Multiplex Signal Switching for Robot Position Scale Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
In factory automation, the miniaturization of robots makes direct connection between linear scales and adjustment computers difficult due to reduced space, hindering the adjustment of sensing sensitivities and amplification factors.
Innovation Solution
A multiplex device with a multiplex connecting section, amplifier connecting section, and switching section enables multiplex communication for transmitting position signals, allowing for adjustment of position signal output even when direct connection is challenging, by detecting connections between measuring devices and switching between different communication paths.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the movable section is miniaturized to reduce robot size, then the robot's overall dimensions are reduced, but the connection between the linear scale and adjustment computer becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a multiplex device as an intermediary component that includes both a multiplex communication interface and an adjustment interface. This device mediates between the linear scale on the miniaturized movable section and the adjustment computer, allowing adjustment connections to be made to the fixed section rather than directly to the movable section, thus solving the accessibility problem caused by miniaturization
Solution Approach 2:
The multiplex device serves multiple functions: it enables multiplex communication between the movable and fixed sections, provides an adjustment interface for connecting to the linear scale, and facilitates signal transmission. By combining these functions in a single device located in the fixed section, the system maintains ease of operation despite robot miniaturization
2Device complexity
If multiplex communication is used to transmit position signals, then wiring complexity is reduced, but connection switching between amplifier and measuring device is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic connection switching within the multiplex device, where the connection between the multiplex communication interface and either the amplifier or measuring device can be switched based on operational mode. This dynamic reconfiguration allows the system to adapt between normal operation (amplifier connected) and adjustment mode (measuring device connected), managing complexity through controlled flexibility
Data Source
AI summary
A multiplex device including a multiplex connecting section connected to a movable side multiplex device, the multiplex connecting section being configured to transmit a position signal outputted from a position signal output section connected to the movable side multiplex device by multiplexing communication with the movable side multiplex device; an amplifier connecting section connected to a position signal output section amplifier, the amplifier being configured to transmit the position signal to the position signal output section amplifier; a measuring device connecting section connected to a position signal measuring device; and a switching section configured to switch from a connection between the multiplex connecting section and the position signal output section amplifier, and a connection between the multiplex connecting section and the position signal measuring device in accordance with detection of a connection between the measuring device connecting section and the position signal measuring device.