Gripping tool having adjustable gripping area, and related methods
US10926403B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 24, 2018 |
| Grant date | Feb 23, 2021 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 23, 2039 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB25J18/005
- WIPO fieldHandling
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A gripping tool includes at least one linear guide coupled to a mount and extending along a central axis oriented along a first direction. At least one carriage coupled to the linear guide is translatable relative to the mount along the first direction. A first plurality of arms are rotatably coupled to the mount. A second plurality of arms are rotatably coupled to the carriage. The tool includes bodies carrying suction cups. Each body: defines an axis, is rotatably connected to at least one of each of the first and second pluralities of arms, and combines with the respective at least one of the first plurality of arms, the at least one of the second plurality of arms, and the at least one carriage to define a linkage allowing the body to move relative to the mount along the first and a perpendicular radial direction while the central and body axes remain parallel.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.