Modular Hydraulic Gripper Synchronous Asynchronous Operation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current hydraulic grippers are inadequate for manipulating irregular or asymmetric objects due to synchronous arm movement, exposure of the hydraulic system, limited multi-purpose functionality, and difficulty in changing arms, leading to inadequate gripping, increased wear, and potential damage.
Innovation Solution
A modular hydraulic gripper with synchronous and asynchronous operation capabilities, enclosed hydraulic actuator housing for protection, and easy arm replacement, allowing optimal gripping and control of various shapes and sizes, including metal profiles and tree trunks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If synchronous movement of gripping arms is used, then the hydraulic system is simplified, but the ability to manipulate irregular or asymmetric objects is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between synchronous and asynchronous operation modes based on the object being manipulated. The hydraulic distribution device can equalize pressures for synchronous movement when needed, or allow independent arm control for asymmetric objects, making the system adaptable rather than fixed in one configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The hydraulic gripper is designed to perform multiple functions: it can operate in synchronous mode for simple tasks and asymmetric mode for complex manipulation of irregular objects. The universal design allows a single device to handle diverse work requirements without needing multiple specialized grippers.
2Device complexity
If open hydraulic actuator is used, then the structure is simpler, but the system is exposed to damage and oil leakage
Solution Approach 1:
The hydraulic actuator is nested within a protective housing that encloses the hydraulic components. This housing protects the open hydraulic system from external damage and prevents oil leakage into the environment, while still allowing the actuator to function with relatively simple internal structure.
3Device complexity
If fixed gripping arms are used, then the gripper is simpler, but the ability to perform different working operations is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The gripping arms are designed as separable, modular components that can be detached and replaced. Different arm configurations can be swapped depending on the specific working operation required, allowing the gripper to adapt to various tasks without redesigning the entire system.
Solution Approach 2:
The gripper system is designed as a universal platform that can accommodate different types of gripping arms for different applications. The standardized interface and modular design enable the same base gripper to perform multiple different working operations by simply changing the arms.
4Ease of operation
If synchronous operation is enforced, then control is easier, but the gripping of asymmetric objects becomes inadequate
Solution Approach 1:
The control system dynamically adapts its operation mode based on the object characteristics. For symmetric objects, synchronous control provides simplicity. For asymmetric objects, the system transitions to asynchronous control where each arm can be independently positioned and force-controlled, ensuring adequate gripping while maintaining reasonable control complexity through automated mode selection.
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
The solution provides reliable and versatile gripping capabilities, minimizing damage and oil leakage, and enabling efficient manipulation of diverse objects with reduced mechanical stress and improved control.
Implementation Method 1
The gripper consists of a hydraulic actuator with a mounting opening at the bottom side, closed by a housing cover, of a hydraulic motor and rotator assembly
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
The subject invention discloses a multi-purpose hydraulic gripper consisting of a hydraulic actuator (1), a rotator (2), an adjustment plate(3) and a bearing (4), where a pair of gripping arms (3A, 3B) or (63A, 63B) or two arms (64) or (76A, 76B) are attached to the hydraulic actuator (1), in the housing (11) of the hydraulic actuator there are two identical hydraulic cylinders (16A, 16B) and a control part of the hydraulic actuator that allows synchronous and asynchronous operation of the hydraulic actuator (1). The hydraulic actuator (1) is connected to a hydraulic pump with a variable outpress which is a part of the machine. Each gripping arm (3A, 3B, 63A, 63B, 64, 76A, 76B) has a pair of clamping handles in the upper part, and gripping arms (3A, 3B, 63A, 63B, 64, 76A, 76B) are clamped to hydraulic actuator by means of clamping cranks (19A, 19B). The invention also discloses gripping arms (76A, 76B) with a knife (780A, 780B) with a curved blade that allows cutting trees. The said hydraulic actuator can be made in various sizes, where the size of the hydraulic actuator is determined by the distance (A) between the axes of projections (17B) of the shaft (17).