Timber Log Grab With Nested Open-and-Closed Grippers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing timber grapples either have open or closed gripping mechanisms that do not efficiently combine the advantages of both forms, limiting their versatility and effectiveness in handling timber and round materials.
Innovation Solution
A timber grapple design that integrates a large-opening gripping tong with a cutout allowing the individual gripper to fit into the closed gripper in any kinematic position, enabling simultaneous engagement and closure with a single rotation angle.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a closed gripping mechanism is used, then the gripping strength is improved, but the adaptability to different timber sizes and shapes deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The open gripper is designed to nest within the closed gripper, with the open gripper fitting into a recess in the closed gripper. This nested configuration allows the mechanism to maintain a compact form while providing two distinct gripping modes, enabling adaptation to different timber sizes and shapes while preserving the structural integrity and strength of the closed gripper
2Adaptability or versatility
If an open gripping mechanism is used, then the adaptability to different timber sizes is improved, but the gripping strength deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the open and closed gripper mechanisms into a single integrated structure where both grippers are connected through a common connecting unit and rotate synchronously. This combination allows the system to leverage the adaptability of the open gripper for different timber sizes while maintaining the gripping strength of the closed gripper when needed
3Adaptability or versatility
If separate rotation angles are required for open and closed grippers, then the adaptability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The open and closed grippers are connected through a shared connecting unit that rotates synchronously with both grippers. This mechanical coupling ensures that both grippers rotate through the same angle, eliminating the need for separate rotation control mechanisms and reducing overall system complexity while maintaining the versatility of having both gripping modes
Data Source
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Figure 3~4
AI summary
The present invention relates to the geometrical shape of a grab, a single grab element (one-element grab) thereof in the form of a solid and/or a hollow profile engaging in a closed grab element. The invention is used predominantly in timber processing.