Exchangeable Long-Shaft Tool Coupling for Multi-Task Manipulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing long-shaft tools are limited to performing only one type of manipulation, such as machining around an axis of rotation, and require multiple tools for different manipulation tasks, making them inefficient for various pipeline maintenance operations.
Innovation Solution
A long-shaft tool with an exchangeable manipulator holder that includes a protruding latch pin for secure force transmission and a rotatable coupling half, allowing for multiple manipulation types with a single shaft by enabling the use of different manipulators for various tasks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a long-shaft tool is designed for a single manipulation task, then the structure is simple and reliable, but the versatility is limited requiring multiple tools for different tasks
Solution Approach 1:
The tool is divided into a shaft portion and an exchangeable manipulator portion. The manipulator can be detached and replaced with different types (drilling, scraping, adjusting) while the shaft remains the same, enabling multiple manipulation tasks with a single tool system.
Solution Approach 2:
The shaft is designed as a universal component that can accommodate multiple types of manipulators through standardized coupling mechanisms. This allows one shaft to perform multiple functions by simply changing the manipulator attachment.
2Adaptability or versatility
If an exchangeable manipulator system is implemented, then the versatility increases, but the risk of loose connection and force transmission reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism includes movable latch pins that can transition between protruding (locked) and retracted (unlocked) positions. This dynamic design allows secure force transmission during operation while enabling easy manipulator exchange when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch pin acts as an intermediary element between the shaft and manipulator. When protruding, it provides positive mechanical interlocking to ensure reliable force transmission; when retracted, it allows manipulator removal.
3Ease of operation
If the coupling mechanism is made rotatable, then the ease of operation for adjusting manipulation surfaces improves, but the structural complexity of the coupling mechanism increases
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism combines multiple functions into a single integrated structure: it provides both the rotatable connection for adjusting manipulation surfaces and the latch pin mechanism for secure force transmission, eliminating the need for separate adjustment and locking components.
Data Source
AI summary
A long-shaft tool includes a shaft extending along a longitudinal axis and having a handle at a first end of the shaft and a second end opposite the first end with a holder for a manipulator wherein the holder has a protruding latch pin provided for engagement with a recess of a manipulator, which can be moved from the protruding position into a retracted position. The holder has a coupling half for coupling with a coupling half of a manipulator which is rotatable relative to a base body of the shaft.