Universal Gripper for Variable-Size Article Palletizing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current palletizing methods require specialized article handling heads for each different article size, leading to high costs and operational disruptions, and are unable to efficiently accommodate uniquely sized articles due to the need for multiple heads and time-consuming modifications.
Innovation Solution
A method using a pair of opposed planar gripping members that can apply compressive force to articles of varying sizes, allowing for the formation of article arrays and pallets without the need for multiple heads, by positioning and manipulating the gripping members to accommodate different article arrangements and sizes within the same handling head.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If specialized article handling heads are used for each different article size, then the palletizing precision and reliability are improved, but the device complexity and cost increase, and the adaptability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal handling head design with a compliant gripper that can accommodate multiple article sizes and configurations through electronic control and force feedback, eliminating the need for multiple specialized heads while maintaining reliable palletizing performance across different article types
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple specialized article handling heads are constructed for different article sizes, then the manufacturing precision for specific article types is improved, but the loss of time for head changes and the adaptability worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The handling head incorporates a compliant gripper with force feedback control that dynamically adjusts its gripping force and position to accommodate different article sizes and configurations, allowing the system to adapt to various article types without physical head changes while maintaining precise placement
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses electronic control to dynamically adjust gripping parameters such as force magnitude and application points based on detected article characteristics, enabling the same physical head to achieve precise manipulation across different article sizes without mechanical reconfiguration
3Ease of operation
If specialized article handling heads are used for each article type, then the ease of operation for specific article types is improved, but the adaptability to handle uniquely sized articles worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The handling system incorporates sensors and force feedback that allow the gripper to automatically detect and adapt to different article characteristics during operation, eliminating the need for manual head selection or configuration while maintaining ease of use across different article types
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 efficient and cost-effective palletization of articles of different sizes using a single handling head, reducing production downtime and costs by allowing for the construction of article arrays and pallets with varying arrangements, such as nested and non-nested configurations, without requiring head modifications or changes.
Implementation Method 1
the pair of gripping members applying a compressive force parallel to the first support surface to opposed laterally surrounded surfaces of the first row of first articles
Data Source
AI summary
A method for building an article array comprised of (n) rows of articles, as disclosed herein.