Flexible Linked Extension Tool With Tension-Based Rigidizing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Robotic arm assemblies are often cost-prohibitive and overly complex for certain applications, making it difficult to reach remote or hazardous locations efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A selectively flexible extension tool with a line assembly and sequentially arranged links that can move between a slacked and tensioned position, allowing for a cost-effective and versatile means to reach remote locations, featuring a line assembly with a first and second line guiding the links to pivot and rigidize, forming specific geometries for navigation through tight spaces.
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 or hazardous locations is improved, but the cost and device complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The extension tool is divided into multiple sequentially arranged links that can move relative to each other. Each link is a separate component that can pivot about a pivot reference line, allowing the system to reach remote locations through incremental movement rather than requiring a single long rigid structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The extension tool transitions from a flexible configuration to a rigidized configuration through the line assembly. When the lines are tensioned, the links become constrained and form a rigid structure capable of supporting loads, while maintaining the ability to move between different positions.
2Length of moving object
If robotic arm assemblies are used to reach remote locations, then the ability to access remote or hazardous locations is improved, but the cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The tool uses simple segmented links connected by pivot points rather than complex robotic joints. Each link is a basic structural component that can be manufactured independently, reducing overall manufacturing cost compared to integrated robotic arm assemblies.
Solution Approach 2:
The line assembly acts as an intermediary mechanism that provides the force transmission needed to move and rigidize the links. This simple cable-pulley-like system is much more cost-effective than using motors and complex control systems in each joint of a robotic arm.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the extension tool rigidizes to reach remote locations, then structural stability is improved, but the flexibility to navigate tight spaces decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The extension tool can dynamically transition between flexible and rigid states. When navigation through tight spaces is needed, the lines are slack and the links can pivot freely. When reaching remote locations and structural support is needed, the lines are tensioned to rigidize the structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes its structural parameter from flexible to rigid by adjusting the tension in the line assembly. This allows the same structure to adapt to different operational requirements without requiring multiple different tools.
Data Source
AI summary
A selectively flexible extension tool includes: a line assembly comprising a first line and a second line; and a plurality of sequentially arranged links, the line assembly operable with the plurality of sequentially arranged links to move the plurality of sequentially arranged links between a slacked position and a tensioned position, the plurality of sequentially arranged links together comprising a first line guide and a second line guide, the first line of the line assembly extending through the first line guide and the second line of the line assembly extending through the second line guide; wherein the first line defines a first displacement when the plurality of sequentially arranged links are moved from the slacked position to the tensioned position, wherein the second line defines a second displacement when the plurality of sequentially arranged links are moved from the slacked position to the tensioned position, and wherein the first displacement is substantially equal to the second displacement.