Apparatus for handling a workpiece

Citation

Rigelsford, J. (2001), "Apparatus for handling a workpiece", Assembly Automation, Vol. 21 No. 3. https://doi.org/10.1108/aa.2001.03321cad.018

Apparatus for handling a workpiece

Apparatus for handling a workpiece

Keywords: Automation, Materials handling

Applicants: David J. Crorey and Leland D. BlattPatent number: US5492443Publication date: 20 February 1996Title: Apparatus for handling a workpiece between work stations

The present invention relates to the automated handling of workpieces between automated workstations and, more particularly, to an apparatus which automatically lifts a workpiece from an unloading workstation, moves the workpiece along a predetermined linear reciprocal path, while simultaneously inverting the workpiece, and lowers the workpiece into a loading workstation. The apparatus provides a vertical lift portion and an articulating portion for manipulating the workpiece. The vertical lift portion utilises a compact design to minimise space requirements and moving parts by providing both vertical movement and rotational movement within a common structure. The articulating portion is attached to the bottom of the vertical lift portion and provides a pivot arm that is pivotally attached to a workpiece holder. The vertical lift portion provides a rotational input to a harmonic drive unit which has its output coupled to the pivot arm. When the pivot arm rotates, a continuous timing belt provides for counter-rotational movement of the workpiece holder. The workpiece is detachable and secured by the workpiece holder, and when the pivot arm and the workpiece holder are equivalent in length, the workpiece will travel in a linear path, while also inverting the orientation of the workpiece on completing the linear path. The range of movement of the workpiece may also be extended by mounting the apparatus on an overhead gantry which moves the entire apparatus, along with the workpiece, further along the linear path. A linear drive unit may also be utilised as a workpiece holder to provide an extended reach to the workpiece along the linear path. Both the pivot arm and the workpiece holder rotate simultaneously and counter-rotationally, so that the workpiece travels in a linear reciprocal path between workstations. While travelling the linear path, the orientation of the workpiece is inverted to accommodate the fixturing of the automated workstation.