Rotation Axis Module Umbilical Routing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rotation axis modules in industrial robots face challenges with the housing and management of umbilical members, leading to stress on these components, difficulty in assembly and rearrangement, and limited lifetime due to insufficient space and complex fixation methods.
Innovation Solution
A rotation axis module design that includes an actuator with a fixed member and a movable member, where the umbilical member is fixed using relay portions and a wireless transmission unit or rotary joint, allowing for easy assembly, rearrangement, and reduced stress on the components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the umbilical member is housed in a space between the outer cylinder of the power transmission axis and the cover of the speed reducer, then the structure is compact, but the space is insufficient and stresses are applied to the umbilical member reducing its lifetime
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from housing the umbilical member in a radial space (between outer cylinder and cover) to routing it through the axial dimension (through the hollow actuator). This dimensional change provides sufficient space while preventing stress and contact with surrounding components.
Solution Approach 2:
The umbilical member is divided into multiple segments: it penetrates through the hollow actuator, connects to relay portions positioned at both sides of the actuator, and extends to link relays. This segmentation allows each portion to be optimally positioned and fixed, reducing stress concentration.
2Reliability
If the umbilical member is fixed by a fixed member disposed on a separate member adjacent to the actuator, then fixation is achieved, but rearrangement of the actuator becomes difficult requiring breaking positional relationships
Solution Approach 1:
The relay portions serve multiple functions: they fix the umbilical member to both the actuator and the links, provides electrical connections, and enable easy rearrangement. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction between secure fixation and ease of rearrangement.
Solution Approach 2:
The relay portions act as intermediary components between the umbilical member, the actuator, and the links. They mediate the connections, allowing the umbilical member to be securely fixed while enabling easy rearrangement through simple connector detachment.
3Reliability
If the umbilical member penetrates through the hollow actuator, then sufficient space is provided and stress is reduced, but complex fixation mechanisms are required
Solution Approach 1:
The relay portions are self-fixing connectors that attach the umbilical member to the actuator and links without requiring complex external fixation mechanisms. The connectors themselves provide the fixation function, simplifying the overall system.
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
The design ensures easy assembly and rearrangement of robots, extends the lifetime of umbilical members by reducing stress and eliminating the need for complex cable management, while also improving the reliability and flexibility of the robot's axis configuration.
Implementation Method 1
in the interior of the actuator, the umbilical member transmits electricity in a space of a boundary portion between the movable member and the fixed member in a wireless manner using a wireless transmission unit which transmits electricity
Implementation Method 2
in the interior of the actuator, the umbilical member is provided with a rotary joint which transmits electricity and air
Data Source
AI summary
A rotation axis module includes: an actuator which relatively rotates a fixed member and a movable member; a umbilical member which penetrates through the interior of the actuator to extend; a first fixing portion which fixes the umbilical member at a rotation axis of the fixed member or at a position corresponding to the vicinity thereof; a second fixing portion which fixes the umbilical member at an output axis of the movable member or in the vicinity thereof; a first relay portion which is positioned at a side of the fixed member, one end of the umbilical member being connected to the first relay portion; and a second relay portion which is positioned at a side of the movable member, the other end of the umbilical member being connected to the second relay portion.