WO2021197642A1

WO2021197642A1 - Gripper device for gripping and moving objects, gripper assembly comprising the gripper device, and use of the gripper assembly

Info

Publication number: WO2021197642A1
Application number: PCT/EP2020/063670
Authority: WO
Inventors: Matthias Scholz; Götz Allrich; Stefan Woldt
Original assignee: Diehl Metal Applications Gmbh
Priority date: 2020-03-31
Filing date: 2020-05-15
Publication date: 2021-10-07
Also published as: DE102020002408A1

Abstract

The invention relates to a gripper device (1) for gripping and moving objects (30) by a user (40), comprising a main body (2), the main body (2) having a first and a second jaw portion (3a, b) for gripping the objects (30), the first and the second jaw portion (3a, b) being arranged opposite one another on the main body (2), comprising an object receiving opening (4) for supplying the objects 30, the object receiving opening (4) being formed between the first and the second jaw portion (3a, b), the first and the second jaw portion (3a, b) being designed to grip the objects (30) within the object receiving opening 30 in a resiliently movable manner. The invention also relates to a gripper assembly (20) comprising the gripper device (1) and to use of the gripper assembly (20) and/or the gripper assembly (1).

Description

Gripper device for gripping and moving objects, gripper arrangement with the gripper device and use of the gripper arrangement

The invention relates to a gripper device for gripping and moving objects with the features of the preamble of claim 1. Furthermore, the invention relates to a gripper arrangement with the features of claim 12 and a use of the gripper arrangement and / or the gripper device with the features of claim 13.

Objects of daily use harbor a certain risk for people to become infected when they come into contact with superficial pathogens, e.g. bacteria, germs, fungi and / or viruses. In particular, objects and / or equipment used jointly, such as door and window handles or washroom fittings, contribute to the spread of these among people through direct contact with the objects.

Gloves, in particular disposable gloves, are known to protect against pathogens and to avoid direct contact. However, gloves must be put on by the person before use and can only be hygienically cleaned with difficulty after use, which means that reuse is impossible. In addition, carrying and wearing gloves on a daily basis is cumbersome and can damage people's skin if they are used intensively. Gloves with an inner coating, e.g. a powder or a lotion, are therefore known to protect the skin.

Such gloves are disclosed in the document DE 60033445 T2. The disposable or disposable examination gloves comprise only a single layer of flexible material which forms a cavity around a Hand and a quantity of dehydrated aloe vera on an inner surface of the layer of flexible material, the aloe vera contacting the hand while donning the disposable examination glove, achievable by applying the aloe vera on the flexible material by applying a solution of aloe vera to the glove and then dehydrating the solution on the glove to form a layer of dehydrated aloe vera on the surface of the glove.

The invention is based on the object of creating a gripper device which prevents direct contact between a person and an object and is characterized by versatile use, high stability and reusability. This object is achieved by a gripper device with the features of claim 1, by a gripper arrangement with the features of claim 12 and by using the gripper arrangement and / or the gripper device with the features of claim 13.

The invention relates to a gripper device for gripping and moving objects by a user, in particular for gripping and moving everyday objects by a person. The objects are preferably designed as objects of daily use, such as a chair or a shopping cart, and can be grasped and / or moved by the user. The objects are preferably designed as furnishings or building installations, such as door and window handles or washroom fittings, the objects preferably being able to be operated and / or actuated by the user. Consequently, the gripper device is preferably designed for the operation and actuation of mechanical operating elements, for example a locking mechanism, by the user.

The gripper device has a base body. The base body is preferably designed in one piece. The main body has a first and a second jaw section for gripping objects. The jaw sections are preferably cohesively connected to the base body, the base body with the two jaw sections preferably being made from a common starting material. For example, these are made of a plastic, rubber, silicone, copper or stainless steel. The first and second jaw sections are arranged opposite one another on the base body. In particular, the base body forms a C- and / or U-shaped with the two jaw sections Cross-sectional area, the two jaw sections being designed as two legs, preferably mirror-symmetrical legs. The first and second jaw sections are preferably arranged closely adjacent, the two jaw sections being formed in a common main gripping direction of the gripping device. Alternatively and / or optionally in addition, the first and / or the second jaw section is divided and / or designed in two parts.

The base body preferably has a connecting section for connecting the first to the second jaw section, the connecting section connecting the two jaw sections in a materially bonded manner. The connecting section and the two jaw sections are preferably made from a common starting material. In particular, the connecting section is arranged between the two jaw sections, wherein it is preferably designed as a curve or an edge, so that the two jaw sections are designed to the main gripping direction and are connected via the connecting section.

Furthermore, the gripper device has an object receiving opening for feeding in the objects. In particular, the object receiving opening is suitable for feeding objects to the gripper device against the main gripping direction. The specimen receiving opening is arranged between the first and second jaw sections. In particular, a distance and / or an air gap between the two jaw sections forms the specimen receiving opening. The specimen receiving opening is preferably designed as a slot or an elongated gap, the specimen receiving opening preferably being designed over an entire length of the base body. The specimen receiving opening has, for example, a length of at least 2 cm, preferably of at least 3 cm, in particular of at least 5 cm. The first and second jaw sections preferably have a distance between them of at least 10 mm, preferably at least 15 mm, in particular of at least 25 mm. The specimen receiving opening is preferably rectangular. The specimen receiving opening preferably has an open area of at least 2 cm ² , preferably of at least 4.5 cm ² , in particular of at least 10 cm ² .

