Robot Soundproofing Device with Elastic Fiber Layer

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional soundproofing solutions for robots are either ineffective in reducing noise, restrictive in motion, difficult to apply, or not easily replaceable, and do not provide a suitable configuration for robot apparatuses.

Innovation Solution

A soundproofing device comprising a first layer with sound-absorbing properties and a second layer with elastic fibers, attached to a robot apparatus via an adhesive member, which reduces noise while allowing unhindered motion and easy attachment and replacement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Object-affected harmful factors

If a conventional soundproofing device is used, then noise reduction is achieved, but motion performance is restricted

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovenoiseVSAvoidmotion performance

Core Design Contradiction:

Object-affected harmful factorsVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The soundproofing device uses a composite structure with a foam resin layer (sound-absorbing material) and an elastic fiber layer (flexible material). This combination allows the device to absorb noise effectively while maintaining flexibility and elasticity, thus preventing motion restriction. The foam resin provides soundproofing capability while the elastic fiber layer ensures the grounding unit can move freely without being constrained by the soundproofing device.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #40Composite materials

2Object-affected harmful factors

If a conventional soundproofing device is used, then noise reduction is achieved, but attachment and replacement become difficult

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovenoiseVSAvoidattachment and replacement

Core Design Contradiction:

Object-affected harmful factorsVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The soundproofing device is designed as a separate, detachable component that can be easily attached to and removed from the grounding unit. The device consists of distinct layers (foam resin and elastic fiber) that are bonded together but can be easily separated from the grounding unit, enabling simple attachment and replacement without complex assembly processes.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

3Object-affected harmful factors

If a soundproofing device with sound-absorbing material is used, then noise is minimized, but the device becomes difficult to apply

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovenoiseVSAvoidease to apply

Core Design Contradiction:

Object-affected harmful factorsVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The soundproofing device incorporates an elastic fiber layer that provides flexibility and adaptability. This flexible structure allows the device to conform to the grounding unit's surface and be easily applied without requiring complex installation procedures. The elastic fibers enable the device to be stretched, bent, and molded to fit the intended application area, making it user-friendly and easy to apply.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

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 soundproofing device effectively minimizes noise, maintains motion performance, and is easily attachable and detachable, providing a suitable configuration for robot apparatuses.

Implementation Method 1

a first layer having a sound absorbing property

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectSound absorption: Acoustic Absorption

Implementation Method 2

a second layer including an elastic fiber

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS12064870B2Soundproofing device, robot apparatus, method for controlling robot apparatus, and program

Publication Date: 2024.08.20 SONY GROUP CORP

AI summary

A soundproofing device includes: a first layer (911) having sound absorbing properties; and a second layer (912) including elastic fibers.