ROBOTIC END EFFECTOR SYSTEM AND METHOD
First Claim
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1. A robotic end effector apparatus for use with a multi-axis robot having a movable wrist, the apparatus comprising:
- a connector removably attached to the robot wrist; and
an end effector removably engageable with the connector, the end effector having a tool operable on a work piece.
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Abstract
A robotic end effector system and method having a plurality of end effectors which are selectively suitable for particular applications on a workpiece. The end effectors include a resident controller adapted to execute tasks specific to the end effector and are rapidly attachable and removable from the robot for easy change over to different workpieces.
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Citations
20 Claims
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1. A robotic end effector apparatus for use with a multi-axis robot having a movable wrist, the apparatus comprising:
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a connector removably attached to the robot wrist; and an end effector removably engageable with the connector, the end effector having a tool operable on a work piece. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14)
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15. A quick-release connector for use in connecting a robot having a movable wrist to a selected end effector, the connector comprising:
a plate connected to the robot wrist; a socket connected to the plate, the socket in communication with at least one service line from the robot wrist; a plug connected to the end effector in communication with at least one service line of the end effector, wherein on engagement of the end effector to the plate, the effector plug engages the socket for communication of the at least one service line from the robot wrist to the service line of the end effector. - View Dependent Claims (16, 17)
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18. A method of rapidly attaching an end effector useful on a workpiece from operable engagement with a robot having a movable wrist and at least one service line extending from the wrist, the method comprising the steps of:
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identifying the work to be done on the workpiece; selecting one of a plurality of end effectors having at least one service line; engaging the end effector to the robot wrist such that the service line of the robot wrist is in communication with the end effector service line. - View Dependent Claims (19, 20)
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Specification