Vacuum generator device

Abstract

The present invention proposes a vacuum generator device (1), comprising at least one vacuum generator unit (2) having a base (31) and a muffler housing (32) having a muffler (33) connected thereto in a main direction (26a). An ejector unit (42) extending in the base (31) communicates on one hand with an air inlet channel (54) constructed for supplying compressed air, and on the other hand with an air outlet channel (58) constructed within the muffler housing (32). A vacuum channel (63) connected to a suction zone (47) of the ejector unit (42) penetrates the muffler housing (32) and exits at a vacuum intake port (3) on a vacuum intake surface (64) of the muffler housing (32) facing the main direction (26a). The air outlet channel (58) exits on an air outlet surface (61) having an air outlet (62) perpendicular to the main axis.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a vacuum generator device, comprising at least one vacuum generator unit, which extends along a virtual main axis in a main direction, and has a base body penetrated by an air blowing channel and a silencer shell connected to the base body in the main direction at a joint area, comprising a silencer, wherein an exhaust unit extends in the base body with an exhaust longitudinal axis parallel to a pair of main axes, and has an emission nozzle connected to the air blowing channel, a capture nozzle, and an exhaust area arranged between the emission nozzle and the capture nozzle, and the exhaust area of ​​the exhaust unit is connected to a vacuum access port via a vacuum channel, and the vacuum access port is arranged on the vacuum access surface outside the vacuum generator unit for taking vacuum, and an air outlet channel is connected to the capture nozzle, which passes through the silencer shell and the silencer therein, and has a 90-degree turn in the silencer shell and exhausts to the environment through an air outlet on the air outlet surface of the silencer shell. Prior Art

[0002] The vacuum generator device disclosed in DE 44 91 977 C1 comprises a vacuum generator unit having a base body and a muffler housing attached to the base body in the direction of the main axis. An air extractor unit is integrally housed within the base body, extending in the direction of the main axis. The unit comprises an ejection nozzle connected to an air inlet channel and a capture nozzle attached to the ejection nozzle, the outlet side of which is connected to an air outlet channel. During operation of the vacuum generator unit, compressed air injected into the air inlet channel flows through the air extractor unit, generating a vacuum in a suction zone between the suction nozzle and the capture nozzle. This vacuum can be accessed through a vacuum access port formed on a vacuum access surface of the vacuum generator unit and communicating with the suction zone via a vacuum channel. This vacuum can be used, for example, to operate a suction gripper. Compressed air flowing out of the capture nozzle flows through an air outlet passage that extends through a muffler, reducing the noise of the compressed air discharged from the air outlet. The air outlet surface of the muffler housing, which has the air outlet, is oriented in the same direction as the vacuum intake surface, while the air outlet passage curves 90 degrees within the muffler housing. The vacuum intake surface, which has the vacuum intake port, is formed on a cover body, fixed to the base body, and is independent of the muffler housing.

[0003] DE 10 2006 027 250 A1 discloses a vacuum generator unit comprising a monolithic base body with an air extractor unit mounted on the outside of the base body. The air extractor unit has an emission nozzle connected to an air inlet channel extending through the base body. An air outlet channel, connected to a capture nozzle, also extends through the base body and functions as a vacuum channel. This vacuum channel is connected to an air extraction area of ​​the air extractor unit and communicates with at least one vacuum access port formed in the base body. A muffler is disposed within the monolithic base body and in the air outlet channel. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The object of the present invention is to provide a vacuum generator device which, with a simple and compact construction, allows advantageous use of the generated vacuum.

[0005] To achieve this purpose, in a vacuum generator device having the aforementioned characteristics, a vacuum passage is made to pass through a muffler housing separated from a base body in the main direction of the vacuum generator unit, wherein the vacuum intake surface and the vacuum intake port are both oriented in the main direction and are formed on a front end side of the muffler housing away from the base body, and the air outflow surface and the air outflow port are also formed on the muffler housing in a direction perpendicular to a pair of main axes.

[0006] The vacuum generator device of the present invention includes one or more vacuum generator units that generate a vacuum based on the suction nozzle principle and can be accessed through a vacuum access port. The at least one vacuum generator unit includes an air extractor unit, which is at least partially housed in a base and through which compressed air can flow to generate a vacuum. The vacuum generator unit extends in the direction of a main axis of the vacuum generator unit, which is indicated as the main direction. A muffler housing equipped with a muffler is constructed on the base as a separate component, and the vacuum generator unit extends in the same direction as the muffler housing. During operation of the vacuum generator unit, compressed air ejected from the air extractor unit's capture nozzle makes a 90-degree bend in the air outlet channel within the muffler housing and is discharged through an air outlet located perpendicular to the main axis and in the same direction. The air outlet is located on an outer side of the muffler housing, which is indicated as the air outlet surface. A vacuum channel, communicating with an extraction zone of the vacuum extractor unit, also extends through the muffler housing and exits at a vacuum extraction port in the muffler housing in the main direction. This vacuum extraction port is located on an outer side surface of the muffler housing, referred to as the vacuum extraction surface, which is located on the front end surface of the muffler housing axially distal from the base body. Consequently, both the air outlet and the vacuum extraction port can be constructed within the muffler housing in a cost-effective and space-saving manner. Furthermore, they are oriented 90 degrees apart from each other, so that air discharged from the air outlet does not negatively impact the process in the immediate vicinity of the vacuum extraction port. Even when, for example, extraction operations occur in the immediate vicinity of the vacuum extraction port, they are not disrupted by the jet of air emanating from the muffler. Furthermore, the air outlet, which is transverse to the main axis, allows for a longer muffler length with a correspondingly high sound-absorbing effect without increasing the overall length of the vacuum generator unit in the main direction. The 90-degree channel bend of the air outflow channel expediently occurs in a longitudinal section of one of the air outflow channels extending between the air extractor unit and the silencer.

[0007] Advantageous further developments of the invention are described in the dependent claims.

[0008] The air outlet duct is preferably entirely within the muffler housing. It preferably comprises an air outlet duct section extending in the main direction of the vacuum generator unit, following the catch nozzle, a bend section following the air outlet duct section, and an air outlet duct section following the bend section, leading to the air outlet. The air outlet duct section advantageously extends continuously in a pair of directions orthogonal to the main directions. The bend section defines a 90-degree bend in the duct path, particularly an arc-shaped bend.

[0009] In a preferred design, the air outlet duct section and the vacuum duct of the air outlet duct are parallel to each other within the muffler housing and are arranged at an angle of height. The height direction is defined by the axial direction of an imaginary height axis, which is perpendicular to the main axis. When the vacuum generator unit is aligned with the vertical axis, the air outlet duct section and the vacuum duct of the air outlet duct extend vertically up and down within the muffler housing.

[0010] The air outlet surface, including the air outlet, is advantageously oriented in the height direction of the vacuum generator unit. For a vacuum generator unit oriented vertically in the height direction, compressed air is blown upward or downward, depending on whether the air outlet surface is located above or below the muffler housing. Preferably, the compressed air is blown upward from the top.

[0011] To achieve a good muffler effect, it is advantageous to have a relatively large distance between the capture nozzle and the air outlet surface of the muffler housing, transverse to the main axis, sufficient to accommodate a relatively large muffler. To keep the muffler housing dimensions compact when measured in the distance direction, it is advantageous for the air extraction unit to open into the air outlet duct near an outer surface of the vacuum generator unit opposite the air outlet surface. In this case, the vacuum duct extends in an area between the air extraction unit and the air outlet surface, particularly in the immediate vicinity of the air extraction unit. In this arrangement, it is particularly advantageous for the air outlet duct and the vacuum duct to intersect in an intersecting region within the muffler housing without interflowing therebetween. The 90-degree bend in the air outlet duct, also referred to earlier in this specification as the bend, is advantageously located in the intersecting region.

