Hybrid Robot End Effector

Abstract

A robotic end effector for magnetic and mechanical finger gripping. The end effector has one or more magnets coupled to a palm, the one or more magnets having a magnetic surface that magnetically attaches to a ferromagnetic object. The magnetic surface defines a magnetic engagement surface, and the magnet and palm are positioned proximal to the magnetic engagement surface. Fingers pivotally coupled to the palm grasp the ferromagnetic or other object. The fingers have an extended configuration in which the fingers are positioned distal to the magnetic engagement surface and face the palm or magnetic surface to grasp the ferromagnetic or other object. The fingers have a retracted configuration in which the fingers, together with the magnet and palm, are positioned proximal to the magnetic engagement surface, with the magnetic surface forming an outermost contact surface.

Description

[Background technology]

[0001] Different robotic hands or grippers have been developed for different activities or anticipated uses. For example, magnetic grippers have been developed for ferromagnetic objects such as sheet metal. Similarly, fingered grippers have been developed for other objects such as tools. Magnetic grippers cannot effectively grasp tools, while fingered grippers cannot effectively handle some objects such as sheet metal. The development of robotic hands or grippers is a continuing effort. Summary of the Invention

[0002] The features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which together illustrate, by way of example, features of the present invention. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0003] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a robot end effector including both a magnetic gripper and a finger gripper, shown with the finger gripper in a retracted configuration and the end effector in a magnetic configuration, according to certain examples.

[0004] [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the robot end effector of FIG. 1 shown with the finger gripper in a deployed or gripping configuration and the end effector in a finger or mechanical gripping configuration.

[0005] [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a robot utilizing the robot end effector of FIG. 1.

[0006] [Figure 4]FIG. 10 is a perspective view of another robot end effector including both a magnetic gripper and a finger gripper, shown with the finger gripper in a retracted configuration and the end effector in a magnetic configuration, according to certain examples.

[0007] [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the robot end effector of FIG. 4 shown with the finger gripper in a deployed or gripping configuration and the end effector in a finger or mechanical gripping configuration. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] Reference will now be made to the exemplary embodiments illustrated, and specific language will be used herein to describe the exemplary embodiments. Nevertheless, it will be understood that no limitation of the scope of the invention is thereby intended.

[0009] As used herein, the term "substantially" means the complete or nearly complete extent or degree of an action, feature, characteristic, state, structure, item, or result. For example, an object that is "substantially" enclosed means that the object is completely enclosed or nearly completely enclosed. The precise degree of acceptable deviation from absolute completeness may, in some cases, depend on the specific context. Generally speaking, however, the proximity of completion is such that it produces the same overall result as if absolute and complete completion had been achieved. The use of "substantially" applies equally when used in the negative sense to refer to the complete or nearly complete absence of an action, feature, characteristic, state, structure, item, or result.

[0010] As used herein, "adjacent" refers to the proximity of two structures or elements. In particular, elements identified as "adjacent" are either abutting or connected. Such elements may be near or adjacent to one another without necessarily touching one another. The exact degree of proximity may, in some cases, depend on the particular context.

[0011] As used herein, "ferromagnetic" means a material or element that has the ability to magnetically couple (couple) and / or magnetic properties, such as by being magnetic or being magnetically attracted to a magnet (e.g., by containing iron), such that one ferromagnetic material or element is magnetically attracted to another ferromagnetic material or element. Thus, a ferromagnetic object is attracted to a magnet, e.g., by containing iron, or is a magnet or magnetic, such as a permanent magnet. As used herein, "magnetic" means a material or element that has magnetic properties, either inherently, e.g., a permanent magnet, or induced, e.g., an electromagnet. Magnetic can further refer to a magnet or magnet system or mechanism in which the strength of the magnet is variable, e.g., a variable strength magnet.

