Robotic Screw Connection Support for All-Side Workpiece Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing robotic screwing apparatuses are limited in their ability to screw screws into all sides of a workpiece, as they are not designed to accommodate varied orientations and geometries effectively.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus comprising a robot, a spindle, and a support system that allows for precise positioning and stabilization of the workpiece, with a contact region aligned with the spindle axis, enabling screws to be screwed into all sides of the workpiece using a combination of robotic motion, pneumatic support movement, and efficient spindle operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional robotic screwing apparatus is used, then the structure is simple and easy to operate, but it cannot screw screws into all sides of a workpiece
Solution Approach 1:
The support is made movable along the spindle longitudinal axis, allowing it to dynamically adjust its position to support workpieces at different locations. This enables the apparatus to adapt to various workpiece geometries and screw positions, resolving the contradiction between versatility and complexity by introducing controlled mobility rather than fixed multi-axis complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The support serves multiple functions: it stabilizes the workpiece during screwing, positions the workpiece relative to the spindle, and can be moved to accommodate different screw locations. This multi-functionality allows a single apparatus to handle various workpiece sides and configurations, improving adaptability without proportionally increasing complexity
2Manufacturing precision
If the workpiece is stabilized during screwing, then positioning precision is improved, but the apparatus complexity increases due to additional support mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The support function is extracted as a separate, movable component that can be independently controlled along the spindle axis. This allows the stabilization function to be added without complicating the main robotic positioning system, as the support operates independently to provide localized stability where needed
Solution Approach 2:
The support acts as an intermediary between the workpiece and the spindle, providing a stable reference surface that facilitates precise screw positioning. This mediator component absorbs the complexity of workpiece variability, allowing the spindle to maintain high positioning accuracy without being directly coupled to complex workpiece fixation mechanisms
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 screws to be accurately and efficiently screwed into all sides of a workpiece, improving accessibility and versatility in robotic assembly tasks without the need for protective cages, and allowing for human-robot collaboration.
Implementation Method 1
The support and/or support element is preferably movable by means of pneumatics. Moving the support or support element by means of pneumatics is advantageous because air is available in any quantity and exhaust air produced can escape into the atmosphere
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for connecting a workpiece to a connection element in a form-fit and/or force-fit manner includes a robot for positioning the workpiece, a spindle for connecting the connection element to the workpiece, and a first support to stabilize the workpiece as the connection element is connected to the workpiece. The first support has a contact region substantially in alignment with a spindle longitudinal axis and in contact with the workpiece during connection of the connection element to the workpiece. The contact region has a size which is smaller than 0.01 m2. A second support to stabilize the workpiece as the connection element is connected to the workpiece has a support surface which in a state in which the workpiece is supported in a substantially orthogonal axis relative to the longitudinal axis of the spindle is disposed in a different plane than a support surface of the first support.