Wireless Quick Change End Effector Using Magnetic Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing robotic systems require human intervention for changing end effectors, which is inefficient and time-consuming, and lack efficient wireless communication and power transfer capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A wireless quick change end effector system that uses magnetic attraction and rotation of manipulator magnets to securely lock and unlock with the end effector, combined with wireless power transfer and communication elements, allowing for autonomous and efficient swapping of end effectors without human intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If magnetic attraction locking mechanism is used, then the locking strength and reliability are improved, but the complexity of the locking mechanism increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical locking mechanisms (screws, clips, or other physical fasteners) with a magnetic field-based locking system. The manipulator magnet and end effector magnet create magnetic attraction forces that securely lock the end effector to the manipulator, eliminating complex mechanical components while maintaining strong, reliable connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the adjustable parameters of magnetic field strength and polarity to control the locking state. By changing the magnetic field parameters (strength, direction, or presence), the system can transition between locked and unlocked states, providing reliable locking when needed and easy release when required, without mechanical complexity.
2Ease of operation
If wireless power transfer is implemented, then the ease of operation and autonomy are improved, but the energy loss and efficiency may worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The wireless power transfer system enables the end effector to autonomously power up, communicate, and operate without requiring manual connection of power cables or batteries. The end effector receives power wirelessly from the manipulator, allowing it to independently perform tasks and be quickly swapped without human intervention, thereby achieving self-service operation.
3Productivity
If quick change capability is implemented, then the productivity is improved, but the locking strength may worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic locking mechanism is pre-configured to engage automatically when the end effector approaches the manipulator. The magnetic attraction force is continuously active during operation, ensuring strong connection strength is maintained throughout the task, while allowing rapid disengagement when needed for swapping.
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
Enables quick, clean, and efficient removal and attachment of end effectors, facilitating autonomous operation and reducing human involvement in robotic tasks, while ensuring secure and precise locking mechanisms.
Implementation Method 1
the manipulator magnet being configured to magnetically attract the end effector magnet, thereby locking the manipulator in a mechanically strong connection to the quick change end effector
Data Source
AI summary
A quick change end effector system for use with a robot includes a quick change end effector configured for application to a task to be completed by a robot, the quick change end effector further comprising an end effector magnet, and a robotic manipulator configured to lock to the end effector, the robotic manipulator further configured to use the end effector to complete the task, the robotic manipulator comprising a manipulator magnet, the manipulator magnet being configured to magnetically attract the end effector magnet, thereby locking the manipulator in a mechanically strong connection to the quick change end effector, wherein upon disengagement of the magnetic attraction locking the manipulator to the quick change end effector, the quick change end effector can be quickly removed from the manipulator.