Patent attributes
A gripping tool includes at least one linear guide coupled to a mount and extending along a central axis oriented along a first direction. At least one carriage coupled to the linear guide is translatable relative to the mount along the first direction. A first plurality of arms are rotatably coupled to the mount. A second plurality of arms are rotatably coupled to the carriage. The tool includes bodies carrying suction cups. Each body: defines an axis, is rotatably connected to at least one of each of the first and second pluralities of arms, and combines with the respective at least one of the first plurality of arms, the at least one of the second plurality of arms, and the at least one carriage to define a linkage allowing the body to move relative to the mount along the first and a perpendicular radial direction while the central and body axes remain parallel.