Semi-Spherical Air Bearing Stage for Precise Planar Component Placement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automated or semi-automated equipment struggles with precise planar alignment and placement of irregularly shaped components, as traditional methods like dual ball-and-socket assemblies are inadequate for such tasks.
Innovation Solution
A moveable air bearing stage system with a semi-spherical receiving interface, a floating yoke assembly, and gripper jaws with ramps, allowing for rotational and planar movement, along with air and vacuum systems for precise alignment and grasping of components, enables refined planar alignment and placement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If dual ball-and-socket assemblies are used for alignment, then range of movement is enhanced, but planar alignment precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment system is divided into separate functional modules: a spherical stage providing rotational freedom, a floating yoke assembly with air bearing for planar movement, and independent gripper mechanisms. This segmentation allows each module to optimize its specific function while maintaining overall system versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
A spherical stage with semi-spherical receiving interface is employed to provide enhanced range of movement through rotational capabilities. The curved spherical geometry enables multi-axis rotation while the air bearing interface maintains precision during these movements, resolving the contradiction between movement range and alignment precision.
2Stability of the object's composition
If traditional mechanical connections are used for component placement, then structural stability is maintained, but alignment accuracy and delicateness deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
An air bearing system using compressed air provides contactless support for the spherical stage, eliminating mechanical friction and wear while maintaining structural stability. The pneumatic cushion enables precise planar alignment through the floating yoke assembly without the constraints of traditional mechanical connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from rigid mechanical connections to a compliant pneumatic support system. By changing the physical state from solid-contact mechanics to gas-cushioned support, the system achieves both structural stability and enhanced alignment accuracy with delicate component handling.
3Productivity
If automated equipment is used for component connection, then productivity is improved, but precision and delicateness of placement deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The spherical stage with air bearing provides self-centering and self-aligning capabilities through its geometric design and pneumatic cushion. The system automatically compensates for positioning errors and maintains precision during automated operations, enabling high productivity without sacrificing placement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
Traditional mechanical alignment systems are replaced with a pneumatic-mechanical hybrid system. The air bearing substitutes rigid mechanical contacts with pneumatic support, reducing friction and enabling smoother, more precise movements during automated component placement operations.
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 system provides enhanced alignment accuracy and multiple ranges of movement, specifically addressing the limitations of traditional methods by enabling precise planar alignment and placement of components in robotics-based manufacturing processes.
Implementation Method 1
an air bearing stage for component or devices
Implementation Method 2
a vacuum associated with the chuck and suitable for grasping the component or device
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure provides an apparatus, system and method for a moveable bearing stage that allows for highly refined alignment and placement, and particularly planar alignment and placement, of component or devices through the use of robotics. The apparatus, system and method of providing at least a planar alignment of at least one component or device in relation to a secondary reference plane may include at least: a frame and stator assembly, having, at an upper portion thereof, at least a semi-spherical receiving interface; a movable assembly that moves within the frame and stator assembly, and that is connectively associated therewith by at least a plurality of springs; a semi-spherical stage, suitable for reception by the semi-spherical receiving interface and capable of at least rotational movement therewithin; a chuck within the semi-spherical stage and capable of at least co-planar, post-planar, and ante-planar positioning in relation to a plane provided by a topmost portion of the semispherical stage, wherein the chuck is capable of receiving the component or device; and at least two gripper jaws suitable for receiving and holding, at an upper portion thereof, the component or device, wherein the two gripper jaws comprise, at a lower portion thereof, at least ramps capable of physically interacting with ones of the motion stops.