Robot Arm Recesses for Torch Cable Routing Freedom
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing welding robot systems have limited degree of freedom in the layout of the torch cable along the arm, restricting its flexibility and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A robot system with a first arm portion attached to an end effector, a second arm portion that supports the first arm portion swingably about a first axis, a third arm portion that supports the second arm portion rotatably about a second axis orthogonal to the first axis, and a tube connected to the end effector, along with recess portions formed along the tube's arrangement direction to increase flexibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a guide surface is formed on one side of the upper arm to guide the torch cable, then the cable can be guided along the arm, but the degree of freedom in the layout of the cable is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The arm structure is segmented into multiple sides with separate recess portions (first recess portion on one side, second recess portion on the other side). This segmentation allows the tube to be routed through different paths depending on operational requirements, increasing layout freedom while keeping each individual recess portion structurally simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The solution transitions from a single-sided guide surface (one-dimensional constraint) to multi-sided recess portions (three-dimensional freedom). By providing recess portions on both sides of the arm, the tube layout is no longer constrained to a single plane or side, enabling spatial flexibility in cable management.
2Ease of operation
If the tube is arranged along the arm from base end to tip, then it can be connected to the end effector, but the layout flexibility is restricted without additional recess portions
Solution Approach 1:
The arm is divided into multiple sections with dedicated recess portions at different locations (base end side and tip side). This segmentation allows the tube to be routed through different segments of the arm structure, providing multiple layout options without requiring complete structural redesign.
Solution Approach 2:
The recess portions serve multiple functions: they guide the tube along the arm, provide structural support for the tube routing, and enable flexible layout adjustments. This multi-functionality increases ease of operation without adding separate dedicated components for each function.
Data Source
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AI summary
A robot (1) is provided which has: a first arm portion to which an end effector is attached, a second arm portion configured to support, at a tip portion (37) thereof, the first arm portion swingably about a first axis, a third arm portion configured to support a base end portion (35) of the second arm portion rotatably about a second axis orthogonal to the first axis, a tube arranged from the base end portion (35) side toward the tip portion (37) side of the second arm portion and connected to the end effector; and a first recess portion (31) and a second recess portion (33), which are formed along an arrangement direction of the tube between the base end portion (35) and the tip portion (37) on one side and the other side in a direction orthogonal to both of the first and second axes, respectively.