Quick-Change End Effector With Actuated Nozzle Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
The design and manufacture of end effectors for interfacing with nozzles in additively manufactured nodes are inefficient and costly, particularly in mass assembly processes for transport structures, 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 end effector is divided into modular components including a body, receptacle, retention features, and actuators that can be manufactured separately and assembled. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while enabling parallel manufacturing processes that improve overall productivity without sacrificing the precision of intricate sub-structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes additive manufacturing parameters and processes to create complex geometries that would be difficult or impossible to achieve with traditional manufacturing. By changing the manufacturing approach to additive processes, the patent achieves both high precision for intricate structures and improved productivity through direct digital manufacturing and reduced tooling requirements.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional interface methods are used with node nozzles, then compatibility is maintained, but assembly time increases significantly for mass production
Solution Approach 1:
The retention features are pre-configured on the end effector body with actuators that can quickly engage and lock onto node nozzles. This preliminary preparation of the locking mechanism allows for rapid attachment and detachment operations, significantly reducing assembly time while maintaining compatibility with standard node nozzle interfaces through the receptacle design.
Solution Approach 2:
The retention features incorporate movable elements that can transition between engaged and disengaged states through actuation. This dynamic capability allows the end effector to quickly adapt to different node nozzles while maintaining secure connections during operation, enabling fast changeover for mass assembly operations without compromising compatibility or connection reliability.
3Reliability
If complex retention mechanisms are implemented to securely lock nozzles, then reliability of nozzle securing is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The retention features are integrated directly into the end effector body structure, combining the locking mechanism with the main component rather than using separate complex assemblies. This merging reduces the number of discrete parts and simplifies the overall device while maintaining reliable nozzle securing through the actuated retention features that lock onto node nozzles.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuators are configured to automatically engage and lock the retention features onto node nozzles without requiring complex external positioning or manual intervention. This self-service capability ensures reliable nozzle securing through automated locking actions, reducing the complexity of control systems and operational procedures while maintaining high reliability of the connection.
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 efficient and cost-effective interfacing with nozzles, reducing assembly complexity and increasing the capability for high-performance applications in transport structures, while leveraging additive manufacturing for complex geometries and reduced production time.
Implementation Method 1
The second channel (527) can be configured to enable application of a vacuum to a second inlet (524) of the nozzle
Implementation Method 2
The first channel (517) can be configured to enable injection of a fluid to a first inlet (514) of the nozzle
Data Source
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.