Deformable Membrane Suction Gripper for Versatile Object Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing robotic grippers struggle to effectively grasp a wide variety of objects across a large range of sizes and shapes, lacking versatility and adaptability.
Innovation Solution
A suction device with a primary grasping interface and a secondary grasping device, utilizing a deformable membrane and pressure mechanisms to create suction forces, allowing for versatile object grasping through conformal sealing and pressure regulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single gripper is used to grasp various types of objects, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability to different object shapes and sizes deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The suction cup incorporates a deformable membrane that dynamically changes its shape and configuration based on the object being grasped. The membrane can transition between different states (flat, domed, inverted) to adapt to various object geometries, allowing a single gripper structure to handle diverse objects without increasing overall system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes physical parameters including membrane deformation, suction pressure levels, and gripper positioning to adapt to different objects. By varying these parameters rather than changing the fundamental gripper structure, the system achieves high adaptability while maintaining simple hardware design
2Adaptability or versatility
If a deformable membrane is used to conform to objects, then the adaptability to different shapes is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The deformable membrane is designed to autonomously conform to object shapes through passive elastic deformation when suction pressure is applied. The membrane's inherent material properties enable it to self-adjust its configuration without requiring active control mechanisms, sensors, or complex actuation systems, thereby achieving shape adaptation without increasing device complexity
3Force
If suction force is increased to grasp heavier objects, then the gripping capability is improved, but the risk of object damage or deformation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies suction force locally through the deformable membrane that conforms to the object's surface, distributing the gripping force evenly across the contact area. This localized, distributed force application prevents concentrated stress points that could damage the object, while still achieving sufficient total gripping force for heavy objects
Solution Approach 2:
The deformable membrane provides tactile feedback about object contact and pressure distribution, allowing the control system to adjust suction levels in real-time. This feedback mechanism enables the system to apply exactly the right amount of force needed to grasp the object securely without exceeding damage thresholds
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 the grasping and manipulation of diverse objects by conforming to their shapes and sizes, enhancing gripping capabilities and stability, particularly suitable for industrial applications.
Implementation Method 1
depressurizing the suction compartment vis the pressure mechanism, providing a suction force onto said object within that sealed area sufficient to grasp said object
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method to provide a suction device adapted to provide gripping and suction forces to pick up and move a wide variety of objects. This is accomplished through a primary grasping interface composed of a suction compartment, a membrane compartment, deformable membrane sealing said membrane compartment, and at least one pressure mechanism. At least one pressure mechanism is in fluid connection with the suction compartment and is configured to modify properties within the suction compartment to assist in providing gripping and attractive forces. The device will grasp an object with the primary grasping interface by positioning the deformable membrane adjacent to said object, modifying the deformable membrane to conform to and create a seal with said object, and then depressurizing the suction compartment vis the pressure mechanism, providing a suction force onto said object within that sealed area sufficient to grasp said object.