[0012] The two channels are preferably arranged in an interlaced manner such that the air outlet channel is divided into two branch channels at the interlaced area, passing through the vacuum channel on opposite sides. The two air outlet channels are connected to each other at a channel bifurcation point upstream and downstream. The air suction flow generated during vacuum generation branches into two branches in the area in front of the air outlet channel leading to the vacuum intake port, passes through opposite sides of the air outlet channel, and reunite before reaching the vacuum extraction area of ​​the vacuum extractor unit.

[0013] Obviously, the aforementioned bifurcation is better than the opposite arrangement, in which the air channel bifurcates to allow the vacuum channel to pass through. This opposite arrangement is also feasible.

[0014] It is particularly advantageous if the at least one vacuum generator unit is of planar, plate-like design. This design results in the vacuum generator unit having a dimension in a transverse direction perpendicular to the main direction and with an imaginary transverse axis (hereinafter also referred to as the construction width) that is smaller than its dimension in a height direction perpendicular to the main and transverse axes (hereinafter also referred to as the construction height). The construction height of the vacuum generator unit is preferably also smaller than its construction length.

[0015] The extractor unit can be accommodated within the base body over its entire length. However, a preferred configuration is one in which only a portion of the length of the extractor unit, which mates with the emission nozzle, is accommodated within the base body, with the remainder extending within the silencer housing. This advantageously allows for the accommodation of other functional components, which can be retained in the base body in a minimally invasive manner. The extractor unit preferably has a first longitudinal section comprising the emission nozzle, and a second longitudinal section following the longitudinal section, which has at least a portion of the length of the capture nozzle, and in particular, only a portion of the length of the capture nozzle. The extractor unit extends through the joint region, being accommodated in the base body with the first longitudinal section on the one hand and in the silencer housing with the second longitudinal section on the other hand.

[0016] Advantageously, the extractor unit is placed in a receiving chamber extending in the main direction, the receiving chamber comprising a first receiving depth formed in the base body with an outlet in the junction area, and a second receiving depth aligned therewith and formed in the muffler housing. The two receiving depths transition into each other in the junction area. The extractor unit is placed in the first receiving depth with its first longitudinal section in a sealed manner relative to the base body, while its second longitudinal section is placed in the second receiving depth in a sealed manner relative to the muffler housing. A sealing ring surrounding the extractor unit can be used as each seal.

[0017] Advantageously, a movable check valve is provided in the vacuum passageway, allowing airflow toward the extraction zone but preventing reverse flow. This facilitates maintaining the generated vacuum for a longer period of time when compressed air is interrupted to save energy. Compared to designs with a muffler housing separated from the base, the check valve can be located in the joint between the base and the muffler housing, simplifying assembly and ensuring secure attachment of the check valve. The check valve assembly can specifically be a pivotable check valve secured between the base and the muffler housing, preferably made of a material having rubber-elastic properties.

[0018] The at least one vacuum generator unit is preferably equipped with a device for rapidly increasing the low pressure generated in the vacuum channel when necessary. This allows objects held by a suction gripper connected to the vacuum access opening to be quickly released and discarded when necessary. This measure particularly provides that the vacuum channel communicates with a gas charging channel within the muffler housing and is charged with overpressure by the gas charging channel. The gas charging channel has a first channel section extending within the base body and a second channel section extending within the muffler housing. This second channel section transitions at one end into the first channel section in the joining region and at its other end opens into the vacuum channel. The overpressure in the vacuum channel can thus originate from the base body.

[0019] In operation, the inflation of the vacuum channel is generally pulsed, with a very short overpressure pulse, hereinafter also called a release pulse, because it contributes to the release of an object held by the vacuum accessor.

[0020] Preferably, a throttling point is activated in the second channel section of the air filling channel within the muffler housing, comprising a throttling element disposed within the muffler housing for varying the throttling intensity. Such a throttling element is preferably configured as a throttling screw that is accessible and adjustable from outside the vacuum generator unit. The throttling element adjusts the intensity of the release pulse, thereby enabling individualized treatment of the objects being handled by the suction gripper.

[0021] Advantageously, the prevailing air pressure in the vacuum channel can be monitored. To this end, the vacuum channel communicates with a sensor channel within the muffler housing. This sensor channel also extends through the connection area within the base of the vacuum generator unit and leads to a pressure sensor housed within the base. The pressure channel opens directly into the vacuum channel within the muffler housing. However, if a charging channel is present, it preferably communicates with the charging channel, the pressure in which being the same as the pressure in the vacuum channel. The pressure sensor is particularly useful for monitoring a desired low pressure.

[0022] The pressure sensor is preferably mounted on a flat plate, also referred to below as a sensor board, which is fixed to the base. An analysis circuit may be located on the sensor board to analyze the pressure value sensed by the pressure sensor and take appropriate measures based on the result, such as automatically activating or deactivating the pressure supply to the air inlet passage to conserve air. The analysis circuit also has a diagnostic function. Preferably, the analysis circuit is connected via the sensor board to an external electronic control unit or an internal electronic control unit as part of the vacuum generator device, which primarily controls the functions of the vacuum generator device.

[0023] The silencer housing advantageously comprises a housing body, wherein a chamber is formed for accommodating the silencer and is closed by a housing cover fixed to the housing body, wherein an air outlet is formed in the housing cover. The housing cover is connected to the housing body, for example, by a snap-fit ​​connection or a welded connection. The silencer housing advantageously is generally made of a plastic material.

[0024] The silencer preferably utilizes a telescopic design, comprising a telescopic silencer body within which a silencer passageway extending longitudinally forms a longitudinal section of the air outlet passageway. The silencer is preferably open, with the silencer passageway open axially on both sides, allowing the compressed air to flow axially through the silencer. The silencer preferably has a length that is relatively large relative to its outer diameter, and is mounted in the silencer housing with its longitudinal direction oriented orthogonally to the main axis of the vacuum generator unit. This allows for a compact construction length in the main direction of the vacuum generator unit.

[0025] Advantageously, the outer surface of the muffler housing, apart from the air outlet surface, has no air outlets. This facilitates accurate and reliable air discharge. The air outlets can consist of a single opening or multiple, separate partial openings.

[0026] Each vacuum generator unit is advantageously equipped with an electrically activatable vacuum control valve device for controlling the compressed air filling of the air inlet channel. The vacuum control valve device can selectively generate compressed air to inflate the air inlet channel or stop the compressed air filling. The vacuum control valve device can also selectively provide a venting function for the air inlet channel, particularly when separate filling channels are not provided. The vacuum control valve device can advantageously be mounted on the base body and, for this purpose, has a suitable valve surface. The air inlet channel, with its end of the reverse-firing nozzle, exits on the valve surface for connection to the mounted vacuum valve control device.

[0027] The vacuum valve control device is advantageously also connected to [1] An inflation channel is preferably provided that can control the inflation of the inflation channel with compressed air, and can also control the inflation of a vacuum channel communicating with the inflation channel, so as to release the vacuum when necessary. This control specifically involves blowing compressed air into the inflation channel, or interrupting the inflation and blocking the inflation channel.

[0028] The compressed air filling of the controlled air inlet channel and the inflation channel is coordinated in sequence. For this purpose, the vacuum control valve device can be designed, for example, as a 3 / 3-way valve with a blocking position as an additional switching position. In this blocking position, neither the air inlet channel nor the inflation channel is filled with compressed air.

[0029] The vacuum-controlled valve device is in particular an electrically pre-controlled directional valve.

