Dual-Suction Holding for Twisting Flexible Plate Members

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing robots face challenges in holding and applying actions to a target object at two positions, particularly with plate-shaped members, as they often require multiple hands or actions at different locations.

Innovation Solution

A holding device with a first and second suction structure, a turning device, and a moving device that allows the second suction structure to be turned and moved relative to the first, enabling the device to hold and twist a plate-shaped member at two positions, reducing load and preventing interference during conveyance.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a robot uses multiple hands to hold different foods and perform different works, then the robot can perform diverse operations, but the robot cannot hold one target object at two positions and apply actions to it

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveability to hold target object at two positionsVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines two suction structures (first and second suction structures) into a single holding device that can simultaneously hold a plate-shaped member at two different positions. This merging approach allows the robot to perform operations at both positions without requiring separate hands or devices, thereby achieving the ability to hold and manipulate the target object at multiple positions while maintaining a unified device structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The holding device is designed with multi-functionality, where the second suction structure can both hold the plate-shaped member and apply twisting actions through the turning device. Additionally, the moving device enables the second suction structure to retreat, providing bending capability. This universal design allows a single device to perform multiple functions (holding, twisting, bending) that would otherwise require separate mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If the second suction structure is fixed, then the structure is simple, but the device cannot apply twisting or bending actions to the plate-shaped member

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveability to apply actions to target objectVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamics by making the second suction structure movable and rotatable rather than fixed. The turning device enables the second suction structure to rotate relative to the first suction structure, allowing twisting actions to be applied to the plate-shaped member. The moving device enables the second suction structure to move along the longitudinal direction, allowing bending actions. This dynamic design transforms a static holding device into an active manipulation system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If the second suction structure is turned to twist the plate-shaped member, then the device can apply twisting actions, but the suction force may be reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveability to twist plate-shaped memberVSAvoidsuction force
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSForce

Solution Approach 1:

The patent addresses the suction force reduction issue by implementing a dynamic compensation mechanism. When the second suction structure rotates to apply twisting actions, the moving device simultaneously adjusts the position of the second suction structure along the longitudinal direction to maintain optimal suction contact. This coordinated dynamic adjustment ensures that the suction force remains sufficient even during twisting operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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

The device effectively holds and applies actions to a plate-shaped member at two positions, minimizing load and preventing interference, facilitating smooth conveyance to a destination.

Implementation Method 1

a first suction structure that sucks the plate-shaped member; a second suction structure that sucks the plate-shaped member

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSuction: Suction

Data Source

PatentUS12427678B2Holding device, control method, control device, and robot system
Publication Date: 2025.09.30 KAWASAKI JUKOGYO KK
  • US12427678B2 patent drawing
  • US12427678B2 patent drawing
  • US12427678B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A holding device that holds a plate-shaped member having flexibility includes: a first suction structure that sucks the plate-shaped member; a second suction structure that sucks the plate-shaped member and is turnable and movable; a turning device that turns the second suction structure and a moving device that moves the second suction structure. When the first suction structure and the second suction structure suck and hold the plate-shaped member, the turning device twists the plate-shaped member by turning the second suction structure such that the second suction structure is directed in a direction different from the first suction structure, and the moving device bends the plate-shaped member by moving the second suction structure such that the second suction structure retreats relative to a direction along which the first suction structure and the second suction structure are located.