Tool Switching Device Retreating Lock Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tool switching/holding devices for robot systems are complex and inefficient in tool exchange operations, requiring multiple actuators and mechanisms for tool handling and exchange.
Innovation Solution
A tool switching/holding device with a base, movable members, actuators, and retreating/locking sections that allow for efficient tool exchange by selectively holding and locking tool mounting members using a servomotor-driven holding pin and locking pins, enabling easy tool positioning and exchange without additional actuators.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple actuators and mechanisms are used for tool handling and exchange, then tool exchange capability is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple tool holding positions and exchange mechanisms into a single integrated device. The holder simultaneously accommodates multiple tools with different functions (drilling, tightening, etc.) and integrates the exchange mechanism within the same structure, eliminating the need for separate tool storage and exchange systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The holder is designed as a universal device that can accommodate various types of tools through a standardized interface. The same holder structure can hold different tool types (drill bits, tightening tools, etc.) and perform multiple functions including tool storage, positioning, and automated exchange without requiring tool-specific mechanisms.
2Measurement precision
If multiple actuators are used for tool exchange, then tool positioning precision is improved, but the number of components and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The exchange mechanism utilizes the robot's own movement and positioning capabilities to facilitate tool exchange. As the robot moves to different work positions, the tools are automatically presented in the correct sequence, eliminating the need for additional actuators to actively manage tool exchange timing and positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple tools are pre-positioned in the holder before the robot begins its work cycle. The tools are arranged in the holder in the sequence they will be needed, so that as the robot moves through its work positions, the correct tool is already in place or can be quickly exchanged without requiring complex real-time positioning mechanisms.
3Device complexity
If a simple structure is used for tool holding, then device complexity is reduced, but tool exchange efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The holder is divided into multiple independent tool positions, each capable of holding a separate tool. This segmentation allows tools to be independently accessed and exchanged without moving or disturbing other tools in the holder, enabling quick tool changes while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The holder acts as an intermediary device between the robot and multiple tools. It provides a standardized interface that simplifies the connection between the robot and various tool types, enabling efficient tool exchange through a uniform mechanism rather than requiring custom interfaces for each tool type.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a tool switching/holding device including: a base; a Y-axis slide base; a Y-axis actuator that moves the Y-axis slide base in a Y-axis direction; X-axis slide bases that are provided on the Y-axis slide base; tool mounting members that are provided on the X-axis slide bases and on which a tool is mounted; an X-axis actuator that selectively holds one of the tool mounting members and that moves the held tool mounting member in the X-axis direction; and retreating/locking sections that cause the tool mounting member other than the tool mounting member that is selectively held by the X-axis actuator to retreat to a position away from the X-axis actuator in the Y-axis direction or the X-axis direction and that lock the retreating tool mounting member.