Precisely controllable gripper assembly for low force applications
US9616581B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 1, 2016 |
| Grant date | Apr 11, 2017 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 1, 2036 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10S901/37
- WIPO fieldHandling
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
The gripper assembly includes a base, a guide situated on the base, and first and second jaws members. First and second ball bearing slides are associated with the jaw members for mounting the jaw members for movement along a guide track between proximate and remote positions. First and second low friction pneumatic actuators are provided. A mechanical linkage connects the actuators to at least one of the jaw members. A pulley and wire rope assembly connects the first and second jaw members for simultaneous movement in opposite directions. Valves are provided for actuating one actuator at a time. Actuation of the first actuator causes simultaneous movement of the jaw members in one direction. Actuation of the second actuator causes simultaneous movement of the jaw members in opposite directions.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.