Nested Coil Bending Joint for Stable Robot Articulation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing joint function parts in robots and manipulators with flexible members have a complicated structure that compromises the stability and simplicity of bending operations.
Innovation Solution
A bending structure comprising an outer coiled part and an inner coiled part, where the inner coiled part fits between the gaps of the outer coiled part, with specific dimensional constraints to ensure rigidity and simplify the structure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple disc elements are engaged with each other to stabilize bending operation, then bending stability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies nesting by placing the inner coiled part inside the outer coiled part, with the inner coils fitting into the gaps between outer coils. This nested configuration provides mutual support and stabilization during bending operations while maintaining a compact, integrated structure rather than requiring multiple separate engaged components
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the functions of multiple disc elements into a single integrated bending structure consisting of outer and inner coiled parts. The two coiled parts work together as a unified system to provide bending stability, eliminating the need for multiple separately engaged disc elements
2Strength
If coils are positioned to fit between adjacent coils of outer coiled part, then axial rigidity is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent specifies particular parameter ranges for the gap dimension P (πR/4N ≤ P ≤ 3R/2N) to optimize the fit between inner and outer coils. By defining these parameter relationships, the design achieves axial rigidity through controlled geometric parameters rather than requiring extreme manufacturing precision
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by creating gaps in the outer coiled part at specific locations where inner coils need to fit. This localized gap configuration provides axial rigidity where needed while maintaining flexibility elsewhere in the structure
3Ease of operation
If gap dimension P is set within specific range, then bending operation smoothness is improved, but manufacturing constraints increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent defines specific parameter ranges for gap dimension P (πR/4N ≤ P ≤ 3R/2N) that optimize bending smoothness. These parameter relationships provide clear manufacturing guidelines that balance operational performance with manufacturability
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
The structure stabilizes bending operations while simplifying the design, ensuring smooth movement without interference or catching, and maintaining flexibility and rigidity in the axial direction.
Implementation Method 1
the coils of the inner coiled part are provided so as to correspond to the gaps of the outer coiled part and fit between the adjacent coils of the outer coiled part while being in contact with the adjacent coils of the outer coiled part
Implementation Method 2
the bending structure is provided between the base part and the movable part to bend according to displacement of the movable part relative to the base part
Data Source
AI summary
Provided are a bending structure and a joint function part, capable of stabilizing bending operation and simplifying a structure. An inner coiled part is located into an outer coiled part. The outer coiled part and the inner coiled part have a plurality of gaps distancing adjacent coils in an axial direction, and the coils of the inner coiled part fit between the adjacent coils of the outer coiled part while being in contact with the adjacent coils. A dimension (P) is set in a range meeting π(R)/4(N)≤P<(d)−π(R)/4(N) in which (P) is the dimension of a gap of the outer coiled part in the axial direction in a free state, (N) is the number of turns of the outer coiled part, (R) is a diameter of the outer coiled part, and (d) is a wire diameter of the wire of the inner coiled part.