[0012] An initial overview of technology embodiments is provided below, and then specific technology embodiments are described in more detail later. This initial overview is intended to help the reader understand the technology more quickly, but is not intended to identify key or essential features of the technology, nor is it intended to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0013] Disclosed herein is a robot end effector with multiple different types of grippers (hybrid grippers) to more efficiently handle or grasp different types of workpieces or objects without requiring modifications to the end effector or robot. For example, the robot end effector can handle or grasp ordinary objects that are not attracted to magnets, or ferromagnetic objects such as sheet metal or steel plates, and other objects such as tools that may or may not be ferromagnetic. Thus, the end effector can be used to grip objects using its gripper assembly and to utilize the magnetic properties of the end effector to assist in gripping or grasping objects that are attracted to magnets. The gripper and magnet can be used simultaneously or separately, depending on the object to be grasped. The robot end effector can have a palm, base, or frame with a coupler that can be attached to a robot arm or robot. In one embodiment, the coupler can be articulated so that the palm can pivot or rotate about the coupler, and thus the robot arm. In another embodiment, the coupler can also include an electric coupling, such as electrical, hydraulic, and / or pneumatic couplings or lines that actuate the end effector.

[0014] The robotic end effector can have at least one magnet (or one or more magnet systems or mechanisms) coupled (meaning directly or indirectly coupled) to a palm (e.g., a palm made of steel or other metal) with a magnetic surface that engages a ferromagnetic object. Additionally, the one or more magnetics can define a magnetic engagement surface. The magnet, palm, and coupler are positioned proximal to the magnetic engagement surface such that the magnetic surface forms the outermost contact surface. Thus, the magnetic surface is the outermost contact surface and can contact a plate or flat object without interference.

[0015] Additionally, the robotic end effector may have at least one finger pivotally coupled to the palm. The finger may pivot relative to the palm or other fingers to form a gap for grasping an object or other object, such as a ferromagnetic object or tool. Furthermore, the finger may have at least two configurations, including an extended grip or configuration and a retracted configuration. In the retracted configuration, the finger is positioned proximal to the magnetic engagement surface along with the magnet and palm. Thus, the magnetic surface forms the outermost contact surface for the finger to engage the ferromagnetic object without interfering with the actuation or engagement of the magnet and the ferromagnetic object. In the extended configuration, the finger is positioned distal to the magnetic engagement surface and faces the palm or magnetic surface to grasp a ferromagnetic object or other object between the finger and the palm or magnetic surface and another finger.

[0016] 1 and 2 show an example of a robot end effector 10 that includes both magnets 14 and fingers 18, otherwise known as a hybrid end effector, where "hybrid" is intended to mean or define a single end effector having multiple different types of gripping, grasping, or lifting components that can be selected or used to grasp, grip, lift, or otherwise secure or move an object. FIG. 1 depicts the end effector 10 in a magnetic configuration with the fingers 18 in a retracted state, primarily for grasping ferromagnetic objects using the magnets 14, while FIG. 2 depicts the end effector 10 in a finger or mechanical grip configuration with the fingers in a deployed grip or extended configuration, primarily for grasping objects using the fingers 18. FIG. 3 depicts a robot utilizing one or more end effectors 10. The end effector 10 can have a palm, base, or frame 22. The palm 22 can have a coupler 26 that can be attached to a robotic arm 30 of a robot 32. The coupler 26 can be articulated such that the palm 22 can pivot or rotate about the coupler 26 and, thus, the robotic arm 30. In another aspect, the coupler 26 can also include power couplings, such as electrical, hydraulic, and / or pneumatic couplings or lines, for actuating the end effector.

