Adaptable end effector and method
AssigneeComau S.p.A.
InventorsVelibor Kilibarda, Bryan Finzel, Michael R. Dugas
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
An adaptable end effector useful to accommodate a wide variety of components, component geometries and variations in component geometries. In one example, the end effector includes a movable arm and at least three fingers each having a gripping tool for engagement of the component with variable and/or programmable holding force preventing relative movement.
Claims20
An adaptable end effector for use in grasping a component in a robotic assembly operation, the adaptable end effector comprising:
- a base plate;
- a first arm connected to the base plate extending away from the base plate;
- a second arm connected to the base plate;
- a drive device connected to the base plate and one of the first or the second arm for selected movement of the first or the second arm relative the other of the first or the second arm along a path of travel.
A method of grasping a component with an end effector for use in a robotic assembly operation, the method comprising the steps of:
- storing preprogrammed data instructions for a specific component to be grasped in an adaptable end effector data memory storage device;
- energizing an adaptable end effector drive device connected to a first or second end effector arm;
- and
- moving the first or the second end effector arm connected to the drive device according to the specific component data instructions to grasp the specific component.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.