Integrated Overload Clutch for Torque and Disengagement Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing overload clutches for robot arms require additional base structures for joint torque sensing, increasing volume, complexity, and weight, which is not suitable for high-speed industrial robots.
Innovation Solution
An overload clutch design with integrated joint torque sensing means in the input and output flanges, eliminating the need for a separate base structure and allowing for active and passive compliant behavior without increasing volume or assembly complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a separate base structure is added for joint torque sensing, then measurement precision is improved, but volume and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The sensing means are integrated directly into the input flange and/or output flange of the overload clutch, merging the torque sensing function with the existing clutch structure. This eliminates the need for a separate base structure while maintaining torque measurement capability, thereby reducing overall volume without sacrificing measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The input flange and/or output flange of the overload clutch are designed to serve multiple functions: both as structural components for torque transmission and as mounting structures for the sensing means. This multi-functionality allows the same components to perform both mechanical and sensing roles, eliminating the need for additional base structures.
2Measurement precision
If a separate base structure is added for joint torque sensing, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensing means are integrated directly into the input flange and/or output flange of the overload clutch, merging the torque sensing function with the existing clutch structure. This eliminates the need for a separate base structure while maintaining torque measurement capability, thereby reducing overall volume without sacrificing measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The input flange and/or output flange of the overload clutch are designed to serve multiple functions: both as structural components for torque transmission and as mounting structures for the sensing means. This multi-functionality allows the same components to perform both mechanical and sensing roles, eliminating the need for additional base structures.
3Measurement precision
If resistive-type JTS sensors are used for high accuracy torque sensing, then measurement precision is improved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs capacitive-type JTS sensors instead of expensive resistive-type strain gauges. Capacitive sensors provide sufficient measurement precision for torque sensing while being significantly cheaper to manufacture and install. They do not require precise manual assembly like resistive sensors, reducing assembly complexity and cost while maintaining adequate measurement accuracy for robot safety applications.
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 design provides a compact overload clutch with integrated sensing capabilities, reducing volume and complexity while maintaining accurate torque measurement and disengagement detection.
Implementation Method 1
The second type of JTS is a capacitive type based on capacitive measurements between the deformed structure and an non-deformed reference structure.
Implementation Method 2
This deformation is typically caused by an external load, and is determined based on a structural model of the base structure.
Data Source
AI summary
An overload clutch comprising an input flange and an output flange, said clutch being configured to transmit torque between the input flange and the output flange and to disengage the clutch when the torque exceeds a predetermined threshold, characterised in, that the clutch comprises one or more sensing means at least partially integrated in at least one of the input and output flanges, and that the one or more sensing means are adapted to jointly determine the torque applied to transmitted between the input flange and the output flange of the clutch and to detect the disengagement of the clutch. A device comprising the clutch, a gear unit connected to the input flange, and a motor connected to the gear unit, configured to provide torque to the input flange through the gear unit.