Modular Suction Gripper for Variable Component Picking
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing component transfer methods in smart factories are inefficient due to challenges in robust picking and fast transferring of components with varying sizes, shapes, and weights, which hinder manufacturing efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A gripping device with configurable grip modules and a controller that adjusts movements based on object properties, using suction to adhere to surfaces, allowing precise grip and transfer of components along multiple axes, and selecting appropriate suction cups based on material, smoothness, and shape.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a robot is used to pick and transfer components, then automation is improved, but picking robustness and transfer speed are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The gripping device is divided into multiple independent grip modules, each capable of gripping objects through suction. This segmentation allows parallel operation of multiple grip modules, enabling simultaneous picking of multiple components or rapid sequential picking, thereby improving overall productivity while maintaining automation.
Solution Approach 2:
The base part incorporates three mechanisms that enable dynamic adjustment of grip module positions along all three axes (vertical, horizontal, and depth). This dynamic positioning capability allows the system to adapt to components of various sizes, shapes, and weights, optimizing picking robustness and transfer speed for different manufacturing scenarios.
2Adaptability or versatility
If grip modules are configured to handle various component sizes and shapes, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each grip module is designed as a universal unit capable of handling various components through suction gripping. The modules can be selectively activated and positioned based on component characteristics, providing multi-functional capability without requiring entirely different gripping mechanisms for each component type, thus managing complexity while maintaining versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The system activates only the specific grip modules needed for each picking task based on component properties. Instead of deploying all modules simultaneously, the controller selectively engages appropriate modules and positions them using the three mechanisms, reducing operational complexity while maintaining adaptability to handle diverse components.
3Reliability
If suction force is increased to grip heavier components, then gripping reliability is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts suction force parameters based on component weight, material, and shape characteristics. For heavier components, higher suction force is applied, while for lighter components, lower suction force suffices. This parameter optimization ensures reliable gripping without excessive energy consumption, balancing reliability and energy efficiency across different component types.
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 quick and accurate gripping and transfer of components with varying characteristics, optimizing manufacturing efficiency by ensuring secure grip and minimizing damage during handling.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of configurable grip modules to grip an object by using suction to adhere to its surface
Data Source
AI summary
A gripping device includes a plurality of grip modules configured to grip an object via suction applied to the surface of the object, a base part on which the plurality of grip modules is provided to be movable in an upward/downward direction or a leftward/rightward direction, and a controller configured to adjust movements of the grip modules or a movement of the base part based on property information including a material of the object, a degree of smoothness of a surface, or a weight or shape of the object.