Variable compliance device
US4884670A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 15, 1988 |
| Grant date | Dec 5, 1989 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 15, 2008 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF16D43/206
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A variable compliance device having a tool plate attached between a tool and a robot arm to allow limited movement of the tool plate relative to the robot arm. A concave bill seat connected to the tool plate and a pin having a concave surface house a bearing ball. An inflatable diaphragm exerts a force on a piston toward the pins to force the pins against the bearing balls. Movement of the tool plate relative to the robot arm causes the pins to move relative to the robot arm. The force of the diaphragm on the pins resists movement of the tool plate relative to the robot arm, and restores the tool plate to its original position after the outside force is removed. If the pins are moved beyond a selected point, a sensor senses the movement and sends a signal to shut down the robot.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.