Method for error-proofing a reconfigurable clamp
US8176616B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 29, 2008 |
| Grant date | May 15, 2012 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 4, 2030 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T29/49998
- WIPO fieldMachine tools
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A method for error-proofing clamping operation performed with a reconfigurable clamp having a body, a locking member, a plurality of moveable pins for contacting an object, and a plunger is provided. The method includes applying a force to the plunger and sensing whether the plunger achieves a fully-depressed position, and releasing the force to the plunger and sensing whether the plunger achieves a fully-extended position. The method may additionally include applying the force to the plunger, contacting the object with the plurality of pins and sensing whether the clamp body achieves a predetermined position relative to a clamping device.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.