[0017] In one embodiment, the end effector 10 can have at least one magnet 14. In another embodiment, the end effector 10 can have multiple magnets 14, such as a pair of magnets or an array or series of magnets (e.g., three or more magnets). For example, the end effector can have a series of four magnets 14 or an array of four magnets 14, as shown. Each magnet 14 can have a magnetic face 34 or surface that contacts and magnetically attaches to a ferromagnetic object. The magnet 14 can define a magnetic engagement surface 38, which can include, define, and be formed around a linear or possibly curved plane. In one embodiment, an array of magnets 14 can have coplanar magnetic faces 34, and the array of magnets 14 can together define the magnetic engagement surface 38. The magnet(s) 14, palm 22, and coupler 26 can be positioned proximal to the magnetic engagement surface 38. Thus, the magnet surface(s) 34 can be exposed and unobstructed, forming an outermost contact surface for engaging a ferromagnetic object, such as sheet metal or a plate. The magnet 14 can be similar to that described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2009 / 0129994, which is incorporated herein by reference. The magnets 14 of a pair of magnets or an array of magnets can be spaced apart from one another to create a larger outermost contact surface and to reduce the moment between the magnet 14 and the ferromagnetic object. Additionally, the array of magnets 14 can be positioned linearly or in a linear array, as shown. Such a linear configuration can align the magnets 14 to handle narrower objects or pipes. The magnet 14 or its magnet surface 34 can form or help form at least a portion of the palm 22 or its palmar surface.

[0018] In one embodiment, the end effector 10 can have at least one finger 18. In another embodiment, the end effector 10 can have multiple fingers 18, such as a pair of fingers, an array of three or more fingers, or a series of three or more fingers. For example, the end effector can have an array of three fingers 18 or a series of three fingers 18 as shown. The array of fingers 18 can be arranged in a nonlinear matrix. Each finger 18 can be pivotally coupled to the palm 22 and can pivot against each other and / or the palm 22 or magnet 14 to grasp a ferromagnetic or other object within a gap 42 between the fingers 18 and / or the palm 22 or magnet 14. The fingers 18 are considered to be opposed to each other even if they are offset from each other. Thus, one finger 18 can be opposed and offset from another finger 18 across the gap 42.

[0019] In one embodiment, at least a portion of at least one finger 18 can be movably positioned between a pair of spaced apart magnets 14 or linearly aligned between a pair of magnets 14 so that the fingers 18 and magnets 14 can alternate sequentially or be in an alternating sequence. In another embodiment, a pair of fingers 18 can be positioned on opposite sides of at least one magnet 14. Again, the fingers 18 and magnets 14 can alternate sequentially or be in an alternating sequence. Additionally, each of a pair of fingers 18 can be positioned on either side of the palm 22 and can face each other across the gap 42. In another embodiment, the array of magnets 14 and the array of fingers 18 can alternate sequentially or be positioned in an alternating sequence. Thus, the structure of the palm 22 can be used to (multiple )finger 18 and the magnets 14. In one embodiment, the array of magnets 14 can be linear, as shown, so that the magnets 14 can be aligned for narrower ferromagnetic objects, such as pipes.

[0020] The finger(s) 18 and end effector 10 can have at least two configurations, including a deployed grip or extended configuration as shown in FIG. 2 and a retracted configuration as shown in FIG. 1. In the deployed configuration, the finger(s) 18 are positioned distally relative to the magnetic engagement surface 38 and face each other or the palm 22 or magnetic surface 34. The end effector 10 and finger(s) 18 can grasp a ferromagnetic object or other object between the finger(s) 18 and the palm 22 or magnetic surface 34. In the retracted configuration, the finger(s) 18, along with the magnet(s) 14 and palm 22, are positioned proximal relative to the magnetic engagement surface 38. The magnetic surface(s) 34 form the outermost contact surface for abutting and magnetically attaching a ferromagnetic object. The finger(s) 18 are positioned behind the magnetic engagement surface 38 and behind the magnetic surface(s) 34 in the retracted configuration so that the finger(s) 18 do not interfere with ferromagnetic objects, such as large metal plates. Thus, the end effector 10 can be used to magnetically grasp ferromagnetic objects as well as mechanically grasp ferromagnetic objects or other objects or tools. This can occur with both acting together simultaneously at any given time, or this can occur with either one active and the other dormant at any given time. As mentioned above, the array of magnets 14 can be linear, and the array of magnets 14 can be arranged in the profile of the array of fingers 18 in the grip configuration, as shown in FIG. 2 . Thus, all of the fingers 18 and all of the magnets 14 can be utilized to grasp an object.

