Configurable Gripper Assembly for Tire Components
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing gripper assemblies for tire components require frequent changes to accommodate different sizes and shapes, leading to time-consuming operations and potential air leakage issues due to mismatched suction areas.
Innovation Solution
A gripper assembly with a configurable gripping face comprising multiple sections and individually operable valves, allowing for adjustable suction areas through a configuration tool that can match the shape and size of various tire components without manual intervention, and a manipulator for precise positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single gripper is used for all tire components, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability to different tire component sizes and shapes deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The gripping face is divided into multiple independently controllable sections, each with its own valve and vacuum channel. This segmentation allows selective activation of different sections to match various tire component sizes and shapes while using a single gripper unit.
Solution Approach 2:
The gripper transitions from a static, fixed configuration to a dynamic, adjustable system where the suction area can be modified in real-time by operating individual valves. This enables the same gripper to adapt to different tire component dimensions without physical reconfiguration.
2Adaptability or versatility
If grippers are interchanged for different tire components, then adaptability to different sizes and shapes is improved, but productivity deteriorates due to time-consuming operations
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of physically replacing grippers, the system dynamically adjusts the active suction area by operating individual valves. This real-time reconfiguration eliminates the need for manual gripper interchange and maintains continuous operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The gripper system performs self-adjustment through the configuration tool that automatically configures the appropriate valve positions based on the tire component being handled, eliminating the need for manual intervention and gripper replacement.
3Device complexity
If the suction area is fixed, then device complexity is reduced, but reliability deteriorates due to air leakage from mismatched areas
Solution Approach 1:
The vacuum system is segmented into multiple independent channels corresponding to different sections. This allows precise control of vacuum application to match the exact dimensions of the tire component, preventing air leakage at the periphery while maintaining sufficient suction area.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the effective suction area parameter by selectively opening or closing individual valves. This dynamic parameter adjustment ensures the suction area always matches the tire component dimensions, maintaining seal integrity and preventing air leakage.
4Device complexity
If manual operation of valves is required, then device complexity is reduced, but ease of operation deteriorates due to hazardous areas and repeated manual intervention
Solution Approach 1:
A configuration tool serves as an intermediary device that automatically operates the valves from a safe distance. This mediator eliminates the need for operators to manually intervene in hazardous areas while maintaining simple operation through automated control.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs automatic self-configuration through the configuration tool that autonomously determines and sets the appropriate valve positions based on the tire component being handled, eliminating repeated manual intervention and improving operational ease.
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
Enhances flexibility and efficiency by allowing the gripper to adapt to different tire components without changing grippers, reducing air leakage and human intervention risks, while maintaining secure retention.
Implementation Method 1
the gripping face comprises a plurality of sections, wherein the gripper for each section comprises a vacuum channel that debouches at the respective section in the gripping face for retaining the tire component to the respective section
Implementation Method 2
a valve that is placed between the vacuum channel of the respective section and a vacuum source, wherein each valve is individually operable to an open position in which the valve is arranged to connect the vacuum channel of the respective section in fluid communication to the vacuum source and a closed position
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a gripper assembly (1) and a method for gripping a tire component (9), wherein the gripper assembly is provided with a gripper (3) comprising a gripping element with a gripping face (31) to engage and retain the tire component through suction, wherein the gripping face comprises a plurality of sections (34), wherein the gripper for each section comprises a vacuum channel (37) and a valve (41) that is placed between the vacuum channel of the respective section and a vacuum source, wherein each valve (41) is individually operable to an open position and a closed position, wherein the gripping face in use has a suction area formed by the sections of which the respective valves are in the open position, wherein the suction area is adjustable by selectively operating the plurality of valves to the open positions and the closed positions wherein the gripper assembly further comprises a configuration tool which in a configuration position is arranged to control the respective valves to their open positions and their closed positions.