Pivoting Gripper Assembly for Interference-Free Object Picking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing gripper devices fail to effectively pick up a target object from a group due to the gripping portions retracting when they touch the target or other objects, leading to incomplete gripping tasks.
Innovation Solution
A gripper device with two gripping assemblies, each comprising a gripping member, a stand, and an elastic member, where the gripping member can pivot relative to the stand, and the elastic member connects the supporting portion to the connector, allowing the gripping member to pivot when touching an object and restrict pivoting when the supporting portions abut, ensuring the object is gripped.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the gripping portions are made to approach the object directly, then the gripping action can be completed, but the gripping portions retract when touching the target or other objects before grasping, resulting in failure to pick up the target
Solution Approach 1:
The gripping member is designed to pivot relative to the stand, transitioning from a static structure to a dynamic one. When the gripping portion touches an object, the gripping member automatically pivots to adjust its position, enabling the system to adapt to varying object positions and prevent premature retraction, thereby improving gripping reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The gripping member performs self-adjustment through pivoting when it contacts an object. This self-service mechanism allows the gripping portion to automatically correct its position without external intervention, ensuring continuous contact with the target object and eliminating the need for complex control systems to prevent retraction
2Adaptability or versatility
If the gripping member can pivot relative to the stand, then the gripping portion can adapt to object position variations, but the structure becomes more complex with additional pivoting portions and elastic members
Solution Approach 1:
The gripping assembly is segmented into distinct functional components: the stand, the gripping member, and the elastic member. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, with the gripping member pivoting to provide adaptability while the elastic member manages the complexity of the connection, making the overall structure more manageable and maintainable
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic member acts as an intermediary between the stand and the gripping member. It connects these components while accommodating the pivoting motion, thereby reducing the direct mechanical complexity between the stand and gripping member. This intermediary element simplifies the overall structure by decoupling the rigid connections
3Ease of operation
If the elastic member connects the supporting portion to the connector, then the gripping member can pivot smoothly, but the gripping force may be reduced due to the elastic deformation
Solution Approach 1:
The elastic member is pre-configured to provide cushioning during the pivoting process. By anticipating the need for smooth motion, the elastic member is designed with appropriate stiffness and pre-tension to ensure that it absorbs the shock of pivoting while maintaining sufficient gripping force, preventing both excessive deformation and force loss
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 gripper device adapts to the environment, avoids interference from other objects, and successfully completes the gripping task by maintaining contact and balance between the gripping portions and the elastic force, ensuring the target object is securely held.
Implementation Method 1
The elastic member includes a first end and a second end opposite to the first end, wherein the first end of the elastic member is connected to the supporting portion, and the second end of the elastic member is connected to the connector
Data Source
AI summary
A gripper device includes a base and two gripping assemblies, each including a gripping member, a stand, and an elastic member. The gripping member includes a gripping portion and a supporting portion. The stand is movably disposed to the base and includes a connecter and a supporter. The supporting portion is pivotally connected to the supporter at a position between the gripping portion and the connecter so that the gripping member is pivotable relative to the stand. Two opposite ends of the elastic member are respectively connected to the supporting portion and the connecter. When one of the gripping portions touches an object, the gripping member pivots relative to the corresponding stand. Therefore, gripping a target may not be interrupted by interference objects around the target.