Rotating Bendable Insertion Tool for Complex 3D Paths
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing insertion tools face limitations in maneuvering complex tool paths due to their restricted movement of the tip, which is often confined to a single plane, making it difficult to access intricate geometries within devices like jet engines.
Innovation Solution
The insertion tool incorporates a bendable section with a rotation interface, allowing the tip to extend, bend, and rotate simultaneously, enabling it to traverse multiple planes and navigate complex tool paths by utilizing a tensioning assembly and a rotation interface with a cam and follower mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the insertion tool uses a planar bendable section with single-plane movement, then the structure is simple, but the tool cannot access intricate geometries requiring multi-plane movement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from planar (2D) movement to nonplanar (3D) movement by adding a rotation interface that enables the bendable section to rotate about its longitudinal axis. This dimensional addition allows the tool tip to traverse complex three-dimensional paths, accessing intricate geometries that would be impossible with single-plane movement while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic capabilities to the bendable section through the rotation interface, enabling real-time rotation about the longitudinal axis during insertion. This dynamic feature allows the tool to adapt its orientation and path dynamically, transforming a static planar movement system into a dynamic three-dimensional movement system that can handle complex geometries.
2Ease of operation
If the insertion tool tip is confined to single-plane movement, then the device complexity is low, but the maneuverability through complex tool paths is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The rotation interface adds rotational freedom about the longitudinal axis to the existing planar movement, creating three-dimensional maneuverability. This enables the tool tip to follow complex spatial paths and access difficult-to-reach areas while the rotation mechanism itself remains integrated into the existing structure, minimizing the increase in overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotation interface serves multiple functions: it enables rotational movement for accessing complex geometries, maintains compatibility with existing planar bendable section designs, and can be integrated with various actuation mechanisms. This multi-functionality approach improves maneuverability without requiring a complete redesign of the tool's movement system.
Data Source
AI summary
An insertion tool includes a housing, an elongated section at least partially within the housing, a bendable section coupled to the elongated section at, and an actuator. The actuator is configured to actuate the bendable section, via causing an axial displacement of the elongated section within the housing, from a retracted state at least partially positioned within the housing to an extended state outside of the housing. The insertion tool also includes a tensioning assembly configured to tension the bendable section into a predefined shape in the extended state. The elongated section is coupled to the housing via a rotation interface configured to cause a rotation of the bendable section during the actuation of the bendable section from the retracted state to the extended state.