Module Installation Tool With Axial-to-Rotary Vacuum Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vacuum interlock systems require precise user manipulation to install and uninstall components, posing a risk of damage to equipment and complexity in operation.
Innovation Solution
A module installation tool with a dual-position mechanism that allows for automatic rotation of the tool head between locked and unlocked positions in response to axial motion, simplifying the installation and removal process with minimal user skill required.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a vacuum interlock tool is used to install or uninstall components, then component installation can be performed without venting the vacuum chamber, but the system requires precise user manipulation following a complex sequence of steps
Solution Approach 1:
The tool head automatically rotates in response to axial motion of the actuator, eliminating the need for users to manually rotate the tool head. The system self-adjusts its orientation based on the actuator's position, reducing user manipulation complexity while maintaining vacuum seal integrity
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanism provides automatic feedback through the mechanical linkage between axial actuator motion and tool head rotation. As the actuator moves axially, it automatically triggers the tool head to rotate to the appropriate orientation, creating a self-regulating system that guides the user through the installation sequence without requiring precise manual control
2Manufacturing precision
If a vacuum interlock tool requires precise sequence of steps for component installation, then proper component installation can be ensured, but the operation complexity increases and risk of equipment damage rises
Solution Approach 1:
The tool head transitions from a static component to a dynamic one that automatically rotates in response to actuator motion. This dynamic behavior allows the tool to adapt its orientation automatically during the installation process, reducing the need for users to follow complex sequential steps while maintaining installation precision
Solution Approach 2:
The functions of axial positioning and rotational orientation are merged into a single actuator motion. By combining these two degrees of freedom into one coordinated movement, the system simplifies the operational sequence while ensuring precise component installation through the coupled motion mechanism
3Measurement precision
If manual rotation of the tool head is required for coupling or uncoupling modules, then precise control can be achieved, but the ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The manual mechanical rotation operation is replaced with an automatic rotation mechanism driven by axial actuator motion. The mechanical linkage automatically converts linear actuator displacement into precise rotational positioning of the tool head, eliminating the need for users to manually rotate the tool while maintaining accurate rotational positioning
Solution Approach 2:
The actuator serves as an intermediary that mediates between the user's simple axial pushing motion and the complex rotational positioning requirement. By introducing this intermediate mechanical element, the system translates simple linear motion into precise rotational control, improving ease of operation while maintaining positioning accuracy
Data Source
AI summary
Module installation tools and associated methods are disclosed herein. In an example, a module installation tool includes a tool head, a tool base, and an actuator. The module installation tool is configured such that axial motion of the actuator relative to the tool base causes the tool head to rotate relative to the tool base to couple a module to a module receiver or to uncouple the module from the module receiver. In an example, a method includes translating an actuator of a module installation tool in a proximal direction to bring the module into engagement with a module receiver and further translating the actuator in the proximal direction to rotate the tool head relative to the module receiver.