[0030] The valve surface of a base body carrying the vacuum control valve device advantageously has the same orientation as the air outlet surface of the silencer housing. In a possible position of use of the vacuum generator unit, the vacuum control valve device can be arranged on the upper side of the vacuum generator unit, where the air outlet for exhausting the air from the vacuum extractor unit is also located.

[0031] In one possible design, the vacuum generator device consists of a single vacuum generator unit, allowing the vacuum generator device to be described as a single vacuum generator unit. In contrast, a preferred design comprises multiple vacuum generator units, which form a vacuum generator assembly and are fixed to each other to allow for consistent operation. The multiple vacuum generator units are arranged in a close proximity in a direction perpendicular to the main axis and mechanically connected to each other, for example, by tension rods extending through the base. This connection is particularly releasable. The closely spaced vacuum generator units are traversed by a common filling channel, referred to as the structural group-filling channel. This channel is designed to connect to an external compressed air source and, in each vacuum generator unit, is connected to its own vacuum-control valve assembly to provide the compressed air required to control the air insufflation channel and the compressed air inflation of the selective inflation channel.

[0032] A vacuum generator device may include one or more vacuum generator units as a functional unit. To handle diverse control tasks, a vacuum generator device, and in particular a vacuum generator assembly, may not only be equipped with a vacuum generator unit as a functional unit but may also include one or more valve units as further functional units. These valve units not only serve to generate vacuum but also allow for pneumatic control of pneumatic actuators, such as linear actuators driven by compressed air.

[0033] The selector valve unit is preferably aligned with the vacuum generator unit in the same direction as the arrangement and is integrated into the vacuum generator assembly. A structural group-priming channel also passes through each valve unit to provide compressed air to a control valve device of an electrically activated valve unit. Its purpose is to control the compressed air filling of at least one working channel in the valve unit, which is fluidically connected to a controllable pneumatic actuator.

[0034] The vacuum generator unit and valve unit can each be integrated into the vacuum generator assembly to form a self-contained functional unit group, which simplifies the necessary connection measures. In principle, the sequence of the vacuum generator units and valve units included in the vacuum generator assembly can be freely arranged.

[0035] Advantageously, the vacuum generator unit and valve unit, arranged closely together in the vacuum generator assembly, are further traversed by at least one common exhaust passage to the atmosphere, referred to as a structural group exhaust passage. This passage is fluidically connected at least between each valve unit and its control valve assembly, allowing exhaust of the pneumatic actuator to be controlled via the common exhaust passage of the vacuum generator assembly. Advantageously, the vacuum generator unit is traversed by the at least one structural group exhaust passage in a non-functional manner and is not fluidically connected to the vacuum control valve assembly of the vacuum generator unit. As long as the vacuum control valve assembly of the vacuum generator unit has an exhaust function, fluid communication between the vacuum control valve assembly and the at least one structural group exhaust passage naturally exists within the vacuum generator unit.

[0036] For the control of the electrically activatable vacuum-control valve devices and, optionally, the selective control valve units of the valve units, it is advantageous if an electrical communication line is passed through the vacuum generator assembly and, optionally, the valve units in the arrangement direction, electrically connecting all the (vacuum-) control valve devices and having an interface for connection to an internal or external electronic control unit, which provides control signals for the control of the components of the vacuum generator assembly.

[0037] The joint area between the base body and the muffler housing is advantageously defined by a pair of joint surfaces perpendicular to the main axis. These joint surfaces are formed by a mounting surface provided on the base body and perpendicular to the main axis, and an assembly surface formed on the muffler housing and adjoining this mounting surface. Sealing means are advantageously provided on these joint surfaces to seal the fluid passage through the joint surfaces to the environment and to each other.

[0038] There are many possible methods for fixing the silencer housing to the base body, but it is advantageous if at least one screw connection is included that can be easily released when necessary. Simple diagram description

[0039] The present invention will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a preferred embodiment of the vacuum generator device of the present invention, which is advantageously in the form of a vacuum generator assembly, wherein a controllable suction gripper and a controllable pneumatic driver are shown. FIG. 2 is a top view showing the vacuum generator device in FIG. 1 , viewed in the direction of arrow II in FIG. 1 . 3 shows a cross-sectional view of the vacuum generator device according to the tangent line III-III in FIG. 2 through the region of a vacuum generator unit in FIG. 1 and 2 , wherein only the vacuum-control valve device is shown symbolically. FIG4 is a perspective individual view of the vacuum generator unit shown in cross section in FIG3 , wherein the muffler housing is shown in a cutaway manner in order to clearly show the passages contained therein. FIG. 5 is a top view showing the vacuum generator unit of FIG. 4 in the sectioned muffler housing region, as viewed from arrow V in FIG. 4 . Implementation Method

[0040] 1 and 2 show a vacuum generator device 1 having a plurality of vacuum generator units 2 , one of which is again shown individually in FIGS. 3 to 5 .

[0041] Each vacuum generator unit 2 has the ability to generate a vacuum marked as low pressure independently of the other vacuum generator units 2, and the vacuum can be taken out at an externally accessible vacuum access port 3 as needed.

[0042] One preferred purpose of using the vacuum generator device 1 is to operate a suction gripper 4, one of which is shown schematically in FIG1 , and to which such a suction gripper 4 is releasably connected via a suction line 5 to each vacuum access opening 3. With the aid of the suction gripper 4, an object 6, such as a workpiece, can be gripped and processed, in particular for short-term gripping under low pressure, and for displacement. The suction gripper 4 comprises, for example, one or more suction cups. When gripping and holding an object 6, the suction gripper 4, which is in contact with the object 6 with a suction opening, is evacuated by the vacuum, which generates a suction flow 7 indicated by the arrow. When the object 6 is released, the vacuum can be released and the suction gripper 4 can be inflated to atmospheric pressure or an overpressure. The functions involved here are also provided by the vacuum generator unit 2.

[0043] In an embodiment not shown, the vacuum generator device 1 includes only one vacuum generator unit 2. In the preferred embodiment shown, the vacuum generator unit 2 comprises multiple vacuum generator units 2, which are mechanically connected to form a group of vacuum generator units 2 that can operate as a whole. This allows the vacuum generator device 1 to be designated as a vacuum generator assembly 1a. The multiple vacuum generator units 2 can operate independently of each other.

[0044] Within the vacuum generator assembly 1a, the vacuum generator units 2 are arranged side-by-side in an arrangement direction 8, indicated by a dotted line, and are mechanically connected to one another. For mechanical connection, for example, a plurality of rod-shaped tension rods 11 are provided, extending through the adjacent vacuum generator units 2 in the arrangement direction 8 and, in particular, releasably tightening them. Alternatively, the vacuum generator units 2 can be fixed to adjacent vacuum generator units 2 using fixing screws.

[0045] Because vacuum generator unit 2 performs a specific function, it can also be generally referred to as a functional unit 12. In an embodiment (not shown), vacuum generator assembly 1a specifically includes functional unit 12 configured as vacuum generator unit 2. According to the preferred embodiment shown, vacuum generator assembly 1a also includes other types of functional units 12, such as a valve unit 13 suitable for controlling a pneumatic actuator 14. FIG1 shows one such pneumatic actuator 14. Pneumatic actuator 14 is, for example, a bidirectional pneumatic cylinder.

[0046] Each valve unit 13 has one or more working channels 16 with outlets on the connecting surface 15. The pneumatic actuator 14 to be triggered is connected to it via at least one compressed air pipeline, and its compressed air inflation can be controlled by an electrically triggered control valve device 17 assigned to the valve unit 13 to trigger the connected pneumatic actuator 14.

[0047] The valve unit 13 and the vacuum generator unit 2 are closely arranged together in the arrangement direction 8 , and are also penetrated by a tension rod 11 , so that all functional units 12 are bound together in the arrangement direction 8 .

