Robot Gripper With Orthogonal Suction And Sliding Support
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional grippers struggle to efficiently grip and transfer box-shaped packages with only one surface exposed, as they interfere with orthogonal surfaces due to the movement of suction units, leading to inefficiencies in positioning and suction.
Innovation Solution
A gripper system with a first-surface suction unit and a second-surface support unit, where the second-surface support unit is moved parallel to the second surface, allowing for simultaneous suction and support without interference, enabling reliable gripping and transfer of packages even in confined spaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a linear moving mechanism moves suction pads in two directions to grip orthogonal surfaces, then the package can be suctioned from two directions, but the suction pads interfere with each other during movement
Solution Approach 1:
The gripper is divided into two independent suction units: a first-surface suction unit for suctioning the first surface, and a second-surface suction unit for suctioning the second orthogonal surface. Each unit operates independently with its own suction pad, allowing them to function simultaneously without interfering with each other's movement paths.
Solution Approach 2:
The second-surface suction unit is configured to move along a plane that is parallel to the second surface but extends beyond the leading end of the first-surface suction unit in the suction direction. This spatial arrangement in a different dimensional plane allows both suction units to operate simultaneously without collision or interference.
2Reliability
If suction pads are positioned close to orthogonal surfaces, then effective suction is achieved, but the movement range required increases causing interference
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the suction function into two separate units positioned at different locations and orientations, each unit can maintain an optimal short distance to its target surface without requiring extensive movement range that would cause interference with the other unit.
Solution Approach 2:
The second-surface suction unit moves along a plane parallel to the second surface that extends beyond the leading end of the first-surface suction unit. This dimensional arrangement allows both units to achieve close positioning to their respective surfaces while maintaining independent movement paths with reduced interference.
3Ease of manufacture
If a conventional gripper structure is used, then simple design is maintained, but efficiency in gripping and transferring packages is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The gripper employs two independent suction units that can operate simultaneously on different surfaces of the package, doubling the gripping capability and significantly improving package handling efficiency while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure based on conventional suction pad technology.
Solution Approach 2:
The second-surface suction unit is designed with dynamic movement capability along a plane parallel to the second surface, allowing it to adapt its position to accommodate packages of varying sizes and orientations, thereby enhancing productivity while keeping the structural design straightforward.
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 system effectively grips and transfers packages by preventing interference between suction units, ensuring reliable suction and support of orthogonal surfaces, facilitating efficient handling of packages with reduced interference range.
Implementation Method 1
a first-surface suction unit provided on the base and capable of sucking a first surface of a box-shaped package in a first suction direction
Data Source
AI summary
A gripper includes: a base attached to a wrist tip of a robot, a first-surface suction unit provided on the base and capable of sucking a first surface of a box-shaped package in a first suction direction, and a second-surface support unit configured to contact and support a second surface of the package orthogonal to the first surface. The gripper further includes a moving mechanism configured to move the second-surface support unit along a plane parallel to the second surface between a position where the second-surface support unit is retracted toward a base end side of relative to a leading end of the first-surface suction unit in the first suction direction and a position where the second-surface support unit is placed forward from the leading end of the first-surface suction unit while the first-surface suction unit is sucking the first surface.