Furthermore, the first and second jaw sections for gripping the objects are designed to be resiliently movable within the object receiving opening. Preferably, the first and the second are resiliently arranged on the base body. In particular, these are made of an elastic material, e.g. plastic, manufactured, the two back sections and the base body having a resilient geometry, for example the C- and / or U-shaped cross-sectional area. "Resiliently" preferably means a change in the distance between the two jaw sections, which can be understood as a reversible deformation. The distance between the two jaw sections can preferably be changed by at least 1 mm, preferably by at least 3 mm, in particular by at least 5 mm. This creates resilient jaw sections which are designed to be “rigid” for the user's perception, but which change “minimally” in their shape in order to grip and / or clamp the object.

The gripper device is preferably designed as a clip for gripping the objects and for holding them on the objects. The resilient first and second jaw sections preferably generate a clamping force for holding the objects so that they are clamped and can be moved and / or can be moved by the user. The first and second jaw sections are preferably preloaded by the clamping force. For example, the object is a shopping cart, the gripper device gripping a handle of the shopping cart, the gripper device remaining on the handle and the user being able to move and / or push the shopping cart without having direct contact with the handle. The gripper device is suitable for establishing indirect contact between the user and objects. This preferably forms a mechanical barrier between surfaces of the objects possibly contaminated with bacteria and / or viruses and, for example, the human hand of the user.

It is advantageous that the base body with the first and the second jaw section enables a number of different objects to be gripped securely, so that a gripper device is created which is characterized by versatile use. It is also advantageous that the base body and / or the two jaw sections can be produced from an elastic, but hard-wearing material, for example from a plastic or a metal alloy, so that a particularly stable and robust gripper device is created. In addition, a complex gripping mechanism can be dispensed with, which is prone to failure and difficult to clean. As a result, a simple structure and an easy-to-clean design of the base body creates a gripper device which is distinguished by its reusability. In a preferred embodiment of the invention it is provided that the base body has a user contact surface for operation by the user, the user contact surface being designed for operation at least within the first and second jaw sections. The gripper device can in particular be operated by one hand of the user, the hand resting on the user contact surface for operation. The user contact surface is designed in such a way that it is at least partially, preferably completely, covered when the gripper device is used by the hand and / or by the palm of the hand of the user. The base body with the user contact surface preferably has the shape and / or dimensions of a bent hand and / or palm. This creates a gripper device which is ergonomically adapted to the user or to the user's hand, so that the gripper device allows particularly simple and safe operation.

Furthermore, the base body has an object contact surface for making contact with the objects, the object contact surface being formed on a side of the base body facing away from the user contact surface. The object contact surface is preferably designed to face the object receiving opening. This separates the user from the objects when gripping. For example, bacteria and / or viruses only adhere to the object contact surface, with the user's hand resting on the averted user contact surface and not coming into direct contact with the pathogens.

The gripper device grips objects preferably by hand force of the user. Objects which are supplied to the gripper device via the object receiving opening are held by the hand force which is transmitted to the user contact surface by the hand of the user, the objects resting on the object contact surface. The two resilient jaw sections are pushed together by hand force and grip the object.

In a further preferred embodiment of the invention it is provided that the gripper device has a first and a second side opening for the lateral feeding of the objects, preferably rod-shaped objects. The side openings are preferably round and / or oval. Alternatively, these are rectangular. The side openings preferably have an open area of at least 1 cm ² , preferably of at least 2 cm ² , in particular of at least 4 cm ² . The first and second side openings are on two opposite one another Arranged sides of the base body. The two opposite side openings preferably define an axis of movement. For example, the objects can be fed along the movement axis via one of the side openings of the gripper device. In particular, the specimen receiving opening is formed axially to the axis of movement.

In a preferred structural embodiment of the invention it is provided that the gripper device has the side openings, the gripper device having a receiving space for receiving the objects. The basic shape of the receiving space is preferably designed as a cylinder or a cuboid. For example, the gripper device has an inside diameter, preferably a round inside diameter, of at least 1 cm, preferably of at least 2 cm, in particular of at least 3 cm. The receiving space is designed to receive the objects via the object receiving opening and / or the two side openings. The first and second side openings are preferably connected to the specimen receiving opening. This results in a receiving space which is open on three sides, the openings being arranged next to one another. The basic shape of the receiving space preferably defines a longitudinal axis which coincides with the axis of movement of the side openings. An example of receiving an object in the receiving space is the use of the gripper device as a cover for the handle of the shopping cart. For example, the rod-shaped handle is arranged in the receiving space in such a way that the receiving space is completely filled, the handle protruding towards the two side openings. The gripper device preferably has a clip function and / or is designed as such, so that the gripper device is held on the handle. The handle is fed into the receiving space via the specimen receiving opening. This allows the user to push the shopping cart without having direct contact with a surface of the shopping cart.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention it is provided that the base body has a stop contour, the stop contour being arranged at least partially within one of the two jaw sections. The stop contour is preferably designed as an edge or an edge section of the base body. The stop contour is preferably suitable for striking the object when the gripper device is rotated about the axis of movement by the user, so that the gripper device is connected to the object in a rotationally fixed manner. It is advantageous that objects are operated by the user through the stop contour can be, which have a rotary movement for operation. In addition, it is advantageous that objects can be securely held by the stop contour, since the gripper device is prevented from slipping, for example in the axial direction with respect to the axis of movement. For example, when opening or closing a window, the stop contour striking a shoulder of the window handle, for example, so that the gripper device is supported when the window handle is pivoted about the shoulder. As a result, a gripper device is created which is distinguished by the safe operation of mechanical objects.

