a side opposite to the motor portion and speed reducer, then attachment and removal are facilitated, but the structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The buffer device is segmented as an independent module with standardized mounting interfaces. This segmentation allows it to be disposed on the side opposite to the motor and speed reducer, facilitating easy attachment and removal. The modular design manages structural complexity by creating clear separation between functional components with simple connection points.
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
The solution facilitates easy attachment and removal of the buffer device, reducing labor and enabling efficient replacement or repair, while maintaining the actuator's performance and precision.
Implementation Method 1
The buffer device outputs the torque input from the speed reducer to the drive target from an output end part via an elastic portion
Data Source
AI summary
A drive device for rotationally moving a drive target includes a motor portion, a speed reducer for reducing a torque input from the motor portion, and a buffer device for outputting the torque input from the speed reducer to the drive target via an elastic portion. At least a part of the buffer device is disposed on a side opposite to the motor portion and the speed reducer with the drive target interposed therebetween.