Self-Aligning Tool Coupling for Robot Mounting Tolerance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tool mounting devices for robots are complex and require precise alignment, leading to wear and inefficiency due to the need for active or passive readjustment to accommodate the tolerance range of a few millimeters in robot positioning.
Innovation Solution
A tool mounting device with a first and second coupling device featuring a receiving means with a recess and a locating bolt, where the locating bolt can slide laterally into the recess due to a beveled cutting, allowing self-adjustment and facilitating a simpler and more efficient connection, reducing the need for precise alignment and minimizing wear.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a tool mounting device with precise alignment mechanisms is used, then the stability and reliability of tool connection is improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling device is divided into two separate components: a first coupling device attached to the robot and a second coupling device attached to the tool. This segmentation allows each component to be simpler in structure while maintaining reliable connection through their相互配合, resolving the contradiction between connection stability and device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling mechanism incorporates self-aligning features where the first and second coupling devices automatically adjust to each other during the coupling process. This self-service capability eliminates the need for complex external alignment mechanisms, maintaining connection reliability while reducing overall device complexity.
2Productivity
If the robot operates with high speed and accuracy, then the productivity is improved, but the tolerance deviation causes rapid wear of coupling mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling device incorporates dynamic adjustment capabilities that allow it to adapt to position deviations in real-time during operation. This dynamic adaptation protects the coupling mechanism from wear caused by tolerance deviations, enabling high-speed robot operation while maintaining mechanism durability.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling mechanism includes protective features that anticipate and cushion against the effects of position deviations before they cause damage. This beforehand cushioning prevents rapid wear of the coupling mechanisms, allowing the robot to operate at high speeds without compromising durability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a complex tool station with multiple coupling mechanisms is used, then the tool exchange capability is improved, but the approach path requirements for the robot become more stringent
Solution Approach 1:
The first and second coupling devices are designed with universal coupling features that can accommodate different tool types. This multi-functionality allows the same coupling mechanism to handle various tools without requiring complex, tool-specific coupling mechanisms, thereby maintaining versatility while simplifying the approach path requirements.
4Ease of manufacture
If the coupling devices are designed with simple construction, then the ease of manufacture is improved, but the precision and stability of tool mounting may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The simple coupling devices incorporate self-aligning and self-adjusting features that automatically compensate for manufacturing tolerances during assembly. This self-service capability allows the use of simpler, easier-to-manufacture components while maintaining the precision and stability required for reliable tool mounting.
Data Source
AI summary
The tool mounting device according to the invention comprises a first and second coupling device, wherein the first coupling device comprises at least one receptacle, the second coupling device comprises at least one receptacle pin, and the first or second coupling device comprises a tool suspension. The receptacle comprises a recess and an opening, wherein the opening extends from the first end in the direction of the second end over a length and the length of the opening is smaller than a length of the recess and a width of the opening is greater than or equal to a width of the receptacle pin.