Robotic end gripper with a band member to engage object
US5310233A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 22, 1992 |
| Grant date | May 10, 1994 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 22, 2012 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB25J15/00
- WIPO fieldHandling
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An end effector for use with robotic arms and like devices that utilizes a flexible band to draw an object against an anvil having a concave surface. One typical convex surface is created by a V-block, with an apex of the V being centrally located. If an object to be grasped is fragile, the contour of the concave surface closely matches the surface of the object. Typically the movement of the band is effected by a linear actuator, with the anvil remaining fixed relative to a support base. Several embodiments are described that utilize variations in drawing the band toward the anvil, with one of these embodiments described in detail in the form of a fabricated unit. One embodiment includes a cover element that can be moved over an object after the grasping thereof, with this cover potentially serving various functions. Movement of the cover can be effected with a second linear actuator.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.