Compact End-Effector Exchange Device with Side Cam Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional end-effector exchange devices for robot arms are bulky due to the need for elongated operating rods that engage with pistons, increasing the device size.
Innovation Solution
The end-effector exchange device incorporates a separation operation hole for a release tool that allows manual separation of adapters without air supply, with a compact design that reduces the overall height by positioning the release operation tool to abut on a side surface of the cam portion, enabling manual separation without increasing the device's height.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If an operating rod is provided that engages with the end face of the piston, then manual separation of adapters is enabled, but the connecting member must be elongated in the moving direction of the piston, increasing the device size
Solution Approach 1:
The release operation tool interacts with the cam portion from the side surface rather than from the end face, changing the operational dimension from axial to radial. This allows the tool to engage with the cam portion's side surface, enabling manual separation without extending the device in the piston's moving direction.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam portion serves as an intermediary element between the piston and the release operation tool. Instead of the tool directly engaging with the piston end face, the cam portion mediates this interaction by providing a side surface that the tool can abut against, thereby enabling compact manual separation.
2Device complexity
If the release operation tool abuts on the side surface of the cam portion, then manual separation is achieved with compact arrangement, but the tool requires precise positioning and engagement
Solution Approach 1:
The cam portion features a curved side surface that provides a natural abutment surface for the release operation tool. This curved geometry guides the tool into proper engagement while maintaining compact dimensions, as the curved surface naturally directs the applied force along the intended path.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam portion's side surface is designed to automatically guide and constrain the release operation tool during engagement. The geometry of the cam portion itself provides the positioning function, reducing the need for additional positioning mechanisms or complex tool designs.
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
This configuration allows for compact and efficient manual separation of adapters, reducing the overall height of the device and maintaining its compactness while ensuring reliable operation.
Implementation Method 1
when compressed air is supplied to a release chamber of the first connecting member, an output rod integrated with a piston arranged on the first connecting member moves
Data Source
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AI summary
A first adapter (12) of an end-effector exchange device (10) includes a piston (52) driven by supply and discharge of air, a cam member (56) integrally coupled to the piston, and an engagement ball (66) to be in contact with a side surface of a cam portion (62) of the cam member. A second adapter (68) includes a separation operation hole (80) into which a release operation tool (92) configured to come into contact with a side surface of the cam portion is inserted.