Modular Gripper Framework Using Polygonal Tubular Elements
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Solution Overview
Problem
The production of rigid support frameworks for pneumatic manipulator gripping equipment is costly due to labor-intensive cut-to-size and welding of metallic section-bars, requiring a variety of sizes and leading to storage and supply issues.
Innovation Solution
A modular construction method using rectilinear tubular elements with a polygonal cross-section, formed by fitting and welding L-shaped metallic section-bars, simplifies production by allowing creation of various shapes from a single metal plate, reducing material variety and storage needs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If rectilinear metallic section-bars are cut to size and welded together to form the rigid support framework, then the framework can be customized for specific objects, but the production costs increase due to labor-intensive operations
Solution Approach 1:
The rigid support framework is divided into multiple rectilinear tubular elements with modular structures. Each tubular element can be independently formed from a single metal plate by bending, and then assembled together through coupling devices. This segmentation allows customization while reducing manufacturing complexity and cost.
Solution Approach 2:
A single type of metal plate with standardized dimensions is used to form multiple different tubular elements through varying bending configurations. The modular design with standardized coupling devices enables the same basic component to serve multiple functions in different framework configurations, reducing the need for various sized section-bars.
2Productivity
If various sizes of rectilinear metallic section-bars are kept in stock for immediate availability, then the framework assembly can be performed quickly, but storage costs and supply problems increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of storing multiple sizes of section-bars, the invention stores standardized metal plates that can be bent into different tubular element configurations as needed. This universal base material approach eliminates the need to maintain inventory of various sized bars while still enabling rapid assembly of different framework sizes.
Solution Approach 2:
The tubular elements are pre-formed from metal plates with coupling devices attached, allowing them to be stored in a compact, standardized form. When assembly is needed, these pre-prepared modular elements can be quickly combined without requiring on-site cutting and welding operations.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the rigid support framework is made ad hoc for each specific object, then the gripping equipment can be optimized for the target object, but the production time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The framework is segmented into standardized tubular elements that can be selectively combined in different configurations. This allows optimization for specific objects through modular assembly rather than custom fabrication, reducing manufacturing complexity while maintaining adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The framework design allows for dynamic reconfiguration by selecting and arranging different numbers and types of tubular elements based on the specific gripping requirements. This modular dynamic approach enables customization without the complexity of ad hoc fabrication for each application.
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 approach reduces production costs and simplifies material supply by enabling rapid fabrication of tubular elements with different cross-sectional sizes from a single metal plate, enhancing efficiency and minimizing storage requirements.
Implementation Method 1
an electro-pneumatic weight-balancing device, which is capable of varying on command the inclination of the movable arm with respect to the vertical, and of continuously compensating the weight of the movable arm, of the gripping equipment and of the object held by the gripping equipment
Implementation Method 2
formed by fitting and welding L-shaped metallic section-bars
Data Source
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AI summary
Gripping equipment (1) for lifting apparatuses (100) of the type comprising: a rigid support framework (2) which is adapted to be fixed/attached to the lifting apparatus (100); and one or more manually controlled gripping members (3) that are firmly fixed to said rigid support framework (2), and are adapted to grasp and hold a specific object to be moved; said rigid support framework (2) comprising at least one rectilinear tubular element with polygonal cross-section (10, 14), which is made of metal and has a sectional modular structure.