Robotic Work Tool Snap-Fit Body for Easy Service Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing robotic work tools require specialized tools and skills for component access and maintenance, are prone to collisions, and have complex assembly processes, leading to inefficiencies in service and repair.
Innovation Solution
A self-propelled robotic work tool with snap fit assemblies allowing the tool body to move between lowered and raised positions, enabling quick and simple attachment and removal without special tools, and facilitating cost-effective manufacturing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the tool body is firmly attached to the tool chassis, then the reliability and durability of the connection is improved, but the ease of maintenance and repair deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is segmented into multiple snap fit assemblies distributed at different locations on the tool body. Each snap fit assembly consists of separate male and female components that can independently engage or disengage, allowing the tool body to be divided into removable sections for maintenance while maintaining secure attachment during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The snap fit assemblies provide a dynamic connection that transitions between two states: a locked state during operation where the tool body is firmly attached to the chassis, and an unlocked state during maintenance where the tool body can be easily removed. This dynamic capability resolves the contradiction between secure attachment and ease of maintenance.
2Manufacturing precision
If special tools and skills are required for component access, then the manufacturing precision and assembly quality is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The snap fit assemblies are designed to be self-servicing connection mechanisms that can be engaged and disengaged by the user without requiring special tools or professional skills. The simple snap-fit geometry allows end-users to perform maintenance and component access independently, reducing device complexity and cost while maintaining adequate assembly quality.
3Reliability
If the tool body is made robust to withstand collisions, then the reliability and durability is improved, but the ease of maintenance and component accessibility deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The tool body is segmented into modular sections connected through snap fit assemblies. This segmentation allows the tool body to maintain robustness and collision resistance as a complete unit while enabling easy separation into smaller sections for maintenance. The modular design permits access to internal components by removing only specific sections rather than disassembling the entire robust structure.
4Manufacturing precision
If a complex assembly process is used, then the manufacturing precision and product quality is improved, but the productivity and manufacturing cost deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The assembly process utilizes dynamic snap-fit engagement that allows components to be quickly connected through a simple snapping motion. This dynamic assembly method achieves adequate manufacturing precision through the self-aligning nature of the snap fit geometry while dramatically increasing assembly speed and productivity compared to complex fastening systems requiring multiple steps and tools.
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 easy maintenance, repair, and replacement of components while ensuring robust attachment and reducing assembly costs, with sensors for event detection and improved durability.
Implementation Method 1
a number of snap fit assemblies, wherein the number of snap fit assemblies is configured to allow movement of at least a portion the tool body relative to the tool chassis between a lowered and a raised position
Data Source
AI summary
A self-propelled robotic work tool (1) is disclosed comprising a tool chassis (3) and a number of tool support members (61, 62, 63) attached to the tool chassis (3) and being configured to abut against a ground surface (27) in a first plane (P1) during operation of the work tool (1). The work tool (1) further comprises a number of snap fit assemblies (s1-s4) and a tool body (5) attachable to the tool chassis (3) via the number of snap fit assemblies (s1-s4). The number of snap fit assemblies (s1-s4) is configured to allow movement of at least a portion (5′) the tool body (5) relative to the tool chassis (3) between a lowered and a raised position in directions (d1, d2) substantially perpendicular to the first plane (P1) when the tool body (5) is attached to the tool chassis (3) via the number of snap fit assemblies (s1-s4).