Robotic Load Interface Assembly for Precise Weight Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing robotic arm systems face challenges in precise weight measurement due to the need for complex designs, internal access, inaccurate calibration, and sensor interference, limiting their usability and increasing costs.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising interface plates, hinge assemblies, and a force sensor with a movement limiter, allowing for precise weight measurement by balancing gravity and minimizing sensor exposure to contaminants, while using simple components and avoiding complex calibration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a force sensor is integrated into the robotic arm's internal structure, then weight measurement capability is achieved, but device complexity increases and manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the force sensing function from the robotic arm's internal structure by using an external interface plate assembly. The force sensor is mounted on a separate interface plate that connects to the robotic arm's end effector, allowing weight measurement without modifying the arm's internal structure. This segmentation reduces device complexity while maintaining measurement capability.
Solution Approach 2:
An interface plate assembly acts as an intermediary between the robotic arm and the force sensor. This intermediate structure provides a mounting surface for the force sensor and transmits load forces to the sensor without requiring internal access to the robotic arm, thereby simplifying the overall system architecture.
2Measurement precision
If the force sensor is exposed to the loading environment, then weight measurement is enabled, but sensor reliability decreases due to contamination
Solution Approach 1:
The interface plate serves as a protective intermediary between the force sensor and the loading environment. The sensor is mounted on the interface plate rather than being directly exposed to contaminants, protecting it from damage while still enabling accurate force measurement through the plate's structural connection.
3Measurement precision
If internal access to the robotic arm is provided for sensor installation, then measurement accuracy improves, but ease of manufacture decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the measurement function into a separate, modular interface plate assembly that attaches to the robotic arm's external interface. This eliminates the need for internal access or modifications to the robotic arm, maintaining manufacturing simplicity while achieving accurate measurements through the dedicated sensing assembly.
4Measurement precision
If a complex calibration system is implemented, then measurement precision improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The interface plate assembly is designed to provide inherent mechanical alignment and force transmission properties that simplify calibration. The rigid connection between the interface plate and robotic arm, combined with the direct mounting of the force sensor, creates a straightforward calibration process that does not require complex calibration systems or procedures.
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
Enables precise weight measurement with low production and maintenance costs, protecting sensors from contamination and maintaining accuracy without requiring internal access to robotic arms.
Implementation Method 1
a force sensor located intermediate the assembly-side interface plate and the load-side interface plate on the assembly-side interface plate or the load-side interface plate, the force sensor located to a side of the tilting axis, the force sensor engageable to convert a force acting on the force sensor to an electrical signal
Implementation Method 2
a force sensor located intermediate the assembly-side interface plate and the load-side interface plate on the assembly-side interface plate or the load-side interface plate, the force sensor located to a side of the tilting axis, the force sensor engageable to convert a force acting on the force sensor to an electrical signal
Implementation Method 3
hinge assemblies located intermediate the assembly-side interface plate and the load-side interface plate to permit tilting of the load-side interface plate relative to the assembly-side interface plate along a tilting axis
Implementation Method 4
when the load support supports the load
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided a robotic assembly and system for weight measurement of a supported load. The system including: an assembly-side interface plate connectable to a robotic assembly; a load-side interface plate connectable to a load support, the load support to receive a load; hinge assemblies located intermediate the assembly-side interface plate and the load-side interface plate to permit tilting of the load-side interface plate relative to the assembly-side interface plate along a tilting axis; and a force sensor located intermediate the assembly-side interface plate and the load-side interface plate on the assembly-side interface plate or the load-side interface plate, the force sensor located to a side of the tilting axis, the force sensor engageable to convert a force acting on the force sensor to an electrical signal when the load support supports the load.