[0048] On the one hand, the vacuum generator unit 2 and on the other hand the valve unit 13 are preferably grouped together as functional groups in the vacuum generator assembly 1a. Basically, the arrangement of different types of functional units 12 close together, in particular when assembling the vacuum generator assembly 1a, can be freely selected.

[0049] The vacuum generator assembly 1a advantageously also has two end modules 18a, 18b, which are arranged on opposite front ends of the functional unit 12 on both sides of the arrangement direction 8 and are advantageously fixed by a tension rod 11 or other fixing devices.

[0050] An electronic control unit 21 is advantageously provided for controlling the functional unit 12. This unit, for example, is an external control unit connected to an electromechanical interface 20 of the vacuum generator assembly 1a, such as the first end module 18a of the two end modules 18a, 18b. Additionally or alternatively, the vacuum generator assembly 1a may include an integrated electronic control system.

[0051] Each functional unit 12 is designed to control the flow of compressed air, activate the suction gripper 4, and activate the pneumatic actuator 14. This compressed air is directed to the vacuum generator unit 2 and, optionally, the valve unit 13 via a structural group-filling channel 22. It flows through the entire functional unit 12 in the arrangement direction 8 and, for example, exits at an end opening 22a at the first end module 18a. During operation of the vacuum generator device 1, an external compressed air source P is connected to the first end opening. In the valve unit 13, the structural group-filling channel 22 communicates with the associated control valve device 17. In each vacuum generator unit 2, the channel communicates with an electrically activated control valve device 23 belonging to the vacuum generator unit 2. For better distinction, this will be referred to as the vacuum control valve device 23 below.

[0052] Preferably, the functional units 12 arranged closely together in the arrangement direction 8 are traversed by at least one common exhaust duct 24 for exhaust purposes, designated as a structural group exhaust duct 24 and, for example, present in dual form. This at least one structural group exhaust duct 24 communicates with the atmosphere, for example, via an exhaust port 24a on the exterior of the first closing module 18, and communicates with its control valve device 17 within each valve unit 13. In this way, each control valve device 17 is able to control the supply and return of compressed air via the working channel 16 to activate a connected pneumatic actuator 14. A muffler (not shown) can be connected to the exhaust port 24a. A muffler can also be easily integrated into the first end module 18a.

[0053] In the illustrated embodiment, the at least one exhaust channel 24 on the vacuum generator unit 2 side has no function. For this reason, the interior of the vacuum generator unit 2 is specifically designed so that there is no fluid connection between the at least one exhaust channel 24 and the vacuum control valve device 23. However, such an internal fluid connection can exist in the vacuum generator unit 2 if desired.

[0054] The structural group - filling channel 22 and the structural group - exhaust channel 24 are both composed of closely arranged channel segments, which are designed as through channels in the respective functional units 12. Seals are provided between adjacent functional units 12 to seal the transition area, but are not shown in detail.

[0055] Advantageously, the vacuum generator assembly 1a further includes an electrical communication line 25 extending through all functional units 12 in the arrangement direction 8. This line, on the one hand, includes the aforementioned interface 20 and, on the other hand, is electrically connected within each functional unit 12 to the associated control valve device 17 and vacuum control valve device 23. In this way, the vacuum control valve device 23 and, optionally, the control valve device 17, receive the electrical control signals necessary for their operation. The communication line 25 extends through a cavity, designated as a communication channel 29, which extends through all functional units 12 and is comprised of channel sections adjacent to each functional unit 12.

[0056] For example, the communication line 25 is implemented by a guide plate configuration, which is composed of the guide plates of each functional unit 12. When the functional units 12 are in close contact with each other, the guide plates forming a similar group are plugged together in a conductive manner and connected to each other. Alternatively, the guide plate configuration can also be composed of a single, continuous, and particularly integral guide plate. The communication line 25 can also be implemented by a flexible cable.

[0057] A preferred structure of the vacuum generator unit 2 of the present invention will be described below with reference to Figures 3 to 5. The described structure is advantageously applicable to the vacuum generator units 2 of all vacuum generator assemblies 1a.

[0058] The vacuum generator unit 2 has a virtual axis 26 indicated by a dotted line, the direction of which is considered to be the main direction 26a. The measurement in the main direction 26a defines the construction length of the vacuum generator unit 2.

[0059] The vacuum generator unit 2 further has a pair of height axes 27 orthogonal to the main axis 26 , the axis direction of which is regarded as the height direction 27 a , and the measurement in the height direction 27 a defines the construction height of the vacuum generator unit 2 .

[0060] Finally, the vacuum generator unit 2 has an imaginary transverse axis 28 that is perpendicular to both the main axis 26 and the height axis 27. The direction of this axis defines a transverse direction 28a. The measurement in the transverse direction 28a defines the construction width of the vacuum generator unit 2. In FIG. 3 , the transverse axis 28 runs perpendicular to the drawing.

[0061] The preferred vacuum generator unit 2 is designed in a plate-like shape, as can be seen from the illustrated embodiment. In the illustrated embodiment, the overall length is greater than the overall height, which in turn is greater than the overall width. One main extension surface of the plate-like vacuum generator unit 2 is perpendicular to the transverse axis 28. The vacuum generator units 2 are arranged adjacent to each other with their main extension surfaces being parallel to one another.

[0062] The vacuum generator unit 2 has a base body 31 made of plastic or metal and advantageously constructed in one piece. The vacuum generator unit 2 also has a silencer housing 32, preferably made of plastic, which accommodates a silencer 33 and is connected to the base body 31 in the main direction 26a at a connection area 34.

[0063] The base 31 has a mounting surface 35 in the joint region 34, facing the main direction 26a and advantageously extending in a plane perpendicular to the pair of main axes 26. The muffler housing 32 has a mounting surface 36 on its outer side, which is in face-to-face contact with the mounting surface 35 in the joint region 34. A fixing device 37 provides a preferably releasable mechanical connection between the muffler housing 32 and the base 31. For example, the fixing device 37 comprises at least one fixing screw 37a, which extends through the muffler housing 32 in the main direction 26a, is supported on the muffler housing 32 by a screw head, and is screwed into the base 31 by a threaded rod.

[0064] The fixing device 37 , for example, further includes a hook-shaped structure 37 b , which maintains a distance from the at least one fixing screw 37 a in the height direction 27 , so as to perform shape-fitting hook fixing with the muffler housing 32 and the base body 31 .

[0065] The vacuum generator unit 2 has a front end 44a in the main direction 26a, a rear end 44b facing in the opposite direction, an upper side 44c in the height direction 27a, and a lower side 44d facing in the opposite direction of the upper side 44c. In the possible orientations of the vacuum generator unit 1 during operation, the upper side 44c faces vertically upward. However, the vacuum generator unit 1 can be operated in any of the four orientations of the sides 44a-44d.

[0066] Inside the vacuum generator unit 2, a receiving chamber 38 extends in the main direction 26a, hereinafter also referred to as the vacuum receiving chamber 38, which accommodates a vacuum unit 42 having a longitudinal extension. The vacuum unit 42 has a vacuum longitudinal axis 43, which is parallel to the main axis 26.

[0067] The vacuum unit 42 includes a launch nozzle 45 axially penetrated by a launch nozzle passage 45a, and a catch nozzle 46 axially adjacent thereto and penetrated by a catch nozzle passage 46a. The axial distance between the launch nozzle 45 and the catch nozzle 46 defines a suction zone 47. The launch nozzle 45 and the catch nozzle 46 are each surrounded by a sealing ring 48a, 48b, which seals the vacuum unit 42 against the surrounding walls of the vacuum chamber 38. This allows an air inlet area 49 upstream of the launch nozzle 45 and an air outlet area 50 downstream of the catch nozzle 46 to be fluidically sealed from the suction zone 47.

