Actuating means
July 18th, 2009 | by Ramaswami |Microgripper device for a micro-mechanism
A microgripper device includes a microactuator member and a microgripper member. The microactuator member includes an actuating portion adapted to output a driving force to the microgripper member. The microgripper member includes a main flame, an engaging portion, a pair of lateral shifting portions and a gripping portion. The main frame of the microgripper member mounts the microactuator member therein, and the engaging portion of the microgripper member connects to the actuating portion of the microactuating member. Each of the lateral shifting portions includes three connection portions linking the main frame, the engaging portion and the gripping respectively. The gripping portion of the microgripper member includes a pair of resilient arms and a pair of pivot portions. Each of the pivot portions connects to a first end of the corresponding resilient arm so that the second ends of the resilient arms are able to generate a gripping movement.
Holding structure for holding an object
A holding structure, such as a manipulator, includes a plurality fingers. At least one of the fingers is movable such that an object can be held or released by a closing or opening motion of the movable finger. At least one contact surface of the fingers, which is capable of being brought into contact with the object, is formed by an elastic member, and at least one elastic member is adapted to reversibly change its elasticity under the control of an external supply of energy to the elastic member.
Mobile robot hybrid communication link
A mobile robot communication system includes a remote unit, a repeater module and a control station. A cable connects the repeater module to the control station. The remote unit has a wireless receiver/transmitter for sending and receiving commands. The repeater module has a wireless receiver/transmitter for sending and receiving commands from the mobile unit. The control station is operable in communication with the repeater module for remotely sending and receiving signals. The cable is attached between the repeater module and control station for transmitting signals therebetween.
Robotic hand and arm apparatus
A robotic hand and arm where the fingers are driven by rotational motors with drums, and pulled with cables using rolling friction. The hand extends into a robotic arm through a wrist wherein the wrist is controlled by pneumatic cylinders. Each finger preferably is provided with four manufactured parts and a single pulley. The thumb is provided with three pulleys for independent distal movement. Cables wraps around or over pulleys, eliminating tight bends. A glove is provided about the robotic hand which provides a compressive, liquid resistant membrane.
End-effectors for handling microelectronic workpieces
End-effectors may be used to grasp microelectronic workpieces for handling by automated transport devices. One such end-effector includes a plurality of end-effectors and a detector adapted to detect engagement of the edge of the workpiece by at least one of the abutments. An alternative end-effector includes at least three abutments, at least one of which is resiliently connected to an actuator for movement between a retracted position and a deployed position wherein it engages a workpiece.
