Robot Umbilical Attachment Device Independent Cable Management

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing umbilical member attachment systems for robots are cumbersome and complicated, particularly when detaching or replacing multiple umbilical members, as they require multiple clamps and involve complex detachment procedures, leading to increased work effort and space requirements.

Innovation Solution

A umbilical member attachment device with a base part detachably attached to rotating robot members, featuring separate fastening parts for basic and option cables, allowing for independent detachment and attachment of each type of cable, reducing the need for simultaneous detachment of all cables and simplifying the replacement process.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If multiple umbilical members are fastened by separate clamps, then each umbilical member can be fastened independently, but the number of clamps increases and detachment work becomes troublesome

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveindependent fastening of each umbilical memberVSAvoidnumber of clamps
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple separate clamps are merged into a single integrated clamp structure that can fasten multiple umbilical members simultaneously. The clamp includes multiple clamping portions that can independently secure different umbilical members while being operated as one unit, reducing the total number of clamps needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The clamp is designed with multi-functionality to serve multiple purposes: it can fasten different types of umbilical members (basic cables and option cables), can be attached to various robot members, and provides both secure fastening and easy release capabilities in a single device.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Device complexity

If multiple umbilical members are fastened by the same clamps, then the number of clamps is reduced, but replacement of some umbilical members requires detachment of all umbilical members

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenumber of clampsVSAvoidreplacement of umbilical members
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The clamp structure is segmented into multiple independent clamping portions, each capable of fastening a specific umbilical member. These portions can be independently released, allowing selective detachment of individual umbilical members without requiring release of all clamping portions, thus facilitating easier replacement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The clamp incorporates dynamic release mechanisms that allow selective engagement and disengagement of different clamping portions. This enables the operator to release only the specific portion needed for umbilical member replacement while maintaining fastening of other portions, making the replacement process more efficient.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Ease of operation

If all umbilical members are detached for replacement, then complete access is achieved, but the work becomes complicated and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccess to umbilical membersVSAvoidreplacement time
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The attachment device is divided into separable components including the base part and the clamp, which can be independently attached and detached. This segmentation allows partial disassembly for targeted umbilical member replacement, providing sufficient access without requiring complete detachment of all components, thereby reducing replacement time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS9233475B2Umbilical member attachment device of robot
Publication Date: 2016.01.12 FANUC LTD
  • US9233475B2 patent drawing
  • US9233475B2 patent drawing
  • US9233475B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An umbilical member attachment device including a base part attached detachably to a first member and a second member of a robot, the first member and the second member rotating relative to each other; a first fastening part attached to the base part to fasten the first umbilical member; and a second fastening part attached to the base part to fasten the second umbilical member. The second fastening part has an attachment member attached to the base part and a fastening member fastening the second umbilical member to the attachment member, and the attachment member is provided detachably from the base part together with the second umbilical member in a state where the first umbilical member is fastened by the first fastening part.