Robot Restrictor Buffering for Consistent Collision Energy Absorption
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing robots fail to sufficiently absorb collision energy between restrictors due to variations in the way the buffer is crushed, leading to potential damage to the robot's distal end.
Innovation Solution
A robot design incorporating a restriction mechanism with a first and second restrictor, where at least one of the restrictors includes a buffer and a deformable member to absorb collision energy through deformation, even when the buffer is crushed variably.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If only a buffer is used to cushion collision between restrictors, then the structure is simple, but the collision energy cannot be sufficiently absorbed due to variations in the way the buffer is crushed
Solution Approach 1:
The collision energy absorption function is segmented into two independent components: a buffer for initial cushioning and a deformable member for additional energy absorption. This segmentation ensures that if the buffer's crushing behavior varies, the deformable member still provides consistent energy absorption, thereby resolving the contradiction between structural simplicity and reliable energy absorption.
Solution Approach 2:
The deformable member is designed in advance to provide backup cushioning capability. When the buffer is crushed, the deformable member deforms to absorb the collision energy, ensuring that the robot arm's distal end is protected regardless of how the buffer is crushed. This beforehand cushioning approach resolves the reliability issue.
2Reliability
If a deformable member is added to the restrictor mechanism, then the collision energy absorption is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The buffer and deformable member are merged into a single restriction mechanism assembly where both components work together to absorb collision energy. The buffer is positioned to contact first, and the deformable member is integrated into the restrictor structure, so they function as a unified energy absorption system rather than separate additions, thereby minimizing the increase in device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
Both the buffer and deformable member are designed as sacrificial components that deform or crush during collision to absorb energy. After the collision, these components can be replaced if needed, allowing the system to recover its protective function without complex repair mechanisms. This approach justifies the added complexity by providing reliable, replaceable energy absorption.
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 design effectively absorbs collision energy between restrictors, reducing the load on the robot's distal end and allowing for easy replacement of damaged components.
Implementation Method 1
At least one of the first restrictor and the second restrictor includes a buffer to cushion a collision between the first restrictor and the second restrictor
Implementation Method 2
at least one of the first restrictor and the second restrictor includes a deformable member configured to deform due to the collision between the first restrictor and the second restrictor via the buffer
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
A robot (100) includes a restriction mechanism (30) including a first restrictor (31) and a second restrictor (32). At least one of the first restrictor and the second restrictor includes a buffer (33). At least one of the first restrictor and the second restrictor includes a deformable member (34) configured to deform due to a collision between the first restrictor and the second restrictor via the buffer.