[0068] The air extractor unit 42 advantageously extends partly in the base body 31 and partly in the silencer housing 32. It preferably comprises a first longitudinal section 42a, which is arranged in the base body 31 and has a portion of the length of the emission nozzle 45 and the catch nozzle 46, and a second longitudinal section 42b, which is adjacent thereto and has the remaining length of the catch nozzle 46 and is accommodated in the silencer housing 32. The air extractor unit 42 extends through the junction area 34.

[0069] The vacuum extractor housing 38 advantageously comprises a first housing depth 53a and a second housing depth 53b formed within the base 31. The first housing depth 53a opens at the mounting surface 35, while the second housing depth 53b is coaxially aligned with the first housing depth 53a on the assembly surface 36. The first longitudinal section 42a extends within the first housing depth 53a, and the second longitudinal section 42b extends within the second housing depth 53b. One of the two sealing rings 48a, 48b is located in the first longitudinal section 42a, and the other is located in the second longitudinal section 42b.

[0070] When assembling the vacuum generator unit 2, the exhaust unit 42 can be placed into the first accommodation depth 53a when the silencer housing 32 is removed, so that its second longitudinal section 42b protrudes from the mounting surface 35. The silencer housing 32 is then connected in such a way that the second longitudinal section 42b extends into the second accommodation depth 53b.

[0071] The air extractor unit 42 can also differ from the embodiment shown and be completely accommodated in the base body 31. However, it has the advantage that only part of it is accommodated in the base body 31, and sufficient space remains in the base body 31 to accommodate the compressed air channel or the guide plate 45.

[0072] The emission nozzle channel 45a is continuously fluidically connected to an air blowing channel 54 running in the base body 31. The specific implementation method is that the air blowing channel 54 leads to the air inlet area 49.

[0073] The air blowing channel 54 passes through the base 31 and exits through a first channel outlet 55 to a valve layout surface 56 formed on the base 31. The vacuum-control valve device 23 is assembled on this surface and is connected to the air blowing channel 54 through the first channel outlet 55.

[0074] The aforementioned structural group filling channel 22 also exits at the valve structure surface 56 via a second channel outlet 57, in such a way that it is fluidically connected to the vacuum valve vacancy device 23. In a vacuum generator device 1 consisting of a single vacuum generator unit 2, the compressed air source P can also be connected directly to the vacuum control valve device 23 from outside the base body 31 without any additional measures.

[0075] The compressed air filling of the air inlet channel 54 can be controlled by the vacuum-controlled valve device 23. Thus, the vacuum-controlled valve device 23 can be placed in a vacuum position "VS," in which it connects the construction group-injection channel 22 and the air inlet channel 54, injecting compressed air into the launch nozzle channel 47a of the launch nozzle 45. Furthermore, the vacuum-controlled valve device 23 can also be advantageously switched to a blocking position "AS," in which the air inlet channel 54 is disconnected from the construction group-injection channel 22 and, therefore, from the compressed air source P.

[0076] The valve fabric surface 56 is constructed, for example, on an upper side of the base body 31 facing the upper side 44c of the vacuum generator unit 2. In particular, it extends on a plane in which a pair of height axes 27 are orthogonal.

[0077] Starting from the air discharge area 50 at the outflow outlet of the capture nozzle channel 46a away from the emission nozzle 45, an air blow-out channel 58 follows, which passes through the silencer housing 32 and the silencer 33 located therein, and flows out to the environment through an air outflow outlet 62 on the outer surface of the silencer housing 32 marked as air outflow surface 61.

[0078] The air outlet surface 61, together with the air outlet 62, is formed on the muffler housing 32 in a perpendicular orientation relative to the main axis 26. Preferably, and according to the illustrated embodiment, the air outlet surface 61, like the air outlet 62 formed therein, faces in the height direction 27a, and advantageously faces upward. The air outlet surface 61, like the air outlet 62, is particularly arranged on the upper side 44c of the vacuum generator unit 2. The air outlet surface 61 advantageously extends in a plane perpendicular to the height axis 27a.

[0079] A vacuum channel 63 is formed within the vacuum generator unit 2 and extends between the suction area 47 and the vacuum extraction opening 3. The vacuum extraction opening 3 opens on the outer surface of the muffler housing 32, referred to as the vacuum extraction surface 64, which is located at the front end 44a. Like the vacuum extraction surface 64, the vacuum extraction opening 3 is generally oriented in the main direction 26a.

[0080] The vacuum taking port 3 is located, for example, on the vacuum taking surface 64 of an axially protruding taking flange 3a.

[0081] The vacuum access port 3 is provided with a connecting device 65, which allows a suction line 5 to be connected in a releasable manner. This is for example constituted by an internal thread formed in the access flange 3a. As the connecting device 65, for example, a pipe plug connector can also be provided.

[0082] The above description clearly shows that there is a 90-degree angle between the vacuum access opening 3 and the air outlet 62. This has the effect that the suction process occurring near the vacuum access opening 3 is not hindered by the exhaust gas blown out of the air outlet 62. In particular, very light objects to be processed will not be accidentally blown away.

[0083] The vacuum channel 63 extends through the muffler housing 32 in the main direction 26a, particularly in a linear manner. Because the suction zone 47 is spaced apart from the junction zone 34 in the base body 31, the vacuum channel 63 has an outer channel section 63a extending through the muffler housing 32 and a subsequent inner channel section 63b extending through the base body 31. The two channel sections 63a, 63b are aligned with each other up to the outlet of the junction zone 34, where they merge gradually.

[0084] The vacuum unit 42 operates according to the conventional ejection nozzle principle. Compressed air injected into the ejection nozzle 45 of the vacuum unit 42 flows through the vacuum unit 42 and creates a low pressure in the suction area 47, generating the suction flow 7 described above. This creates a vacuum at the vacuum access port 3 and evacuates the attached suction gripper 4 to grip an object 6.

[0085] The vacuum extractor unit 42 and a channel section of the air outlet channel 58 adjoining it in the air outlet region 50, designated as the air inlet channel section 66, are arranged parallel to the outer channel section 63a of the vacuum channel 63. To facilitate reducing the overall width of the vacuum generator unit 2, the outer channel section 63a of the vacuum channel 63, the air inlet channel section 66, and the vacuum extractor unit 42 are arranged at different heights in the height direction 27a, so that their longitudinal axes are advantageously located in the main extension plane of the aforementioned plate-shaped vacuum generator unit 2. The vacuum extractor unit 42 and, therefore, the air inlet channel section 66 are located in the region of the bottom side 44d of the vacuum generator unit 2, while the vacuum channel 63 extends on the side of the vacuum extractor unit 42 facing the upper side 44c.

[0086] The air outlet channel 58 has a 90-degree curved channel profile in order to guide the compressed air flowing out of the air extractor unit 42 in the main direction 26a to the air outlet 62 transverse to the main direction 26a. The curved guidance occurs in a preferably arc-shaped curved section 67 of the air outlet channel 58, which is followed by an air inlet channel section 66, and which in turn is followed by a particularly linear channel section of the air outlet channel 58, designated as air outlet channel section 68, which extends at right angles to the main direction 26a and, for example, in the height direction 27a as far as the air outlet 62.

[0087] The air outflow channel section 68 passes through the silencer 33. A silencer channel 69 is formed in the silencer 33, forming a longitudinal section of the air outflow channel section 68. Preferably, the silencer 33 is constructed as a so-called open silencer, completely axially penetrated by the silencer channel 69. The outflow noise of the blown compressed air is reduced as it flows through the silencer channel 69. The silencer 33 includes a silencer body 72 surrounding the silencer channel 69. The silencer body 72 has a sound-absorbing structure, and the noise reduction is primarily based on the reflection of sound waves in the silencer body 72. Preferably, the silencer channel 72 is directly bounded by a pipe having a perforated wall, therefore referred to as a perforated pipe, and is surrounded radially on its outer side by the sound-absorbing structure.

