System and method of retrieving containers in a hybrid environment
US11427405B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 3, 2020 |
| Grant date | Aug 30, 2022 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 29, 2040 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB65G47/917
- WIPO fieldHandling
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A method includes arranging, on a robot, a set of suctions cups on an actuator of the robot to allow for removable engagement of the set of suction cups to a container surface. The method further includes initiating movement of the actuator to cause the robot to (1) engage the set of suction cups to the container surface, generating a pressure within at least a subset of the set of suction cups; (2) detect the pressure within the subset of the set of suction cups; (3) connect the subset of the set of suction cups to a set of vacuum pumps to generate a vacuum, resulting in a grip on the container; and (4) move the container on to a platform of the robot to prepare the container for delivery.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.