Integrated Robot Wrist Tool Coupling With Fewer Connection Parts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for connecting an operating unit to a robot arm are cumbersome and require multiple components, leading to increased weight, dimensions, and production costs.
Innovation Solution
The operating unit features a connection member integrated into its supporting structure, which allows for a direct and simplified connection to the tool-change device on the robot arm, reducing the number of components needed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a separate first annular body is used to connect the operating unit to the robot arm, then the connection function is achieved, but the number of components increases, leading to increased weight, dimensions, and production costs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the connection member with the supporting structure of the operating unit into a single integrated component. The connection member is formed as an integral part of the supporting structure, eliminating the need for separate first and second annular bodies. This integration directly reduces the number of components, decreases weight, and simplifies the overall connection system while maintaining all necessary connection and supply functions.
2Device complexity
If a separate first annular body is used to connect the operating unit to the robot arm, then the connection function is achieved, but the number of components increases, leading to increased dimensions
Solution Approach 1:
The connection member is integrated into the supporting structure, combining multiple functions (connection, support, and supply routing) into a single compact unit. This eliminates the need for separate annular bodies and reduces the overall volume occupied by the connection system, while still providing all necessary connection points and supply pathways.
3Device complexity
If multiple separate components are used for connection, then the connection function is achieved, but production costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The integration of the connection member with the supporting structure reduces the number of parts that need to be manufactured, assembled, and quality-checked. This single integrated component approach simplifies the manufacturing process, reduces assembly steps, and lowers production costs while maintaining all necessary connection and supply functions.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a separate first annular body is used for connection, then the dual function of fixing and connecting supplies is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated connection member is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it provides mechanical connection between the operating unit and robot arm, and also serves as a conduit for electrical, hydraulic, and pneumatic supplies. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate connection and supply components, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining full dual functionality.
Data Source
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AI summary
Described herein is an operating unit (10) that can be connected to the wrist of a robot arm comprising: - a tool (12), and - a supporting structure (14) carrying said tool, characterized in that the supporting structure (14) comprises a connection member (26) via which said operating unit (10) can be operatively connected in a releasable way to said wrist of the robot arm, wherein the connection member (26) has an opening (30) on an end wall (32) thereof, which is configured to receive a head (101) of a connection device associated to the wrist of the robot arm, wherein the connection member (26) comprises an internal seat (28) accessible through said opening (30) and configured to receive blocking elements (102) carried by said head (101) so as to enable fixing of the operating unit (10) to said wrist of the robot arm.