Extension Tool Line Assembly for Link Failure Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Robotic arm assemblies are often cost-prohibitive and overly complex for certain applications, limiting their use in reaching remote or hazardous locations efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A selectively flexible extension tool with a base, line assembly, and sequentially arranged links that can move between slacked and tensioned positions, allowing for a cost-effective and versatile means to reach remote locations, equipped with fluid flow passages and tool implements for various operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If robotic arm assemblies are used to reach remote locations, then the ability to perform operations at remote or hazardous locations is improved, but the cost and device complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The extension tool is divided into multiple collapsible sections or segments that can be telescoped or extended. Each segment can be independently controlled to extend or retract, allowing the tool to reach remote locations while maintaining a compact form when retracted. This segmentation enables the system to achieve long reach distances without requiring a single complex robotic arm structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex robotic arm mechanisms with a simpler cable-driven or spring-loaded extension mechanism. Instead of using multiple articulated joints and motors characteristic of robotic arms, the invention uses tension cables, springs, or counterweights to extend and retract the tool sections, significantly reducing system complexity while maintaining the ability to reach remote locations.
2Length of moving object
If robotic arm assemblies are used to reach remote locations, then the ability to perform operations at remote or hazardous locations is improved, but the cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The extension tool uses inexpensive, easily manufactured components such as standard cables, springs, and simple mechanical joints rather than expensive robotic components. The design prioritizes cost-effective materials and assembly methods, making the tool economically viable for applications where high-cost robotic systems are unnecessary.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts only the essential function of reaching remote locations from the complex robotic arm system, eliminating unnecessary features such as sophisticated sensors, control systems, and articulated mechanisms. This extraction results in a simplified tool that achieves the primary goal at a fraction of the cost.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the extension tool uses a collapsible design with multiple sections, then the flexibility and reach capability are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The extension tool employs a nested or telescopic design where smaller sections are contained within larger sections. When retracted, the tool sections nest together in a compact configuration. When extended, the sections slide or telescope outward to achieve the desired reach. This nesting principle provides both flexibility and compactness while using simple mechanical interfaces between sections.
Data Source
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AI summary
An extension tool (100) includes a plurality of sequentially arranged links (106) moveable relative to one another. The plurality of sequentially arranged links (106) include a first link (106A). The extension tool (100) further includes a line assembly (104) having a line (118), the line (118) including a first portion (119A) extending through the plurality of sequentially arranged links (106) to the first link (106A) and a transition portion (119C) extending from the first portion (119A) through the first link (106A). The extension tool (100) further includes an attachment feature (190) coupled to or formed integrally with the line (118) of the line assembly (104) at the transition portion (119C) of the line (118) to support the line (118) in the event of a failure of the line (118).