Spring-Loaded Cable Management for Robotic Slack Compensation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for guiding cables and hoses in industrial and robotic applications are inefficient in managing slack, prone to damage, and consume valuable space, lacking effective compact and flexible solutions.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a flexible corrugated hose with a rigid tube and a spring element, where one end of the spring is fixed to the tube and the other to the hose, allowing the hose to be drawn into the tube by the spring's force, providing longitudinal compensation and organization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If flexible hoses or guides are used to organize tubing and cables, then cable organization and protection are improved, but slack management becomes problematic leading to damage, friction and entangling
Solution Approach 1:
The cable management system transitions from a static hose or guide to a dynamic spring-loaded mechanism that actively adapts to cable movement. The spring element (22) provides continuous longitudinal compensation, dynamically adjusting to the cable's position during robot motion while preventing slack-related damage, friction, and entangling.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the physical state of cable management by introducing a spring element that converts static cable containment into dynamic longitudinal compensation. The spring's elastic properties enable it to absorb and release mechanical energy, maintaining optimal cable tension and preventing harmful slack effects throughout the robot's range of motion.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If existing slack compensation systems are used, then some slack management is achieved, but they consume valuable space in the industrial environment
Solution Approach 1:
The spring element (22) is nested within the rigid tube (20), creating a compact integrated assembly. The cable (14) passes through the spring, allowing the entire slack compensation mechanism to be contained within a small cylindrical volume. This nested configuration achieves effective slack management while minimizing space consumption in the industrial environment.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a large range of motion is required, then robot flexibility is improved, but slack in flexible hoses increases causing damage and entangling
Solution Approach 1:
The spring element (22) provides self-service slack compensation throughout the robot's range of motion. As the robot moves and the cable extends or retracts, the spring automatically adjusts its compression state to maintain proper cable tension without external intervention. This self-regulating mechanism ensures hose integrity and organization is maintained across the full range of motion.
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 effectively manages slack, prevents damage, and occupies less space, offering a compact and adaptable solution for various robotic and industrial applications by maintaining cable and hose organization while allowing for linear motion and reducing mechanical and environmental stresses.
Implementation Method 1
a spring element enclosed by the tube, a first end of the spring being fixed to an end of the tube, and a second end of the spring being fixed to an end of the flexible corrugated hose, whereby the flexible corrugated hose may be drawn out of the tube against the force of the spring element
Data Source
AI summary
A system and devices for guiding flexible corrugated hoses in industrial and robotic applications, where it is common to require tubing and electrical cables to be routed to various locations. A device for guiding such flexible hoses is described, comprising a rigid tube for containing a length of flexible corrugated hose and a spring element. A first end of the spring is fixed to an end of the tube, and a second end of the spring is fixed to an end of the flexible corrugated hose. The flexible corrugated hose may be drawn out of the tube against the force of the spring element, the spring element urging the flexible hose to return to a home position.