Wireless Safety Control for Robotic Arm Tool Changers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current tool changing systems for robotic arms lack efficient and reliable safety controls, leading to wear and tear on coupling mechanisms and increased maintenance needs, particularly in smaller-sized changers, and pose safety risks due to potential unsynchronized decoupling.
Innovation Solution
A safety control apparatus with wireless communication between modules associated with the robotic arm and tool, using RFID technology and magnetic sensors to ensure safe decoupling or coupling only when specific safety signals are verified, eliminating the need for physical contact and reducing maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional contact-based coupling mechanisms are used for tool changing, then mechanical connection is achieved, but wear and tear increases and maintenance frequency increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical contact-based coupling mechanisms with a wireless communication system. The robotic arm and tool are equipped with wireless transceivers that communicate safety signals without physical contact, eliminating mechanical wear and maintenance needs while maintaining reliable coupling control
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces wireless electromagnetic signals as an intermediary between the robotic arm and tool for safety control. Instead of direct mechanical contact, safety information is transmitted through wireless signals, acting as a non-contact mediator that prevents wear while ensuring safe operation
2Reliability
If safety control systems are implemented for tool decoupling, then operational safety is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical safety interlocks and contact-based control systems with wireless communication technology. This substitution maintains high operational safety through reliable signal transmission while reducing mechanical complexity and the number of moving parts in the control system
3Strength
If contact-based coupling mechanisms are used, then mechanical connection is established, but wear on coupling mechanisms increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates mechanical coupling mechanisms entirely for the safety control function, replacing them with wireless electromagnetic field-based communication. This substitution maintains strong operational control without the wear and reliability issues associated with repeated mechanical contact and engagement
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
This solution enhances safety and reduces maintenance by ensuring controlled and safe decoupling/coupling operations, minimizing wear on coupling mechanisms and improving operational reliability across various tool changer sizes.
Implementation Method 1
said first module comprises an RFID reader and said second module comprises at least one RFID chip
Implementation Method 2
the second module comprises a magnetic sensor activatable by the magnetic actuator
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3a~3c
AI summary
A safety control apparatus (100) for a tool changing device of a robotic arm is described, said apparatus being configured to allow the decoupling or the coupling between robotic arm (5) and tool (6) safely. The safety control apparatus comprises: - a first module (101) associated with the robotic arm, - a second module (102) associated with the tool and comprising storage means (110) in which at least one safety signal (S, UID, PR) is stored, - means (103) associated with a tool parking station (30) adapted to prevent or allow the activation of said second module, said second module, once activated, being configured to wirelessly transmit said at least one safety signal to the first module, said first module being configured to allow the decoupling or the coupling between robotic arm and tool in response to the reception of said at least one safety signal.