[0021] In one embodiment, the palm 22 can include a frame 46. The frame 46 can be disposed between adjacent magnets 14. Thus, the magnets 14 can be spaced apart by the frame 46. Additionally, the fingers 18 can be pivotally connected to the respective frame 46 between the magnets 14. The palm 22 and frame 46 can include a pair of spaced apart flanges 50 interconnected by a web 54. The fingers 18 can be pivotally connected between the pair of spaced apart flanges 50. The frame 46 can be formed of metal and can be formed by machining or casting. Other materials or composites of materials are also contemplated and will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

[0022] In another embodiment, each finger can include a proximal segment or phalange 58 pivotally connected to the palm 22, frame 46, or flange 50 at a proximal pivot 62. A distal segment or phalange 66 can be pivotally connected to the proximal segment 58 at a distal pivot 70. Thus, in one embodiment, each finger 18 can include two segments or phalanges. In another embodiment, each finger can include three phalange segments. The fingers 18, or their segments 58 and 66, can be formed of metal, for example, by machining or casting, or can be formed of plastic, for example, by injection molding or 3D printing, or can be formed of other materials or composites of materials.

[0023] The proximal and distal segments 58, 66 of the finger(s) 18 can have at least two configurations, including a straight configuration as shown in FIG. 1 and a canted configuration as shown in FIG. 2. With reference to FIG. 2, the canted configuration corresponds to the extended configuration of the finger(s). In the canted configuration, the proximal and distal segments 58, 66 are oriented transversely relative to one another to facilitate grasping of an object. With reference to FIG. 1, the straight configuration corresponds to the retracted configuration of the finger(s). In the straight configuration, the proximal and distal segments 58, 66 are oriented substantially linearly or in line with one another. The finger segments or phalanges need not be straight and can form an obtuse angle, but can be oriented relatively straight relative to one another in the straight configuration as compared to the canted configuration, as shown in FIG. 1.

[0024] Additionally, each finger 18 can further include a finger articulation for actuating the finger. The finger articulation can include a proximal bell crank 74 pivotally connected to the palm 22, the frame 46, or the flange 50 at the proximal pivot 62. The proximal bell crank 74 can pivot relative to the palm 22 along with the proximal segment 58. Additionally, the bell crank 74 can extend from the palm 22 laterally relative to the proximal segment 58. A tab 78 can extend from the distal segment 66 at the distal pivot 70. The tab 78 can extend laterally relative to the distal segment 66. In one embodiment, the tab 78 and the distal segment 66 can define a distal bell crank. A proximal link 82 is pivotally connected between the proximal bell crank 74 and the tab 78. Additionally, the proximal link 82 can be spaced apart from the proximal segment 58. In one embodiment, the proximal segment 58, the proximal link 82, the proximal bell crank 74, and the tab 78 or distal bell crank can form a four-bar link. The proximal bell crank 74 and the proximal link 82 can be formed of metal, e.g., by machining or casting, of plastic, e.g., by injection molding or 3D printing, or of other materials or composites of materials. The tab 78 can be integrally formed with the distal segment 66 as a one-piece or monolithic body.

[0025] Actuator 88 is connected to and supported by the palm 22, frame 46, or flange 50, and is pivotally connected to the proximal bell crank 74. In one embodiment, the actuator 88 can be a pneumatic cylinder. In another aspect, the actuator can be a hydraulic cylinder. In another aspect, the actuator 88 The actuator may be an electric motor. 88can push or pull the proximal bell crank 74, which in turn can push or pull the proximal link 82, thereby expanding and retracting the proximal segment 58 and the distal segment 66, respectively.

[0026] In one embodiment, the proximal segment 58 can be straight or substantially straight, while the distal segment 66 can be angled or have two portions at an obtuse angle relative to one another to facilitate gripping.

[0027] Although the end effector 10 has been described as having a magnetic configuration that relies primarily on the magnets 14 for grasping and a mechanical configuration that relies primarily on the fingers 18 for grasping, both the magnets 14 and the fingers 18 can be used together to grasp an object both magnetically and mechanically, in addition to being able to use the magnetic and mechanical configurations independently.

