Output Device Force Multiplier Mechanism for Robotic Arms
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing output devices attached to robotic arms require a large force to move the operating rod, necessitating the use of tools or motors, which is inefficient and costly.
Innovation Solution
An output device with a force multiplier mechanism that assists the movement of the operating rod using a cam surface and engagement member, allowing the rod to be moved with a small external force, and includes a guide system to prevent erroneous operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If a large force is applied to the operating rod using a tool such as a hexagonal wrench, then the operating rod can be moved in its axial direction, but the device complexity and operation difficulty increase due to the need for additional tools and driving means
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a force multiplier mechanism as an intermediary between the operating rod and the user's applied force. This mechanism includes a cam surface and engagement member that convert a small force applied to the operating rod into a large force through mechanical advantage, eliminating the need for tools or motors while still achieving the required force to move the operating rod
Solution Approach 2:
The force multiplier mechanism changes the force parameter through mechanical advantage. By designing the cam surface with specific geometric parameters, the system transforms a small input force into a large output force, allowing the operating rod to be moved with minimal effort without increasing device complexity
2Force
If a force multiplier mechanism is introduced to assist movement of the operating rod, then the force required to move the rod decreases, but the device complexity increases due to additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The force multiplier mechanism is merged with the existing housing and operating rod structure. The cam surface is formed on the housing itself, and the engagement member integrates with the operating rod, eliminating the need for separate force multiplier components and reducing overall device complexity while still providing force multiplication
Solution Approach 2:
The housing serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, guides the operating rod, and incorporates the cam surface for force multiplication. The engagement member simultaneously connects to the operating rod and interacts with the cam surface, performing both coupling and force transmission functions, thereby reducing the need for additional components
3Ease of operation
If the operating rod is moved with a small force, then the ease of operation improves, but the reliability may decrease due to insufficient force for reliable engagement
Solution Approach 1:
The force multiplier mechanism acts as an intermediary that amplifies the small force applied by the user. The cam surface geometry is designed to provide mechanical advantage, converting the small input force into a large output force that ensures reliable engagement of the operating rod with the output rod, thereby maintaining reliability while improving ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The cam surface utilizes curved geometry to achieve force multiplication. The specific curvature of the cam surface creates a mechanical advantage that amplifies the applied force, ensuring that even a small force results in sufficient engagement force for reliable operation
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
Enables the operating rod to be moved with a small force, eliminating the need for large force tools or motors, reducing production costs and achieving a compact design while ensuring reliable operation.
Implementation Method 1
A pressing member 54 configured to be biased by a spring 55 thereby to press the engagement member 51
Implementation Method 2
The engagement recess 52 has a cam surface 52a configured to make engagement with the engagement member 51
Implementation Method 3
as a result, the output rod is moved via two wedges (a fastening driving wedge and a releasing driving wedge)
Data Source
Figure 1A~1C
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
A force multiplier (5) configured to assist movement of the operating rod (22) in its axial direction is provided. An engagement recess (52) provided on an outer periphery of the operating rod (22) has a cam surface (52a) configured to make engagement with an engagement ball (51). There is provided a support hole (53) configured to allow movement of the engagement ball (51) in a radial direction of operating rod (22) and to restrict movement of the engagement ball (51) in the axial direction of the operating rod (22). A pressing member (54) configured to press the engagement ball (51) is provided, and the pressing member (54) has a force-multiplying surface (54a).