Semi-Automatic Precision Positioning Robot for Heart Valve Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing positioning systems lack the precision and stability required for sensitive applications, such as the assembly of medical devices, leading to increased human error, stress, and potential injury, while being unsuitable for small-scale manufacturing due to large aggregated error tolerances and reduced stability.
Innovation Solution
A semi-automatic precision positioning robot apparatus utilizing a support frame with linear actuators, gear systems, and a tool system that includes a needle guide and tensioning device to facilitate precise and stable manipulation of workpieces, reducing operator stress and injury.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If mechanical positioning systems are used to hold and position workpieces, then maneuverability is improved, but manufacturing precision deteriorates due to large aggregated error tolerances
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning system is divided into multiple independent positioning units, each with its own actuator and control mechanism. This segmentation allows each unit to be optimized for precision while maintaining overall system maneuverability through coordinated control of individual units.
Solution Approach 2:
Traditional purely mechanical positioning systems are replaced with a hybrid system incorporating electronic actuators, sensors, and control algorithms. This substitution reduces mechanical error accumulation while maintaining maneuverability through electronic control.
2Ease of operation
If human participation is involved in manufacturing processes, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to human error and fatigue
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning system incorporates self-adjustment mechanisms and automated control that allow the system to correct its own positioning errors without human intervention. Sensors continuously monitor position and make real-time corrections, eliminating human error while maintaining ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses sensors and control algorithms to continuously monitor positioning accuracy and provide feedback for correction. This closed-loop control ensures high reliability by automatically detecting and correcting errors, while the automated nature maintains ease of operation.
3Reliability
If automation is increased to reduce human error, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning system uses standardized, multi-functional components that can perform multiple operations. This universality reduces the overall number of specialized components needed, thereby reducing complexity while maintaining high reliability through automated control.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple functions are combined into integrated units - for example, positioning and measurement functions are merged, and control systems are integrated with actuators. This merging reduces the number of separate components and interfaces, simplifying the system while maintaining reliability.
Data Source
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AI summary
An improved positioning system suitable for force and dimensionally sensitive applications, including assisting with the assembly of heart valves and/or other medical devices in a manner that reduces time and effort required for manufacturing a device, and reduces stress and potential for injury of operators, while maintaining or enhancing quality and reliability of the manufacturing process and or the device.