Spring Loaded Iris Mechanism Stack Gripper for 3D Object Staging
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for printing on three-dimensional objects in non-production environments require unique, machined metal part holders for each object, making it inefficient and impractical to maintain inventory of customized products with varying logos.
Innovation Solution
A universal gripper with pivoting fingers mounted around a fixed ring, which can conform to different object contours and shapes, allowing for repeatable and consistent object holding and printing, using a stackable design with springs to maintain contact and accommodate various object sizes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If unique machined metal part holders are used for each object, then object holding precision is improved, but device complexity and inventory requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single standardized part holder structure that can accommodate multiple different objects through adjustable clamping mechanisms. Instead of requiring unique machined metal holders for each object type, the system uses a universal holder with modifiable clamping arms that can be positioned and configured to suit different object geometries, thereby reducing inventory complexity while maintaining holding precision
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by using adjustable and reconfigurable clamping arms on the part holder that can be dynamically positioned to match different object contours. The clamping mechanism allows for real-time adaptation to various object shapes and sizes, replacing the need for static, object-specific holders with a dynamic, multi-functional solution
2Manufacturing precision
If custom part holders are machined for each object, then object-specific fit is improved, but manufacturing time and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring standardized holder components and modular clamping arms that can be quickly assembled and adjusted for different objects. Instead of machining custom holders at the time of need, the system prepares reusable standardized components in advance that can be rapidly reconfigured, significantly reducing holder preparation time while maintaining object-specific fit
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements segmentation by dividing the part holder into modular components including standardized base structures and interchangeable clamping arms. This segmentation allows individual components to be independently adjusted and reconfigured for different objects without requiring complete custom machining, thereby reducing manufacturing time and enabling rapid adaptation
3Productivity
If multiple unique part holders are maintained in inventory, then object availability is improved, but inventory complexity and storage requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality to inventory management by using a single standardized part holder design that can serve multiple object types. Instead of maintaining separate inventory stocks of unique holders for each object, the system uses versatile holders that can be reconfigured for different objects, thereby maintaining object availability while dramatically reducing inventory complexity and storage requirements
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
Enables efficient and flexible printing on a variety of 3-D objects without the need for unique part holders, allowing for consistent and repeatable staging and printing of customized products in non-production environments, reducing inventory complexity and increasing adaptability.
Implementation Method 1
a spring positioned between the finger and the movable ring, the spring applying a force to the finger
Data Source
AI summary
A universal gripper includes a set of pivoting fingers on pins mounted uniformly around a fixed ring. The fingers attached by springs to a movable ring are able to rotate inward, toward the center, until they meet an object and stop. Multiple universal grippers could be stacked to allow for different contours throughout objects and facilitate the pivoting fingers conforming and wrapping around a centerline of the objects. Once the universal gripper fingers are in contact with the surface of the object, they stop moving and springs attached to the fingers elongate as the movable ring continues to move over its full range of motion. An alignment tool can be used for staging and acquiring objects in a repeatable and consistent manner.