Robotic Arm Link Shell Assembly Using Zip-Fastener Load Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing robotic arms face challenges in connecting shell-like elements, particularly plastic shells, which are prone to local overloading and deformation due to limited stiffness and resilience, leading to issues with force transmission and maintenance.
Innovation Solution
The use of a zip fastener as a connecting means between casing shells to distribute loads over a large area, preventing overloading and ensuring a stable, rigid connection while allowing for easy assembly and disassembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If traditional connecting means (screws, welds, adhesives) are used to connect casing shells, then the connection may provide sufficient strength, but the assembly process becomes complex and time-consuming, and disassembly for maintenance is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting means is divided into two separate parts: a connecting element with engagement protrusions and a connecting partner with engagement recesses. This segmentation allows for simple snap-fit assembly without complex fastening mechanisms, while still providing secure mechanical connection between casing shells.
Solution Approach 2:
Traditional mechanical fastening systems (screws, welds, adhesives) are replaced with a snap-fit mechanism based on elastic deformation and geometric interlocking. The connecting element utilizes material resilience to create engagement forces, eliminating the need for threaded fasteners, welding equipment, or adhesive application processes.
2Weight of moving object
If casing shells are made of plastic to reduce weight, then the robotic arm becomes lighter and more energy-efficient, but the plastic material has limited stiffness and resilience, making it prone to local overloading and deformation
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting element combines plastic material with a reinforcement structure (such as embedded metal inserts or optimized geometric reinforcement) to create a composite component. This allows the connecting element to withstand high engagement forces and distribute loads effectively, preventing local overloading of the plastic casing shells while maintaining overall lightweight construction.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection design transitions from point-based or line-based connection (traditional screws or rivets) to a distributed areal connection through multiple engagement protrusions and recesses. This distributes the mechanical loads across a larger surface area of the plastic casing shells, reducing stress concentration and preventing local deformation.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the connection between casing shells is made rigid to ensure force transmission, then structural stability improves, but the ability to disassemble for maintenance and repair is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting mechanism transitions from a static permanent connection (welds, adhesives) to a dynamic reversible connection. The snap-fit design allows the connecting element to be inserted and locked into place during assembly, providing rigid structural stability during operation, while enabling simple manual or automated disassembly by overcoming the engagement force, facilitating maintenance and repair.
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
This solution enhances the rigidity and durability of robotic arm links by evenly distributing loads, reducing material stress and preventing deformation, thus improving the overall flexibility and accuracy of the robotic arm.
Implementation Method 1
the connecting means have at least one zip fastener... distribute loads over a large area, preventing overloading and ensuring a stable, rigid connection
Data Source
AI summary
A robotic arm includes a plurality of joints and a plurality of links, each connecting two adjacent joints to one another in a fixed arrangement. At least one of the links includes at least one first casing shell and at least one second casing shell, wherein the first casing shell is connected to the second casing shell in a form-fitting manner in order to form a hollow link, and wherein structure connecting the casing shells includes at least one zip fastener.