Modular Articulating Assembly for Robotic Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current robotic systems are inflexible and costly due to heavy, bulky components formed through expensive casting and machining processes, limiting customization and variation.
Innovation Solution
A modular articulating assembly with extruded connector arms, featuring actuatable joints and lightweight yet strong connector arms made from materials like aluminum, steel, or ceramics, allowing for customizable configurations and internal routing of components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If components are formed through expensive casting and machining processes, then manufacturing precision and structural integrity are improved, but manufacturing cost and production time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the manufacturing parameter from traditional casting and machining to extrusion process. The connector arms are formed by extruding material through a die to create the desired cross-sectional shape, which reduces manufacturing cost and production time while maintaining the required structural integrity and precision through the extrusion process itself
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the robotic system into modular connector arms that can be independently manufactured and assembled. Each connector arm is a separate extruded component that can be produced cost-effectively and then assembled into the complete robotic system, reducing overall manufacturing complexity and cost
2Strength
If traditional casting and machining processes are used, then structural integrity is improved, but component weight and size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the manufacturing method to extrusion, which allows for optimized material distribution within the connector arm structure. The extrusion process creates a consistent grain structure and uniform material properties that provide high strength-to-weight ratio, reducing component weight while maintaining structural integrity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent specifies that connector arms can be made from various materials including aluminum, steel, or ceramic composites. These materials provide high strength and stiffness while maintaining low weight, particularly aluminum alloys which offer an optimal balance of strength, weight, and cost for robotic applications
3Adaptability or versatility
If modular extruded components are used, then customization and system variation are improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs connector arms with universal features including standardized connection interfaces, integrated cable routing channels, and mounting surfaces that can accommodate various actuators and end effectors. This universal design allows the same basic extruded component form to serve multiple functions and be used in different robotic system configurations, increasing customization capability without proportionally increasing manufacturing complexity
Data Source
AI summary
An articulating assembly of a robotic system has an extruded connector arm including a longitudinally-extending body portion and a connection portion. The body portion has an axial base member, a perimeter wall, and a plurality of webs extending radially from the base member to the perimeter wall. The robotic system may also have an actuatable joint secured to the connection portion of the connector arm. The connector arm may be cut-to-size and replaceable, thereby forming a modular component for the robotic system.