HuskyV2 Assembly Stand
In Spring 2022 I joined the Silicon Synapse lab, which focusses on animal-based robotics. I joined the HuskyV2 project team, which is developing a carbon fiber robot dog. To start, they had me design an assembly stand for the project. Using my prior experiences in FIRST Robotics, I decided to use mostly 8020 to create an adjustable and modular design.
This was the first model of the test stand. It utilized a simple design, with some 3D printed parts on top to clamp to the spine of the robot. The clamps were designed with slots to attach Velcro straps to secure the body. I want to clarify, I DID NOT make the HuskyV2 SolidWorks assembly, I ONLY made the test stand.
While an effective and simplistic design, It had a few main issues. The main issue was the strap location. the connection points for straps are at the top of the clamps. The straps don't hug the body and pull the spine down enough. The second is the stand's height. This stand was not tall quite tall enough for full leg mobility.
Model 1
Re-Designed Clamp
The height was easy to change for the stand, so the more challenging revision was the clamp. The image to the right is one of the two clamps (one on either side).
First, I lowered the Velcro strap (grey) attachment point to secure the robot more effectively. Two straps are able to connect through slots on both clamps, wrapping fully around the body.
We determined that more contact along the body of the robot would help with alignment, so I extended the 3D-Printed clamp part (orange) to run further along the body than before.
I then added foam padding (black) to allow for compression and compliance with the robots profile. This allows for more clamping force.
A few new goals for the stand were added for the final model. Now, the assembly stand was also supposed to serve as a display stand for the robot. I had to make significant changes to the frame to allow for stable and easy relocation.
Model 2
This model of the assembly stand features the new clamping mechanism, casters for mobility, and much taller design for easy transport and robot testing/display.
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While this model addresses previous points of improvement, it also creates one major concern: tipping. This stand is tall with a narrow footprint, and can easily be tipped over.
Final Model
The model was changed one final time to make a more stable design. The height of the stand was decreased from 4 feet to 3 feet, and the base area was increased.
These changes properly address the tipping concern, while still allowing enough space for robot mobility. The base is 18 inches by 18 inches. This profile is small enough for compact storage in the lab and fits through the average doorway for display transit.
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Overall, this is a much better design than the original model. This project was certainly a way for me to improve my design awareness and critical thinking skills. Re-evaluated and improving my design was a great way for me to practice the engineering design process.
Relevant Skills
SolidWorks
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Sketches/Parts
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Assemblies
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Weldments