Patent ID: 6612634
Filing Date: 2003-09-02
Classification: B25J,B29C

Abstract:
A gripping device operable to grip a preform having a collar portion, said gripping device comprising:a handling arm; support means adapted to support and handle the preform, formed by a plate made in a single integral piece that is provided at an extremity thereof with a semi-circular aperture adapted to move into coupling with and accommodate a cylindrical portion of the collar of the preform; interconnection means provided between said arm and said support means and firmly joined thereto; two symmetrical, parallel side gripping members hinged onto said plate, whose two extremities are formed with respective contours adapted to be capable to move into fittingly coupling with two respective portions of the collar of the preform, and are further adapted to elastically move closer to each other up to a pre-determined position; one or more elastic members that operate in a compressing mode on said two side gripping members on the opposite side of said respective extremities, wherein said elastic members comprise a cylindrical spring operable to provide a force between said elastic members, wherein said plate is provided, on the opposite side of said extremities, with a hole adapted to accommodate said spring, characterized in that said plate is provided centrally with a relief portion, a resting position of said side gripping members being abutting against respective grooves of said relief portion.