Trough Manipulator Lifting Objects and Container via Internal Forces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for automated handling of objects in upwards open containers are either insecure or complex and expensive, failing to effectively lift both the objects and the container simultaneously.
Innovation Solution
A manipulator system that engages objects using suction cups or electromagnets to exert internal forces on the container, allowing for secure lifting without direct contact, featuring a compact design, cost-effectiveness, and flexibility in manufacturing tolerances, using the objects' weight to activate the lifting mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the manipulator directly engages the container to lift it, then the container can be securely lifted, but the manipulator requires a large footprint and complex structure
Solution Approach 1:
The objects inside the container serve as intermediaries between the manipulator and the container. The manipulator engages the objects directly, and the objects in turn engage the container walls through friction and normal forces, enabling indirect lifting of the container without the manipulator contacting it directly
Solution Approach 2:
The objects inside the container utilize their own weight and the separating means to automatically generate the necessary forces against the container walls. The weight of the objects activates the separating means, which forces the objects apart, creating the internal forces needed to lift the container
2Reliability
If separate means are used to lift the container, then the container can be securely lifted, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The objects serve multiple functions: they are both the payload being transported and the lifting mechanism for the container. The same objects that need to be moved also provide the forces necessary to lift the container, eliminating the need for separate lifting mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The lifting function for both the objects and the container is merged into a single mechanism. The manipulator lifts the objects, and through the action of the separating means, the objects simultaneously lift the container, combining two lifting functions into one system
3Reliability
If high manufacturing tolerances are required for the container, then the lifting is more precise, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes from requiring precise geometric parameters of the container to relying on the friction characteristics and weight of the objects. The lifting mechanism adapts to variations in container dimensions by adjusting the forces generated by the objects through the separating means
Solution Approach 2:
The objects automatically adjust their position and the forces they exert on the container walls based on their weight and the action of the separating means. This self-adjusting mechanism compensates for variations in container dimensions without requiring precise manufacturing tolerances
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
Enables secure, cost-effective, and reliable lifting of both objects and containers with minimal footprint, allowing for efficient handling and placement without requiring precise container alignment or additional lifting mechanisms.
Implementation Method 1
The object engaging devices may be vacuum suction grippers
Implementation Method 2
the container may be lifted by means of the objects by frictional forces between the objects and the container
Data Source
AI summary
This disclosure presents a manipulator for lifting objects and an upwards open container within which the objects are at least partly arranged. The manipulator includes a first object engaging device for engaging a first object, a second object engaging device for engaging a second object. The manipulation is configured for forcing the first and second objects apart when engaged by the first and second object engaging devices, such that the objects exert an internal force on the container. The disclosure also presents a method for lifting objects and an upwards open container.