Vacuum chuck clamp

Abstract

The invention generally relates to a vacuum chuck clamp for clamping a surface of an object. The vacuum chuck clamp includes a rigid base element and an annular vacuum sealing element. The rigid element is provided with a first side face and a second side face opposite to the first side face, and the second side face is provided with a central area and a periphery surrounding the central area. The annular vacuum sealing element is at least indirectly attached to the second side of the base element and protrudes from the base element in a direction away from the first side of the base element. The vacuum sealing element includes a contact surface configured to at least partially contact the object surface, and a surrounding surface laterally toward the contact surface configured to define a chamber adjacent to the second side of the base element. The vacuum sealing element is elastically deformable at least at the contact surface to enable the contact surface to conform to the object surface when pressed against the object surface. The vacuum chuck fixture further includes an air extractor mounted to the first side of the base element so as to be in fluid communication with the chamber through the base element and configured to continuously extract air from the chamber such that the contact surface when pressed faces the object surface so as to clamp the object surface.

Description

[0001] Divisional application

[0002] This application is a re-divisional application of the divisional application with application number 202210267768.X. The original application is a patent application with application number 201980005884.0, international application date May 5, 2019, entry into the Chinese national phase date May 21, 2020, and invention name “Vacuum Suction Cup Clamp”. Technical Field

[0003] The invention relates to various clamps for clamping the surface of an object, in particular to a vacuum suction cup clamp. Background Art

[0004] The following are several examples of publications that are relevant to the background of the presently disclosed subject matter: WO2010110719, US8096537, US7963578, US7712807, US7404536, US7222901, US6502877, US6244778, US9108319, US6296426, US3915241, US6413022, US9215962, and EP3181027.

[0005] It should be understood that the above references should not be inferred as an implication that these contents are in any way relevant to the patentability of the presently disclosed subject matter. Summary of the invention

[0006] According to one aspect of the subject matter disclosed herein, the present invention provides a vacuum suction cup clamp for clamping a surface of an object, the vacuum suction cup clamp comprising:

[0007] a rigid base element having a first side and a second side opposite to the first side, the first side and the second side defining therebetween a thickness of the rigid base element along a central axis thereof, the second side having a central region and a periphery surrounding the central region and extending in a direction away from the central axis;

[0008] an annular vacuum sealing element, at least indirectly attached to the periphery of the second side of the rigid base element via an attachment surface of the vacuum sealing element on the attachment surface and having a protruding portion, the protruding portion protruding from the second side of the rigid base element along an integral extension of the attachment surface in a direction along the axis and away from the first side of the base element; the protruding portion defines a chamber with the central region and includes a contact surface, the contact surface being configured to at least partially contact the object surface; and wherein the vacuum sealing element is elastically deformable at least at the contact surface so that the contact surface can conform to the object surface when pressed against the object surface; and

[0009] An air extraction device is mounted to the first side of the base element so as to be in fluid communication with the chamber through the base element and is configured to continuously extract air from the chamber so that the contact surface is directed toward the object surface when under pressure, thereby clamping the object surface.

[0010] Due to the above-mentioned features of a vacuum suction cup gripper, the contact surface of a vacuum sealing element of the vacuum suction cup gripper and its integral protrusion can have any desired radial extension and can be fully and firmly supported during a gripping action. Therefore, the gripping capacity of the vacuum suction cup gripper can be substantially improved, so that the vacuum suction cup gripper can be used to pick up, support, hold, place and release relatively bulky and / or heavy objects, such as boxes, furniture, panels and other heavy, bulky, fragile or difficult to grasp objects.

[0011] All additional features and aspects and embodiments of the vacuum suction cup clamp of the disclosed subject matter, presented separately and in any combination, are set forth below, respectively, and the additional features, aspects and embodiments help to improve the clamping ability of the vacuum suction cup clamp while giving the vacuum suction cup clamp a compact and user-friendly design.

[0012] The periphery of the second side of the base element may be defined by a peripheral edge radially spaced from the central region, and the vacuum sealing element may be at least indirectly mounted to the base element by its attachment surface being located in a region of the periphery between the peripheral edge and the central region. The peripheral edge may constitute a lateral boundary of the fixture, and the integral projection, or at least a major part of the projection, may be arranged within the lateral boundary of the fixture defined by the peripheral edge.

