Patent ID: 7156436
Filing Date: 2007-01-02
Classification: B66C,Y10S

Abstract:
1. Clamping device suitable for lifting and handling of sheet like-objects, comprising: a rigid frame configured to straddle an edge region of sheet-like objects, the frame including a stationary jaw and a frame housing defining a gap between the stationary jaw and the frame housing in which the sheet-like object may be received, the stationary jaw providing a first clamping surface; a movable jaw supported at the frame within the gap for movement towards and away from the stationary jaw, the movable jaw providing a second clamping surface; at least one linkage arm pivotably mounted to the rigid frame for supporting the movable jaw such that the movable jaw is movable in an arc relative to the rigid frame; an actuating carriage arranged to receive a lifting force and to transmit a clamping force, the carriage being located between the movable jaw and the frame housing for reciprocating movement along a longitudinal axis; actuator tracks for the actuating carriage provided on the movable jaw and on the frame housing, the actuator tracks having an inclined portion relative to the longitudinal axis which, when the actuator carriage is caused by the lifting force to be raised along the inclined portion, causes biasing movement of the movable jaw toward the stationary jaw through pivoting movement of the linkage arm; whereby, when the clamping device straddles the sheet-like object and the lifting force is applied, the lifting force brings the first clamping surface and the second clamping surface in contact with opposite faces of the sheet-like object, thereby frictionally clamping the sheet-like object.