Telescopic Linear Motion Mechanism Without Elbow Joints
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing linear motion mechanisms for robots are complex and heavy due to the need for elbow joints, which can be hazardous and inefficient, especially in collaborative robotics where simplicity and safety are crucial.
Innovation Solution
A telescopic linear motion mechanism comprising a plurality of linear motion elements, a block row, a torque generating unit, and a rotary arm that transmits torque to extend and contract the arm, eliminating the need for gears and reducing weight and complexity by using a block row that moves along a circular arc trajectory within a housing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If traditional elbow joints and complex frame structures are used in linear motion mechanisms, then the mechanism can achieve linear motion, but the device becomes heavy and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanism is divided into multiple linear motion elements (first through fourth elements) that can move independently and telescopically relative to each other, allowing the arm to achieve linear motion through coordinated movement of segmented components rather than complex elbow joints
Solution Approach 2:
The linear motion elements are arranged in a nested configuration where smaller elements are housed within larger ones, allowing telescopic extension and contraction. This nesting approach eliminates the need for external elbow joints and support portions, reducing overall device complexity and weight while maintaining safety
2Device complexity
If multiple frames coupled bendably by rotary shafts are used, then linear motion is achieved, but the weight of the mechanism increases
Solution Approach 1:
The telescopic arrangement of linear motion elements nested within each other eliminates the need for separate support portions and external framing structures. This nested configuration significantly reduces the overall weight of the moving arm while simplifying the structural design
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts and eliminates the elbow joint from the mechanism by using pure linear motion elements that extend and contract telescopically. This removal of the elbow joint directly reduces the weight of the moving object while simplifying the overall structure
3Device complexity
If a block row moves along a circular arc trajectory, then torque transmission is simplified, but the accommodating portion requires complex curved geometry
Solution Approach 1:
The accommodating portion is designed with a circular arc cross-section that matches the trajectory of the block row. This curved geometry allows the block row to move smoothly along its circular arc path while being driven by the rotary arm, effectively translating rotational motion into linear motion without requiring complex drive mechanisms
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
This configuration simplifies the structure, reduces weight, enhances strength, and minimizes the risk of drive failure, making it suitable for collaborative robots by eliminating the need for elbow joints and allowing for precise control and hygiene compliance in applications like food production lines.
Implementation Method 1
a torque generating unit configured to generate torque for feeding the block row from the accommodating portion in order to extend the linear motion elements and pulling back the block row to the accommodating portion in order to contract the linear motion elements
Implementation Method 2
an arm for transmitting the torque generated by the torque generating unit to the block row
Data Source
AI summary
A linear motion mechanism includes: a plurality of cylinders assembled telescopically in multiple stages; a block row with a head block connected to the head cylinder; guide rails and configured to accommodate the block row in a circular arc shape; a torque generating unit configured to generate torque for feeding the block row from the guide rails and pulling back the block row from the guide rails; and an arm for transmitting the torque generated by the torque generating unit to the block row. A rotary shaft of the torque generating unit is arranged at a circular arc center of the guide rails, one end of the arm is connected to a rotary shaft of the torque generating unit, and another end thereof is connected to a rearmost block among a plurality of blocks.