[0028] 4 and 5 depict another example of a robot end effector 10b with both magnets 14 and fingers 18, which is similar in most respects to those described above and incorporated herein by reference where applicable, as will be recognized by those skilled in the art. While FIG. 4 depicts the end effector 10b in a magnetic configuration with the fingers 18 retracted, primarily using the magnets 14 to grasp ferromagnetic objects, FIG. 5 depicts the end effector 10b in a finger configuration with the fingers 18 in a deployed, gripping, or extended configuration, primarily using the fingers 18 to grasp objects. The array of magnets 14 can be arranged in a nonlinear matrix. The nonlinear matrix can reduce the moment between the magnets 14 and the ferromagnetic object. The finger array 18 is positioned in the profile of the matrix of magnets 14 in the deployed configuration and adjacent to and / or between the magnets 14 in the retracted configuration. Positioning the magnet 14 outside the fingers 18 in the deployed configuration can protect the magnet 14 when grasping an object with the fingers 18. Positioning the fingers 18 adjacent to the magnet 14 in the retracted configuration can protect the fingers 18.

[0029] Again, palm 22b can include a frame 46b. Each finger 18 can be paired with a magnet 14 and interconnected by the frame 46b. Thus, each magnet 14 can be coupled to the frame 46b, and each finger 18 can be pivotally coupled to the frame 46b. Note that as used herein, "coupled" is intended to mean either directly or indirectly coupled. Palm 22b and frame 46b can include a pair of spaced flanges 50b interconnected by a web 54b. Fingers 18 can be pivotally coupled between the pair of spaced flanges 50b.

[0030] The magnets described herein can, in one embodiment, include variable-strength magnets or magnet systems or mechanisms, such as those described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2009 / 0229994, incorporated herein by reference. The variable-strength magnet can be actuated to activate a magnetic field (e.g., to grasp an object) and deactivated to remove the magnetic field (e.g., to facilitate release of the grasped object). With a variable-strength magnet, a magnetic end effector can lift a fine payload by selectively varying the strength of the magnetic force output by the magnetic end effector. For example, the strength of the magnet can be selected to grasp a single sheet of steel overlying one or more additional steel sheets. This strength allows for grasping the single sheet without lifting any other sheets. Once the sheet is lifted from the stack, the magnetic strength of the magnet can be increased as desired to maintain a grip on the sheet. An actuator can be operatively coupled to the variable-strength magnet end effector, the actuator being selectively actuable to control adjustment of the variable-strength magnet. The actuator may be configured to maintain the variable strength magnet at a desired magnetic force output strength once achieved for any given period of time.

[0031] The variable-strength magnetic end effector can be in communication with a master control unit designed and operable to control the magnet, specifically, the magnet's intensity. For example, the master control unit can be used to activate and continuously adjust the magnet. The magnet's intensity can be adjusted to an infinite number of output magnetic strengths or magnetic strength output levels. An actuator can be selectively operable to control the adjustment of the variable-strength magnet and to maintain the variable-strength magnet at a desired magnetic output strength to secure an object to the end effector. The magnetic strength or intensity can be selectively and continuously adjustable through a range between full strength and no strength. More specifically, the magnet's strength can be infinitely adjustable within a given range.

[0032] In one specific example, the magnet may include a permanent magnet having a north (N) region and a south (S) region. The magnet may be positioned within a housing. First and second blocks of ferrous material, such as iron, may be disposed within the housing. The first and second blocks may be separated by a non-ferrous material, such as brass or aluminum, also disposed within the housing. Cavities sized and configured to receive the magnets may be formed along a planar direction within the interior of the housing and through the ferrous and non-ferrous materials, respectively. The strength of the magnetic force of the magnet may be variable depending on the orientation or position of the magnet, particularly the north and south polar regions. For example, the position of the magnet, particularly the north and south polar regions, may be such that the north and south polar regions are positioned vertically in line with the non-ferrous material, which functions to turn the magnet off. In this "full off" position, no magnetic force is aligned or generated through the magnet. Conversely, orienting the magnet so that the north and south pole regions are horizontal and coincident with and in contact with the ferrous material will cause the magnet to produce maximum magnetic force or strength output. Orienting the magnet in this "full on" position can be achieved, for example, by rotating the magnet so that it is in contact with first and second blocks of ferrous material.

