Quick-Release Gripping Tool for Flexible Finger Exchange

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional gripping tools require manual adjustment and tool usage for changing gripping fingers, limiting flexibility and increasing the complexity of handling objects of different sizes and shapes.

Innovation Solution

A gripping tool with a quick-release coupling mechanism allows for the easy exchange and repositioning of gripping elements without tools, featuring a compact and lightweight design with multiple gripping elements that can be operated within a full gripping range without adjusting arm positions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If gripping fingers are firmly attached to the arm or form an integrated part, then structural strength is improved, but adaptability and ease of exchange deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural strengthVSAvoidadaptability
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The gripping tool is divided into separate modular components: the arm and the gripping finger are distinct parts that can be independently replaced. The quick-release coupling mechanism enables the gripping finger to be segmented from the arm structure, allowing exchange without affecting the overall structural integrity of the arm when not in use.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The coupling mechanism transitions from a static firmly-attached state to a dynamic quickly-releasable state. The arm structure remains static and strong, while the gripping finger can be dynamically attached or detached based on operational requirements, providing adaptability without compromising structural strength.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Strength

If gripping fingers are firmly attached to the arm, then structural strength is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural strengthVSAvoidease of exchange
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The quick-release coupling mechanism enables the operator to exchange gripping fingers without requiring external tools or complex procedures. The coupling is designed to be activated by simple manual operation, allowing the gripping finger to be self-serviced into or out of the arm structure through direct user interaction.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The gripping finger is extracted as a separate replaceable component from the arm structure. The quick-release mechanism allows the gripping finger to be easily removed (taken out) from the arm without affecting the arm's structural integrity, enabling simple exchange operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple gripping elements are provided, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveadaptabilityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The arm structure is designed with universal compatibility to accept multiple different gripping finger configurations. The quick-release coupling mechanism provides a standardized interface that can accommodate various gripping element types, allowing one arm structure to perform multiple functions with different gripping elements rather than requiring dedicated arms for each grip type.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS20230142668A1A gripping tool, a system and a clamping tool, an exchange station, and a method of handling objects using the system or clamping tool
Publication Date: 2023.05.11 FYNBO TECH AS
  • US20230142668A1 patent drawing
  • US20230142668A1 patent drawing
  • US20230142668A1 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention relates to a gripping tool, a system, a clamping tool and a method of handling objects, where the gripping tool comprises a transmission mechanism arranged in a housing, wherein the transmission mechanism is coupled to a plurality of arms located outside the housing. One or more gripping elements are arranged on each arm. The gripping elements are releasable connected to the arm to enable a quick and easy repositioning and/or exchange of the gripping elements. An exchange station may be used to reposition or exchange the gripping element.