Robot Link Integrating Elastic Outer Layer for CFRP Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing robot link structures made of carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) lack protection against clamping forces and surface pressures, leading to potential damage and increased manufacturing costs due to the need for additional protective components.
Innovation Solution
Integrally stacking an inner layer of carbon fiber reinforced plastic with an outer layer of elastic material, such as nitrile rubber, to cover the entire circumference of the link members, which disperses clamping forces and protects the CFRP from damage, reducing the need for separate protective components and simplifying assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) is used for robot links to reduce weight, then the weight of the link is reduced, but the link becomes vulnerable to damage from clamping forces and surface pressures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies composite materials by combining CFRP (for lightweight and high tensile strength) with elastic material (for protection against clamping forces and surface pressures). This creates a multi-material structure where each material contributes its advantageous properties, resolving the contradiction between weight reduction and damage resistance
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses an outer layer of elastic material that covers the CFRP link. This flexible outer layer acts as a protective shell that absorbs and distributes clamping forces and surface pressures, preventing damage to the underlying CFRP structure while maintaining the lightweight advantage
2Reliability
If additional protective components are added to protect CFRP links from clamping forces, then the protection against damage is improved, but the manufacturing cost increases and assembly becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the protective function directly into the link structure by integrating the elastic material as an outer layer of the link itself. This eliminates the need for separate protective components, reducing assembly complexity while maintaining comprehensive protection against clamping forces and surface pressures
Solution Approach 2:
The outer layer of elastic material serves multiple functions simultaneously: it protects against clamping forces, distributes surface pressures, and integrates with the CFRP structure. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional specialized components, simplifying both manufacturing and assembly
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
This configuration enhances the protection of CFRP link members from intersecting loads, reduces the risk of damage, lowers manufacturing costs by minimizing component count, and improves assembly ease while maintaining high tensile strength and lightweight properties.
Implementation Method 1
an outer layer made of elastic material and covering an outer peripheral surface of at least part of the inner layer in a longitudinal direction over an entire circumference
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a robot including at least one joint, and at least two links and coupled with each other by the joint. At least one of the links and includes an inner layer made of carbon fiber reinforced plastic, and an outer layer made of elastic material and covering an outer peripheral surface of at least part of the inner layer in a longitudinal direction over an entire circumference, the layers being integrally stacked.