In a preferred structural embodiment of the invention, it is provided that the base body has the stop contour, the stop contour being designed as a recess in the at least one jaw section. The recess is preferably formed in the axial direction with respect to the axis of movement. The recess is preferably formed within one of the two jaw sections, so that one of the two jaw sections is formed smaller than the other.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention it is provided that the gripper device has an actuating attachment for actuating or touching objects, the actuating attachment being arranged protruding from the base body. The actuating attachment is preferably materially connected to the base body. These are preferably made from a common material. The actuating attachment is preferably designed as a projection or a finger or a nose. This can be used, for example, to operate a light switch.

Optionally, the actuating attachment has a pushbutton cap which is arranged on a free end of the actuating attachment. The key cap is preferably made of a soft and elastic material such as rubber. The key cap is designed, for example, to operate touchscreens, e.g. displays of cell phones or tablets. For example, the actuation attachment with the key cap is designed as a touch pen and / or a stylus for touch screens, so that the user can operate such electronic devices without having direct contact.

As an alternative to this, it is provided that the actuating attachment is preferably designed as a hook for pulling the objects. For example, an object, such as a rope, can be pulled through the hook. Optionally, the Actuating attachment has a slot for clamping paper pages and / or a tool holder, for example for holding a tool bit.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention it is provided that the base body has a connection interface for the mechanical connection of the gripper device to one of the objects or the user. The connection interface is preferably designed as an eyelet and / or hole. For example, the gripper device is fastened to a key ring or a lanyard via the connection interface, so that the user can wear the gripper device on his body. The connection interface is preferably designed as a trouser clip and / or belt clip. For example, the gripper device can be carried on the user, the gripper device being held on a belt of the user via the connection interface and being able to be detached if necessary. It is advantageous that the gripper device can be carried more easily for the user through the connection interface, e.g. by means of the belt clip, so that the gripper device is quickly ready for use when required.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention it is provided that the base body is made of a plastic material or a metal alloy or a combination thereof. The base body is preferably made of the plastic material, e.g. PA, PP; PET, where the base body is made in one piece from the plastic material in a manufacturing process, e.g. in an injection molding process. The plastic material is preferably resistant to heat. For example, the plastic material is heat-resistant up to at least a temperature of 60.degree. C., in particular up to at least 90.degree. C., in particular up to at least 120.degree. The plastic material is preferably designed to be resistant to alcohol, gasoline, chemical cleaning agents or bleach and also to be UV-resistant.

Alternatively, the base body is made of the metal alloy, e.g. an aluminum alloy. For example, the metallic base body is milled from the solid or manufactured in an extrusion process. In principle, the base body is made of an elastic material, so that the two jaw sections are elastically deformed when objects are picked up and / or are elastically deformed and / or are deformable by the user when gripping.

The base body is optionally made from an antimicrobial and / or antibacterial and / or virus-inhibiting plastic material or metal alloy. For example, an antibacterial additive or additive has been added to the material. In further examples, a plastic with antimicrobial effectiveness can be provided, which is produced on the basis of photocatalytically active TiO 2 or on the basis of Ag particles for the base body. In this context, the use of a plastic-coated brass sheet is also conceivable, whereby the base body is made from the combination of the plastic material and metal alloy. It is advantageous that the design of the base body from the plastic material and / or the metal alloy creates a gripper device which is robust and resistant. It is also advantageous that the gripper device is easy to clean as a result, so that the pathogens can be detached from the gripper device and the gripper device can be reused. In addition, the gripper device can be cleaned in a sterile manner. For example, the gripper device can be treated with cleaning agent, disinfectant or by a method for sterilization, such as thermal methods or UV radiation, in order to kill pathogens.

In a further preferred embodiment of the invention it is provided that the base body has an antibacterial and / or antimicrobial and / or antiviral coating. The base body is preferably covered over the entire area with the coating. The coating is suitable for killing bacteria, mold and / or fungi and / or at least inhibiting their reproduction, so that the likelihood of spread and transmission to the user is reduced. For example, the coating has silver ions. It is advantageous that the antibacterial and / or antimicrobial and / or antiviral coating reduces the cleaning effort, so that a gripper device is created which is inexpensive to maintain.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention it is provided that the gripper device is preferably designed as described above, the gripper device as a reusable, easy-to-clean, wear-resistant and quick to put on and take off gripper barrier between the human palm and possibly bacterial and / or viral contaminated surfaces is formed.

In the following, preferred examples for an embodiment as well as exemplary embodiments and / or a use of the gripper device embodied as a gripper barrier, or “gripper” for short, are described. For example, billions of people touch tens of doors, taps, window handles, etc. every day. Disinfecting the controls does not help after the first touch. Coating and replacing all handles is almost impossible with the thousands of models. Everyone is forced to operate such elements and cannot rely on the handles to be antibacterial, antimicrobial or antiviral. Permanently putting on, wearing or changing gloves is hardly practical.

Therefore, an object made of one component or several components, which can partially or completely cover the palm of the hand and which forms a mechanical barrier between surfaces possibly contaminated by bacteria and / or viruses, and the human hand is preferably proposed.