[0013] Therefore, according to another aspect of the subject matter disclosed in the present invention, the present invention provides a vacuum suction cup clamp for clamping a surface of an object, before the vacuum suction cup clamp contacts the surface of the object, the vacuum suction cup clamp comprises:

[0014] a rigid base member having two opposing sides, the second side having a central region and a periphery surrounding the central region; the periphery having a peripheral edge defining a lateral boundary of the fixture;

[0015] an annular vacuum seal element having: an attachment surface on which the annular vacuum seal element is at least indirectly mounted to the periphery of the second side of the rigid base element; and a protrusion that is not in contact with the rigid base element and protrudes in a direction away from the first side of the base element, such that a major portion of the protrusion is disposed within the boundary; the protrusion includes a contact surface configured to at least partially contact the surface of the object; the vacuum seal element is elastically deformable at least at the contact surface so that the contact surface can conform to the surface of the object when pressed against the surface of the object;

[0016] a chamber defined by said projection and said central region of said second side of said rigid base member; and

[0017] An air extraction device is mounted to the first side of the base element so as to be in fluid communication with the chamber through the base element and is configured to continuously extract air from the chamber so that the contact surface is directed toward the object surface when under pressure, thereby clamping the object surface.

[0018] In the above aspect, the protruding portion of the vacuum sealing element may have an inner surrounding surface and an outer surrounding surface extending between the contact surface and the attachment surface; the inner surrounding surface is oriented transversely to the contact surface and faces a direction toward the central area and the chamber, and the outer surrounding surface is oriented transversely to the contact surface and faces a direction away from the central area and the chamber. In this case, the outer surrounding surface may be disposed closer to the central area of ​​the chamber than the peripheral edge of the second side surface of the rigid base element.

[0019] The attachment surface of the vacuum sealing element and a corresponding peripheral support area of ​​the base element may extend along a circumference of at least a majority of the second side of the base element between the central area and the peripheral edge.

[0020] The contact surface of the vacuum sealing element may be substantially coextensive with the attachment surface along the circumference of the second side of the base element.

[0021] A thickness of a protruding portion of the vacuum sealing element may be between the inner surrounding surface and the outer surrounding surface, and the thickness satisfies at least one of the following conditions:

[0022] The thickness is at least not less than a predetermined distance that the protruding portion protrudes from the second side surface of the rigid base element;

[0023] The thickness is at least not less than a radial extension of the attachment surface (ie the attachment surface extends in a direction along the circumference of the second side of the rigid base element and away from the central axis).

[0024] The thickness of the protruding portion that satisfies at least one of the above conditions is a thickness at least close to and / or adjacent to the contact surface. Optionally, the thickness is a thickness of the protruding portion along a major portion of the predetermined distance to the vacuum sealing element, the protruding portion protruding from the base element. Optionally, the thickness is a thickness along the entire predetermined distance.

[0025] The vacuum suction cup fixture has a channel, and the vacuum sealing element is at least indirectly mounted to the periphery of the second side of the rigid base element at the channel via an attachment portion of the vacuum sealing element including the attachment surface, the channel is open in the direction along the central axis and away from the first side of the rigid base element, and is configured to accommodate the attachment portion in the channel. The channel can be configured to conform to the attachment portion, that is, to have a shape and size corresponding to the shape and size of the attachment portion. In this case, the attachment portion can contact the channel not only along the attachment surface, but also along the entire outside of the attachment surface (that is, the entire attachment surface arranged in the channel). These surfaces can include the entire attachment surface and those parts of the inner surrounding surface and the outer surrounding surface arranged in the channel.

[0026] Therefore, according to another aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, the present invention provides a vacuum suction cup clamp for clamping a surface of an object, before the vacuum suction cup clamp contacts the surface of the object, the vacuum suction cup clamp comprises:

[0027] A rigid base element having a first side and a second side opposite to the first side, the second side having a central area and a periphery surrounding the central area, the central area having a central axis passing through two sides; the periphery having a channel, a width of the channel extending radially along the second side of the rigid base element, and a depth of the channel extending axially in a direction toward the first side of the rigid base element;

[0028] an annular vacuum seal element having: an attachment portion received within the channel, the attachment portion being used to mount the vacuum seal element to the rigid base element, and a protruding portion protruding from the channel along the entire width of the channel in a direction away from the first side of the rigid base element; the protruding portion including a contact surface configured to at least partially contact the surface of the object; the vacuum seal element being elastically deformable at least at the contact surface so that the contact surface can conform to the surface of the object when pressed against the surface of the object;

[0029] a chamber defined by said projection and said central region of said second side of said rigid base member; and

[0030] An air extraction device is mounted to the first side of the base element so as to be in fluid communication with the chamber through the base element and is configured to continuously extract air from the chamber so that the contact surface is directed toward the object surface when under pressure, thereby clamping the object surface.

