Tooling Device with Linearly Moveable Manipulator Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Industrial manipulator systems face limitations in flexibility due to non-overlapping working ranges of operating modules, requiring multiple dedicated gripper tools and increased effort for changing tools to handle diverse workpiece shapes.
Innovation Solution
A tooling device with linearly moveable manipulator modules on their first end relative to a base unit, providing additional degrees of freedom, allowing independent movement of tool interfaces and reducing the number of required actuators, and incorporating skids with rollers or floating bearings for improved movement along guide rails, enabling overlapping working ranges and increased mechanical stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple dedicated gripper tools are used for different workpiece shapes, then the ability to handle diverse workpieces is improved, but the device complexity and effort for changing tools increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal manipulator module that can handle multiple workpiece types through independent positioning of tool interfaces. Each manipulator module with its independently movable tool interface can adapt to different workpiece shapes and positions, replacing the need for multiple dedicated gripper tools while maintaining the ability to handle diverse workpieces
2Adaptability or versatility
If the working ranges of operating modules do not overlap, then the device complexity is reduced, but the flexibility of the manipulating device is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the manipulator system into multiple independent manipulator modules, each with its own tool interface that can be positioned independently. This segmentation allows overlapping working ranges without increasing overall system complexity, as each module operates semi-independently within its designated space while contributing to the collective flexibility of the system
3Area of stationary object
If linear movement is added to manipulator modules, then the working range is enlarged, but the number of required actuators increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines rotational and linear movement capabilities within each manipulator module into an integrated mechanism. By merging these movement types and utilizing the independent positioning of tool interfaces, the system enlarges its working range without proportionally increasing the number of actuators, as the linear movement is achieved through coordinated action with existing rotational degrees of freedom
Data Source
AI summary
Exemplary embodiments are directed to a tooling device which for connecting to a manipulator. The device includes a base unit and at least two manipulator modules each with a first and a second end. At least one degree of freedom in movement is provided between both ends of each manipulator module. The first end is connected with the base unit and a tool interface is provided at the second end. The tool interfaces are each moveable independently of the other relative to the base unit. At least one manipulator module is linearly moveable on its first end relative to the base unit.