Convertible Gripper Layout for Mixed Workpiece Sizes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing gripping devices struggle to handle workpieces of varying sizes efficiently, as double grippers are often limited to small workpieces due to space constraints, requiring time-consuming conversions or sacrifices in cycle time when processing both small and large pieces on the same machine.
Innovation Solution
A gripping device with two gripper units, each with its own drive and base jaws, arranged side by side on a common holder, allowing operation as a single gripper for larger pieces by using only the outer jaws, and convertible to a double gripper by adding or removing gripper fingers for smaller pieces, with position sensing and modular gripper fingers for adaptability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a double gripper is used to handle small workpieces, then workpiece change speed is improved, but the device cannot be used for larger workpieces due to space constraints
Solution Approach 1:
The gripper fingers are designed to be movable and reconfigurable. The fingers can be positioned in different configurations: for small workpieces, both gripper units operate independently as a double gripper; for large workpieces, the fingers can be repositioned or removed to allow the outer base jaws to function as a single gripper. This dynamic reconfiguration enables the device to adapt to different workpiece sizes while maintaining high productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The gripping device is divided into two independent gripper units, each with its own drive mechanism and base jaws. This segmentation allows the units to operate independently when handling small workpieces (double gripper mode) or be reconfigured to work together as a single gripper for large workpieces. The modular structure enables flexible adaptation to different workpiece sizes without requiring complete device replacement.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a single gripper is used for larger workpieces, then adaptability is improved, but cycle time increases due to loss of double gripper efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between operating modes based on workpiece size. For large workpieces, the controller coordinates the two gripper units to move synchronously as a single gripper, maintaining the ability to handle large diameters while preserving the productivity benefits of having dual drive mechanisms working in coordination.
Solution Approach 2:
The gripping device is designed with multi-functionality to perform both single gripper and double gripper operations. The two gripper units can operate independently for small workpieces or coordinate together for large workpieces. This universal design eliminates the need for time-consuming device exchanges or conversions when switching between different workpiece sizes, thereby maintaining high productivity across various applications.
3Adaptability or versatility
If device conversion is performed to switch between single and double gripper modes, then adaptability is improved, but time is lost during conversion
Solution Approach 1:
The gripper fingers are designed with movable mounting mechanisms that allow quick repositioning between different base jaws. This dynamic adjustment capability enables rapid switching between single and double gripper configurations without requiring complete disassembly or device exchange. The fingers can be quickly moved to different positions or reconfigured, minimizing conversion time while maintaining adaptability.
Data Source
AI summary
A gripping device having a holder and two gripper units. Each of the gripper units has a base body and two base jaws. The base jaws can be moved synchronously in opposite directions relative to the respective base body. The gripper units are arranged side by side on the holder so that the base jaws of both gripper units can be moved parallel to a common gripper plane. The gripping device is designed as a single gripper in that only a first gripper finger is attached to each of the two outer base jaws. It can very easily be converted to a double gripper by attaching two further gripper fingers to the inner base jaws, or by removing the first gripper fingers and attaching a second gripper finger to each of the four base jaws.