Segmented Parallel Gripper for Automated Commercial Dishwasher Loading
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current commercial transport dishwashers require significant manual effort and time for loading, as they are not designed to handle diverse items efficiently, leading to high physical strain on personnel and increased resource consumption.
Innovation Solution
A loading system with a parallel gripper having segmented clamping jaws that can adapt to different surface contours, allowing for automatic or semi-automatic loading of items into the dishwasher, utilizing an electric motor-driven gripper system to securely grasp and position various types of dishes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If manual sorting and loading of items is used, then the loading process can be performed with simple equipment, but the physical strain on personnel increases and resource consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The parallel gripper system automatically identifies and grasps items on trays, performing the loading task autonomously without requiring manual intervention. The system serves itself by using sensors to detect item positions and the gripper mechanism to execute the loading action, eliminating the need for human physical effort while reducing overall resource consumption through optimized loading processes
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical loading process with an automated system combining optical sensors, control units, and a parallel gripper mechanism. This substitution eliminates human physical strain and optimizes resource usage through precise, computer-controlled item handling and placement
2Device complexity
If manual sorting and loading of items is used, then the equipment complexity remains low, but the working time of dishwashing staff increases
Solution Approach 1:
The parallel gripper system autonomously performs the complete loading sequence: detecting item positions via sensors, calculating optimal gripper positions, executing grasping motions, and placing items on the conveyor belt. This self-service capability eliminates manual sorting and loading tasks, significantly reducing staff working time while maintaining manageable system complexity through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary detection and planning actions before the actual loading. Sensors scan and identify item positions in advance, the control unit calculates optimal gripper positions and trajectories beforehand, and then executes the loading sequence efficiently. This preliminary action preparation reduces the overall working time by eliminating trial-and-error manual operations
3Device complexity
If a fixed gripper design is used, then the device complexity is low, but the adaptability to different item types is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The parallel gripper system incorporates dynamic adjustment capabilities where the gripper jaw positions, opening distances, and grasping forces can be varied in real-time based on item characteristics. The system adapts its geometry and mechanics dynamically to accommodate different item types, sizes, and shapes while maintaining a relatively simple base structure
Solution Approach 2:
The parallel gripper is designed as a universal loading mechanism capable of handling multiple item types including cutlery, glasses, plates, and bowls. By combining sensor-based detection with adjustable gripper parameters, a single gripper design performs multiple loading functions that would otherwise require different specialized tools, achieving versatility without proportionally increasing complexity
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a system for loading a dishwasher, which is designed as a commercial transport dishwasher. The loading system has a gripper system with at least one parallel gripper (1), wherein the at least one parallel gripper (1) has at least two clamping jaws (2, 3) between which a gripping area of the parallel gripper (1) is defined, wherein at least one of the at least two clamping jaws (2, 3) is segmented such that the at least one clamping jaw (2) can be adapted, at least partially, to a surface contour of a dish item to be gripped by the at least one parallel gripper (1), preferably automatically and/or independently.