Variable Strength Magnetic End Effector for Lift Systems
OwnerStephen C. Jacobsen, Fraser M. Smith +2inventors
InventorsStephen C. Jacobsen, Fraser M. Smith, Glenn Colvin, JR., John McCullough
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Abstract
A device and method for adjusting the magnetic strength of a magnetic end effector for lift systems is described. The magnetic end effector is capable of lifting discriminate payloads by selectively varying the strength of the magnetic forces output by the magnetic end effector. An actuator can be operatively coupled to the variable strength magnet end effector, wherein the actuator is selectively actuatable to control the adjustment of the variable strength magnet. The actuator may also be configured to maintain the variable strength magnet at a desired magnetic force output strength once achieved for any given amount of time.
Claims13
A method for lifting and transporting a specific number of objects from a larger collection of objects using an end effector supported about a lift system and employing an adjustable magnetic force, the method comprising:
- identifying a collection of objects arranged adjacent one another;
- determining a specific number of objects to lift from the collection of objects;
- positioning a continuously variable strength magnetic end effector about the collection of objects, the variable strength magnetic end effector having an infinite number of available magnetic strength outputs;
- actuating the variable strength magnetic end effector to achieve a magnetic strength output above a threshold level suitable for discriminately lifting the specific number of objects from the collection of objects;
- and
- maintaining the magnetic strength output at least at the threshold level for a given period of time.
A magnetic end effector, comprising:
- a housing;
- a magnetic element disposed within the housing, the magnetic element being continuously adjustable to an infinite number of magnetic strength output levels;
- and
- at least one communication element that associates the magnetic element with an actuator that facilitates control of the adjustment of the magnetic element,
- wherein the actuator maintains the magnetic element at a desired magnetic force strength output level to secure a lifted object to the end effector.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.