Glencore has been granted a patent for an innovative apparatus and method for stripping metal from cathode plates. The system utilizes two robotic arms to efficiently separate metal sheets while maintaining their interconnection, facilitating their transfer to storage or transport regions without damage. GlobalData’s report on Glencore gives a 360-degree view of the company including its patenting strategy. Buy the report here.
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According to GlobalData’s company profile on Glencore, was a key innovation area identified from patents. Glencore's grant share as of June 2024 was 65%. Grant share is based on the ratio of number of grants to total number of patents.
Robotic apparatus for stripping metal from cathode plates
The patent US12031223B2 outlines a method and apparatus for efficiently stripping metal sheets from a cathode plate. The method involves the use of two robotic arms, each equipped with stripping apparatuses, to separate a first and second sheet of metal deposited on opposite sides of the cathode plate. The sheets remain interconnected by a bridge of metal at the lower edge during the stripping process. The first robotic arm is responsible for removing the cathode plate after the metal sheets are stripped, while the second robotic arm handles the transportation of the separated metal sheets to designated storage or transport regions. The method emphasizes maintaining the integrity of the bridge of metal throughout the stripping process.
The apparatus described in the patent includes a stripping station designed to support the cathode plate and facilitate the stripping operation. Each robotic arm is equipped with gripping apparatuses to securely hold the cathode plate and the metal sheets. The stripping apparatuses are engineered to insert between the metal sheets and the cathode plate, utilizing various means such as wedges and rollers to minimize friction and potential damage. The design allows for simultaneous operation of both robotic arms, enhancing efficiency. Additionally, the apparatus incorporates features such as clamps and suction devices for effective gripping, ensuring a streamlined process for metal sheet removal and subsequent handling.
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GlobalData Patent Analytics tracks bibliographic data, legal events data, point in time patent ownerships, and backward and forward citations from global patenting offices. Textual analysis and official patent classifications are used to group patents into key thematic areas and link them to specific companies across the world’s largest industries.
