Rotatable Connection Interface for Modular Electrical and Fluid Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing modular devices for handling and processing parts, such as in robotics and automation, face challenges in flexibility and efficiency during assembly and maintenance due to the need for precise alignment and orientation of subassemblies, leading to increased costs and longer assembly times.
Innovation Solution
A connection interface that allows the first subassembly to be plugged or pressed onto the second subassembly in multiple orientations by rotating the first contact section by a specified angle about a rotation axis, enabling flexible adaptation and use of the same modules in different devices while maintaining electrical and fluid connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If quick-action connectors are used to enable fast exchange of components, then assembly and maintenance times are reduced, but flexibility in arranging modules in different orientations is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The connection interface is designed with asymmetric features including a cam mechanism with an asymmetric cam profile, a latch with asymmetric positioning, and corresponding asymmetric guide surfaces. This asymmetric design enables the interface to accommodate multiple orientations (0°, 90°, 180°, 270°) while maintaining proper engagement, thereby providing rotational flexibility without compromising connection reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The connection interface integrates multiple functions into a single mechanism: mechanical fastening through cam and latch engagement, electrical contact through spring-loaded terminals, and fluid sealing through O-rings. This multi-functional design allows the same interface to handle various module orientations and types, reducing the need for orientation-specific connectors
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple variants of modules are created to accommodate different positions and orientations, then flexibility is maintained, but costs and delivery times increase
Solution Approach 1:
A single universal connection interface design with rotational symmetry capabilities serves all module orientations and positions. The interface includes rotationally symmetric features such as multiple equally-spaced lugs, circular cam profiles, and radially arranged electrical contacts, allowing the same physical connector to function correctly at any orientation without requiring variant designs
3Reliability
If precise alignment and orientation are required for connection, then connection reliability is improved, but assembly complexity and time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connection interface incorporates preliminary alignment features including protruding guide lugs that fit into corresponding recesses, asymmetric guide surfaces that direct proper orientation, and keyed features that prevent incorrect installation. These features automatically align the modules during the insertion process, ensuring reliable connection without requiring precise pre-alignment by the assembler
Solution Approach 2:
The cam mechanism provides dynamic engagement where the cam profile guides the modules into proper alignment during insertion, with the cam lobes automatically positioning the connection elements. The latch mechanism provides progressive engagement, initially allowing insertion and then securing the connection, which reduces assembly complexity while maintaining reliability
Data Source
AI summary
Device for handling and/or processing parts, having first and second subassemblies separably connectable by a connection interface that results from a first contact section of the first subassembly being plugged and/or pressed in a connecting direction onto a second contact section of the second subassembly in a first orientation specified relative to the second contact section. The connection interface includes an electrical interface for transmitting electrical power and/or communication signals between the subassemblies and a fluid interface for transporting fluid between the subassemblies. The first and second contact sections are configured so the connection interface also results if the first contact section is plugged or pressed in the connecting direction onto the second contact section in a further orientation. The further orientation corresponds to the first orientation aside from a rotation of the first contact section by a specified angle about a rotation axis running in the connecting direction.