Extraction Arm With Passive Joints For Narrow Space Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional transfer apparatuses struggle to handle articles with uneven surfaces, deformable items, or those covered with paper, and are limited in their ability to access articles in narrow spaces due to their size and design, which restricts their installation and operational flexibility.
Innovation Solution
A transfer apparatus comprising a base, first and second linear motion members, a moving conveyor with a belt, and extraction arms that can move in multiple directions, allowing the conveyor to reach all areas of a box pallet and handle articles of various shapes by using a holding part with vacuum suction and passive joints to securely transfer articles without damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional suction-type end effector is used, then the structure is simple, but it cannot handle articles with uneven surfaces, deformable articles, or articles covered with paper bags
Solution Approach 1:
The holding apparatus employs passive joints that allow the holding members to automatically adapt their orientation and position to conform to the surface geometry of the article being held. This dynamic adaptation enables the same apparatus to handle diverse article types including those with uneven surfaces, deformable materials, and paper-covered items without requiring complex active control systems or multiple specialized end effectors.
Solution Approach 2:
The holding apparatus is divided into multiple holding members connected by passive joints, allowing each segment to independently adjust to the article's surface. This segmentation enables the apparatus to wrap around and securely hold articles of various shapes and sizes while maintaining structural simplicity through the use of passive, rather than active, joint mechanisms.
2Ease of operation
If the transfer apparatus is designed with large components for stable operation, then operational stability is improved, but it cannot access articles in narrow spaces and installation flexibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The extraction arm incorporates passive joints that enable the arm to dynamically adapt its configuration to access narrow spaces and awkward geometries. The passive joints allow the arm to bend and conform to restricted environments while maintaining operational stability through passive mechanical guidance rather than requiring large, rigid components that would prevent access to confined areas.
3Measurement precision
If the holding apparatus uses active control mechanisms for precise positioning, then positioning precision is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The holding apparatus achieves precise positioning through self-service mechanisms where the passive joints automatically orient the holding members to conform to the article's surface geometry. The passive joints inherently guide the holding members into the correct position and orientation without requiring active sensors, motors, or control systems, thereby achieving positioning precision while maintaining device simplicity.
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 apparatus enables the secure transfer of difficult-to-handle articles to a conveyor without being dropped or damaged, allowing for more compact design and access to articles in narrow spaces, improving installation flexibility and handling of diverse article shapes.
Implementation Method 1
a holding part 21 provided at an end of the extraction arm 20, and holds the article 53
Data Source
AI summary
According to one embodiment, a transfer apparatus includes a base, a first linear motion member, a second linear motion member, a moving conveyor, an extraction arm, and a holding part. The first linear motion member is supported by the base and is movable in a first direction. The second linear motion member is supported by the first liner motion member and is movable in a second direction crossing the first direction. The moving conveyor is supported by the second linear motion member and includes a belt for conveying an article. The extraction arm is provided on a side of the moving conveyor, extracts the article and places the article on the belt. The holding part is provided at an end of the extraction arm and holds the article.