For example, an important component is the ease of use and availability of the grippers so that the grippers are quickly available in every situation. Thanks to the “one-grip technology”, the gripper is available immediately when required. This can be done, for example, by means of a "zipper", a return mechanism that brings the gripper back to its carrying location.

In a preferred embodiment of the gripper barrier, elastic materials are preferably used, which open themselves again from the closed gripping state and can be closed again with little hand force.

The gripper is elastic and can therefore be used for gripping.

It is advantageous that the inside diameter covers a large number of applications. For example, operating door handles, window handles, lever fittings, etc. and moving shopping carts, chairs, wheelchairs, etc.

For example, the finger can be used for the contactless actuation of buttons (including toilet flushes), switches (including light switches) or keypads of ATMs.

It is preferably provided that the gripper can be made from a wide variety of materials, but preferably from plastic, rubber (including silicone), copper, multi-component compounds or stainless steel. In a preferred embodiment of the gripper barrier, an antiviral and / or antibacterial and / or antimicrobial function of the hand gripper is preferably provided.

As additional equipment, for example, additives and coatings are to be seen, which have antibacterial, antimicrobial and / or antiviral properties, thus increasing the effectiveness again. These include e.g. silver and copper.

In a preferred embodiment of the gripper barrier, a clip function is preferably provided for e.g. shopping carts, so that the gripper can remain on the object, e.g. on the hand / push handle of the shopping cart, for the time it is used.

Another additional equipment is, for example, a clip attachment to handles, if it is advantageous to have your hands free without the gripper, but have to / want to grip the handles repeatedly. E.g. shopping carts, cleaning equipment, wheelchairs, etc. The surface that comes into contact with a handle, i.e. H. in particular at least part of the inner surface of the gripper barrier can be provided with noses or knobs or projections in order to achieve better adhesion to the handle.

In a preferred embodiment of the gripper barrier, gripper hand designs are preferably provided on the left or right, unisex and different sizes.

In the case of a preferred use of the gripper barrier, it is preferably provided that it is used as a hand-contact barrier that is easy to manufacture and suitable for the masses for daily use.

In a preferred exemplary embodiment of the gripper, it is preferably provided individually or in combination

- one gripper each for the left and right hand;

- Unisex grippers (are also useful, but not ideal for a user);

- different sizes, for different hand sizes;

- Use of light-colored materials, which visually dirty more quickly, in order to provoke regular cleaning by the user;

- Use of elastic materials, which open themselves again from the closed gripping state and can be closed again with little hand force; - Use of "warm" materials that are comfortable to hold;

- geometric contours to better hold the gripper,

- smooth material surfaces to reduce the adhesion of viruses, bacteria and contaminants.

For example, a barrier gripper suitable for everyday use is described for everyday private and professional use.

A barrier made of any material is provided between the palm of the hand and the objects to be operated. The result is a product that is easily available when required and can be used faster than gloves, for example. Reusability and cleaning are also superior to a glove.

Another object of the invention is a gripper arrangement with a gripper device, as described above. Furthermore, the gripper arrangement has a retrieval device, the retrieval device being designed to be portable on a user. For example, the user wears the retrieval device on an item of clothing, for example on his pants. The gripper device is flexibly connected to the retrieval device for securing purposes. These are preferably flexibly connected to one another via a cable and / or a rope. In the connected state, the gripper device can be moved between an operating position and a carrying position. In particular, the length of the cable and / or rope limits the operating position. The cable and / or rope is received in the retrieval device in the carrying position, the cable and / or rope being rolled out, preferably completely rolled out and / or extended, from the retrieval device in the operating position. In particular, the gripper device is designed in the operating position for gripping and moving the objects. In other words, the user holds the gripping device in his hand in the operating position in order to grasp objects in his environment. In the carrying position, the gripper device is preferably arranged close to the retrieval device, in particular on the body of the user. Furthermore, the return device generates a tensile force for returning the gripper device from the operating position to the carrying position. The tensile force is preferably generated by a spring of the return device, the tensile force being built up, for example when pulling on the cable and / or rope, and stored in the spring, so that when the cable and / or rope is released, it is rolled up and the gripper device is brought back from the operating position to the carrying position by the tensile force.

Another object of the invention is a use of the gripper arrangement and / or the gripper device as described above, the gripper arrangement and / or the gripper device being used by a user for gripping and moving objects. For operation, the gripper device is preferably placed in the hand and / or the palm of the user, so that a thumb rests on one of the cheek sections and the user's fingers on the other cheek section. The jaw sections are designed to be resilient. To grip the object, it is arranged within the receiving space, the object being fed in via the object receiving opening or via one of the two side openings. The user can push the two jaw sections together by applying pressure, in particular using hand force, the object being clamped in the receiving space. The object can then be moved, e.g., by rotation, by the user, with the user indirectly contacting the object. To release the object, the user lets go of the two jaw sections or reduces the pressure on them, the resilient jaw sections being pushed back into a starting position. The object can again be guided out of the receiving space via one of the side openings or the object receiving opening.

In the gripper arrangement, it is preferably provided that the gripper device is brought into the operating position in order to grasp the objects, e.g. by pulling the cable and / or rope out of the retrieval device, the user releasing the gripper device after use so that the pulling force returns it to the Carrying position is pulled. Once in the carrying position, the gripper device hangs closely adjacent to the retrieval device on the user, e.g. on his pants and / or belt. The process for gripping or moving another object can then be repeated.

