Linear Expansion Mechanism With Arc-Rail Block Train Guidance

Solution Overview

Problem

The existing linear expansion mechanisms for robot apparatuses are complex, heavy, and limited in strength, with difficulties in achieving smooth expansion and contraction due to the reliance on multiple piece trains and rotating shaft couplings.

Innovation Solution

A linear expansion mechanism featuring a series of linear-motion mechanisms with a block train housed in an arc-shaped rail system, allowing for arc-shaped movement and improved structural simplicity, weight reduction, and enhanced strength through a multi-level nested structure and cam follower engagement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If two types of piece trains are used to constitute the arm unit, then the linear expansion function is achieved, but the structure becomes complicated and weight increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelinear expansion functionVSAvoidstructure complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the functions of multiple piece trains into a single block train that moves along arc-shaped rails. Instead of using separate first and second piece trains linked together, a single block train with multiple blocks coupled in a row replaces them all, integrating multiple functions into one unified structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The block train serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides the linear expansion capability, acts as the structural arm unit, and incorporates the coupling mechanism through its blocks. The arc-shaped rails provide both guidance and structural support, replacing the need for separate linkage structures.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If two types of piece trains are used to constitute the arm unit, then the linear expansion function is achieved, but the weight increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelinear expansion functionVSAvoidarm unit weight

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSWeight of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the functions of multiple piece trains into a single block train that moves along arc-shaped rails. Instead of using separate first and second piece trains linked together, a single block train with multiple blocks coupled in a row replaces them all, integrating multiple functions into one unified structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Device complexity

If the arm unit is constituted by movable pieces coupled by rotating shafts, then the structure is simplified, but the strength is limited by the coupling strength

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestructure simplicityVSAvoidarm unit strength

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs arc-shaped rails instead of straight guides or cylindrical housings. The arc-shaped configuration provides both guidance and structural reinforcement, distributing loads more effectively along the curved path while maintaining the simplified block train structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #14Spheroidality (Curvature)

4Device complexity

If the movable pieces are housed in a substantially cylindrical rotation guide part, then the structure is simplified, but the expansion and contraction becomes inhibited

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvehousing structure simplicityVSAvoidsmooth expansion and contraction

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs arc-shaped rails instead of straight guides or cylindrical housings. The arc-shaped configuration provides both guidance and structural reinforcement, distributing loads more effectively along the curved path while maintaining the simplified block train structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #14Spheroidality (Curvature)

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 solution simplifies the structure, reduces weight, and enhances the strength of the arm unit while enabling smooth expansion and contraction, addressing the limitations of previous mechanisms.

Implementation Method 1

The housing part has a pair of arc-shaped rails that allow the block train to move in an arc-shaped trajectory

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectArc-shaped rail guidance:

Data Source

PatentUS11279048B2Linear expansion mechanism

Publication Date: 2022.03.22 FANUC LTD

AI summary

A linear expansion mechanism includes: a plurality of linear-motion mechanisms assembled in series; a block train including a plurality of blocks coupled to each other in a row, a block at a leading end being connected to a linear-motion mechanism at a leading end; and a housing part that houses the block train. The housing part has a pair of arc-shaped rails and that being separately arranged on opposite sides of the block train, and a pair of projection bodies to be engaged with the pair of arc-shaped rails are provided on opposite side faces of each of the blocks.