[0033] As described above, in one embodiment, selectively controlling the rotation of a permanent magnet can be used to selectively increase or decrease the strength or intensity of the magnet's magnetic force. Specifically, positioning the permanent magnet in one of an infinite number of positions between a "full on" position and a "full off" position can allow for a lesser degree of magnetic force compared to the permanent magnet's "full on" or full power position. Between these positions, the magnetic flux extends partially through ferrous and non-ferrous materials, producing a reduced magnetic force. Continuously varying the magnet position between these positions effectively functions to vary the strength of the magnetic force. The magnet's position can be controlled in a number of ways via a number of different actuators. Additionally, the magnet can be formed of neodymium or samarium cobalt or other materials.

[0034] Other variable strength magnets that may be incorporated into the end effector are contemplated herein and will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

[0035] In another example, the magnet can include an electromagnet operable to be activated and deactivated to apply and remove a magnetic field. The types of electromagnets that can be incorporated into the end effectors described herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The electromagnet can include or be associated with an electronic actuator that sends an electric current to the electromagnet. In one embodiment, the electromagnet can include a metal core, such as an iron alloy. A wire coil can be wrapped around the metal core, and an electric current from a power source can be directed to the wire coil. The power source can be of any type, such as, but not limited to, a battery.

[0036] Although the present disclosure may not explicitly disclose that some embodiments or configurations described herein may be combined with other embodiments or configurations described herein, the disclosure should be read as describing any such combinations feasible by one of ordinary skill in the art. The use of "or" in this disclosure should be understood to mean a non-exclusive or, i.e., "and / or," unless stated otherwise herein.

[0037] Reference has been made to examples illustrated in the drawings, and specific language has been used herein to describe the examples. Nevertheless, it is understood that no limitation of the scope of the technology is thereby intended. Changes and further modifications of the structures illustrated herein, as well as additional applications of the examples as illustrated herein, should be considered within the scope of this specification.

[0038] Furthermore, the described configurations, structures, or features may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more examples. In the foregoing description, numerous specific details, such as example configurations, are provided to provide a thorough understanding of examples of the described technology. However, it will be recognized that the technology may be practiced without one or more of the specific details, or with other methods, components, devices, etc. In other instances, well-known structures or operations are not shown or described in detail to avoid obscuring aspects of the technology.

[0039] Although the subject matter has been described in language specific to structural configurations and / or acts, it is to be understood that the subject matter defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific configurations and acts described above. Rather, the specific configurations and acts described above are disclosed as exemplary forms of implementing the claims. Numerous modifications and alternative arrangements may be devised without departing from the spirit and scope of the described technology.

[0040] While the foregoing examples illustrate the principles of the present invention in one or more particular applications, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that numerous modifications in embodiment, usage and detail can be made without departing from the principles and concepts of the present invention and without the exercise of the inventive faculty. Accordingly, it is not intended that the present invention be limited except as by the claims set forth below. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0041] [Patent Document 1] U.S. Patent No. 8,892,258

Claims

1. With the palm, Two or more magnets coupled to the palm; at least one finger pivotally connected to said palm; the two or more magnets include a pair of magnets spaced apart from one another, each of the pair of magnets having a coplanar magnet face configured to magnetically attach to a ferromagnetic object, the magnet faces of each magnet of the pair of magnets cooperatively defining a magnetic engagement surface, and the palm is positioned proximal to the magnetic engagement surface; The at least one finger is configured to grasp the ferromagnetic or other object, the at least one finger comprising: a deployed configuration, wherein the at least one finger is positioned distal to the magnetic engagement surface, facing the palm or the magnet surface, and configured to grasp the ferromagnetic object or the other object between the at least one finger and the palm or the magnet surface; and a retraction configuration, wherein the at least one finger is positioned proximal to the magnetic engagement surface with the two or more magnets and the palm, the magnet surface forming an outermost contact surface. having at least two configurations, At least a portion of the at least one finger is movably positionable between the pair of magnets. Robot end effector.

