Quick-Change End Effector With Locking Receptacle for Fast Nozzle Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
The design and manufacture of end effectors for interfacing with nozzles in transport structures are inefficient and costly, particularly in mass assembly processes, due to the complexity and time-consuming nature of traditional manufacturing methods.
Innovation Solution
An end effector design featuring a receptacle with movable retention features and actuators to securely lock and release nozzles, combined with a channel system for fluid injection and vacuum application, optimized for additive manufacturing techniques to enhance efficiency and sophistication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If traditional manufacturing processes are used to manufacture end effectors with intricate sub-substructures, then manufacturing precision can be achieved, but productivity is significantly reduced and manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the manufacturing parameter from traditional subtractive or assembly-based methods to additive manufacturing (3D printing). This parameter change enables the production of intricate sub-substructures that would be difficult or impossible to manufacture traditionally, while simultaneously improving productivity by creating complex geometries in a single manufacturing process rather than through multiple assembly steps.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional interface methods are used with nozzles of nodes, then compatibility is maintained, but the manufacturing process becomes time-consuming and inefficient for mass assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The end effector is segmented into distinct functional components: a body portion that interfaces with the nozzle, a retention feature portion with movable retention features, and integrated fluid channels. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while maintaining overall compatibility with existing nozzle interfaces, and the modular design facilitates faster manufacturing and assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The end effector design incorporates multiple functions within a single component: it provides mechanical retention of the nozzle through movable retention features, fluid distribution through integrated channels, and structural support. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate components, reducing assembly time while maintaining adaptability to various nozzle configurations.
3Adaptability or versatility
If intricate sub-substructures are incorporated into end effectors to improve functionality, then device capability is enhanced, but device complexity increases making manufacturing more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functions and structural elements into a single integrated end effector component. The body portion, retention features, and fluid channels are combined into one additively manufactured part, eliminating the need for multiple separate components and complex assembly procedures. This merging reduces device complexity while maintaining enhanced functionality through the integrated design.
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 enables rapid and cost-effective assembly of high-performance end effectors for transport structures, improving the efficiency of mass production by simplifying the interface with nozzles and reducing manufacturing complexity.
Implementation Method 1
one or more retention features positioned along a perimeter of the receptacle, where each of the one or more retention features is movable between a first position and a second position
Implementation Method 2
one or more actuators configured to actuate the one or more retention features between the first position and the second position
Implementation Method 3
a first outlet positioned inside the receptacle and configured to be coupled to the first nozzle inlet in the first position
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A
AI summary
An end effector for interfacing with a nozzle is disclosed. The end effector comprises a first end, which includes a receptacle. The end effector comprises one or more retention features positioned along a perimeter of the receptacle, where each of the one or more retention features is movable between a first position and a second position. Each of the one or more retention features is configured to lock the nozzle by securing onto a corresponding one of the one or more nozzle retention features in the first position, and to release the nozzle in the second position. The end effector may further comprise one or more actuators and a first channel, which includes a first inlet and a first outlet. A method of using an end effector to interface with a nozzle is also disclosed.