Deformable Modular Gripper Unit for Rapid Reconfiguration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Gripping units with multiple grippers are inefficient for handling varied or small series production due to the time and cost required to reconfigure them for different part geometries, as existing solutions often necessitate repositioning grippers and reconfiguring power supplies.
Innovation Solution
A gripping unit design featuring interconnected grippers with rotatable links that allow for adjustable positioning without specific tooling, enabling quick adaptation to various part configurations through a system of rotating axes and fluid connections for vacuum generation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If grippers are fixed on supports that slide relative to each other to reconfigure relative positions, then the gripping unit can adapt to different part geometries, but the reconfiguration time becomes long and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting rods are designed to be rotatable relative to adjacent grippers through articulated joints, allowing the gripper assembly to dynamically change its configuration. This dynamic capability enables quick adaptation to different part geometries without requiring time-consuming repositioning operations, directly resolving the contradiction between adaptability and reconfiguration time.
2Adaptability or versatility
If grippers are repositioned and power supply is reconfigured for new part geometries, then the gripping unit can handle varied parts, but the complexity of reconfiguration increases
Solution Approach 1:
The articulated connecting rods serve multiple functions: they connect adjacent grippers, enable rotational movement for reconfiguration, and maintain structural integrity. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate reconfiguration mechanisms and power supply reconfiguration, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining versatility.
3Ease of operation
If traditional sliding support systems are used for gripper repositioning, then gripper position can be adjusted, but specific tools and removal procedures are required
Solution Approach 1:
The rotatable connecting rods enable the gripper assembly to reconfigure itself through simple rotational movements at the articulated joints. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for external tools, complex removal procedures, or specialized equipment, allowing operators to quickly adapt the gripper configuration directly on the production line.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
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AI summary
Gripping unit (1) comprising: - a first gripper (10, 110), a second gripper (20, 120) and a third gripper (30, 130); - a first connecting rod (40, 60) linking the first gripper (10, 110) and the second gripper (20, 120) and extending in a first direction (D1); - a second connecting rod (50, 70) linking the second gripper (20, 120) and the third gripper (30, 130) and extending in a second direction (D2); in which, the first connecting rod (40, 60) is arranged to permit a first rotation of the first gripper (10, 110) relative to the second gripper (20, 120) around a first axis of rotation (O10, O110), and the second connecting rod (50, 70) is arranged to permit a second rotation of the third gripper (30, 130) relative to the second gripper (20, 120) around a second axis of rotation (O20, O120).