Disconnectable Robot Tool Adapter With Simultaneous Lock Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing adapters for connecting tools to industrial robots are limited in their operation, as they can only be manually operated and lack efficient mechanisms for both manual and automatic disconnection.
Innovation Solution
A disconnectable adapter with at least two spring-loaded locking parts that are displaceable or pivotable, engaging with guide elements and guide element receptacles, allowing for both manual and automatic disconnection by applying a compressive force to overcome the spring force and detach the parts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a clamp connection with a single pivoting locking part is used, then the adapter can be manually operated, but it cannot be efficiently operated automatically
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is divided into multiple independent locking parts (at least two), each capable of being actuated separately or simultaneously. This segmentation allows the mechanism to accommodate both manual operation (where each part can be operated individually) and automatic operation (where all parts can be actuated together by a single external force), thus resolving the contradiction between manual ease of operation and automatic operation versatility.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple spring-loaded locking parts are used, then automatic disconnection becomes possible, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple locking parts are combined into a single integrated locking mechanism where all locking parts are actuated simultaneously by one external force applied in the assembly direction. This merging approach enables automatic disconnection functionality while minimizing device complexity, as a single actuation event controls all locking parts rather than requiring separate actuation mechanisms for each part.
3Ease of operation
If locking parts are made displaceable or pivotable, then smooth operation is achieved, but the reliability of locking engagement may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
Spring elements are integrated into each locking part to provide self-loading, ensuring that each locking part automatically engages with its corresponding guide element receptacle with sufficient force. The spring-loaded mechanism ensures reliable locking engagement without requiring additional external forces or complex control systems, while the displaceable or pivotable design allows smooth operation during actuation.
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
Enables efficient manual and automatic disconnection and connection of tools to industrial robots, ensuring secure and reliable attachment and detachment, facilitating easy tool changes and improving operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
Each locking part is supported by means of at least one spring element in a locking direction in which the locking part engages behind the other part
Implementation Method 2
all locking parts are loaded simultaneously relative to the first part and the second part or relative to one another by means of an external force applied as a compressive force
Data Source
AI summary
A disconnectable adapter for the adaptation of a tool to an industrial robot has a first part and a second part connected detachably to the first part. The adapter is designed with at least two locking parts which engage behind the first part or the second part in a spring-loaded manner and are mounted displaceably or pivotably in the second part or first part behind which the locking parts do not engage. To disconnect the first part and the second part of the adapter from each other, all the locking parts are loaded simultaneously relative to the first part and to the second part or relative to one another by means of an external force applied as a compressive force. With the present disclosure, a disconnectable adapter which can be operated both manually and automatically is developed.