Robot Tool Changer Linkage for Quiet Compact Coupling

Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional tool changers for robots are bulky, costly, and noisy due to their reliance on pneumatic systems, which hinders rapid and efficient tool coupling and decoupling.

Innovation Solution

A tool changer system featuring a modular case design with a rotating shaft, moving body, and pushers connected via links, along with elastic members and a motor, allows for rapid and simple tool coupling and decoupling by varying the diameter of the case bodies and using a guide groove for precise alignment with a tool coupler, minimizing noise and complexity.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a pneumatic system is used for tool changing, then the tool changer can achieve reliable tool coupling and decoupling, but the structure becomes large and requires subsidiary equipment

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetool coupling reliabilityVSAvoidsystem structure complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the pneumatic system with a direct mechanical coupling mechanism. The tool changer uses a mechanical interface with coupling protrusions and recesses that directly engage with the tool, eliminating the need for pneumatic cylinders, valves, and control systems while achieving reliable tool attachment and detachment through pure mechanical means.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent extracts and removes the pneumatic subsystem from the tool changer design. By eliminating the pneumatic components (cylinders, hoses, valves, compressors) and replacing them with a simplified mechanical coupling system, the overall device complexity is reduced while maintaining the essential function of reliable tool coupling and decoupling.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

2Reliability

If a pneumatic system is used for tool changing, then the tool changer can achieve tool coupling and decoupling, but noise is generated

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetool coupling reliabilityVSAvoidnoise

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the pneumatic system with a direct mechanical coupling mechanism. The tool changer uses a mechanical interface with coupling protrusions and recesses that directly engage with the tool, eliminating the need for pneumatic cylinders, valves, and control systems while achieving reliable tool attachment and detachment through pure mechanical means.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Reliability

If a conventional tool changer structure is used, then tool coupling and decoupling can be achieved, but the size is large and cost is high

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetool coupling reliabilityVSAvoidtool changer size

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the tool changer into a compact modular structure with separate coupling and decoupling phases. The mechanism divides the tool changing function into distinct mechanical components (coupling protrusions, recesses, and actuating elements) that can be arranged in a compact configuration, reducing the overall volume while maintaining reliable tool coupling and decoupling functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

4Reliability

If a conventional tool changer structure is used, then tool coupling and decoupling can be achieved, but the cost is high due to subsidiary equipment

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetool coupling reliabilityVSAvoidmanufacturing cost

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts and removes the pneumatic subsystem from the tool changer design. By eliminating the pneumatic components (cylinders, hoses, valves, compressors) and replacing them with a simplified mechanical coupling system, the overall device complexity is reduced while maintaining the essential function of reliable tool coupling and decoupling.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

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 system enables rapid, precise, and noise-free tool changes, reducing the size and cost of the tool changer while enhancing operational efficiency and stability.

Implementation Method 1

a motor configured to rotate the shaft

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetic conversion: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

a plurality of elastic members configured to pull the case body in an inner radial direction

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS11679512B2Tool changer and tool change system including the same

Publication Date: 2023.06.20 LG ELECTRONICS INC

AI summary

A tool changer includes a case including a plurality of case bodies that are separated from each other, a fixed body disposed in the case, a shaft disposed in the case and extending a long way in an axial direction of the case, a motor configured to rotate the shaft, a moving body configured to move along the shaft based on rotation of the shaft, and a plurality of pushers connected to the fixed body via a first link, connected to the moving body via a second link, and configured to press the case body in an outer radial direction when the moving body moves towards the fixed body.