Modular Connector Locking for Fast Robot Assembly

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current service robots are costly, limited in configurability, and require specific hardware and software for each deployment, making them inefficient and inflexible for various applications.

Innovation Solution

A modular connector system with a locking mechanism and integrated electrical connectors that enable secure, efficient connections between interchangeable components, allowing for customizable configurations and intelligent power/data flow management.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If service robots are developed from the ground up for specific deployments, then the robots can be optimized for specific tasks, but the development cost and time increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetask optimizationVSAvoiddevelopment cost and time

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The robot system is divided into modular components that can be independently developed and assembled. Each module can be optimized for specific functions while sharing common standardized interfaces, reducing overall development complexity and cost.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Standardized mechanical and electrical connectors are designed to work across multiple module types and applications. This universal interface approach allows the same connector design to serve various robotic platforms, reducing development costs while maintaining task-specific optimization capabilities.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Productivity

If modular components use standardized connectors, then assembly time is reduced, but ensuring secure and reliable connections becomes more challenging

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveassembly speedVSAvoidconnection security

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

Traditional manual locking mechanisms are replaced with solenoid-actuated locking systems that automatically engage and secure connectors. This electromechanical system provides reliable locking action while maintaining quick assembly capability through automated control.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The connector design incorporates self-aligning and self-locking features that automatically ensure proper connection when modules are brought together. The solenoid system automatically engages locking plungers into grooves without manual intervention, providing both speed and reliability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Adaptability or versatility

If connectors include all possible connection types, then versatility is improved, but device complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection capabilityVSAvoidconnector complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

A single standardized connector design provides multiple connection types (power, data, control) through integrated contacts and circuits. This universal connector can accommodate different connection requirements without requiring separate specialized connectors for each function.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The connector design includes all possible connection types and capabilities, but individual modules only activate or utilize the specific connections they need. This approach maintains versatility in the connector design while allowing simpler implementation at the module level.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #16Partial or excessive action

4Reliability

If solenoid locking systems are implemented, then connection security is improved, but power consumption and system complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelocking securityVSAvoidsolenoid power consumption

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The solenoid locking system operates periodically rather than continuously - activating only when connectors need to be engaged or disengaged. During normal operation, the mechanical locking structures maintain connection security passively without requiring continuous power input to the solenoids.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #19Periodic action

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

Enables quick assembly and low-cost customization of service robots for various applications, enhancing flexibility and performance by allowing for seamless power and data connections between modular components.

Implementation Method 1

The locking mechanism includes a solenoid operable to lock the first component to the second component

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectSolenoid: Solenoid

Data Source

PatentUS20250381660A1Connector for modular components

Publication Date: 2025.12.18 XTEND AI INC

AI summary

A physical connector includes an intelligent locking system (which may further include a mechanical locking system) that operates to connect modules of a modular system that further contains data and power connectors along at least one bus system wherein the internal connectors may be modularized (and broken down into subsets as the data and power connecting lines propagate through the system), wherein the connector includes a transponder capable of communicating with another transponder of a different connector, wherein the transponder holds basic data on the connecting module and connecting modules down the connection line and that basic data is interpreted by a core module with use of a data library.