Robot Drive Mechanism Temperature Control for Low-Temperature Operation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Robot arms installed in normal temperature environments struggle to operate smoothly in low temperature environments due to increased lubricant viscosity and potential solidification, leading to operational difficulties.
Innovation Solution
A robot system with a control section that includes temperature measurement and heating sections for each drive mechanism, allowing for individual temperature control to maintain target temperatures, preventing lubricant hardening and viscosity issues.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the robot arm is installed in a low temperature environment, then the robot arm can operate in harsh conditions, but the lubricant viscosity increases and smooth operation becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by actively modifying the temperature parameter of the lubricant through heating elements. The control unit adjusts the temperature of the lubricant to maintain it within an optimal range, preventing viscosity increase and ensuring smooth robot arm operation in low temperature environments.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary system consisting of heating elements and temperature sensors that mediate between the cold environment and the lubricant. This intermediary temperature control system protects the lubricant from direct exposure to low temperatures, maintaining its operational properties.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the robot arm operates in a low temperature environment, then the robot arm can perform work in harsh conditions, but the lubricant may solidify and the robot arm cannot operate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by continuously monitoring lubricant temperature and applying heat before solidification occurs. The heating elements activate in advance to maintain the lubricant above its freezing point, preventing solidification and ensuring continuous reliable operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs feedback control through temperature sensors that continuously monitor lubricant temperature and feed this information to the control unit. The control unit adjusts heating power based on real-time temperature data, maintaining reliable operation by preventing lubricant solidification.
3Reliability
If individual temperature control is implemented for each drive mechanism, then operational stability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the temperature control system into independent units for each drive mechanism. Each drive mechanism has its own temperature sensor and heating element, allowing localized temperature control without requiring complex centralized control of the entire robot arm.
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
Ensures stable operation of the robot arm in low temperature environments by preventing lubricant hardening and maintaining optimal viscosity, thereby enhancing operational efficiency and preventing energy loss.
Implementation Method 1
a first heating section that heats the first drive section, a second heating section that is different from the first heating section and that heats the second drive section
Data Source
AI summary
A robot system includes a robot and a robot controller that controls an operation and a temperature of the robot. The robot includes a first joint, a second joint, a first drive mechanism that drives the first joint, and a second drive mechanism that drives the second joint. A temperature adjuster includes a temperature sensor that measures a first temperature of the first drive mechanism, a heater that heats the first drive mechanism, a temperature sensor that measures a second temperature of the second drive mechanism, a heater that heats the second drive mechanism, and an adjustment section that controls the heater so that the first temperature of the first drive mechanism approaches a first target value set in advance, and that controls the heater so that the second temperature of the second drive mechanism approaches a second target value set in advance.