The gripper device is preferably designed for use as a gripping aid for objects of daily use. In particular to avoid contact with surfaces of objects that may be contaminated with diseases. The gripper device, in particular the gripper arrangement, is designed in such a way that the user carries it with him in everyday life, e.g. attached to his pants and / or belt, so that the gripper device is always accessible to the user when an object has to be gripped or moved, which is possibly contaminated with pathogens. For example, the gripper device is suitable to operate windows or doors, to disc a shopping trolley or a chair or to operate a faucet.

In addition, it is optionally provided that the first and second jaw sections are resiliently deformable so that the movement of the two jaw sections for gripping objects can be carried out by reversible deformation of the two jaw sections, in particular by elastic material deformation. When moving the jaw sections for gripping, the distance between the two jaw sections can be changed by at least 1 mm, preferably by at least 3 mm, in particular by at least 5 mm. For this purpose, it is optionally provided that the first and the second jaw section are integrally connected to the base body. For example, these are manufactured as a common injection-molded part and connected to one another in a materially bonded manner. It is advantageous that no complex and fault-prone pivoting and / or folding mechanism is necessary in order to carry out the movement of the jaw sections for gripping objects. In addition, it is provided that the gripper device has a cylindrical receiving space for receiving the objects. The receiving space is formed in the longitudinal direction at least 3 cm, preferably at least 4 cm, in particular at least 5 cm and / or at least the width of the palm of a hand. The cylindrical receiving space is designed to be open on several sides. The specimen receiving opening is formed in the longitudinal direction of the cylindrical receiving space for receiving objects along the main gripping direction, wherein the specimen receiving opening can be viewed as an open section of the lateral surface of the cylindrical receiving space. The width of the specimen receiving opening is smaller than the diameter of the cylindrical receiving space. The first and second side openings are designed perpendicular to the specimen receiving opening, the two side openings being designed as two circular intersecting surfaces of the cylindrical receiving space. It is advantageous that particularly elongated objects, such as, for example, window handles, door handles or shopping cart handles, with an essentially cylindrical basic shape, can be and / or can be received in the cylindrical receiving space with a secure grip. In addition, the cylindrical shape of the receiving space secures the objects when gripping, so that the objects are secured against loss through the tapered object receiving opening. Furthermore, it is optionally provided in addition that the base body of the gripper device has the stop contour for contacting the object when rotating about the axis of movement. The stop contour is preferably in the form of a recess and / or an extension on the Base body formed, in particular on one or on both jaw sections. The stop contour is suitable for connecting positively and / or non-positively to an object in the receiving space. For example, when gripping objects, in particular mechanically adjustable objects, such as a window lock with a window handle or a mixer tap with a tap fitting, a movement, for example a rotational movement, of the gripper device is necessary. The stop contour is suitable for blocking at least one degree of freedom when moving the gripper device with respect to the object, so that the gripper device is secured against slipping off the object. In addition, it is provided that the base body is made of a plastic material or a metal alloy or a combination thereof, these being mixed with an antimicrobial and / or antibacterial and / or virus-inhibiting additive and / or additive. These additives are incorporated in a starting material, for example plastic, and are inseparably connected to it. As a result, an antimicrobial and / or antibacterial and / or virus-inhibiting outer shell is created on the entire base body, which is designed to be permanent and seamless. It is advantageous that the additives offer protection over the entire service life of the gripper device. In addition, it is advantageous that no antibacterial substances, for example disinfectants, have to be applied to the base body, and these have to be renewed or exchanged depending on use. In addition, it is provided that the gripper device is designed as a cover for a handle of a shopping cart. In particular, the gripper device can be attached to the handle of the shopping trolley so that it remains on the handle. For example, two gripping devices can be attached to the handle of the shopping cart so that the user can push the shopping cart without coming into direct contact with the handle. For this purpose, the gripper device is designed in particular as a clip, the clip generating the clamping force through the resilient jaw sections. This is advantageous if the gripper device is to remain on objects for a short time so that the user, for example, has his hands free and does not have to constantly arrange the gripper device on the object. In addition, it is optionally provided in addition that the base body has an outer rib contour for holding, in particular for securely holding the gripper device in a palm and / or hand of the user. The outer rib contour is preferably arranged at least partially within the first and / or second jaw section. The outer rib contour is preferably designed as a raised contour, so that the outer rib contour preferably forms a ribbed user contact surface. The outer rib contour preferably has several intermediate ribs and several End retaining ribs, which are formed in sections around the axis of movement. The multiple intermediate ribs are preferably arranged at a distance from one another between the multiple, in particular precisely two, end retaining ribs. The intermediate ribs are arranged in such a way that they grip between the individual fingers when the gripper device is held in the user's hand. The end retaining ribs are preferably designed in their basic shape as an edge-side bead and / or wing, so that when they are held they enclose the palm of the hand at the side of the knuckles. For example, the outer rib contour is only arranged on one of the two jaw sections for this purpose. The base body optionally has a further outer rib contour, the further outer rib contour being arranged on the other jaw section. This can, for example, provide a thumb of the user on the opposite side when holding it securely. It is advantageous that the outer rib contour offers the user an improved hold when holding it with the palm and / or hand, so that even heavier objects can be moved or gripped safely. It is also advantageous that the outer rib contour prevents the user's hand from slipping off, so that accidental contact with a contaminated surface is and / or can be avoided.