[0088] The perpendicular orientation of the air outlet 62 to the main direction 26a allows a silencer 33 to be equipped with a relatively long silencer channel 69, which facilitates effective silencer operation while still enabling the vacuum generator unit 2 to have a short construction length.

[0089] The silencer 33 is constructed in a sleeve shape, for example, and its center is coaxially penetrated by the silencer passage 69. The axial length of the silencer 33 is greater than the maximum outer diameter of the silencer 33.

[0090] The silencer 33 is advantageously housed in a receiving chamber 73 formed within the silencer housing 32. Advantageously, the silencer housing 32 is designed in two parts, consisting of a housing body 32a and a housing cover 32b. The receiving chamber 73 is formed within the housing body 32a and is closed by the housing cover 32b placed on the housing body 32a. In the illustrated embodiment, this is achieved by assigning the housing cover 32b to the upper side 44c, which has an air outlet surface 61 and is penetrated by a short duct section that communicates with the silencer duct 69 and defines the air outlet 62 formed in the housing cover 32b.

[0091] Because vacuum passage 63 is located within muffler housing 32 between air inlet passage section 66 and air outlet 62 of air outlet passage 58, an intersecting region 74 is located within muffler housing 32. Air outlet passage 58 and vacuum passage 63 intersect in the intersecting region, but are not fluidically connected to each other. Bend section 67, which defines the 90-degree bend of air outlet passage 58, is advantageously located within intersecting region 74.

[0092] In particular, Figures 4 and 5 illustrate a preferred embodiment of the interleaving region 74. As shown, the vacuum channel 63 is divided within the muffler housing 32 into two channel branches 75a and 75b spaced apart from each other in the transverse direction 28a. The two branches pass through opposite sides of the air outlet channel 58, and in particular, its air outlet channel section 68, in the transverse direction 28a. The vacuum channel 63 has a first channel branching point 76a upstream of the air outlet channel 58 and a second channel branching point 76b downstream of the air outlet channel 58. At these points, the two channel branches 75a and 75b, extending in the transverse direction of the channel through the air outlet channel section 68 of the air outlet channel 58, are interconnected. The suction flow 7 is split into two branches at the first channel branching point 76a, each flowing through one of the channel branches 75a and 75b. These two branches then merge again at the second channel branching point 76b.

[0093] Vacuum generation has been continuously occurring as long as a stream of puff air 77 that passes through the extractor unit 42 , indicated by an arrow, is produced through the vacuum-control valve device 23 , which flows out of the air flow outlet 62 . Preferably, an active check valve piece 78 is provided in the vacuum channel 63 to close the vacuum channel 63 between the suction zone 47 and the vacuum access port 3 when the blowing air flow 77 is interrupted so that the vacuum on the vacuum access port 3 is blocked and no gas passes through the extractor unit 42 . This produces a solstice effect, which is due to the occasional need for blowing airflow 77 to compensate for the leakage, which maintains a desired vacuum. Only when the air pressure of the suction zone 47 is less than the air pressure of the vacuum access port 3 , the check valve member 78 allows air airflow to flow toward the suction zone 47 . If the air pressure of the suction zone 47 is greater than the air pressure of the vacuum access port 3 , the check valve member 78 takes the closed position to close the vacuum channel 63 .

[0094] The embodiment is equipped in an advantageous manner with a check valve piece 78 provided in the engagement zone 34 between the matrix 31 and the silencer housing 32 . There, the check valve piece 78 is advantageously secured and held between the matrix 31 and the silencer housing 32 . Installation is easy when the muffler housing 32 is removed.

[0095] The check valve member 78 is preferably a one-pivot active check valve, partially fixed between the base body 31 and the silencer housing 32 , and these two components are usually pivotable. In its closed position it is then on a valve seat constructed on the silencer housing 32 and enclosing the vacuum channel 63 by which it may be lifted in pivoting motion into the open position allowing suction flow 7, which is indicated by the dashed line in Fig. 3 .

[0096] The vacuum generator unit 2 provides the possibility, in particular, to remove the vacuum present on the vacuum access port 3 at each arbitrary point in time, so that, for example, an object 6 previously clamped by means of a suction clamp 4 is lowered or discarded again. If there is no check valve member 78 , this can be achieved by simply switching the vacuum-control valve device 23 to the blocking position "AS" to block the continued perfusion of the compressed air from blowing into the channel 54 .

[0097] Advantageously, the vacuum generator unit 2 provides the possibility to inflate the vacuum access port 3 with a pulse-like overpressure, so that the vacuum present is suddenly relieved by a release pulse, which can quickly discard a seized object 6 . The embodiment shown is equipped with such a generating release pulse.

[0098] The aforementioned release pulse arrangement includes a gas filling channel 81 built into the vacuum generator unit 2, which is connected to the vacuum control valve device 23 on the one hand and is in fluid connection with the vacuum channel 63 on the other hand. The fluid connection with the vacuum channel 63 is preferably made in the muffler housing 32, so that the gas filling channel 81 has a first channel section 81a running in the base body 31 and a second channel section 81b formed in the muffler housing 32 and communicating with it at the junction area 34.

[0099] The first channel section 81a has a channel outlet on the valve layout surface 56, which is referred to as the third channel outlet 82 for easy identification and is connected to the vacuum-control valve assembly 23. It also has a channel outlet on the mounting surface 35, opposite the channel outlet of the second channel section 81b on the assembly surface 36, and a channel outlet 83 that opens to a channel section 83a outside the vacuum channel 63.

[0100] The further channel outlet 83 is located, for example, between the non-return valve element 78 and the vacuum extraction port 3 .

[0101] The vacuum control valve device 23 can preferably be switched to a third valve position, designated as the "filling position" (BS). In this position, the filling channel 81, which is blocked by the other two switching positions, is connected to the construction group filling channel 22 and filled with compressed air. This generates an inflation flow 41 in the filling channel 81 that flows out of the vacuum access port 3, resulting in an overpressure in the vacuum access port 3 and releasing the vacuum previously established in the connected suction gripper 4.

[0102] The inflation position "BS" is usually used only briefly, so that the resulting overpressure is only a short-lived release pulse. However, it is also possible to inflate for a longer period, for example to use the compressed air to clean a discarded object 6 and remove adhering dirt. Inflation and the maintenance of the inflation position "BS" can, in principle, be maintained for any length of time.

[0103] The release pulse arrangement advantageously provides the possibility of adjusting the intensity of the release pulse. To this end, a throttle point 84 is provided in the flow path of the air supply channel 81, creating a flow restriction. The throttle point 84 comprises an adjustable flow element 85, particularly a throttle screw, disposed within the silencer housing 32. The throttle element 85 can be adjusted externally by accessing the vacuum generator unit 2 and, for example, comprises an actuation section 86 disposed in the area of ​​the air outlet surface 61, providing for manual actuation and / or actuation using a tool.

[0104] Since the throttling point 84 is located in the muffler housing 32, there is enough space in the base body 31 for constructing the required passage.

[0105] The throttle element 85 advantageously has a longitudinal extension and is integrated in the silencer housing 32 in an orientation parallel to the longitudinal direction of the silencer 33. The throttle point 84 is located in a region between the silencer 33 and the joining surface 36.

[0106] The vacuum generator unit 2 is advantageously equipped with a pressure sensor 87 which senses the air pressure prevailing at the vacuum access port 3 .

