Article Handling Grippers for Flexible, Scuff-Free Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing article handling devices struggle to efficiently handle articles of varying shapes and sizes, often requiring frequent changes of parts and causing surface damage due to frictional engagement, which is time-consuming and costly.
Innovation Solution
The system employs a translating member with gripping assemblies that move between open and closed positions, allowing seamless transfer of articles between article handling devices, using adjustable arms and compliant materials to secure articles without scuffing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If star wheel plates or disks are changed to handle different containers, then adaptability to various container shapes and sizes is improved, but device complexity and operational time increase due to frequent part changes
Solution Approach 1:
The guide rail assembly is designed to work universally with containers of various shapes and sizes without requiring changes to the star wheel plates. The radially movable guide rails can adapt their position and engagement characteristics to accommodate different container dimensions, making the system multi-functional rather than requiring multiple specialized components.
Solution Approach 2:
The guide rail assembly incorporates radially movable guide rails that can dynamically adjust their position relative to the rotating member. This dynamic adjustment allows the same physical components to handle different container sizes and shapes by changing the radial engagement distance, eliminating the need for static, fixed-configuration star wheel plates.
2Stability of the object's composition
If guide rail assembly is radially spaced from outer periphery for maintaining radial position, then position stability is improved, but surface quality deteriorates due to frictional engagement causing scuffing and abrasion
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes the physical state or characteristics of the guide rail assembly by making it radially movable rather than fixed. This parameter change allows the engagement force and radial position to be adjusted dynamically, reducing frictional damage while maintaining position stability through controlled engagement rather than constant high-friction contact.
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 flexible handling of diverse article shapes and sizes with reduced operational costs and minimal surface damage, ensuring efficient article transfer and handling.
Implementation Method 1
using adjustable arms and compliant materials to secure articles without scuffing
Data Source
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AI summary
An article handling device is provided. In one embodiment, a system for article handling is provided. The system has first and second article handling devices that each have one or more gripping assemblies arranged around their periphery. The gripping assemblies are selectably movable between an open position and a closed position based on the relative position of the first and second article handling devices.