Offset-Axis Modular Actuator Layout for Compact Robotic Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing modular robotic systems are large, complex, and expensive, making them unsuitable for accessing space-restricted locations and requiring high maintenance, while also being inefficient for remote or hostile environments.
Innovation Solution
A modular robotic system with an actuator mechanism featuring a motor, carrier, and actuating member, where the output axis is offset from the longitudinal axis by at least half of the maximum width dimension, allowing for compact design and sealed modules that can be easily connected and disconnected, enabling efficient operation in various environments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional robotic systems are used to automate manipulation, then efficiency and safety are improved, but system size and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic system is divided into modular components (end effectors, actuators, linkages) that can be independently manufactured, assembled, and replaced. Each module performs a specific function, allowing the overall system to achieve complex manipulation capabilities through simple, standardized building blocks rather than a single complex integrated system.
2Ease of operation
If large robotic assemblies are used for remote operations, then manipulation capability is improved, but accessibility to space-restricted locations deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic system is divided into modular components (end effectors, actuators, linkages) that can be independently manufactured, assembled, and replaced. Each module performs a specific function, allowing the overall system to achieve complex manipulation capabilities through simple, standardized building blocks rather than a single complex integrated system.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular design allows smaller functional units to be nested within or attached to larger structural components. The robotic arm consists of multiple linkages that can be collapsed or nested when not in use, reducing the overall volume occupied by the system while maintaining full manipulation capability when deployed.
3Manufacturing precision
If complex robotic systems are deployed, then manipulation precision is improved, but maintenance cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic system is divided into modular components (end effectors, actuators, linkages) that can be independently manufactured, assembled, and replaced. Each module performs a specific function, allowing the overall system to achieve complex manipulation capabilities through simple, standardized building blocks rather than a single complex integrated system.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular design allows individual components to be easily replaced when worn or damaged, rather than requiring maintenance of the entire system. Standardized interfaces enable quick swapping of end effectors, actuators, or linkages, significantly reducing maintenance time and complexity while maintaining high precision through replacement of precision components.
4Strength
If traditional robotic designs are used, then structural strength is improved, but adaptability to different environments deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic system is divided into modular components (end effectors, actuators, linkages) that can be independently manufactured, assembled, and replaced. Each module performs a specific function, allowing the overall system to achieve complex manipulation capabilities through simple, standardized building blocks rather than a single complex integrated system.
Solution Approach 2:
The standardized modular components are designed with universal interfaces and mounting mechanisms that allow the same actuator or linkage to be used in multiple different configurations and applications. The end effectors can be changed to suit different tasks (gripping, welding, cutting), allowing a single robotic platform to adapt to various environments and functions while maintaining structural integrity through standardized connection points.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is an actuator mechanism for a modular robotic system. The actuator mechanism includes a motor, a carrier configured to be secured to the motor, and an actuating member operable by the motor to cause the actuating member to move relative to the carrier. The motor has a drive shaft which defines an output axis, and a body extending away from the shaft, the body defining a maximum width dimension orthogonal to the output axis. The carrier defines a longitudinal axis parallel to the output axis. The output axis is arranged, by the carrier, to be offset from the longitudinal axis by at least half of the maximum width dimension. Also disclosed is a module for a modular robotic system, and a modular robotic system.