Gripper Catch Mechanism for Wire End Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for positioning wire ends for welding are labor-intensive, especially for larger diameters, as they require manual handling and alignment, which increases effort and reduces efficiency in wire processing.
Innovation Solution
A gripper with a catch mechanism that can be moved from a first to a second position using a spring or motor, allowing for precise positioning and clamping of wire ends, facilitated by a trigger and stop means, enabling automated alignment and feeding of wire ends to a wire welding machine.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual positioning of wire ends is used, then positioning accuracy can be achieved, but operator effort and time consumption increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The gripper system performs self-positioning through the catch means mechanism. When the gripper approaches the wire end, the catch means automatically engages with the wire end geometry to establish precise positioning without requiring manual alignment operations by the operator.
Solution Approach 2:
The catch means is pre-configured in the gripper structure to automatically engage with the wire end. This preliminary positioning action occurs before the welding operation, eliminating the need for subsequent manual positioning adjustments and reducing overall cycle time.
2Extent of automation
If automated gripper positioning is implemented, then operator effort is reduced, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The gripper is divided into functionally independent modules: the catch means for positioning, the clamping jaws for securing, and the actuation mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function with simple structure, avoiding the need for a complex integrated system.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using a complex active positioning mechanism, the invention uses a passive catch means that relies on the geometry of the wire end itself to achieve positioning. The wire end shape is inverted to serve as the positioning feature, eliminating the need for complex sensors or actuators.
3Measurement precision
If catch means is added for precise positioning, then positioning accuracy improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The catch means acts as an intermediary element between the gripper and the wire end. It translates the geometric features of the wire end into precise positioning without requiring complex measurement or control systems. The catch means geometry is designed to mate with the wire end shape to achieve accurate positioning.
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 gripper significantly reduces operator effort by automating the positioning and alignment of wire ends, enabling continuous processing and efficient welding of wire ends with minimal manual intervention, improving the overall efficiency of wire welding operations.
Implementation Method 1
The movement of the catch means 5 from its first position to its second position can be brought about by a spring
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a gripper (1) for gripping the ends (D1) of wires (D), comprising at least one connecting means by which the gripper (G) can be attached to an arm (A), in particular of a robot (R) or a handling device, comprising a first clamping jaw (2), comprising a second clamping jaw (3), and comprising a first drive, wherein at least the second clamping jaw (2) is coupled to the first drive and is movable by means of the drive relative to the first clamping jaw (2) and the connecting means between at least a first position and a second position, and wherein in the first position of the second clamping jaw (3) a wire (D) can be inserted into an area adjacent to the first clamping jaw (2), and in the second position of the second clamping jaw (3) a wire (D) can be clamped between the first and the second clamping jaw (2, 3), wherein the gripper (G) has a catching means (5).which is movable from a first position to a second position, wherein the retaining device (5) in the second position limits the area adjacent to the first clamping jaw (2) at least on one side.