Apparatus and method for handling articles

US10406678B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• KRONES AG · DE

Inventors

• Christian Westermeier · Munich, DE
• Josef UNTERSEHER · Raubling, DE
• Manuel Kollmuss · Raubling, DE
• Marco EHBERGER · Bad Aibling, DE
• Michael Hartl · Unterhaching, DE
• Peter Zeiner · Raubling, DE

Key dates

• Filing date: Nov 9, 2015
• Grant date: Sep 10, 2019
• Expiry date: Aug 3, 2036

Classification

• Technology area (CPC B): Performing Operations; Transporting
• CPC primary: B25J17/0266
• WIPO field: Handling
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

The present invention includes an apparatus (1) and a method for handling articles and comprises an upper suspension (3) with at least three rotatably driven positioning arms (5), where the positioning arms (5) each comprise at least two arm sections (7, 9) that are swivelable relative to each other and operated independently of one another. A manipulator (32) comprises one or more clamping jaws (34, 36) and is mechanically coupled to the positioning arms (5) such the manipulator can be positioned by movement of one or more of the positioning arms (5). At least one drive shaft (12) is linked non-rotatingly to the manipulator, such that the manipulator is rotated by movement of the at least one drive shaft (12). Rotation of the at least one drive shaft (12) also controls the one or more clamping jaws (34, 36) via the at least one actuating shaft (14).