Vacuum-based end effector for engaging parcels

US11524403B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Material Handling Systems, Inc. · US

Inventors

• Josiah Douglas · Louisville, US
• Kurt Michael Wittmer · Louisville, US
• Michael Alan McCue · Louisville, US
• David W. Caldwell · Holland, US
• Gregory Robert Sturm · Madison, US
• Derek Robert Sturm · Louisville, US
• Thomas A. Hillerich · Jeffersontown, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Feb 18, 2020
• Grant date: Dec 13, 2022
• Expiry date: May 4, 2041

Classification

• Technology area (CPC B): Performing Operations; Transporting
• CPC primary: B65G2203/044
• WIPO field: Handling
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

A vacuum-based end effector for engaging parcels includes a base plate, one or more vacuum cups of a first type, and one or more vacuum cups of a second type. Each vacuum cup of the vacuum-based end effector is configured to be placed in fluid communication with a vacuum source to provide the vacuum cup with a suction force which can be used to engage and grasp parcels. Each vacuum cup includes a bellows defining a pathway for a flow of air and a lip connected to the bellows. Each lip of the one or more vacuum cups of the first type comprises a foam lip, and each lip of the one or more vacuum cups of the second type comprises an elastomeric lip. The vacuum-based end effector can be combined with a robot to provide an improved system for engaging parcels.