Gripper Conveyor Second Jaw for Stable Object Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
In printing technology, high-speed processing of complex objects like printed products leads to defects due to uncontrolled release from gripper conveyors, where objects dislocate or rotate during transfer to subsequent stations, resulting in processing errors.
Innovation Solution
A gripper conveyor system with movable gripper jaws, where a first gripper jaw extends beyond a second gripper jaw, allowing controlled orientation and pressure application by the second gripper part to stabilize objects during release onto a conveyor surface, eliminating the need for additional guide elements and ensuring precise positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If grippers are merely opened for object release, then the release process is simple, but objects dislocate or rotate during transfer
Solution Approach 1:
The first gripper jaw is divided into two functional parts: a first gripper part for clamping and a second gripper part that projects beyond the second gripper jaw. This segmentation allows the second gripper part to serve as a dedicated positioning and guiding element during release, preventing object dislocation while maintaining simple gripper operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The second gripper part acts as an intermediary element between the gripper and the object during release. It provides continuous contact and guidance as the object transitions from gripper holding to conveyor support, eliminating rotation and dislocation without requiring complex release mechanisms.
2Manufacturing precision
If additional guide elements are added to stabilize objects, then object positioning improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning and guiding functions are merged into the existing gripper structure through the second gripper part. This integration eliminates the need for separate guide elements, maintaining precise object positioning during release while avoiding additional device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The second gripper part serves multiple functions: it acts as an extension of the first gripper jaw for clamping, provides positioning guidance during release, and prevents object rotation. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for additional specialized guide elements.
3Productivity
If high speeds are used for processing, then productivity increases, but control of object position becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The second gripper part is positioned to extend beyond the second gripper jaw before release occurs. This preliminary positioning ensures that as soon as the gripper opens, the object is already guided and constrained, preventing dislocation even at high processing speeds.
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 system enables controlled and stable release of objects, preventing dislocation and rotation, thus reducing defects in further processing by ensuring accurate alignment and pressure application during transfer.
Implementation Method 1
The second gripper part (14) is flexible and/or is designed according to the course of the revolving path U with regard to its shape
Implementation Method 2
The objects released by the grippers are deposited onto the conveyor rest supported by gravity, i.e. from the top
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for conveying and discharging flat, preferably flexible articles, in particular printed products, the apparatus including a plurality of grippers which can be moved in a conveying direction (F) along a continuous conveying path (U) defined by a conveying mechanism. The grippers include a first gripper jaw and a second gripper jaw, which can assume a clamping position and an open position relative to one another. The first gripper jaw is longer than the second gripper jaw and includes a first gripper part, which in the clamping position interacts with the second gripper jaw, and a second gripper part, which in the clamping position projects beyond the second gripper jaw. The orientation of the first and second gripper parts of the first gripper jaw relative to one another is variable and can be adjusted by a control means.