Sequential Latching Apparatus for Grabber Arm Automation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional grabbers require repetitive manual adjustments of arms to grab and release objects, leading to labor-intensive operations and high maintenance costs due to reliance on hydraulic or electrohydraulic systems.
Innovation Solution
A latching apparatus comprising a cylinder, spring-loaded piston, shank, and plunger with a cam-groove mechanism that allows sequential latching and unlatching of the head and base portions of a grabber, enabling the arms to be reliably maintained in a steady spread or closed state without manual intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If hydraulic or electrohydraulic systems are used to automate the opening and closing of grabber arms, then the extent of automation is improved, but the device complexity and maintenance costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the complex hydraulic system from the grabber mechanism and replaces it with a simple mechanical latching apparatus. The latching apparatus uses a latch pin, cam groove, and spring mechanism that can be manually operated, eliminating the need for expensive and maintenance-prone hydraulic or electrohydraulic systems while still achieving automated arm positioning through mechanical advantage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs simple, inexpensive mechanical components such as a latch pin, cam groove, and spring that can be easily manufactured and replaced if needed. These components are far less expensive than hydraulic systems and can be made from standard mechanical parts, reducing both initial cost and long-term maintenance expenses.
2Device complexity
If manual adjustment of grabber arms is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the productivity and labor efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The latching apparatus is pre-configured with the latch pin positioned in the cam groove, which is designed with specific geometric features (inclined surfaces and locking positions). When the grabber arms are moved into the desired position, the latch pin automatically engages with the cam groove at its locking position, securing the arms without requiring manual adjustment or complex control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-loaded latch pin automatically engages and disengages from the cam groove based on the position of the grabber arms. The spring provides the necessary force for the latch pin to follow the cam groove profile and lock into place, enabling the system to self-regulate and maintain arm positions without continuous manual intervention or complex automation.
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 latching apparatus reduces operator fatigue and maintenance costs by automating the adjustment of grabber arms, allowing for efficient and reliable hoisting and transportation of objects, while minimizing manual effort and extending the lifespan of the equipment.
Implementation Method 1
The cam-groove includes alternating upper and lower nodal points with upright and inclined segments therebetween. The plunger and the cam-groove are configured to co-operatively execute one or more of translation and rotation of the shank such that the latch pin rotatably extends or retracts
Implementation Method 2
The latching apparatus includes a cylinder, a spring loaded piston, a shank, and a spring loaded plunger
Data Source
AI summary
A latching apparatus for sequentially latching and unlatching two objects is provided. The latching apparatus includes a cylinder attached to the first object and including a first opening, and a second opening laterally disposed to the first opening, a spring loaded piston including a circumferential wall disposed in the first opening, a shank axially extending from the piston and defining a transverse latch pin at an end thereof, and a spring loaded plunger disposed within the second opening. The wall defines a contiguous cam-groove thereon. The cam-groove includes alternating upper and lower nodal points with straight and inclined segments therebetween. The plunger slidably engages the cam-groove to co-operatively execute one or more of a translation, and a rotation of the shank such that the latch pin rotatably extends or retracts into or out of the slotted opening on the locking plate of the second object.