Gripper Device with Pliable Active Elements for Complex Shapes
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing gripping devices struggle to optimally grip objects with complex shapes, particularly convex surfaces, due to inadequate adaptation and holding capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A gripping device featuring active elements made of pliable material, such as non-crimp fabrics with a protective jacket, and a tensioning device with a shock absorber to generate counter-pressure, allowing for optimal surface adaptation and secure gripping. The device includes multiple gripping units with adjustable drives for linear or spatial gripping, enabling adaptation to various object shapes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If rigid gripping elements are used, then the structural strength is improved, but the ability to adapt to complex object surfaces deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs flexible active elements made of pliable material that can adapt to complex object surfaces while maintaining structural integrity. These flexible elements are tensioned by the shock absorber to provide both adaptability and sufficient gripping force for secure handling.
2Adaptability or versatility
If pliable active elements are used, then the surface adaptation capability is improved, but the gripping force stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The shock absorber serves as a cushioning element that pre-tensions the active elements, providing stable gripping force before contact with the object. This pre-tensioning ensures that the pliable elements maintain consistent contact pressure and gripping reliability throughout the gripping operation.
3Reliability
If the active element is tensioned to generate counter-pressure, then the gripping reliability is improved, but the risk of damage to the pliable material deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The shock absorber provides controlled tensioning that generates necessary counter-pressure for reliable gripping while limiting excessive forces that could damage the pliable active elements. The cushioning effect protects the material from overload during the gripping process.
Solution Approach 2:
The tensioning device dynamically adjusts the tension parameter of the active elements to optimize the balance between gripping reliability and material protection. By controlling the tension level, the system maintains effective gripping force while preventing damage to the pliable material.
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 device effectively grips and holds objects with complex shapes by creating a large effective surface area and generating counter-pressure, allowing for secure handling and versatility in gripping tasks, including voluminous and flat objects.
Implementation Method 1
The tensioning device has at least one shock absorber that generates the back pressure
Implementation Method 2
the active element has an active element made of pliable material that adapts to the contour of the object to be gripped
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The device (11) has two gripping units (17a, 17b) moved between a releasing position and a gripping position for seizing objects (12). The gripping units comprise gripping elements (22a, 22b) equipped with effective elements (36), which are provided in the gripping position in system for the object to be seized. The effective elements comprise a band-shaped active link (43) to be made of a bend-flabby material for adapting on a contour of the objects to be seized. The bend-flabby material is selected from one of multi-ply fabric, tissue or knitted fabric.