Modular Robotic End Effector Nodes for Lightweight Repeatability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Industrial robotic end effectors are often large, heavy, and lack mechanical repeatability, which poses challenges in various manufacturing operations.
Innovation Solution
A robotic end effector design featuring nodes with walls, ports, recessed channels, and locating features that facilitate precise attachment and bonding to a frame using a bonding agent, allowing for a lightweight and mechanically repeatable structure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If traditional robotic end effectors are used, then they can perform manufacturing operations, but they are large and heavy
Solution Approach 1:
The end effector is divided into multiple modular nodes (first node, second node, etc.) that can be independently manufactured and assembled. Each node contains specific functional elements like ports, recessed channels, and locating features, allowing the overall structure to be lightweight yet precise through modular construction rather than a single heavy monolithic structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the material parameter by using plastic for the nodes instead of traditional heavy metals. This material parameter change reduces weight while the precise geometric features (locating features, recessed channels, ports) maintain mechanical repeatability through controlled manufacturing parameters.
2Reliability
If traditional robotic end effectors are used, then they can perform manufacturing operations, but they lack mechanical repeatability
Solution Approach 1:
The complex functionality is segmented into standardized modular nodes with consistent interface features. Each node has standardized ports, recessed channels, and locating features that simplify the overall assembly process while maintaining precision through repetition of proven geometric patterns across multiple identical nodes.
Solution Approach 2:
The nodes are designed with universal features that serve multiple functions: the locating features provide both positioning and alignment, the ports serve both fluid passage and structural integration, and the recessed channels provide both bonding pathways and structural reinforcement. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed.
3Manufacturing precision
If nodes with ports and recessed channels are used for attachment, then mechanical repeatability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple functional elements are merged into a single integrated node structure: the locating features, ports, and recessed channels are all incorporated into one molded plastic component rather than being separate parts. This integration maintains high attachment precision while reducing assembly complexity compared to multi-component alternatives.
Solution Approach 2:
The node structure uses plastic material parameters that allow for complex geometric features (ports, recessed channels, locating features) to be manufactured as integral parts through molding processes. This material parameter change enables high precision attachment features without the joining complexity that would arise from assembling multiple metal components.
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 design enables a lightweight and mechanically repeatable robotic end effector that can securely attach and move workpieces with precision, enhancing manufacturing efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a bonding agent flows through the first port to the first recessed channels to attach the first node to the frame
Data Source
AI summary
A robotic end effector includes a node having at least one wall. Each wall has a corresponding interior side and a corresponding exterior side. The interior side of the wall defines a closed profile disposed about an axis such that the interior side of the wall defines a cavity and the wall defines an end aperture open to the cavity through an axial end of the node. The end aperture being configured to receive a frame member. The wall includes a port having an outlet open through the interior side of the wall and an inlet open through the exterior side of the wall. The interior side of the wall defines a plurality of recessed channels that intersect the outlet of the port.