Society of Robots - Robot Forum

Mechanics and Construction => Mechanics and Construction => Topic started by: dmehling on July 22, 2007, 02:56:00 PM

Title: gripper cliamp needed
Post by: dmehling on July 22, 2007, 02:56:00 PM

I need to implement a robotic gripper design for my project.  I would like one that functions more like a clamping mechanism in which the upper and lower "fingers" move toward each other in a linear direction as opposed to gripper fingers that rotate inward in a circular manner.  I need it to open at least 3 inches, and it needs to be not very expensive since I need three of these grippers.  Does such a product exists.  If not, I'll need to design my own and would need to know what kind of actuator to use: rack and pinion, screwdriver, or linear stepper motor?

Title: Re: gripper cliamp needed
Post by: Brandon121233 on July 22, 2007, 07:44:17 PM

Could you give me an idea of how much gripping force you need, or how heavy the stuff is you plan on gripping?

Title: Re: gripper cliamp needed
Post by: Ro-Bot-X on July 23, 2007, 03:19:04 AM

Take a look at this:

http://www.parallax.com/detail.asp?product_id=28202 (http://www.parallax.com/detail.asp?product_id=28202)

Title: Re: gripper cliamp needed
Post by: Steve Joblin on July 23, 2007, 01:42:15 PM

There is also this (http://www.budgetrobotics.com/shop/?shop=1&cat=135)

Title: Re: gripper cliamp needed
Post by: thomasrex on July 25, 2007, 11:42:49 AM

The problem with the Boebot design (which uses a set of struts that form a parallelogram, thus always keeping the ends paralell) is that is still moves the tips of the gripper OUT as it clamps. 

That was unacceptable for a gripper I built, so eventually I  found a linear roller slide track, combined with a screw thread or acme screw, did the trick.  Attach your gripper to the slider, move it with the screw thread or acme screw, turned by a servo or stepper motor.

Got a 4" grip, perfectly linear clamping action.

Have fun!