Compliant tool holder

US8919714B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• RE2, Inc. · US

Inventors

• Nabil Michael Rizk · Pittsburgh, US
• Frank F. Campagna · Pine Township, US
• Aaron P. Nicely · West Mifflin, US
• Joseph Vasalani · Youngstown, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Oct 13, 2011
• Grant date: Dec 30, 2014
• Expiry date: Aug 1, 2032

Classification

• Technology area (CPC B): Performing Operations; Transporting
• CPC primary: B25J15/04
• WIPO field: Handling
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

A compliant tool holder is provided for use with robots, unmanned ground vehicles, and the like. The compliant tool holder is characterized in that it involves the use of means for compliance, such as springs, rubber, plastics, metals, composites, shock mounts, vibration mounts, or similar means for permitting compliant movement in three rotational and three translational degrees of freedom during end effector changes. The compliant tool holder reduces costs associated with automated tool change in the field, and allows for more rapid switching of end effectors, enabling a greater range of uses for robots and unmanned ground vehicles.