As an optional addition to the preceding statements, it is provided that the gripper device can be operated via the user contact surface. The user contact surface is designed in particular to control the first and second jaw sections, the resilient jaw sections being deformable by applying hand force to the user contact surface. For example, the gripper device is held by the user in his hand so that the hand touches the user contact surface, with the hand force being transmitted and / or transferable to the two resilient jaw sections by closing the hand, so that the controllable gripping of objects is possible. It is advantageous that the user receives perceptible and / or tactile feedback when gripping objects through the user contact surface, so that precise gripping of objects is possible. In addition, the user contact surface is arranged in such a way that it is shielded from the object contact surface, so that the user is protected from unwanted contact with the object. In addition, the user contact surface and / or the object contact surface is covered with an antimicrobial and / or antibacterial and / or virus-inhibiting coating. In particular, the gripper arrangement and / or gripper device is designed for use as a hand-contact barrier that is easy to manufacture and suitable for the masses for daily use.

Further features, effects and advantages of the invention emerge from the following description of a preferred exemplary embodiment of the invention and the attached figures. Show:

Figure 1 is a schematic representation of a gripper device and a

User of the gripper device as an embodiment;

FIG. 2 shows a schematic representation of the gripper device from FIG. 1 with a first and a second jaw section as a preferred exemplary embodiment;

FIG. 3 shows a perspective view of the gripper device with a stop contour as a preferred exemplary embodiment;

FIG. 4 shows a schematic representation of the gripper device with an actuating attachment as a preferred exemplary embodiment;

FIG. 5 shows a schematic representation of a gripper arrangement with the gripper device from FIGS. 1 and 2 as a preferred exemplary embodiment.

In the figure 1, a gripper device 1 is shown in a schematic side view as a first embodiment. The gripper device 1 is operated and / or held by a user 40, who is embodied in FIG. 1 by a hand of the user 40. The gripper device 1 has a base body 2 which, in its basic shape, is designed as a cylinder. The base body 2 is hollow. The base body 2 is designed to be open. The base body 2 is designed to be open along a longitudinal direction, so that the base body 2 is designed, for example, as a cylindrical shell or as a tube that is open lengthways. The base body 2 is designed to be open, for example, in a radius of at least 45 °, preferably of at least 90 °, in particular of at least 120 °. The gripper device 1 has an object receiving opening 4, the object receiving opening 4 being formed by the opening of the opened base body 2. The object receiving opening 4 is suitable for feeding an object to the gripper device 1. According to FIG. 1, an object 30 is the Gripper device 1 is supplied so that the object 30 is received in the base body 2. The object 30 is shown by way of example as a cylindrical object, for example a door handle. The object 30 has a smaller diameter than an inner diameter of the base body 2. For example, the base body 2 has an inside diameter of at least 2 cm, preferably of at least 3 cm, in particular of at least 5 cm.

The base body 2 has a first and a second jaw section 3a, b. The two jaw sections 3a, b are arranged opposite one another on the base body 2. The two jaw sections 3a, b are materially connected to the base body 2. The two jaw sections 3a, b are designed, for example, as two symmetrical legs and / or tongs, the two jaw sections 3a, b, associated with the specimen receiving opening 4, being arranged on the base body 2. In other words, the two jaw sections 3a, b form the two ends of the open base body 2. The user 40, or the hand of the user 40, rests against an outer diameter of the base body 2. The fingers and a thumb of the hand are arranged in such a way that they contact the two cheek sections 3a, b, but the object 30 remains untouched by the user 40. This prevents the transmission of pathogens that adhere to a surface of the object 30 to the user 40 and / or at least reduces the risk of transmission through indirect contact between the user 40 and the object 30.

FIG. 2 shows the gripper device 1 from FIG. 1 with the specimen receiving opening 4 and with the base body 2 in a schematic representation. The base body 2 has the first and second jaw sections 3a, b. The hand of the user 40 is placed on the cheek sections 3a, b, the hand transmitting a hand force F1 to the two cheek sections 3a, b. The hand force F1 pushes the two jaw sections 3a, b together in the direction of the object 30. As a result, the two jaw sections 3a, b are deformed so that the inside diameter of the base body 2 is reduced. The two deformed jaw sections 3a, b clamp the object 30 so that the user 40 can grip the object 30 and move it. For example, the object 30 is clamped in such a way that the object 30 is non-rotatably connected to the gripper device 1. This connection between gripper device 1 and object 30 is designed as a releasable gripping connection. Furthermore, the two jaw sections 3a, b resiliently designed. In other words, these are elastically deformable, so that the user 40 deforms the two jaw sections 3a, b by transmitting the manual force F1, these deforming back into their starting position when the manual force F1 is released or reduced.

In the figure 3, the gripper device 1 is shown in a perspective view as a preferred structural embodiment. The gripper device 1 has the base body 2 and the specimen receiving opening 4. Furthermore, the gripper device 1 has a first and a second side opening 5a, b. The two side openings 5a, b are designed for the lateral feeding of objects (not shown). For example a rod-shaped object. Furthermore, the two side openings 5a, b are suitable for feeding objects which are longer than the gripper device 1, the objects protruding from the two side openings 5a, b, with only a portion of the object being clamped.

The gripper device 1 has a receiving space 6 for receiving the objects 30. The receiving space 6 is designed essentially as a cylindrical space, the receiving space 6 being open to the two side openings 5 a, b and the specimen receiving opening 4. The specimen receiving opening 4 connects the two opposite side openings 5a, b to one another. The receiving space 6 and / or the two side openings 5a, b define a movement axis B. For example, the gripper device 1 can be rotated about the movement axis B for operating the objects 30, or objects 30 can be fed to the receiving space 6 along the movement axis B. The base body 2 particularly preferably has an inner rib contour (not shown) which protrudes into the receiving space 6 and / or is assigned to it. The inner rib contour preferably has several inner ribs, the several inner ribs being arranged parallel to one another. In particular, the inner ribs are arranged on the base body 2 in such a way that they are designed around the axis of movement B.

