Vacuum-based end effector with extendible vacuum cup
US11839987B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 11, 2020 |
| Grant date | Dec 12, 2023 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 22, 2041 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB25J9/123
- WIPO fieldHandling
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A vacuum-based end effector for selectively engaging parcels includes a base plate to which a plurality of vacuum cups are mounted and configured to be placed in fluid communication with a vacuum source. Each vacuum cup includes a bellows having a distal end connected to a lip. The vacuum-based end effector further includes a linear actuator that is mounted to the base plate and includes an extendible arm to which at least one vacuum cup is operably connected. The linear actuator can be selectively actuated to extend the extendible arm and move the lip of the vacuum cup operably connected to the extendible arm below a common plane defined by the lips of vacuum cups which maintain a fixed position relative to the base plate to individually address a target parcel. The vacuum-based end effector can be combined with a robot to provide an improved system for selectively engaging parcels.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.