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US 4,906,926 AGranted
Proximity sensor for hostile environments
AssigneeSyron Engineering & Manufacturing, LLC
InventorsSteven A. Rogacki, Robert M. Carabbio, Alfred F. Herbermann
Life of this patent
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Abstract
Proximity sensors for detecting the presence of metal objects such as sheet metal workpieces within workpiece engaging devices such as grippers and shovels. The proximity sensors are jacketed in a stainless steel casing, making them rugged and resistant to impact damage. Monitor circuits are used with the sensor which enable the devices to sense objects through their metal casing.
Claims7
An articulated gripper with a proximity sensor for detecting the presence of a metal workpiece comprising:
- a pair of movable opposed jaws having facing clamping surfaces;
- a sensor comprising a metal casing means for forming a hollow inside cavity and defining a metal outer sensing face, a coil disposed entirely within said casing inside cavity, for defining a sensor field through said sensor face, a sensor circuit for measuring changes in inductance of said coil caused by the presence of said workpiece when in close proximity with said sensing face;
- and
- said sensor mounted within a clamping surface of a first jaw, said coil of said sensor having a center axis, said center axis being generally normal to said clamping surface of said first jaw.
1 more element
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.