Wedge-Shaped Robot Arm Tool Changer Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Industrial robot tool-holders face challenges in providing effortless and secure locking/unlocking mechanisms that can withstand operational strains and allow for accurate tool positioning, especially in collaborative robots where human interaction and tool changes are necessary, while existing designs are often complex and costly or not strong enough to handle varying directional stresses.
Innovation Solution
A tool-holder design featuring wedge-shaped elements as a locking mechanism between two parts, allowing for quick and effortless connection and disconnection, with inclined side surfaces and a spring-loaded locking pin for secure attachment and easy release, enabling stable operation under various directional forces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional locking mechanism is used in the tool-holder, then the tool can be securely held during operations, but the locking and unlocking process becomes time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is segmented into multiple independent wedge-shaped elements (at least two) that can be actuated separately. Each wedge element functions as an independent locking unit that can be individually engaged or disengaged, allowing for simplified control and faster operation compared to a monolithic locking system
Solution Approach 2:
The wedge-shaped elements are designed to automatically engage and lock when the tool-holder is assembled or when tools are inserted. The wedges self-adjust and self-lock through their geometric shape, eliminating the need for complex external actuation mechanisms and reducing operational complexity
2Strength
If a simple locking mechanism is used, then the tool-holder is easy to operate, but it cannot withstand the varying directional strains during tool operations
Solution Approach 1:
The wedge-shaped elements feature asymmetric geometry with inclined surfaces designed to convert small axial forces into large lateral locking forces. This asymmetric wedge shape allows the mechanism to be easily actuated in one direction (insertion/locking) while providing strong resistance to forces in opposite directions (operational strains)
Solution Approach 2:
The wedge-shaped elements are pre-configured in a ready-to-engage position within the tool-holder structure. When a tool is inserted or the tool-holder is assembled, the wedges are already positioned to automatically engage with the tool or arm features, eliminating the need for additional locking actions and ensuring immediate strain resistance
3Manufacturing precision
If precise alignment features are added to ensure accurate tool positioning, then the positioning accuracy improves, but the alignment process becomes more complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The wedge-shaped elements and their corresponding recesses are designed with self-aligning geometric features that automatically guide the tool into the correct position during insertion. The inclined surfaces of the wedges and matching features on the tool create natural alignment paths, eliminating the need for separate alignment mechanisms or procedures
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The wedge-shaped tool-holder provides a stable and effortless locking/unlocking mechanism that can handle operational strains, reducing the need for precise alignment and minimizing the risk of jamming, making it suitable for both human and robotic operation, while maintaining tool stability and ease of use.
Implementation Method 1
complementary wedge shaped elements on respectively the first part and the second part function as a releasable locking mechanism
Implementation Method 2
a spring-loaded locking pin for secure attachment and easy release
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention disclose a tool-holder (10) comprising a first part (10a) and a second part (10b), wherein a wedge shaped locking mechanism is arranged partly on a first surface of the first part (10a) operable to be joined with further parts of the wedge shaped locking mechanism arranged on a second surface of the second part (10b).