Integrated Fluidic Mechanical Coupling for Robotic Grippers
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing robotic coupling systems in automated food handling lines require time-consuming disassembly and reassembly processes during maintenance, especially when disconnecting and reconnecting pneumatic actuators and flexible pipes.
Innovation Solution
A mechanical coupling system with a fluidic coupling mechanism that allows for seamless fluid connection and disconnection between the robotic arm and the gripping device, using a channel system with internal fluid pathways that remain connected even when the coupling parts are separated, and a locking system that facilitates quick and secure attachment and detachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the coupling system uses separate connection points for fluid lines and mechanical coupling, then the mechanical locking is simplified, but the maintenance time increases due to manual disconnection of hoses
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the mechanical coupling function and fluid connection function into a single integrated coupling point. The channel system is formed directly within the coupling bodies, so that when the mechanical coupling engages, the fluid channels automatically align and connect. This eliminates the need for separate hose connections, resolving the contradiction by making both mechanical coupling and fluid connection operate simultaneously through one action.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling body is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: mechanical support, fluid transmission, and sealing. The integrated channel system allows the same coupling interface to handle both mechanical loads and fluid flow, making the coupling system universal and eliminating the time-consuming separate connections required in traditional designs.
2Ease of manufacture
If the fluid channels are made as external connections, then the manufacturing is simpler, but the system compactness and cleanability are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The fluid channels are nested within the solid mass of the coupling bodies. The channels are formed as internal cavities inside the coupling components, similar to how a nested doll contains smaller dolls within larger ones. This internal channel configuration maintains compactness by eliminating external fluid pathways, while the manufacturing is simplified through additive manufacturing processes that can create complex internal geometries in a single operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the manufacturing parameter from traditional subtractive or assembly-based methods to additive manufacturing. This parameter change enables the creation of complex internal channel structures within the coupling bodies, achieving both compactness (by embedding channels internally) and ease of manufacture (through single-step 3D printing of intricate geometries).
3Adaptability or versatility
If the coupling system includes multiple separate connection points, then the fluid connection is more flexible, but the device complexity and difficulty of cleaning increase
Solution Approach 1:
The fluid connection is segmented into multiple independent channels within the single coupling interface. Each channel can be independently configured for different fluid lines, maintaining flexibility and adaptability. However, all channels are contained within the unified coupling body structure, which simplifies the overall device complexity compared to having multiple separate external connection points.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5
AI summary
This disclosure relates to a mechanical coupling system comprising: - a first coupling part (2), comprising a first body (20) configured to be manipulated by a maneuvering system, such as a robotic arm, - a second coupling part (3), comprising a second body (30) configured to secure a gripping device - a fluidic coupling system comprising from at least one fluid inlet (E) emerging from the first body (20), and at least one channel (Ca) comprising: - a first channel portion (PC1), internal, extending into the mass of the first body (20) from said at least one fluid inlet, - a second channel portion (PC2), internal, extending into the mass of the second body (30), the second channel portion (PC2) extending, along the length of the channel, as a fluidic continuation of the first channel portion (PC1).