2. The robot end effector of claim 1 , wherein the at least one finger comprises a pair of fingers, the pair of fingers being positioned on either side of the two or more magnets.

3. The robot end effector of claim 2 , wherein the pair of fingers oppose each other in the deployed configuration.

4. 2. The robot end effector of claim 1, wherein the two or more magnets comprise an array of magnets spaced apart from one another, the array of magnets having magnet faces that are coplanar and define a magnetic engagement surface, and the at least one finger comprises an array of fingers, the array of magnets and the array of fingers alternating in a sequential manner.

5. The robot end effector of claim 4 , wherein the array of magnets is linear.

6. The robot end effector of claim 5 , wherein the array of magnets is positioned away from the array of fingers in the deployed configuration.

7. The robot end effector of claim 4 , wherein the palm includes a frame disposed between adjacent magnets, each finger pivotally coupled to a respective frame.

8. The robot end effector of claim 4 , wherein the array of magnets is arranged in a non-linear matrix.

9. The robot end effector of claim 8 , wherein the array of fingers is positioned away from the matrix of magnets in the deployed configuration.

10. 5. The robot end effector of claim 4, wherein each finger is paired with a magnet, the palm includes a frame, the magnets are attached to the frame, and the fingers are pivotally attached to the frame.

11. The at least one finger is a proximal segment pivotally connected to the palm at a proximal pivot; a distal segment pivotally connected to the proximal segment at a distal pivot; The proximal and distal segments of the at least one finger are a tilted configuration corresponding to the deployed configuration of the at least one finger, the proximal segment and the distal segment being oriented laterally relative to one another; and a straight configuration corresponding to the retracted configuration of the at least one finger, the proximal segment and the distal segment being oriented at least one of straight or substantially straight relative to one another. having at least two configurations; The robot end effector of claim 1 .

12. The at least one finger further includes a knuckle, the knuckle being: a proximal bell crank pivotally connected to the palm at the proximal pivot, pivoting relative to the palm with the proximal segment and extending from the palm transversely relative to the proximal segment; a tab extending from the distal segment at the distal pivot transversely to the distal segment; a proximal link pivotally connected to and between the proximal bellcrank and the tab and spaced from the proximal segment; an actuator coupled to the palm and pivotally coupled to the proximal bell crank; the tab and the distal segment define a distal bell crank. The robot end effector of claim 11.

13. 2. The robot end effector of claim 1, wherein the palm includes a pair of spaced flanges interconnected by a web, the at least one finger being pivotally connected between the pair of spaced flanges.

14. The robot end effector of claim 1 , further comprising a coupler coupled to the palm and configured to couple the palm to a robotic arm.

15. The robot end effector of claim 1 , wherein the two or more magnets include one or more variable strength magnets.

16. The robot end effector of claim 1 , wherein the two or more magnets include one or more electromagnets.

17. With the palm, a plurality of magnets coupled to the palm and having magnet faces configured to magnetically attach to ferromagnetic objects; a pair of fingers pivotally coupled to the palm and configured to grasp the ferromagnetic or other object; the plurality of magnets cooperatively define a magnetic engagement surface, the palm and the plurality of magnets being positioned proximal to the magnetic engagement surface; Each of the pair of fingers may be disposed on an opposite side of the palm, and each of the pair of fingers may be opposed to each other; The finger is a deployed configuration, the fingers being positioned distal to the magnetic engagement surface, facing the palm or magnet surface, and configured to grasp the ferromagnetic object or other object between the fingers and the palm or magnet surface; a retraction configuration, wherein the pair of fingers is positioned proximal to the magnetic engagement surface with the plurality of magnets and the palm, the magnet surface forming an outermost contact surface. having at least two configurations, the plurality of magnets and the pair of fingers alternate in a sequential manner; Robot end effector.

