Rotating Gripper Platform for Simultaneous Loading and Unloading
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional loading and unloading equipment for large containers or constrained environments can only perform one type of operation at a time and lacks the capability to handle multiple objects simultaneously, leading to increased costs and labor time.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus comprising a loading and unloading platform, a multi-panel object holding and conveying platform, roller conveyors, a drive mechanism, collaborative manipulators, and object gripping and conveying systems, which enables both loading and unloading operations while handling multiple objects efficiently.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If conventional loading and unloading equipment is used, then single object handling is performed, but multiple objects cannot be handled simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus divides the handling system into multiple independent gripper units (first gripper, second gripper, etc.) that can operate simultaneously on different objects. Each gripper is mounted on the rotating platform and can independently grasp and move objects, enabling parallel processing of multiple items without interference.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotating platform serves multiple functions: it holds multiple grippers, provides rotational movement to position grippers at different locations, and acts as a conveying mechanism. This multi-functional design allows the same structure to handle multiple objects simultaneously while maintaining flexibility in operation modes.
2Adaptability or versatility
If dedicated loading equipment or unloading equipment is used, then one operation is performed well, but the other operation cannot be performed
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus is designed as a universal handling system that can perform both loading and unloading operations with the same equipment configuration. The rotating platform with multiple grippers can adapt to different operation modes by adjusting its rotation and the positioning of grippers, eliminating the need for separate dedicated equipment for each operation type.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs dynamic adjustment capabilities where the rotating platform can change its rotation speed, direction, and stopping positions based on the operation mode (loading or unloading). The grippers can be independently controlled to grasp or release objects at different times and locations, providing dynamic adaptability without increasing structural complexity.
3Loss of time
If single object handling is performed, then equipment simplicity is maintained, but labor time and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The handling system is segmented into multiple independent gripper units that can operate in parallel on different objects. This segmentation enables simultaneous handling of multiple objects, significantly reducing the total time required for loading or unloading operations compared to sequential single-object handling.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotating platform enables continuous operation by constantly moving grippers between different positions and objects. Instead of idle periods between handling individual objects, the system maintains continuous useful action through rotational movement, keeping all grippers actively engaged in handling objects throughout the operation cycle.
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 apparatus allows for simultaneous loading and unloading of multiple objects, reducing labor and operational costs, and improving efficiency by automating the handling and organization of objects within constrained environments.
Implementation Method 1
one or more vacuum generators configured to generate vacuum for the plurality of suction panels
Data Source
AI summary
Conventionally, most equipment manipulating object have been huge with rotatable pivot platforms, multiple roller conveyors, telescopic boom conveyors, hydraulic cranes, etc. These systems may have higher lifecycle cost due to their size and bill of materials (BoM) count and have limited themselves to handling either loading or unloading and lack to perform both the operations. Present disclosure provides apparatus for organized loading and unloading of objects. The apparatus addresses the issue of single equipment for both loading, unloading, and further automatically organizes the objects in bulk thus ensuring safety, without damages. The objects are placed optimally while being unloaded onto pallets or other carriers. While loading into a container, the objects are loaded to a greater fill volume. These operations of multiple objects handling in one go are enabled through various belt conveyors, manipulators, vacuum generators, suction panels, object gripping and conveying platforms, and object gripping systems.