Semi-Automatic Gripper for Large Stack Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for separating and transferring large-format partial stacks from a cuboid overall stack to a vibrating table either require complex and costly fully automatic systems or are limited to small-format stacks due to manual handling constraints, as they are too heavy for efficient manual operation.
Innovation Solution
A device with a gripper system that can be manually actuated to grip and move partial stacks, allowing for semi-automatic handling of large-format stacks, featuring a stick operating element for intuitive control and sensor means for automated positioning, enabling reduced structural complexity and efficient transfer to a vibrating table.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If fully automatic separation and transfer means are used, then productivity is improved, but device complexity and control costs increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system allows the vibrating table to automatically return the deposited partial stack to the overall stack position, eliminating the need for manual return operations and reducing overall system complexity while maintaining productivity
Solution Approach 2:
The invention implements partial automation where the gripper device and vibrating table perform automatic separation and transfer, while the return operation can be either automatic or manual depending on the specific embodiment, providing flexibility without requiring full automation of all functions
2Device complexity
If manual handling is used, then device complexity is reduced, but productivity decreases due to heavy weight limitations
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces the purely manual mechanical handling system with a semi-automatic system that uses a controllable gripper device to grasp and transfer partial stacks, eliminating the weight limitation that constrained manual handling while avoiding the complexity of fully automatic systems
3Adaptability or versatility
If large-format partial stacks are handled manually, then adaptability is improved, but operator workload and difficulty increase due to weight
Solution Approach 1:
The gripper device replaces the operator's hands for the strenuous tasks of grasping and transferring heavy large-format partial stacks, while the operator retains control and oversight, combining the ease of operating simple controls with the ability to handle large formats that would be too heavy for pure manual handling
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention proposes a device (1) for removing an upper partial stack (2) from a total stack (3) formed from sheet-shaped material and for transferring this partial stack (2) from the remaining stack (4) to a vibrating table (5), comprising a gripper device (6) for grasping the partial stack (2) in an area (7) raised from the remaining stack (4) on its side facing the vibrating table (5) between at least one gripper lower part (8) and one gripper upper part (9) of the gripper device (6), wherein the gripper upper part (9) and the gripper lower part (8) are adjustable relative to each other for grasping the partial stack (2), and the gripper device (6) is mounted in a frame (11) so as to be raised and lowered by means of means (10) and so as to be moved back and forth between the total stack (3) and the vibrating table (5), and comprising an actuating device (12) for manually actuating the gripper device. (6) and for manually operating the means of movement (10),wherein the actuating device (12) is movable together with the gripping device (6).