The base body 2 has a stop contour 12. The stop contour 12 is designed as an edge and / or an edge section, the stop contour 12 being arranged on the second jaw section 3b. The stop contour 12 is arranged at least on one side of the base body 2 or the second jaw section 3b, the stop contour 12 being oriented towards the side opening 5b. The stop contour 12 has an axial and a perpendicular stop section in relation to the axis of movement B. Accordingly, the object 30 at a axial movement and when the gripper device 1 rotates about the movement axis B, so that the object 30 is connected to the gripper device 1 in a rotationally fixed manner. For example, the object 30 is designed as a window handle with an angled attachment, the gripper device 1 being feedable via the second side opening 5b, the stop contour 12 striking the attachment of the window handle when it is pushed on along the movement axis B, the gripper device 1 about the axis of movement B can be rotated until the stop contour 12 strikes again, so that the gripper device 1 is positively connected to the object 30 for mechanical actuation.

The base body 2 has a user contact and an object contact surface 7, 8. The user contact surface 7 is designed as a surface on an outer diameter of the base body 2. The object contact surface 8 is designed as a surface facing the receiving space 6 on the inside diameter of the base body 2. The user contact surface 7 is designed such that the user 40 places the gripper device 1 in the palm of the user 40, for example, and can use the gripper device 1 to grasp objects 30 without touching them directly. The objects 30 contact the object contact surface 8 in the interior of the base body 2 or in the receiving space 6, so that there is no direct contact with the user 40 and no pathogens, e.g. bacteria, viruses, germs or fungi, can be transmitted through contact.

The base body 2 also has a connection interface 9 for the mechanical connection of the gripper device 1 to the object 30 or the user 40. According to the exemplary embodiment according to FIG. 3, the connection interface 9 is designed as an eyelet, the connection interface 9 being arranged on the base body 2 to the side of the user contact surface 7. For example, the gripper device 1 can be connected to a keychain and / or lanyard via the connection interface 9, so that the user 40 carries the gripper device 1 with him in everyday life.

The gripper device 1 has the first and the second jaw section 3a, b, the second jaw section 3b being smaller than the first jaw section 3a. At least one side of the second jaw section 3b facing the side opening 5b is recessed by the stop contour 12. In FIG. 3, the gripper device 1 is designed as a clip and / or hand clip for gripping and actuating the objects 30. For example, the gripper device 1 can be attached to a Shopping carts are “clipped” and / or attached, the gripper device 1 remaining on the shopping cart and / or being held so that the user 40 can push the shopping cart without direct contact.

Alternatively and / or optionally in addition, the first and / or the second jaw section 3a, b are divided and / or designed in two parts. In particular, these are divided and / or formed separately perpendicular to the movement axis B. For example, these have a gap, the first and / or the second jaw section 3a, b having at least two resilient partial areas (not shown). The partial areas are preferably individually movable so that the object is gripped and / or clamped between two opposing partial areas and / or one of the partial areas and one of the opposing jaw sections 3a, b. The partial areas are preferably designed to be adapted to the hand and / or the fingers and thumb of the user 40, so that the user 40 can operate the partial areas with one or more fingers and / or a finger and a thumb. It is advantageous that the division of the jaw sections 3a, b enables an improved gripping of objects, in particular small and / or “sensitive” objects, for example by gripping the sub-areas with the thumb and forefinger of the user 40, so that a gripper device 1 also easy handling is created.

In FIG. 4, the gripper device 1 is shown in a schematic plan view. The gripper device 1 has the base body 2 with the first and second jaw sections 3a, b. The gripper device 1 has an actuating attachment 10 for actuating or touching the objects 30. The actuation attachment 10 is designed as a finger, this being designed, for example, in the axial direction with respect to the axis of movement B. The actuating attachment 10 is arranged protruding laterally on the base body 2. The actuating attachment 10 can also be used, for example, for pointing or interpreting by the user 40.

The actuating attachment 10 has a button cap 11 which is arranged at a free end of the actuating attachment 10. The key cap 11 is made of rubber, for example, and is designed for touching displays, in particular touchscreens. For example, the user 40 can use the actuation attachment 10 with the key cap 11 as a pen tip for operating and / or writing on the touchscreen. In FIG. 5, a gripper arrangement 20 is shown in a schematic representation. The gripper arrangement 20 is connected to the user 40 shown schematically. For example, the user 40 carries the gripper assembly 20 with him. The gripper arrangement 20 has the gripper device 1, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. The gripper device 1 has the base body 2, the receiving space 6, the specimen receiving opening 4 and the two side openings 5a, b. The base body 2 has the two jaw sections 3a, b as well as the user contact surface 7 and the object contact surface 8. Furthermore, the base body 2 has the connection interface 9, which is designed, for example, as an eyelet.

