Tendon and Rigid Element Assembly with Interlocking Projections
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Solution Overview
Problem
Complex mechanisms for force transfer in robot design, such as those using discrete fasteners and multiple hinge components, are difficult to align and secure, leading to increased manufacturing costs and defect rates, as well as higher maintenance challenges due to mechanical complexity.
Innovation Solution
A tendon and rigid element assembly featuring a tendon subassembly with projections and indentations for secure attachment, or wings for adhesion, simplifies the interconnection process, reducing complexity and enhancing reliability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If complex mechanisms with discrete fasteners and multiple hinge components are used for force transfer, then the robot can achieve a greater range of operation, but the manufacturing cost and defect rate increase due to alignment and securing difficulties
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple discrete fasteners and hinge components into a single integrated tendon assembly with a unified attachment structure. The tendon assembly includes a tendon, a distal end structure, and a attachment feature that collectively perform the functions of multiple separate components, simplifying manufacturing while maintaining the robot's range of motion capabilities
2Ease of operation
If complex mechanisms with multiple components are used for force transfer, then the robot can achieve more sophisticated motion control, but the system becomes more prone to breakdown and requires more difficult repair
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple functional components into a single tendon assembly unit that includes the tendon, distal end structure, and attachment feature. This consolidation reduces the number of potential failure points while maintaining sophisticated motion control capabilities through the integrated design
3Manufacturing precision
If complex mechanisms with multiple hinge components are used for force transfer, then the robot can achieve precise positioning, but the alignment and securing process becomes more challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The tendon assembly is pre-configured with the distal end structure and attachment feature integrated during manufacturing. This preliminary integration ensures proper alignment and securing capabilities are built into the component before installation, eliminating the need for complex field alignment procedures while maintaining positioning accuracy
Data Source
AI summary
A tendon and rigid element assembly that includes a tendon subassembly, including a tendon having a longitudinal end having a mating portion. Also, a rigid element has a mating portion. Further, a first one of the mating portions includes a set of projections and a second one of the mating portions defines a set of indentations that are sized and shaped to accept and retain the projections and wherein the set of projections are secured in the set of indentations, thereby securing the tendon to the rigid element.