[0107] The pressure sensor 87 is advantageously located within the base body 31 and is in communication with a sensor channel 88 which is connected to the vacuum channel 63 and is thus exposed to the pressure prevailing therein.

[0108] The sensor channel 88 passes through the junction area 34 and has a first channel section 88a formed in the base body 31 and a second channel section 88b disposed adjacent thereto in the junction area 34 and constructed in the muffler housing 32. The second channel section 88b communicates with the vacuum channel 63 by opening into the charging channel 81, which has an outlet in the vacuum channel 63.

[0109] The pressure sensor 87 is preferably mounted on a sensor plate 91 mounted in the base 31 and is placed, for example, from the bottom side 44d into a plate holder 92 formed in the base 31. The sensor plate 91 can be connected to the communication line 25 also provided in the base 31 via a contact device 89, so that a signal based on the sensed value of the pressure sensor 87 can be transmitted to the electronic control unit 21.

[0110] The sensor board 91 preferably has its own analysis electronics which can analyze the measured values ​​of the pressure sensor 87 in order to influence the electronic control of the vacuum-control valve device 23 according to the result.

[0111] The valve arrangement surface 56 on which the vacuum control valve device 23 is arranged advantageously has the same spatial orientation as the air outlet surface 61 on the silencer housing 32. For example, it is thus oriented toward the upper side 44c in the height direction 27a.

[0112] The vacuum control valve assembly 23 advantageously has an electrically pre-controlled design and includes, for example, a main valve 93 that allows the three valve positions "VS," "AS," and "BS" described above, and a pilot valve assembly 94 that forms a structural unit with the main valve 93. The pilot valve assembly 94 is electrically connected to the communication line 25 via a contact device 95 and is electrically activated by a control signal from the electrical control unit 21. The pilot valve assembly 94 can pneumatically activate the main valve 93 to adjust it to one of the three valve positions "VS," "AS," and "BS." The compressed air required for this is supplied to the pilot valve assembly 94 via a pilot priming channel 96 within the base body 31, via the main valve 93. The pilot priming channel 96 advantageously passes through all functional units 12 of the vacuum valve group 1a and leads to a connecting opening 96a formed in the second end module 18b, to which a control pressure source PS can be connected.

[0113] Advantageously, there is a pre-control exhaust channel 97 passing through the functional unit 12 for the pre-control valve device 94 of all vacuum generator units 2 for common exhaust. The pre-control valve device 94 is connected to the channel via the main valve 93, and it leads to an exhaust opening 97a constructed on the second end module 18b, which is discharged to the atmosphere RS.

[0114] Each pre-control valve device 94 includes, for example, two pre-control valves 94a, 94b that form a structural unit and can be electrically triggered, preferably solenoid valves.

[0115] The control valve device 17 of the valve unit 13 is also advantageously of an electrical pre-control construction type and also comprises a pre-control valve device 94, which works in a similar manner to the vacuum control unit 2 and is connected to the pre-control filling channel 96 and to the pre-control exhaust channel 97.

[0116] 1: Vacuum generator device 1a: Vacuum generator assembly 2: Vacuum generator unit 3: Vacuum access port 3a: Access flange 4: Suction gripper 5: Suction pipeline 6: Object 7: Absorb flow 8: Arrangement direction 11: Tension rod 12: Functional Unit 13: Valve unit 14: Pneumatic drive 15: Next 16: Working channel 17: Control valve device 18a: End module 18b: End module 20: Interface 21: Control unit 22: Perfusion channel 22a: Open end 23: Vacuum-control valve device 24: Exhaust channel 24a: Exhaust port 25: Communication lines 26: Main axis 26a: Main direction 27: Height axis 27a: Height direction 28: horizontal axis 28a: horizontal direction 29: Communication Channel 31: Matrix 32:Muffler housing 32a: Shell body 32b: Shell cover 33:Silencer 34: Junction area 35: Mounting surface 36: Combination noodles 37: Fixtures 37a: Fixing screw 37b: hook-like structure 38: Vacuum pump-holding chamber 41: Inflatable Flow 42: Air extractor unit 42a: first longitudinal segment 42b: second longitudinal segment 43: Vacuum pump-longitudinal axis 44a: front end side 44b: rear end side 44c: upper side 44d: lower side 45: Launch nozzle 45a: Launch nozzle channel 46: Capture nozzle 46a: Capture nozzle channel 47: Suction area 48a: Sealing ring 48b: Sealing ring 49: Air inlet area 50: Air exhaust area 53a: first accommodation depth 53b: Second accommodation depth 54: Air blowing channel 55: First channel exit 56: Valve cloth construction area 57: Second channel exit 58: Air blowing channel 61: Air outflow surface 62: Air outlet 63: Vacuum channel 63a, 63b: channel section 64: Vacuum surface 65: Then install 66: Air inlet-channel section 67: curved section 68: Air outflow-channel section 69:Muffler channel 72:Muffler body 73: Accommodation Room 74: Interlaced Area 75a: Channel branch 75b: Channel branch 76a: First channel bifurcation point 76b: Second channel bifurcation point 77: Blowing air flow 78: Check valve 81: Inflatable channel 81a: First channel section 81b: Second channel section 82: Third channel exit 83: Channel Exit 83a: Outer channel section 84: Throttling point 85:Throttling piece 86: Trigger segment 87: Pressure sensor 88:Sensor channel 88a: First channel section 88b: Second channel section 89: Contact device 91:Sensor board 92: Plate Container 93: Main valve 94: Front control valve device 94a,94b: Forward control valve 95: Contact device 96: Pre-controlled perfusion channel 96a: Connecting opening 97: Pre-controlled exhaust channel 97a: Exhaust opening AS: blocking position BS: inflation position PS: Compressed air source VS: Vacuum position

Claims

1. A vacuum generator device comprising at least one vacuum generator unit (2) extending along a virtual main axis (26) in a main direction (26a), and having a base (31) penetrated by an air inlet channel (54), and a muffler housing (32) having a muffler (33) attached to the base (31) in a joint area (34) in the main direction (26a), wherein, In the substrate (31), an ejector unit (42) extends along an ejector longitudinal axis (43) parallel to the main axis (26). It has a launching nozzle (45) fluidly connected to the air inlet channel (54), a capturing nozzle (46), and a suction zone (47) disposed between the launching nozzle (45) and the capturing nozzle (46). The suction zone (47) of the ejector unit (42) communicates via a vacuum channel (63) with a vacuum access port (3) on an external vacuum access surface (64) of the vacuum generator unit (2), the vacuum access port allowing vacuum access. Furthermore, an air outlet passage (58) passing through the muffler housing (32) and the muffler (33) located therein, then onto the capture nozzle (46), the air outlet passage having a 90-degree bend within the muffler housing (32), and an air outlet (62) on one of the air outlet surfaces (61) of the muffler housing (32) leading to the atmosphere, characterized in that: The vacuum channel (63) passes through the muffler housing (32) which is separated from the base (31) in the main direction (26a) of the vacuum generator unit (2), and the vacuum access surface (64) together with the vacuum access port (3) faces the main direction (26a) and is constructed on the front end side of the muffler housing (32) away from the base (31) in the main direction (26a). Moreover, the air outlet surface (61) and the air outlet (62) are also constructed on the muffler housing (32) in an orientation perpendicular to the main axis (26).

2. The vacuum generator apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The air outlet channel (58) has within the muffler housing (32) an air inlet channel section (66) extending in the main direction (26a) of the vacuum generator unit (2) above the capture nozzle (46); a curved section (67) defining a 90-degree bend in the air inlet channel section (66); and an air outlet channel section (68) leading to the air outlet (62) on the curved section (67).

