Fluid-Powered Gripper for Automated CNC Workpiece Flipping
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
In CNC machining operations, flipping a workpiece to access both ends for machining requires human intervention, slowing the process and increasing labor costs, as existing systems lack automation for this task.
Innovation Solution
A fluid-powered gripper system that uses a piston-driven mechanism to open and close fingers, allowing for automated flipping and repositioning of workpieces within a CNC machine, reducing the need for human intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If human intervention is used to flip workpieces in CNC machining, then flexibility and adaptability are maintained, but productivity decreases and labor costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical manipulation of workpieces with an automated fluid-powered gripper system. The hydraulic or pneumatic actuator substitutes human hands for gripping, opening, closing, and flipping operations, enabling fully automated workpiece handling within the CNC machining environment.
Solution Approach 2:
The workpiece flipping operation becomes self-service through the automated gripper system that integrates with the CNC machine's control system. The gripper autonomously performs the flipping sequence without human intervention, allowing the machining process to continue uninterrupted and improving overall productivity.
2Extent of automation
If a fluid-powered gripper system is implemented, then automation of workpiece flipping is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs fluid power (hydraulic or pneumatic) to drive the gripper mechanism, utilizing compressed gas or liquid to provide controlled force for opening and closing the gripper fingers. This approach simplifies the actuation mechanism compared to complex mechanical linkages or motor-driven systems, while achieving reliable automated operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The fluid-powered gripper system is designed as a multi-functional unit that can perform multiple operations including gripping, opening, closing, and flipping workpieces. By consolidating these functions into a single integrated system controlled by fluid pressure, the patent reduces overall device complexity compared to having separate mechanisms for each function.
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 fluid-powered gripper system automates the flipping process, saving time and reducing labor costs by enabling the CNC machine to operate more efficiently without human intervention, thus improving manufacturing productivity.
Implementation Method 1
The piston can be powered by a fluid to move between a first position and a second position
Implementation Method 2
The piston can be powered by a fluid to move between a first position and a second position
Data Source
AI summary
A fluid powered gripper can include a body, a bore, a first finger, a second finger, and a piston. The body can include a central bore coaxial with a central longitudinal axis of the body. A bore fluid inlet can be fluidly coupleable to the central bore. The first finger can be rotatable about the body. The second finger can oppose the first finger and the second finger can be rotatable about the body. The piston can be disposed in the central bore. The piston can be powered by a fluid to move between a first position and a second position. The first finger and the second finger can be closed in the first position and open in the second position.