Automated Robotic Arm Assembly Using Segmented Housing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for manufacturing robots, such as robotic arms or manipulators, are largely manual due to the complex assembly of radially closed housing structures, making fully automated assembly challenging and economically unviable.
Innovation Solution
A method and device that enable the automated assembly of robots by designing axis members with partially open housing structures, using pre-assembled drive units with connecting elements, and employing assembly robots with compliance control to perform assembly steps independently, including the use of standard tools and gripper jaws adaptable for different tasks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If radially closed housing structures are used for axis members, then structural strength and torsional stiffness are improved, but assembly complexity increases and automated assembly becomes infeasible
Solution Approach 1:
The housing structure is divided into two complementary half-shells that can be assembled separately. Each half-shell can be independently manufactured and positioned, allowing drive units to be inserted from the open end face before closing the housing. This segmentation enables automated assembly while maintaining the structural integrity of the closed housing design.
2Stability of the object's composition
If radially closed housing structures are used for axis members, then structural integrity is improved, but manufacturing automation becomes economically unviable
Solution Approach 1:
Drive units are pre-assembled and positioned within the open half-shells before the final housing closure. This preliminary arrangement allows automated robots to insert and secure drive units during the assembly process, while the housing is subsequently closed to maintain structural integrity. The process enables full automation without compromising structural strength.
3Device complexity
If assembly openings with covers are used to access housing interior, then automated assembly becomes slightly easier, but housing strength and torsional stiffness are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of providing openings in the closed housing and covering them, the design inverts the approach by leaving the housing open during assembly and closing it afterward. The two half-shells are positioned to form the complete housing, allowing drive units to be inserted from the open end face, and then the housing is sealed, eliminating the need for separate assembly openings and covers.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a method and to a device for producing a robot with a robotic arm. Said method can be carried out using an assembly robot wherein first housing segments are arranged in an intended sequence for the robotic arm, drive units are inserted into the first housing segments and the respective complimentary second housing segments are placed on the first housing segments comprising the drive units.