Robotic system with reconfigurable end-effector assembly
US9808933B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignees
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 24, 2016 |
| Grant date | Nov 7, 2017 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 8, 2036 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10S901/41
- WIPO fieldHandling
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A robotic system includes a robot, an end-effector assembly disposed at a distal end of a main boom, rotatable parallel frame rails, and tool support branches. Tool modules are connected to a tool support branch and rotatable/translatable with respect to a respective branch axis. A configuration tool has a control block engaged by a wrist of the robot and a work tool. A controller commands the robot to automatically configure the end-effector assembly by adjusting the frame rails and/or tool support branches or tool modules using the work tool, doing so in response to an identified work task. Engagement of the wrist with the tool changer is commanded and the identified work task is executed using the end-effector assembly. A configuration stand may automatically flip the end-effector assembly to a configuration location, command engagement of the wrist with the tool changer, and configure the end-effector assembly.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.