Monolithic Support Frame for Handling Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing handling devices with pneumatically actuatable gripping elements face complexity and error-prone designs due to the multitude of components required for assembly, making it difficult to configure them according to specific workpiece geometry and gripping requirements.
Innovation Solution
A support frame with topologically similar structural elements, comprising radial beams and lattice wings, allows for a monolithic structure that can be configured and manufactured using generative techniques like 3D printing, enabling adaptation to various gripping requirements and efficient production.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple components are connected to assemble the support frame, then the gripping elements can be arranged on the support frame, but the construction becomes complex and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate components (radial beams, lattice wings, connecting sections) into a monolithic support frame produced by additive manufacturing. This integration eliminates the need for complex assembly of multiple parts while maintaining the structural functionality and adaptability of the support frame for different gripping configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The support frame is designed with a universal structure that can accommodate different numbers and arrangements of gripping elements. The lattice wing structure with multiple connecting edges allows the same basic component to serve multiple functions and configurations, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining versatility.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the support frame is configured to meet specific gripping requirements, then the handling device can be optimized for specific workpieces, but the manufacturing becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes additive manufacturing technology that allows easy modification of design parameters such as the number of radial beams, lattice wing configurations, and connecting section positions. By changing digital design parameters rather than physical tooling, the support frame can be customized for specific gripping requirements while maintaining manufacturing ease through digital flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical assembly and manufacturing methods with additive manufacturing. This substitution enables complex, customized geometries to be produced directly from digital models without the need for complex tooling, fixtures, or assembly operations, thereby maintaining ease of manufacture while achieving high adaptability.
3Productivity
If traditional assembly methods are used for the support frame, then components can be connected, but the production is time-consuming and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The support frame is designed with pre-integrated features such as connecting sections and lattice wing structures that are manufactured as a single monolithic component. This preliminary integration of assembly features during manufacturing eliminates the need for time-consuming post-assembly operations, thereby improving productivity and reducing assembly time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical assembly processes with additive manufacturing, which produces the complete support frame in a single manufacturing operation. This substitution eliminates multiple assembly steps, reduces production time, and lowers manufacturing costs by directly creating the final assembled structure without intermediate assembly operations.
Data Source
AI summary
A support frame for a handling device comprising a base body and at least two structural elements extending away from the base body, at least two structural elements being constructed similarly to each other in that they have at east the following common characteristics: a radial beam which is elongated and has a first end and a second end, the second end having a connecting section for connection to a pneumatically actuatable gripping element, a lattice wing which is integrally connected with the radial beam and runs between the first end of the radial beam and the second end of the radial beam, the lattice wing extending flatly away from the radial beam, wherein for each of the at least two structural elements the first end of the radial beam is integrally connected with the base body in a manner that the radial beam extends away from the base body.