Automatically Positionable Joints for Fast Tooling Reconfiguration

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing automated manipulator tooling assemblies are time-consuming to reconfigure for handling different workpieces, as they require manual adjustment and reassembly of interconnected tubing sections and clamps, which limits their efficiency in adapting to various workpiece geometries.

Innovation Solution

The development of automatically positionable joints with motors, clutches, and absolute encoders allows for precise and rapid adjustment of tooling assembly configurations, enabling the tooling arms to be quickly reconfigured for different workpieces by allowing motor-driven rotation and precise positioning with a releasable clutch mechanism.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If manual adjustment and reassembly of interconnected tubing sections and clamps is used, then the tooling assembly can be reconfigured for different workpieces, but the reconfiguration process becomes time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadaptability to different workpiecesVSAvoidsetup time

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the Dynamics principle by replacing static manual adjustment mechanisms with dynamic automated positioning systems. Motors drive the tubing sections to rotate and position themselves automatically, while clutches engage/disengage to lock or release positions. This transforms the reconfiguration process from manual manipulation to automated dynamic positioning, significantly reducing setup time while maintaining adaptability to different workpiece geometries.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Loss of time

If quick disconnect coupling is used, then the tooling assembly can be quickly replaced, but precise positioning and stability during operation are compromised

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvereplacement timeVSAvoidpositioning precision

Core Design Contradiction:

Loss of timeVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the Segmentation principle by dividing the tooling assembly into modular tubular sections that can be independently positioned and locked. Each section can be adjusted and secured at specific positions along the tube, allowing the assembly to be segmented into configurable segments. This enables quick reconfiguration while maintaining stable, precise positioning during operation, as each segment can be independently locked in place.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies the Preliminary action principle by pre-positioning multiple clamp locations along the tubing sections before operation begins. The automated system selects and engages the appropriate clamp positions in advance, rather than adjusting positions during operation. This preliminary positioning ensures both quick setup and stable, precise positioning during the actual workpiece handling operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

3Ease of operation

If multiple clamps and brackets are used for positioning, then the tooling assembly can be adjusted to desired positions, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveposition adjustment capabilityVSAvoidnumber of components

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the Self-service principle by implementing automated motor-driven positioning systems that self-adjust the tubing sections to desired positions without requiring manual intervention. The motors receive positioning commands and automatically rotate the sections to the correct angles, while encoders provide feedback to verify positioning accuracy. This self-service automation reduces the need for complex manual adjustment mechanisms and multiple clamps, simplifying the overall device while maintaining ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

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

This solution enables the tooling assemblies to maintain precise positioning over multiple operation cycles, reducing setup time and improving adaptability to different workpiece geometries, enhancing the efficiency and versatility of automated manipulators in handling diverse workpieces.

Implementation Method 1

a motor for causing rotation of the first joint member with respect to the second joint member

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetic conversion: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

an absolute encoder to sense the position of the first joint member relative to the second joint member

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectEncoder position sensing: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentEP3197644B1Automatically positionable joints and transfer tooling assemblies including automatically positionable joints

Publication Date: 2023.06.07 NORGREN AUTOMATION SOLUTIONS LLC

AI summary

An automatically positionable joint for a modular tooling assembly includes a first joint member; a second joint member that is rotatably connected to the first joint member; a motor for causing rotation of the first joint member with respect to the second joint member; and a first clutch that is movable between an engaged position in which the first clutch restrains rotation of the first joint member with respect to the second joint member and a disengaged position in which the first clutch permits rotation of the first joint member with respect to the second joint member.