Robot Gripper Air Switch for Bolt Insertion Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for inserting bolts or parts onto a workpiece using robots often result in improper or incomplete insertion, leading to inefficiencies on the assembly line due to potential misalignment or defects.
Innovation Solution
A device and method utilizing a robot with a gripper equipped with a pressurized air source and sensor to detect alignment and obstruction, allowing for precise alignment and correction of parts before insertion, using an air switch feature to monitor pressure changes and adjust the gripper's operation to ensure proper placement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If automated insertion using a robot is implemented, then productivity is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to improper or incomplete insertion
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses a pressure sensor to detect backpressure in the air line connected to the orifice on the gripper. When the part is properly inserted into the receptacle, the orifice becomes obstructed, causing a detectable change in backpressure. This feedback signal is sent to the controller, which confirms proper insertion and allows the automated process to continue reliably.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary detection mechanism (pressure sensor monitoring air backpressure) between the gripper and the controller. This intermediary system translates the physical state of part insertion (obstruction of orifice) into a detectable signal, enabling the controller to verify proper insertion without direct mechanical measurement.
2Productivity
If conventional automated insertion is used, then productivity increases, but manufacturing precision deteriorates due to misalignment detection issues
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces complex mechanical alignment detection mechanisms with a pneumatic sensing system. Instead of using mechanical switches, optical sensors, or complex positioning systems, the patent uses backpressure detection in an air line to sense the position and alignment of the part relative to the gripper and receptacle.
3Device complexity
If automated insertion without verification is implemented, then device complexity is reduced, but reliability deteriorates due to inability to detect improper insertion
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses the existing air supply infrastructure to serve dual purposes: both actuating the gripper and providing verification of proper insertion. The same air line that powers the gripper's operation also provides the medium for detection, eliminating the need for separate verification systems and maintaining simplicity while improving reliability.
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
Improves the accuracy and efficiency of part placement by detecting misalignment and correcting it automatically, reducing manual intervention and increasing the reliability of automated assembly processes.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor in communication with the pressurized air, the sensor being adapted for detecting a back pressure of the air provided by any obstruction of the orifice
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for implementing a search and feel function on a robot for installing parts on a workpiece. An air switch feature is provided on a gripper of the robot to determine the presence and proper placement of a part in a desired receptor location on the workpiece. The air switch feature is used to detect whether or not a particular part, such as a bolt or other part being inserted by the robot, has been properly gripped by the gripper, and whether the part has been properly placed in the desired position.