Adhesive Gripper for Automated Package Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current automated picking systems for industrial trucks are limited in handling diverse packages due to the need for specific gripping mechanisms, which are not suitable for packages of different types, sizes, and configurations, especially those that are open at the top or unstable, often requiring manual intervention.
Innovation Solution
A mobile autonomous industrial truck equipped with an adhesive gripper having a carrier tape with an adhesive substrate, allowing for controllable and temporary adhesion to packages, enabling lifting and transport of various package types without the need for vacuum or clamping mechanisms, and featuring a sensor system for precise alignment and a regenerative adhesive system for efficient operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If mechanical grippers or clamping devices are used to handle packages, then packages with stable structures and accessible sides can be gripped, but packages that are open at the top, unstable, or have irregular surfaces cannot be handled
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical grippers and clamping devices with an adhesive contacting device. Instead of using mechanical forces to grip packages from the sides, the invention uses adhesive forces to contact and lift packages from their top surfaces. This substitution enables handling of packages that are open at the top, unstable, or have irregular surfaces, as the adhesive surface can conform to and bond with various package geometries without requiring accessible side surfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the fundamental parameter of package contact from mechanical side-gripping to adhesive top-contacting. The adhesive substrate allows contact and bonding with the top surface of packages, enabling a different mode of force application that is suitable for packages cannot be gripped from above. This parameter change in the contact mechanism expands the range of handleable package types.
2Ease of operation
If lateral gripping devices are used to lift packages, then packages accessible from both sides can be handled, but packages stacked on pallets with limited accessibility cannot be picked
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the traditional gripping approach by contacting the package from the top surface rather than from the sides. Instead of reaching around to grip packages laterally, the adhesive contacting device presses against the top surface of packages stacked on pallets and lifts them directly upward. This inverted contact approach eliminates the need for lateral accessibility and enables automated picking from densely stacked packages.
3Reliability
If tray-based gripping devices are used to handle various packages, then stable transport of diverse packages is achieved, but the process of lifting packages onto trays becomes complex and requires additional mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the contacting and lifting functions into a single adhesive contacting device. The adhesive substrate both contacts the package surface and provides the lifting force in one integrated action. This eliminates the need for separate mechanisms to lift packages onto trays, simplifying the overall system while maintaining reliable package transport. The adhesive force naturally holds the package during the transfer process without requiring additional clamping or support structures.
4Adaptability or versatility
If adhesive surfaces are used to contact and lift packages, then packages of various types can be handled from a single side, but the adhesive properties need to be controlled and regenerated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a regenerative adhesive system where the adhesive substrate is periodically renewed. After the adhesive surface loses its bonding capability, it is discarded and replaced with a fresh adhesive substrate. This recovery approach maintains the versatility of handling diverse package types while managing the consumable nature of the adhesive material. The system can be designed with automatic substrate replacement mechanisms to minimize intervention.
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
Enables fully automated picking and transport of different package types, including those that are air-permeable, open at the top, or unstable, with reduced energy consumption and increased operational availability, as the adhesive gripper can handle packages from a single side and adapt to various dimensions and surfaces, ensuring safe and efficient handling.
Implementation Method 1
the contacting device comprises an adhesive surface for temporary, controllable contact between the handling device and the package to exert a translation with shear force on the package
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a handling device (5) for handling and picking packages (7) comprising a contacting device (11) and a carrying device (12), wherein the contacting device (11) is designed to contact the packages (7) to be picked, and the carrying device (12) is used to secure the package (7) to the handling device (5). The contacting device (11) includes an adhesive surface (19) for temporary, controllable contact between the handling device (5) and the package (7) to exert a translational shear force on the package (7).