This proposal will develop design rules and database for use of "electroimpact" technology in conjunction with a robot end effector (gripper). The Electroimpact Tool is powered by the phenomenon of eddy current repulsion. Recoilless operation is achieved by transferring the eddy current reaction force into a movable recoil mass which imparts a impulse force at the point of contact. The low recoil and powerful output force pulse of the device could broaden the functional range of robots, which currently have low payload capacity. Functions such as metal forming, punching, shearing, dimpling, chipping, anchor setting and interference fit assembly potentially could be performed. The device should be economical, compact and safe making this a practical technology for robots. The capabilities must be determined in performing a range of job functions in view of the accuracy, load and dynamic limitations of current industrial robot technology. The Phase I plan is to design a prototype Electroimpact End Effector based on magnetodynamic simulation, construct the prototype and test it on a specific robot to confirm the validity of the design rules. The research result should be a design model which is expected to be the basis for extension to other robots in follow-on research. Plans also include commercialization. With the assistance of this device an end effector on a robot could press, punch, form, anchor set, and shear with a force pulsing two orders of magnitude greater than the payload capacity of the robot. This should vastly broaden the functional range of robots, and hence contribute to increased productivity.

Agency
National Science Foundation (NSF)
Institute
Division of Industrial Innovation and Partnerships (IIP)
Type
Standard Grant (Standard)
Application #
8660757
Program Officer
Ritchie B. Coryell
Project Start
Project End
Budget Start
1987-02-01
Budget End
1987-07-31
Support Year
Fiscal Year
1986
Total Cost
$39,996
Indirect Cost
Name
Electroimpact Incorporated
Department
Type
DUNS #
City
Seattle
State
WA
Country
United States
Zip Code
98105