The gripper arrangement 20 has a return device 21, which is indicated very schematically in FIG. For example, the retrieval device 21 is designed as a portable retrieval mechanism and / or as an identity card holder, which are also known or referred to as “zippers” or “yo-yo”. The retrieval device 21 is arranged on the user 40 and / or is carried by him. For example, the retrieval device 21 is attached to a waistband of the user 40. The retrieval device 21 has, for example, a trouser clip and / or fastening hook for attaching to an item of clothing belonging to the user 40. The retrieval device 21 has a rope 22 which can be removed from the retrieval device 21 so that it can be rolled out. The rope 22 has, for example, a length of at least 50 cm, preferably of at least 100 cm, in particular of at least 120 cm, one end of the rope 22 being fastened, e.g. tied, to the retrieval device 21 for fastening. The cable 22 is connected to the gripper device 1, the cable 22 being connected to the connection interface 9 of the base body 2. For example, the connection interface 9 is designed as an eyelet, with another end of the cable 22 being knotted to the connection interface 9 for attachment.

The gripper device 1 connected to the retrieval device 21 via the cable 22 can be moved between two positions. In an operating position P1, as also shown in FIG Gripper device 1 suitable to grip the objects 30 (not shown) and move. In a carrying position P2, the gripper device 1 is arranged close to the user 40. The rope 22 is completely rolled up in the retrieval device 21 and / or recorded. In the carrying position P2, the gripper device 1 is suitable for being carried by the user 40, the gripper device 1 being connected to the user 40 via the “short” rope 22 and the retrieval device 21. The return device 21 generates a tensile force F2 for automatically withdrawing the gripper device 1 from the operating position P1 into the carrying position P2. The tensile force F2 is generated, for example, by a spring of the return device 21, the spring being tensioned when the rope 22 is pulled out and stores the tensile force F2. For example, the user 40 holds the gripper device 1 in his hand for use, this being arranged in the operating position P1. After this

Using the user 40 lets go of the gripper device 1 so that it is pulled into the carrying position P2 by the tensile force F2, which pulls on the rope 22, so that the gripper device 1 is arranged close to the user 40 for carrying.

List of reference symbols

1 gripper device

2 base bodies

3a first jaw section

3b second jaw section

4 Object receiving opening

5a first side opening

5b second side opening

6 recording room

7 User contact area

8 object contact surface

9 Connection Interface

10 Actuator 11 Key cap 12 Stop contour 20 Gripper arrangement 21 Return device 22 Rope 30 Object 40 User

B axis of motion

F1 hand strength

F2 tensile force

P1 operating position

P2 carrying position

Claims

1. Gripper device (1) for gripping and moving objects (30) by a user (40), with a base body (2), the base body (2) having a first and a second jaw section (3a, b) for gripping the objects (30), the first and second jaw sections (3a, b) being arranged opposite one another on the base body (2), with an object receiving opening (4) for feeding in the objects (30), the object receiving opening (4) between the first and the second jaw section (3a, b), characterized in that the first and second jaw sections (3a, b) for gripping the objects (30) are designed to be resiliently movable within the object receiving opening (30).

2. Gripper device (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the base body (2) has a user contact surface (7) for operation by the user (40), the user contact surface (7) at least within the first and second jaw sections (3a , b) is designed for actuation, and wherein the base body (2) has an object contact surface (8) for making contact with the objects (30), the object contact surface (8) on a side of the base body (2) facing away from the user contact surface (7) is trained.

3. Gripper device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the gripper device (1) has a first and a second side opening (5a, b) for the lateral feeding of the objects (30), wherein the first and the second side opening ( 5a, b) are arranged on two opposite sides of the base body (2).

4. Gripper device (1) according to claim 3, characterized in that the gripper device (1) has a receiving space (6) for receiving the objects (30), the objects (30) via the object receiving opening (4) and / or both Side openings (5a, b) can be fed to the receiving space (6).

5. Gripper device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the base body (2) has a stop contour (12), the stop contour (12) being arranged at least partially within one of the two jaw sections (3a, b).

6. gripper device (1) according to claim 5, characterized in that the stop contour (12) is designed as a recess of the at least one jaw section (3a, b).

7. Gripper device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the gripper device (1) has an actuating attachment (10) for actuating or touching objects (30), the actuating attachment (10) protruding from the base body (2) is arranged.

8. Gripper device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the base body (2) has a connection interface (9) for the mechanical connection of the gripper device (1) with one of the objects (30) or the user (40).

9. gripper device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the base body (2) is made of a plastic material or a metal alloy or a combination thereof

10. Gripper device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the base body (2) has an antibacterial and / or antimicrobial and / or antiviral coating.

11. Gripper device (1) preferably according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the gripper device (1) is designed as a reusable, easy-to-clean, wear-resistant and quickly attached and discarded gripper barrier between the human palm and possibly bacterially and / or virally contaminated surfaces .

12. Gripper arrangement (20) with a gripper device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the gripper arrangement (20) has a retrieval device (21) portable to a user (40), wherein the gripper device (1) with the retrieval device (21) is flexibly connected to secure, so that the gripper device (1) between an operating position (P1) and a

Carrying position (P2) is movable, the return device (21) generating a tensile force (F2) to return the gripper device (1) from the operating position (P1) to the carrying position (P2).

13. Use of the gripper arrangement (20) and / or the gripper device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the gripper arrangement (20) and / or the gripper device (1) for gripping and moving objects (30) by a user (40 ) is used.

14. Use of a gripper arrangement (20) and / or a gripper device (1) preferably according to claim 13, characterized in that the gripper arrangement (20) and / or the gripper device (1) as an easy-to-manufacture, mass-produced hand-contact barrier for the to be used on a daily basis.