Selective Flexible Extension Tool for Nonlinear Remote Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Robotic arm assemblies are often cost-prohibitive and complex for certain applications, making it difficult to reach remote locations efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A selectively flexible extension tool with a plurality of sequentially arranged links that can move between a slacked and tensioned position, allowing for the tool to be inserted into tight spaces and then rigidized to reach remote locations, utilizing a line assembly to transition between positions and facilitate operations within nonlinear paths.
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 access remote areas is improved, but cost and device complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The tool is divided into multiple sequentially arranged links that can be independently positioned and tensioned. Each link can be controlled separately via control wires, allowing the tool to navigate complex nonlinear paths by segmenting the overall movement into discrete link-by-link adjustments, thereby achieving remote access without requiring a fully rigid complex robotic arm
Solution Approach 2:
The tool transitions between flexible and rigid states dynamically. During insertion and navigation, the links remain flexible and can bend relative to each other. When a specific link configuration is achieved, tensioning the control wires rigidizes the links to maintain the desired position and shape for performing operations at remote locations
2Length of moving object
If robotic arm assemblies are used to reach remote locations, then the ability to access remote areas is improved, but cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The tool uses simple, inexpensive components such as links, control wires, and tensioning mechanisms that can be manufactured at low cost. Rather than using expensive robotic arm assemblies with multiple joints and actuators, this invention employs a simpler mechanism that achieves the same functional outcome at a fraction of the cost
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces complex mechanical robotic arm systems with a simpler wire-controlled flexible tool system. Instead of using multiple motors and mechanical joints to achieve positioning, the system uses tensioned control wires to rigidize flexible links, substituting a complex mechanical actuation system with a simpler cable-driven mechanism
3Stability of the object's composition
If the tool is made rigid to maintain position, then stability is improved, but the ability to navigate nonlinear paths and tight spaces is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The tool dynamically transitions between flexible and rigid states based on operational requirements. During navigation through nonlinear paths and tight spaces, the links remain flexible and can bend relative to each other. When positioning is required for performing operations, the control wires are tensioned to rigidize the links, providing stable position maintenance
Solution Approach 2:
The tool is segmented into multiple independently controllable links. This segmentation allows different portions of the tool to have different stiffness characteristics at different times - some links can remain flexible for navigation while others are tensioned for stability, enabling simultaneous adaptation and stabilization
Data Source
AI summary
A tool assembly includes a first selectively flexible tool including a first plurality of sequentially arranged links moveable between a slacked position and a tensioned position; and a second selectively flexible tool including a second plurality of sequentially arranged links moveable between a slacked position and a tensioned position, the second plurality of sequentially arranged links moveable over or through the first plurality of sequentially arranged links.