Compact Gripping Device with Lateral Cylinder Synchronization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing clamping or gripping devices require significant space for synchronization mechanisms, such as wedge hook gears and toothed belts, which limits their compactness and efficiency, especially in central regions where space is crucial.
Innovation Solution
The device couples main jaws with a counter-jaw on the same side of the housing section, using mechanical synchronization means to achieve synchronized movement without occupying central space, allowing for a compact design with independent cylinder chambers or spring elements for controlled jaw movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If wedge hook gear is used to move and synchronize main jaws, then large actuating forces can be transmitted, but significant space is required particularly in the central region of the device
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into two independent sides, each with its own cylinder-piston unit acting on one main jaw and one counter-jaw. This segmentation eliminates the need for a central wedge hook mechanism, as each side operates independently while maintaining synchronization through the counter-jaw coupling.
Solution Approach 2:
The synchronization function is moved from the central region to the lateral sides of the device. By placing cylinder-piston units and synchronization mechanisms at the sides rather than in the center, the patent redistributes space requirements to peripheral regions, freeing the central area while maintaining synchronization capability.
2Ease of operation
If cylinder-piston units running perpendicularly to working directions are used to control main jaws, then jaw movement can be achieved, but a large amount of installation space is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent reorients the cylinder-piston units to run parallel to the working direction of the jaws rather than perpendicularly. This dimensional change allows the actuators to be positioned in line with the jaw movement, significantly reducing the installation space required while maintaining effective jaw control.
3Stability of the object's composition
If toothed belt and pinion are provided to synchronize main jaws, then synchronized movement can be achieved, but additional components and space are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the toothed belt and pinion synchronization mechanism from the system. Instead, synchronization is achieved through the mechanical coupling of main jaws to counter-jaws on the same side, which naturally synchronize movement through direct mechanical connection without requiring additional synchronization components.
4Stability of the object's composition
If rotatably mounted synchronization means is provided in the central region, then synchronized movement can be achieved, but space in the central region is occupied
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the rotatably mounted synchronization means from the central region entirely. Synchronization function is redistributed to the lateral sides where cylinder-piston units and counter-jaw couplings are positioned, eliminating the need for central synchronization components while maintaining synchronized jaw movement.
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
This configuration results in a very compact gripping device that can apply large forces with minimal central space usage, enabling optical control and efficient movement of jaws without the need for extensive synchronization mechanisms, thus enhancing reliability and space efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
At least one cylinder chamber that can be pressurized can be provided as drive means in the housing section, in which piston sections arranged on the main jaw side or on the counter-jaw side engage for the pressurized movement of the main jaws or counter-jaws
Implementation Method 2
spring elements can be provided as drive means as an alternative or in addition to the cylinder chambers in or on the housing section, which apply force to the counter-jaws or main jaws
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4~6
Figure 7~9
AI summary
Tensioning or gripping device (10) comprises clamping jaws (12, 14) coupled in the working directions with counter jaws arranged on the other side of a housing section (16). Drive units are arranged on or in the housing section for moving the main jaws and the counter jaws (26) in the working directions. Preferred Features: The drive units are pressure-impinged cylinders for holding piston sections to move the main jaws and the counter jaws.