Picking Robot End Effector With Spring Joint
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current automated bin picking systems in manufacturing, such as those used in car manufacturing, face challenges with reliability and error rates when handling randomly placed objects, requiring improved methods for precision and efficiency in picking and delivering items from bins to assembly lines.
Innovation Solution
A picking robot equipped with an end effector assembly and vision assembly, featuring a joint connection with locking mechanisms and spring constructions, allows for precise picking and movement of objects from bins to delivery stations, with the ability to adapt to object surfaces and return to initial positions, enhancing handling and reducing errors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a rigid end effector structure is used for picking objects, then structural strength is improved, but adaptability to randomly placed objects deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The end effector structure transitions from a static rigid design to a dynamic system with movable joints and spring constructions that can adapt their configuration based on object characteristics, enabling both strength and adaptability
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes physical parameters such as joint stiffness and spring pre-loads to optimize the balance between structural strength and adaptability for different picking scenarios
2Manufacturing precision
If the end effector assembly uses fixed joint connections, then manufacturing precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
Fixed joint connections are replaced with dynamic joint assemblies incorporating springs and locking mechanisms that provide precision during operation while enabling easy adjustment and reconfiguration
Solution Approach 2:
The joint connection is divided into modular components (spring construction, locking mechanism, joint elements) that can be independently adjusted, maintained, and replaced
3Productivity
If the picking robot operates at high speed, then productivity is improved, but reliability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The joint connection is locked in advance before high-speed movement to ensure stability and reliability during the critical picking and delivery phases, while allowing high-speed operation during transit
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 solution improves handling of randomly placed objects, increasing productivity, reliability, and reducing error rates, enabling faster and more precise operations while providing design flexibility and speed in automation processes.
Implementation Method 1
The joint connection comprises a first spring construction having a first end and a second end
Data Source
AI summary
An end effector assembly for a picking robot, and a tool unit is disclosed, the end effector assembly comprising a first end effector part, a second end effector part, and an end effector device mounted on the second end effector part, wherein the first end effector part and the second end effector part are connected via a joint connection comprising a first joint having at least a first degree of freedom, the joint connection comprising a first spring construction having a first end and a second end, the first end connected to the first end effector part and the second end connected to the second end effector part.