Reconfigurable end-effectors with articulating frame and indexable master boom

US8496425B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC · US

Inventors

• Yhu-Tin Lin · Rochester Hills, US
• Andrew L. Bartos · Clarkston, US
• Roland J. Menassa · Chesterfield Township, US
• Douglas R. Black · Oakland, US
• Joseph J. Ekl, Jr. · Rochester, US
• Mark A. Cline · Clarkston, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Nov 30, 2009
• Grant date: Jul 30, 2013
• Expiry date: May 30, 2032

Classification

• Technology area (CPC B): Performing Operations; Transporting
• CPC primary: B25J15/0061
• WIPO field: Handling
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

The end-effector includes an articulating frame mounted on an indexable boom. Tool modules mount on the end-effector and connect to a workpiece. Each tool module includes a flexible dress package including a cable carrier. A channel rail is supported by the end-effector frame and guides the cable carrier. A setup tool and associated process can reconfigure the positions of the tool modules and the frame and boom of the end-effector.