Reaching and grasping tool with improved gripping heads
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing reaching and grasping tools have limitations in their gripping heads, which restrict their utility in grasping various items effectively.
Innovation Solution
A reaching and grasping tool with a gripping head that features at least one jaw operatively connected to a trigger for movement along a gripping axis, providing multiple gripping states through a combination of main and secondary grip members that elastically adjust based on pressure, allowing for different types of gripping forces to be applied.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional gripping head design is used, then the structure is simple, but the versatility in grasping different items is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The gripping head is divided into multiple functional regions: a first region with a first grip member and a second region with a second grip member. Each region can independently contact different portions of an item, allowing the tool to grasp various shapes and sizes. This segmentation enables versatility without requiring multiple separate tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The first grip member is configured to be movable relative to the second grip member, allowing dynamic adjustment of the gripping configuration. This movement capability enables the gripping head to adapt to different item geometries and provide appropriate gripping force distribution, enhancing versatility while maintaining a single integrated structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple grip members are added to provide multiple gripping states, then the versatility improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple grip members (first grip member and second grip member) are merged into a single integrated gripping head structure. This consolidation provides multiple gripping states through coordinated movement of the grip members while avoiding the complexity of separate adjustable components. The merging reduces the number of independent adjustment mechanisms needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The gripping head is designed with multi-functionality, where the first and second grip members can independently or cooperatively contact different portions of an item. This universal design allows a single gripping head to perform multiple gripping functions (different gripping states) without requiring separate specialized components for each function.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the first-grip member is made movable to provide multiple gripping states, then the adaptability improves, but the structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The first grip member is configured to be movable relative to the second grip member through a simplified joint mechanism. This dynamic configuration allows the first grip member to adjust its position and orientation to accommodate different item shapes and sizes, providing adaptability without requiring complex actuation systems. The movement is achieved through a straightforward mechanical connection that reduces structural complexity.
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 the tool to grasp a wider variety of items by providing multiple gripping states, enhancing its utility and versatility compared to previous designs.
Implementation Method 1
the first-grip member elastically moves with respect to main and second-grip members in a direction away from gripping axis based on a gripping pressure exerted on an item being gripped
Data Source
AI summary
A reaching and grabbing tool is provided that has gripping head with at least one jaw operatively connected to a trigger for movement with respect to a gripping axis. The gripping head defines at least one region configured to provide a plurality of gripping states. The gripping head can have more than one jaw that each move with respect to the gripping axis. The plurality of gripping states can include three different gripping states.