Gravity-Actuated Roller Gripping Mechanism for Irregular Objects
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing gripping mechanisms for assembly apparatuses are inefficient in securely gripping and positioning components without requiring motive power, especially when dealing with large or irregularly shaped objects, and often suffer from high costs and susceptibility to damage.
Innovation Solution
A gripping mechanism comprising a main body section with two gripping sections, each using a roller and frame to grip the object via gravity, utilizing springs for easy release and a sliding mechanism to securely hold and position components without the need for motive power, allowing for low-cost and durable operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If electric gripping mechanisms are used to grip components, then gripping force and control precision are improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The gripping mechanism utilizes the component's own weight to generate gripping force. When the component is placed on the gripping sections, gravity automatically presses it against the rollers, eliminating the need for external power sources or control systems. The mechanism serves itself by using the object's weight as the actuating force.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex electric or pneumatic gripping systems with a simple mechanical structure consisting of rollers and frames. This substitution eliminates motors, sensors, and control electronics while maintaining effective gripping capability through purely mechanical means based on gravitational force.
2Reliability
If electric or pneumatic gripping mechanisms are used, then gripping reliability is improved, but susceptibility to damage and maintenance requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The gripping mechanism uses simple, inexpensive mechanical components that can be easily replaced if needed. The rollers and frames are basic structural elements without sensitive electronics or complex mechanisms, making them resistant to damage and easy to maintain or replace.
Solution Approach 2:
By using gravity as the gripping force source, the mechanism eliminates vulnerable electric motors, pneumatic seals, and control systems that are prone to failure. The passive mechanical design inherently improves reliability by removing active components that require maintenance.
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional gripping mechanisms are used for large or irregularly shaped objects, then gripping capability is maintained, but positioning precision and secure handling are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The gripping mechanism is divided into multiple independent gripping sections, each with its own roller and frame. This segmentation allows each section to independently adapt to different portions of the component, providing both versatility for various shapes and precise positioning capability for each contact point.
Solution Approach 2:
Each gripping section is designed to contact a specific portion of the component, with the roller positioned to provide optimal local support. This local adaptation ensures that irregularly shaped objects are gripped securely at multiple points while maintaining precise positioning control.
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 mechanism effectively grips and positions components without motive power, ensuring secure handling and easy release, even for large or irregularly shaped objects, while being cost-effective and resistant to damage.
Implementation Method 1
The first gripping section grips a first portion of the object between an outer surface of the first roller and an inner surface of the first frame using gravity acting on the first roller. The second gripping section grips a second portion of the object between an outer surface of the second roller and an inner surface of the second frame using gravity acting on the second roller.
Data Source
AI summary
A gripping mechanism which grips an object includes a main body section, a first gripping section, and a second gripping section. The first and second gripping sections are connected, with a space therebetween, to the main body section. The first gripping section includes a first roller and a first frame. The first frame houses the first roller. The first gripping section grips a first portion of an object between an outer surface of the first roller and an inner surface of the first frame using gravity acting on the first roller. The second gripping section includes a second roller and a second frame. The second frame houses the second roller. The second gripping section grips a second portion of the object, differing from the first portion, between an outer surface of the second roller and an inner surface of the second frame using gravity acting on the second roller.