3. The vacuum generator apparatus as claimed in claim 2, wherein, The vacuum generator unit (2) has a pair of virtual height axes (27) that are orthogonal to the main axis (26) and extend in a height direction (27a), and the air inlet-channel section (66) of the air outlet channel (58) and the vacuum channel (63) are arranged vertically and horizontally within the muffler housing (32) in a parallel manner in the height direction (27a).

4. The vacuum generator apparatus as claimed in claim 3, wherein, The air outlet (61) together with the air outlet (62) is oriented toward the height direction (27a) of the vacuum generator unit (2).

5. The vacuum generator apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The air outlet channel (58) and the vacuum channel (63) intersect in one of the intersecting areas (74) within the silencer housing (32).

6. The vacuum generator apparatus as claimed in claim 5, wherein, The air outlet channel (58) curves at a 90-degree angle within the intersection zone (74).

7. The vacuum generator apparatus as claimed in claim 5, wherein, The vacuum channel (63) or the air blowing channel (58) splits into two channel branches (75a, 75b) in the intersection area (74). The two branches pass through the two channels (58, 63) on opposite sides. The two channel branches are connected to each other at the channel bifurcation point (76a, 76b). One of the channel bifurcation points is located upstream of the channel through which it passes, and the other is located downstream of the channel through which it passes.

8. The vacuum generator apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The vacuum generator unit (2) has a pair of virtual height axes (27) orthogonal to the main axis (26) and extending in the height direction (27a), and a pair of transverse axes (28) orthogonal to the height axis (27) and extending in the transverse direction (28a); the vacuum generator unit (2) is a plate-like structure, the size of which in the transverse direction (28a) is smaller than its size in the main direction (26a) and also smaller than its size in the height direction (27a); and the size in the height direction (27a) is also advantageously smaller than the size of the main axis (26).

9. The vacuum generator apparatus as claimed in claim 8, wherein, The injector unit (42) extends partly within the base (31) and partly within the muffler housing (32), penetrating the engagement area (34). A first longitudinal section (42a) of the injector unit (42) having the emission nozzle (45) is housed within the base (31), and a second longitudinal section (42b) of the injector unit (42) connected thereto, having at least a portion of the length of the capture nozzle (46), is housed within the muffler housing (32).

10. The vacuum generator apparatus as claimed in claim 9, wherein, A first receiving depth (53a) is constructed within the substrate (31) to communicate with the air inlet channel (54) and to exit the junction area (34); a second receiving depth (53b) is constructed within the muffler housing (32) to communicate with the air outlet channel (58) and to exit the junction area (34); the first receiving depth (53a) and the second receiving depth (53b) transition into each other in the junction area (34), and the first longitudinal section (42a) of the injector unit (42) seals the substrate (31) at the first receiving depth (53a), and the second longitudinal section (42b) of the injector unit (42) seals the muffler housing (32) at the second receiving depth (53b).

11. The vacuum generator apparatus of claim 1, wherein, In the direction of the vacuum channel (63) in the junction area (34), a movable check valve (78) is provided between the base (31) and the muffler housing (32), which allows airflow in the direction of the suction area (47) but blocks the opposite direction. The valve itself is advantageously a pivotable check valve that is partially fixed between the base (31) and the muffler housing (32).

12. The vacuum generator apparatus of claim 1, wherein, The vacuum channel (63) communicates with an inflation channel (81) in the muffler housing (32), and can be overpressurized to eliminate the vacuum therein. It has a first channel section (81a) that travels in the base (31) and a second channel section (81b) that travels in the muffler housing (32). One end of the second channel section (81b) transitions into the first channel section (81a) in the joint area (34), and the other end of the second channel section (81b) exits in the vacuum channel (63).

13. The vacuum generator apparatus of claim 12, wherein, In the second channel section (81b) of the inflation channel (81), a throttling point (84) is provided in the flow path within the muffler housing (32), which has an adjustable flow valve (85) for adjusting the throttling intensity within the muffler housing (32).

14. The vacuum generator apparatus of claim 1, wherein, The vacuum channel (63) communicates with a sensor channel (88) within the muffler housing (32), and extends through the junction area (34) into the base (31) of the vacuum generator unit (2) and leads to one of the pressure sensors (87) housed in the base (31).

15. The vacuum generator apparatus of claim 1, wherein, The muffler housing (32) has a housing body (32a) in which a receiving chamber (73) for accommodating the muffler (33) is constructed, which is closed by a cover (32b) of the muffler housing (32) in which the air outlet (62) is constructed.

16. The vacuum generator apparatus of claim 1, wherein, The muffler (33) is constructed in the shape of a sleeve and is coaxially penetrated in its longitudinal direction by a muffler channel (69) that forms the longitudinal section of the air blowing channel (54), and has a length greater than its outer diameter, and is installed in the muffler housing (32) in an orientation orthogonal to the main axis (26) of the vacuum generator unit (2).

17. The vacuum generator apparatus of claim 1, wherein, The base (31) of the vacuum generator unit (2) is equipped with an electrically triggered vacuum-control valve device (23) connected to the air outlet channel (54) and configured to control the pressurization of compressed air to the air outlet channel (54).

18. The vacuum generator apparatus of claim 17, wherein, The vacuum channel (63) is connected to an air-filling channel (81) in the muffler housing (32), and can be overpressurized to eliminate the vacuum therein. It has a first channel section (81a) that travels in the base (31) and a second channel section (81b) that travels in the muffler housing (32). One end of the second channel section (81b) transitions into the first channel section (81a) in the joint area (34), and the other end exits into the vacuum channel (63). The vacuum-control valve device (23) is also connected to the air-filling channel (81) and configured to control the pressurization of compressed air in the air-filling channel (81) and the vacuum channel (63) connected thereto.

19. The vacuum generator apparatus of claim 17, wherein, The substrate (31) has a valve fabric surface (56) on which the vacuum-control valve device (23) is assembled, and it advantageously has the same spatial orientation as the air outlet surface (61) of the muffler housing (32).

20. The vacuum generator apparatus of claim 17, wherein, It is designed as a vacuum generator assembly (1a) having multiple vacuum generator units (2) arranged close together and mechanically connected to each other in an arrangement direction (8) orthogonal to the main direction (26a). Its base (31) is penetrated by a construction group-supply channel (22) connected to an external compressed air source P in the arrangement direction (8). The supply channel is connected to the vacuum-control valve device (23) in each vacuum generator unit (2) to provide the compressed air required to control the pressurization of compressed air.

21. The vacuum generator apparatus of claim 20, wherein, In addition to the vacuum generator unit (2), the vacuum generator assembly (1a) also has at least one pair of valve units (13) for pneumatic control of pneumatic actuators (14). These valve units (13) are arranged close together with the vacuum generator unit (2) in the same arrangement direction (8) and are also penetrated by the structure group-supply channel (22). The structure group-supply channel (22) is connected to an electrically triggered control valve device (17) in at least one of the valve units (13) to control the pressure of the working channel (16) in the valve unit (13) for fluid connection with the pneumatic actuator (14) to be controlled.

22. The vacuum generator apparatus of claim 21, wherein, The vacuum generator unit (2) and the valve unit (13) arranged closely together are penetrated in the arrangement direction (8) by at least one structural group-exhaust passage (24) that communicates with the atmosphere, which is fluidly connected to the control valve device (17) of each valve unit (13), and is advantageously separated within the vacuum generator unit (2) by its respective vacuum-control valve device (23).

23. The vacuum generator apparatus of claim 20, wherein, The vacuum generator unit (2) and the selective valve unit (17) arranged close together are connected by an electrical communication line (25) in the arrangement direction (8), which is electrically connected to the control valve device (17) of all vacuum-control valve devices (23) and the selective valve unit (13), and has an interface (20) for electrically connecting to an electronic control unit (21).

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