18. The robot end effector of claim 17 , wherein the plurality of magnets comprises an array of magnets arranged in a linear array.

19. The robot end effector of claim 18 , wherein the array of magnets is positioned away from the pair of fingers in the deployed configuration.

20. The robot end effector of claim 17 , wherein the palm includes a frame disposed between adjacent magnets, each finger pivotally coupled to a respective frame.

21. The robot end effector of claim 17 , wherein the plurality of magnets comprises an array of magnets arranged in a non-linear matrix.

22. The robot end effector of claim 21 , wherein the pair of fingers is positioned away from the matrix of the plurality of magnets in the deployed configuration.

23. 20. The robot end effector of claim 17, wherein each finger is paired with a magnet, the palm includes a frame, the magnets are attached to the frame, and the fingers are pivotally attached to the frame.

24. Each of the pair of fingers is at least a proximal segment pivotally connected to the palm at a proximal pivot; a distal segment pivotally connected to the proximal segment at a distal pivot; The proximal and distal segments of the pair of fingers are a tilted configuration corresponding to the deployed configuration of the pair of fingers, the proximal segment and the distal segment being oriented laterally relative to one another; and a straight configuration corresponding to the retracted configuration of the pair of fingers, the proximal and distal segments being oriented at least one of straight or substantially straight relative to one another. having at least two configurations; 20. The robot end effector of claim 17.

25. Each of the pair of fingers further includes a knuckle, the knuckle being: a proximal bell crank pivotally connected to the palm at the proximal pivot, pivoting relative to the palm with the proximal segment and extending from the palm transversely relative to the proximal segment; a tab extending from the distal segment at the distal pivot transversely to the distal segment; a proximal link pivotally connected to and between the proximal bellcrank and the tab and spaced from the proximal segment; an actuator coupled to the palm and pivotally coupled to the proximal bell crank; the tab and the distal segment define a distal bell crank.

25. The robot end effector of claim 24.

26. 18. The robot end effector of claim 17, wherein the palm includes a pair of spaced flanges interconnected by a web, and each of the pair of fingers is pivotally connected between the pair of spaced flanges.

27. The robotic end effector of claim 17 , further comprising a coupler coupled to the palm and configured to couple the palm to a robotic arm.

28. 1. A robot end effector configured to grasp both ferromagnetic objects and other objects, comprising: A palm configured to be coupled to a robotic arm; a set of magnets coupled to the palm and having magnet faces configured to magnetically attach to ferromagnetic objects; a set of fingers pivotally connected to the palm and configured to grasp the ferromagnetic or other object; the series of magnets cooperatively defining a magnetic engagement surface, the palm being positioned proximal to the magnetic engagement surface; the set of fingers are arranged in a matrix that can form a gap, at least one finger facing another finger across the gap; the series of magnets and the series of fingers alternate in a sequential manner; The set of fingers includes: a deployed configuration, the set of fingers positioned distal to the magnetic engagement surface against the magnetic surface and the palm; a retraction configuration, wherein the set of fingers is positioned proximal to the magnetic engagement surface with the set of magnets and the palm, the magnet surface forming an outermost contact surface. having at least two configurations; Robot end effector.

29. With the palm, an array of magnets coupled to the palm and spaced apart from one another, the magnets having coplanar magnet faces configured to magnetically attach to ferromagnetic objects, the array of magnets cooperatively defining a magnetic engagement surface, the palm being positioned proximal to the magnetic engagement surface; an array of fingers coupled to the palm and configured to grasp the ferromagnetic or other object, the array of fingers alternating sequentially with the array of magnets and having at least two configurations, the at least two configurations comprising: a deployed configuration, the finger array disposed distal to the magnetic engagement surface, facing the palm or magnet surface, and configured to grasp the ferromagnetic object or other object between the finger array and the palm or magnet surface; a retraction configuration, wherein the finger array is positioned proximate to the magnetic engagement surface with the magnet array and the palm, the magnet surface forming an outermost contact surface. Robot end effector.

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