Magnetic EOAT and Fixture Coupling for Clamp-Free Part Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Clamping mechanisms in existing fixtures for manufacturing processes introduce complexity, expense, and inefficiency due to the need for additional mechanical components and increased energy consumption, complicating part handling and manufacturing operations.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a fixture and an end-of-arm tool (EOAT) that uses magnetic interactions between interfacing features to securely hold and position parts, eliminating the need for traditional clamps by utilizing magnetic grippers and locators to maintain parts during manufacturing operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional clamping mechanisms are used in fixtures, then parts can be securely held during manufacturing operations, but device complexity and expense increase due to additional mechanical components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical clamping mechanisms with a magnetic field-based system. The EOAT and fixture both incorporate magnetic grippers that use magnetic attraction forces to hold parts, eliminating the need for mechanical clamps, screws, and actuators. This substitution reduces device complexity while maintaining secure part holding during manufacturing operations.
2Reliability
If traditional clamping mechanisms are used in fixtures, then parts can be securely held during manufacturing operations, but expense increases due to additional mechanical components
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic field-based holding system eliminates expensive mechanical components such as clamps, actuators, and associated control mechanisms. By using electromagnetic or permanent magnets in both the EOAT and fixture, the system reduces component count and manufacturing complexity, leading to lower overall system cost while maintaining secure part holding.
3Productivity
If magnetic grippers are used in both EOAT and fixture, then part handling efficiency improves, but energy consumption increases due to active magnetic fields
Solution Approach 1:
The system can switch between active electromagnetic magnets (requiring energy) and passive permanent magnets (no energy required). During part transfer operations, electromagnetic magnets provide controlled holding forces. During stationary positioning, permanent magnets or reduced-strength electromagnetic fields maintain part security with minimal energy consumption, optimizing the balance between productivity and energy efficiency.
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 solution simplifies part handling and manufacturing processes by reducing mechanical complexity, energy consumption, and operational time, allowing for more efficient and precise manipulation of parts without the need for traditional clamping mechanisms.
Implementation Method 1
the first interfacing feature further comprises a magnetic gripper and the plate configured to receive the locator is ferromagnetic
Implementation Method 2
the second interfacing feature is a magnetic gripper and the fourth interfacing feature is a ferromagnetic plate
Implementation Method 3
the first interfacing feature is a first magnetic gripper and the third interfacing feature is a second magnetic gripper
Data Source
AI summary
An end-of-arm tool and an associated fixture for clamping objects are disclosed. The end-of-arm tool and fixture may each have corresponding interfacing features. such that the end-of-arm tool may be located with respect to the feature. Such interfacing features may be used to clamp one or more objects between the tool and the fixture.