Flexible end of arm tool
US10843347B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 25, 2018 |
| Grant date | Nov 24, 2020 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 25, 2038 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB65G2201/025
- WIPO fieldHandling
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An end-of-arm-tool (EOAT) can elongate from a retracted position into an extend position to be configured to fit within a space available for contacting and grasping an object. The EOAT includes arrays of linkage elements having corresponding arrays of suction cups attached to linkage element of the linkage element array. In the retracted position, the arrays are pulled away from the distal end of the EOAT to be alongside of a longitudinal rail. In the extended position, a proximal end of the array is moved toward the distal end of the EOAT such that the linkages glide outwardly and linearly to deploy additional suction cups of the suction cup array against the object-to-be-lifted.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.