Robot Support Member Locking Assembly for Screw-Free Fixing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fasteners used in robots for fixing support members are not sufficient for securely holding them in position, necessitating a more effective connection assembly.
Innovation Solution
A connection assembly comprising a base, a fixing block, a locking member, and an actuating member that uses a four-bar linkage mechanism and elastic components to securely hold and release the support member without screws, allowing for easy assembly and disassembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional fasteners are used to fix support members, then basic connection needs are met, but secure positioning and reliability are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The locking member is designed to be movable between a first position (engaged with the support member for secure positioning) and a second position (disengaged for installation or removal). This dynamic mechanism allows the connection assembly to transition between locked and unlocked states, providing reliable secure positioning while maintaining operational simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic member automatically drives the locking member to move between positions without requiring external power sources or complex control systems. When the support member is inserted, the elastic member's deformation automatically pushes the locking member into the engaged position, providing self-service functionality that enhances reliability while keeping the device simple
2Ease of operation
If conventional fasteners are used, then assembly is straightforward, but ease of disassembly and repositioning is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The actuating member works with the elastic member to automatically position the locking member during assembly. When the support member is inserted, the elastic member's deformation automatically pushes the locking member into the engaged position, ensuring firm engagement without requiring complex manual operations or additional fastening steps
Solution Approach 2:
The movable locking member design allows easy transition between locked and unlocked states. The actuating member can simply move the locking member to the disengaged position for removal or repositioning, making the operation simple while the engagement itself remains firm when locked
3Ease of manufacture
If screws are used for connection, then structural integrity is maintained, but cost and manufacturing complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts and eliminates the need for screws and threaded fasteners from the connection assembly. Instead, it uses a locking member that engages with the support member through a guiding hole, providing a screw-free connection solution that reduces manufacturing cost and complexity while maintaining adequate connection strength through the locking mechanism
Solution Approach 2:
The locking member replicates the function of conventional fasteners (providing secure connection) but uses a different mechanism entirely - a movable block engaged through a guiding hole rather than threaded fasteners. This copying of function with alternative mechanism achieves the same connection strength purpose while improving ease of manufacture and reducing cost
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 connection assembly provides a secure, cost-effective means to hold support members in position without the need for screws, ensuring firm engagement and easy detachment, enhancing the structural simplicity and reliability of robotic systems.
Implementation Method 1
a locking mechanism including an elastic member deformed to drive the locking member to move from the first position to the second position
Implementation Method 2
uses a four-bar linkage mechanism and elastic components to securely hold and release the support member
Data Source
AI summary
A connection assembly for holding a support member in position includes: a base defining a receiving hole to receive an end portion of the support member, and a guiding hole in a lateral surface thereof, which communicates with the receiving hole; a fixing block; a locking member slidably received in the guiding hole and slidable between a first position where the locking member is engaged with the support member so as to hold the support member in position, and a second position where the locking member is disengaged from the support member; and an actuating member connected to the fixing block and the locking member, the actuating member being configured to drive the locking member to move between the first position and the second position.