Parallel Link Robot Drive Unit Interconnection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional parallel link robots require a base portion for interconnecting drive units, limiting their compactness and flexibility in installation, especially in small spaces, while also restricting their motion range due to the need for additional components.
Innovation Solution
The design connects drive units directly via first and second connection portions on their housings, eliminating the need for a base portion and allowing for a reduced overall height, enabling broader motion ranges and easier installation in confined spaces by interconnecting the drive units without a central base.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If a base portion is used to interconnect drive units, then the structure is stable and easy to assemble, but the overall height increases and the robot cannot be installed in small spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The base portion is extracted and removed from the system. Drive units are directly interconnected with each other through connection portions formed on their housings, eliminating the need for a separate base portion while maintaining structural stability and reducing overall height.
Solution Approach 2:
The functions of the base portion and drive unit housings are merged. The housing of each drive unit is designed to include connection portions that directly connect to other drive units, combining the support and connection functions into a single integrated structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a base portion is used to interconnect drive units, then the assembly is simplified, but the motion range is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The robot structure is segmented into multiple independent drive units, each with its own housing and connection portions. This segmentation allows greater flexibility in positioning and motion range while maintaining ease of assembly through standardized connection interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection structure is made dynamic by allowing drive units to be positioned and connected in various configurations. The connection portions enable the drive units to move relative to each other, expanding the motion range while keeping the assembly process simple through modular design.
3Length of stationary object
If drive units are connected directly without a base portion, then the overall height is reduced and installation in small spaces is enabled, but the connection structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The housing of each drive unit serves multiple functions: it protects internal components, provides structural support, and includes integrated connection portions for interconnecting with other drive units. This multi-functionality reduces overall height while avoiding additional connection components.
Solution Approach 2:
Connection portions are designed with asymmetric features including protrusions and recesses that enable direct connection between drive units. This asymmetric design simplifies the connection structure by eliminating the need for symmetric base portions while maintaining structural integrity.
Data Source
AI summary
A parallel link robot includes a plurality of drive units and link units each driven by the corresponding drive unit. Each of the drive units includes a motor, a transmission mechanism that transmits the rotation of the motor to the link unit, and a housing that holds the motor. The housing includes a first connection portion, a second connection portion, and an opening through which the link unit extends. The first connection portion of one of the drive units and the second connection portion of another of the drive units are connected to each other, while the second connection portion of the one of the drive units and the first connection portion of another of the drive units are connected to each other.