Tool Rack Blocking Mechanism for Robotic Tool Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional robotic arms require complex apparatus or manual operation to separate end-effectors, complicating the process of tool exchange and storage.
Innovation Solution
A tool set comprising a tool holder with a latch unit and a tool rack with a blocking member, allowing for simple and controlled separation of tools by engaging and disengaging the latch unit with the tool's groove unit and blocking the tool's movement within the rack.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional robotic arm uses a removable end-effector for specific functions, then the tool can be exchanged for different tasks, but a complicated apparatus or manual operation is needed for separating the end-effector from the arm body
Solution Approach 1:
A tool rack serves as an intermediary component between the tool holder and the tool. The rack includes a blocking member that mediates the separation process by blocking the tool's movement path after the latch unit releases, guiding the tool into the rack's retaining space without requiring complex separation apparatus or manual operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The tool rack with blocking member enables the tool separation process to be self-service. When the latch unit releases the tool, the blocking member automatically blocks the tool's movement path and guides it into the retaining space, eliminating the need for external complex apparatus or manual intervention.
2Ease of operation
If a latch unit is used to removably engage the tool to the tool holder, then the tool can be easily mounted and demounted, but additional components are needed to control the separation process
Solution Approach 1:
The blocking member is merged with the tool rack structure, combining the functions of tool guidance, positioning, and retention control into a single integrated component. This reduces the number of separate control components needed while maintaining ease of tool mounting and demounting operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The tool rack serves multiple functions: it stores the tool when not in use, guides the tool during separation, blocks the tool's movement path, and positions the tool for reattachment. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional specialized control components.
Data Source
AI summary
A tool set includes a tool holder, a tool and a tool rack. The tool has a groove unit. The tool holder has a latch unit that engages the groove unit. The tool rack includes a rack body and a blocking member. When the tool holder is moved away from the rack body after the tool is moved into the rack body by the tool holder and after the blocking member moves to a blocking position, the tool is blocked by the blocking member so that the latch unit is separated from the groove unit and that the tool holder is separated from the tool.