Robot Joint Seal Structure for Easy Replacement and Dust Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing joint structures in robots face challenges in effectively sealing gaps while allowing relative rotation, leading to lubricant leakage and exposure to external dust, with complex replacement processes requiring specialized machinery.
Innovation Solution
A joint structure featuring multiple detachable members with integrated oil seals that allow relative rotation while maintaining a sealed environment, enabling easy replacement of seals without specialized tools or machinery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a contact seal element is disposed between the first wall member and the second wall member to seal a gap, then sealing performance is improved, but the seal cannot be easily replaced without disassembling the entire joint structure
Solution Approach 1:
The joint structure is divided into a first wall member, a second wall member, and a detachable member that can be separated. The seal element is positioned in the gap between the first wall member and the detachable member, allowing the detachable member to be removed and reattached without disassembling the entire joint structure. This segmentation enables independent seal replacement while maintaining effective sealing performance.
2Reliability
If a second seal portion is press-fitted to the outer circumferential surface of the first wall member, then sealing performance is improved, but replacement requires specialized press machinery
Solution Approach 1:
The seal element is extracted from the traditional press-fitted configuration and repositioned within the detachable member structure. Instead of being permanently press-fitted to the first wall member, the seal becomes part of the removable detachable member assembly. This extraction allows the seal to be replaced by simply removing and reattaching the detachable member, eliminating the need for specialized press machinery.
3Strength
If the joint structure is designed as a single integrated unit, then structural strength is improved, but maintenance requires complete disassembly
Solution Approach 1:
The joint structure is segmented into a first wall member, a second wall member, and a detachable member that can be independently removed. The detachable member includes engagement features that maintain strong structural connection during operation but allow for quick removal and reattachment during maintenance. This segmentation enables seal replacement without complete disassembly, significantly reducing maintenance time while preserving structural integrity.
4Reliability
If the seal element is positioned at the outer side of the joint structure, then sealing effectiveness is improved, but the seal is exposed to external dust and contaminants
Solution Approach 1:
The seal element is nested within the detachable member structure, positioned in the gap between the first wall member and the detachable member. This nested configuration allows the seal to maintain its sealing effectiveness at the interface while being protected from direct exposure to external dust and contaminants by the detachable member's outer surface. The detachable member acts as a protective enclosure for the seal element.
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 effectively prevents lubricant leakage and protects seals from external dust, facilitating easy and efficient seal replacement, reducing downtime and maintenance complexity.
Implementation Method 1
a second seal that is press-fitted into the second inner surface and that seals an annular gap between the second inner surface and the outer surface while allowing relative rotation of the first member and the second member about the axis
Data Source
AI summary
A joint structure includes: a first member having a cylindrical first inner surface extending along a predetermined axis; a second member having a cylindrical outer surface disposed coaxially with the first inner surface; a first seal that seals annular gap between the first inner surface and the outer surface while allowing relative rotation of the first member and the second member about the axis; a third member having a second inner surface disposed coaxially with the first inner surface and detachably attached to the first member on an outer side of a sealing position sealed with the first seal; and a second seal that is press-fitted into the second inner surface and that seals annular gap between the second inner surface and the outer surface while allowing relative rotation of the first member and the second member about the axis.