Modular Gripper Head with Internal Air Channel
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Solution Overview
Problem
The development and maintenance of robotic grippers for handling diverse workpieces is costly and time-consuming, as existing grippers are not easily adaptable or interchangeable, limiting the efficiency of robots in rapidly redeploying for various tasks.
Innovation Solution
A modular, quick-change robotic gripper system with interchangeable tooling components, including suction cups, mechanical fingers, and magnets, connected via internal channels for vacuum, air, and wiring, allowing for rapid reconfiguration and adaptation to different workpieces using standardized hubs and lightweight materials.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple different robot end effectors are developed to handle different workpieces, then the robot can perform more tasks, but the development cost and maintenance cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal quick-change interface that allows a single robot end effector to perform multiple functions by rapidly swapping gripper heads. The standardized mounting mechanism enables one base unit to accommodate various gripper types (parallel grippers, adaptive grippers, suction grippers, etc.), eliminating the need for maintaining multiple dedicated end effectors for different task types.
Solution Approach 2:
The end effector system is divided into modular components: a reusable base/quick-change interface and interchangeable gripper heads. This segmentation allows the robot to maintain a single base unit while swapping only the necessary gripper component for each task, reducing overall system complexity and maintenance requirements compared to having complete separate end effectors for each function.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a large library of robot end effectors is maintained to handle different workpieces, then task coverage increases, but the maintenance cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the end effector into a permanent base and replaceable gripper heads, the system reduces maintenance burden. Only the gripper heads need to be maintained or replaced, not the entire end effector assembly. This is significantly more economical than maintaining multiple complete end effectors.
Solution Approach 2:
A single universal base unit with standardized quick-change interface can support multiple gripper types, meaning maintenance resources are concentrated on one base design rather than distributed across many different end effector models. This universality reduces the overall maintenance complexity and cost.
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional gripper exchange methods are used, then different grippers can be replaced, but the exchange time is extended and productivity is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The quick-change interface is pre-configured with alignment features, guide pins, and standardized mounting holes that enable rapid gripper head attachment and detachment. The interface geometry is designed in advance to facilitate tool-free or minimal-tool exchanges, eliminating the need for time-consuming alignment and fastening operations required by traditional mounting methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The gripper exchange mechanism incorporates dynamic elements such as spring-loaded latches, quick-release levers, or cam-actuated locking systems that enable rapid state changes from locked to unlocked positions. This allows operators to swap gripper heads quickly without manual threading or complex fastening procedures.
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 rapid redeployment of robots across multiple tasks, reduces operational costs and cycle times, and increases payload capacity by allowing quick and efficient switching of gripper heads, enhancing overall robot performance and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
the internal channel being configured to pass air between the first port at the attachment section and the second port at the tool section
Data Source
AI summary
A gripper head is for a robotic gripping system. The gripper head body has an attachment section and a tool section defining an attachment region for a tool. The attachment section is configured to attach the gripper head body to a mount of a robot. The gripper head body has a first port at the attachment section and a second port at the tool section. The gripper head body defines an internal channel mutually connecting the first port and the second port. The internal channel is configured to pass air between the first port at the attachment section and the second port at the tool section.