Tool Interface System With Universal Adapters
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tool interface systems require significant installation space and time for setting up transmission modules and their wiring or tubing, making them inefficient in terms of space usage and cost-effectiveness for energy and signal transmission.
Innovation Solution
The tool interface system employs adapters with plug-in pegs that attach detachably to flanges via a carrier plate, allowing for space-saving arrangement and easy interchangeability of transmission modules, which can transmit energy and signals bidirectionally, with identical adapter designs across all modules.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If transmission modules are designed individually and attached to flanges, then energy and signal transmission is achieved, but installation space requirement increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple transmission modules into a single integrated unit that attaches to the flange as one component. This merging reduces the total installation space required compared to individually attached modules, while maintaining all necessary energy and signal transmission functions through integrated design of electrical contacts, pneumatic lines, and mechanical coupling elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The transmission module is designed as a universal component that can perform multiple functions simultaneously - electrical signal transmission, pneumatic connection, and mechanical positioning - all within a single compact unit. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate individual modules for each function, thereby reducing overall installation space.
2Reliability
If transmission modules are attached using traditional screwing methods, then secure attachment is achieved, but installation time and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment mechanism is segmented into a standardized flange interface with pre-positioned mounting holes and a corresponding module design that aligns automatically. This segmentation allows for rapid assembly using simple fasteners rather than complex screwing operations, reducing installation time while maintaining secure attachment through precise geometric fitting and standardized fastening points.
3Adaptability or versatility
If different adapter designs are used for different flange sizes, then compatibility is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
A single universal adapter design is employed that can accommodate multiple flange sizes through adjustable mounting mechanisms and scalable connection interfaces. This universal adapter maintains compatibility across different flange dimensions without requiring separate specialized adapters for each size, thereby reducing device complexity while preserving adaptability.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a tool interface system for the detachable, temporary attachment of a tool or tool assembly to a handling device, wherein the system consists of a flange on the handling device side, a flange on the tool or tool assembly side, and at least one pair of transmission modules, wherein one transmission module per pair is arranged on the flange on the handling device side and one transmission module on the flange on the tool or tool assembly side, and wherein the respective transmission modules of a pair are suitable for exchanging energy and/or signals with each other. Each transmission module has an adapter with which it can be detachably attached directly to the flange supporting it or rigidly attached via a mounting plate. The adapters of all transmission modules are identical in design.The present invention develops a tool interface system arranged between a handling device and a tool or tool assembly, on whose coupling flanges transmission modules for energy and/or signal transmission can be arranged or exchanged with minimal time and cost expenditure.