Norgren Automation Solutions, LLC

Syron Engineering & Manufacturing Corporation

Norgren Automotive Solutions, Inc.

Mark Holcomb

Conrad Earl Waldorf

John Charlton

Richard Hamann

Shawn Paul Mascorro

An apparatus and method is provided for detecting multiple workpieces. The present invention provides a mount adaptor connected to a workpiece engaging device for engaging and manipulating a workpiece. A cell body is connected to the mount adaptor, and the cell body has an accelerometer disposed therein for measuring and signaling an acceleration value of the workpiece. A load cell is connected to the cell body and is connectable to a manipulator, wherein the load cell measures and signals a load value of the workpiece. A computer processor receives the acceleration value and the load value of the workpiece for determining the mass of the workpiece and determining whether there are multiple workpieces engaged by the workpiece-engaging device.

Apparatus and method for detecting multiple workpieces

A gripper assembly includes an actuator, at least one gripper jaw, a sensor member and at least one position sensing device. The actuator has a first actuator portion, a second actuator portion, and a fixed portion. The first actuator portion and the second actuator portion are moveable in unison between a first position and a second position. The at least one gripper jaw is disposed forward of the fixed portion of the actuator and is moveable with respect to the fixed portion of the actuator in response to movement of the first actuator portion. The sensor member is disposed rearward of the fixed portion of the actuator and is coupled to the second actuator portion for movement therewith. The position sensing device is disposed rearward of the fixed portion of the actuator and is operable to detect proximity of the sensor member.

Gripper with actuator mounted displacement sensor

A gripper assembly includes at least one movable gripper jaw and a sensor member coupled for movement with the at least one gripper jaw. The sensor member includes a slot. A sensor is located at least partially within the slot and includes at least one inductor for inductively detecting a proximity of the sensor member.

Gripper having sensor for detecting displacement

A sensor assembly includes a moveable member and an inductor coil. A flexible inductor member moves relative to the inductor coil in response to movement of the moveable member. This produces an inductance signal that indicates the movement of the moveable member.

Growing community of inventors

Tecumseh, MI, United States of America

Mark Holcomb