Gripping device

摘要

A device in which the gripping action is achieved by a compliant membrane that adapts itself to the object to be lifted and then maintains such shape throughout the displacement of the object. The gripping force provided by the present invention is best suited for delicate objects, as it gently applies the gripping force necessary for displacement. This is accomplished through a chamber, a deformable membrane delimiting the chamber partially or entirely, and a means for changing the volume or shape of the chamber determined by the deformation of the membrane.

主权项

1. A gripping device comprising:
a chamber having an open end; a deformable membrane sealing said open end; and a piston for changing the volume within said chamber; wherein said change in volume will create positive or negative pressure within said chamber, deforming said membrane through the motion of said piston, providing gripping and attractive forces.