Patent ID: 8919844
Filing Date: 2014-12-30
Classification: B25J

Abstract:
1. A gripper assembly comprising: an actuator having a fixed portion that defines an interior space, a first actuator portion that is at least partially disposed within the interior space and extends through a first aperture that is formed through the fixed portion, and a second actuator portion that is at least partially disposed within the interior space and extends through a second aperture that is formed through the fixed portion, wherein the first actuator portion and the second actuator portion are moveable in unison between a first position and a second position; at least one gripper jaw that 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 between the first position and the second position; a sensor member that is disposed outside of the interior space and rearward of the fixed portion of the actuator and is coupled to the second actuator portion for movement therewith; and a position sensing device that is disposed outside of the interior space and rearward of the fixed portion of the actuator and is operable to detect proximity of the sensor member.