Pneumatic End Effector for Weightless Load Manipulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing end effectors for pneumatic construction cranes lack flexibility in manipulating loads with varying shapes, weights, and materials, limiting their ability to position objects precisely in three-dimensional space.
Innovation Solution
A pneumatic end effector with a mechanically operated grabbing arm and integrated pneumatic control, featuring zero-point and full-load controls, allowing for direct adjustment of counterweights and enabling flexible manipulation of loads, including building blocks, with a vertically oriented handle for enhanced usability and ergonomic operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional lifting device is used, then heavy loads can be lifted, but objects cannot be positioned rigidly in three-dimensional space
Solution Approach 1:
The end effector is divided into separate functional modules: a mechanical grabbing arm for positioning, pneumatic control systems for weight compensation, and interchangeable gripping elements. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while working together to achieve both rigid positioning and manipulation flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from static lifting to dynamic manipulation by incorporating pneumatic control that allows real-time adjustment of counterweights and gripping forces. The mechanical grabbing arm can be actively controlled to adapt to different load characteristics while maintaining positioning precision.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a single end effector is used for all loads, then device simplicity is maintained, but flexibility to manipulate loads with different shapes, weights, and materials is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The end effector is designed as a universal system where a single base unit can handle multiple load types through interchangeable gripping elements and adjustable pneumatic parameters. The mechanical grabbing arm serves multiple functions: positioning, gripping, and weight compensation, reducing the need for multiple specialized devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The system achieves versatility by changing operational parameters such as pneumatic pressure, counterweight settings, and gripping force rather than physically reconfiguring the entire end effector. This allows adaptation to different load characteristics while maintaining a relatively simple base structure.
3Ease of operation
If pneumatic control is integrated into the end effector, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pneumatic control system is merged with the mechanical grabbing arm assembly, combining control functions directly at the point of operation. This integration allows the operator to control the end effector's weight compensation and gripping actions from the workstation without requiring separate control systems or complex wiring.
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 enhances the flexibility and productivity of pneumatic construction cranes by allowing precise positioning and manipulation of loads with varying characteristics, improving user-friendliness and efficiency on the worksite.
Implementation Method 1
pneumatic control and A mechanical grabbing arm where the mechanical grabbing arm is fitted with a vertically oriented handle with a control lever above and below for opening and closing the mechanical grabbing arm
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a pneumatic construction crane by means of which a load can be manipulated weightlessly. To the extent that such construction cranes are already sufficiently known, the present invention relates to an end effector or manipulator for use with such pneumatic construction cranes and in particular developed to manipulate one or more building blocks.