Clamping apparatus with position validation function and clamping process using same
US7971863B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 16, 2007 |
| Grant date | Jul 5, 2011 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 4, 2030 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB25B5/166
- WIPO fieldMachine tools
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An exemplary clamping apparatus includes a supporting body, a plurality of clamping units installed on the supporting body, a PWM controller, and a detection unit. Each clamping unit includes a magnet, a clamping pin, an electrical coil, and a coil core mechanically engaged with the clamping pin. The magnet is configured for holding the clamping pin at a target position. The PWM controller is configured for supplying a pulse signal to the respective electrical coil of each clamping unit and for thereby creating a magnetic force causing a corresponding coil core and a corresponding clamping pin to, synchronously, move. The detection unit is configured for detecting a back electromotive force representative of the arrival to the target position of a clamping pin and signaling the PWM controller to stop supplying the pulse signal. A clamping process utilizing the clamping apparatus is also provided.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.