Tool-Holding Pivot Layout for Wider Rotation in Compact Conveyors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automated conveying apparatuses for machine tools lack a compact configuration capable of rotating a holding portion over a wider range, limiting their operational flexibility and efficiency in tool exchange processes.
Innovation Solution
An automated conveying apparatus with a pivot mechanism supported by a base unit, allowing the holding portion to rotate about a first axis and pivot between multiple positions, utilizing a combination of axial members and actuators to achieve a wider range of motion, enabling the holding portion to pivot between different postures for tool exchange.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional pivot mechanism is used, then the structure is simple, but the rotation range is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The pivot mechanism is divided into multiple independent components: a pivot shaft, multiple axial members (first axial member, second axial member), and corresponding blocks with cutouts. Each component can move independently to contribute to the overall rotation, enabling a wider rotation range without proportionally increasing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanism introduces motion in multiple dimensions by combining the pivotal motion about the first axis with axial movements of the axial members along their respective axes. This multi-dimensional approach allows the holding portion to achieve rotation beyond the limited range of conventional single-axis pivots.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the first axis is positioned closer to the holding portion, then the holding portion can rotate more freely, but the turning mechanism has less space
Solution Approach 1:
The axial members are arranged around the same circumference about the first axis, creating a nested configuration where components are packed efficiently in the available space. The first and second axial members are positioned concentrically, allowing maximum utilization of the limited space while maintaining freedom of pivotal motion.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of expanding the mechanism in the radial direction, the design utilizes the axial dimension by positioning the first axis between the holding portion and the turning mechanism. This vertical stacking arrangement conserves horizontal space while enabling free pivotal motion.
Data Source
AI summary
An automated conveying apparatus includes: a base unit; and a pivot supported by the base unit in a manner rotatable about a first axis. The pivot has a holding portion for detachably holding a conveyance object, and a turning mechanism which is configured to cause the holding portion to pivot about a turning center axis orthogonal to the first axis, the holding portion and the turning mechanism opposing each other in an axial direction of the turning center axis. The first axis is located at a position between the holding portion and the turning mechanism in the axial direction of the turning center axis, the position being closer to the holding portion than the turning mechanism.