[0031] As used herein, the terms "rigid" and "deformable" are relative terms, and thus the base element is understood to be rigid as compared to the deformable vacuum sealing element.

[0032] Since the vacuum sealing element is elastically deformable at least at its contact surface so that the contact surface can conform to the object surface when pressed, the vacuum suction cup clamp may achieve a grip on textured surfaces, which may cause air leakage.

[0033] Since the evacuation device is arranged to continuously evacuate air from the chamber, if any air leak does occur, an effective vacuum state can be maintained and the grip on the surface of the object will not be lost.

[0034] The vacuum sealing element may include at least one of silicone, rubber and closed cell foam. Such a material has sufficient flexibility to conform to a textured surface to prevent or reduce air leakage due to the non-smooth nature of the textured surface. Of course, it should be understood that in addition to textured surfaces, such a material is also suitable for use on smooth surfaces. Closed cell foam has no obvious interconnected pores in the foam plastic, so there is no way for air to leak through the foam plastic. Such foam plastic can achieve high compressibility (for example: compressed to 75% of the thickness of the foam plastic), so that the foam plastic has the ability to conform to the shape of the surface of the object. In addition, because the multiple pores are closed, the air is confined inside each pore. Therefore, the compression in the foam plastic is stored in a manner similar to a nonlinear spring. The properties of the foam plastic can be selected, for example: the size of the pores, the thickness of the pore walls and the size of the foam plastic are selected according to the weight, size and texture of the object to be lifted.

[0035] The suction device may include an impeller or a pump, each of which may be further referred to as a suction mechanism, either individually or in combination. The pump or impeller may be configured to operate in a stable or variable manner. The pump or impeller should be operated in a manner that ensures that the vacuum that allows clamping to occur is not lost. Therefore, for certain textured surfaces, or in certain situations, stable operation may be required, while in other situations, such as: in situations with smoother surfaces, in situations where light objects may need to be lifted and / or where energy savings may be achieved, variable operation may be desirable. "Variable" refers to fluctuations in operating power, which may also include pulsed operation or intermittent operation.

[0036] In the present specification, the vacuum suction cup clamp may be a portable or handheld vacuum suction cup clamp. The vacuum device may also include a power source. The power source may include a battery pack. By having a handheld or portable vacuum suction cup clamp with its own power source, there is no need for a power connection or other wired power connection, which may otherwise cause a tripping hazard in many cases. Therefore, the vacuum suction cup clamp can be used in a variety of environments more safely and easily.

[0037] At least one of the power supply and the air extraction mechanism may be arranged on the first side of the base element. Since at least one of the power supply and the air extraction mechanism may be arranged on the first side of the base element, a more compact arrangement may be achieved.

[0038] The vacuum cup clamp may include a handle for holding the vacuum cup clamp. The handle may extend along a longitudinal direction of the rigid base element and be mounted to the first side of the rigid base element at a plurality of locations spaced apart along the longitudinal direction. For example, the handle may have a graspable handle section extending along the length of the first side of the rigid base element, and two handle mounting sections oriented transversely to the graspable section and coupled to the first side of the rigid base element.

[0039] Therefore, according to another aspect of the present invention, the present invention provides a vacuum suction cup fixture for clamping a surface of an object, before the vacuum suction cup fixture contacts the surface of the object, the vacuum suction cup fixture comprises:

[0040] a rigid base element having a first side and a second side opposite to the first side, the second side having a central area and a periphery surrounding the central area;

[0041] an annular vacuum seal element having: an attachment surface on which the annular vacuum seal element is at least indirectly mounted to the periphery of the second side of the rigid base element; and a protruding portion that is not in contact with the rigid base element and protrudes from the rigid base element in a direction away from the first side of the base element; the protruding portion of the vacuum seal element includes: a contact surface configured to at least partially contact the surface of the object, the protruding portion and the central region defining a chamber; the vacuum seal element is elastically deformable at least at the contact surface so that the contact surface can conform to the surface of the object when pressed against the surface of the object;

[0042] a handle assembly having a graspable handle region and two spaced apart handle mounting regions, the handle mounting regions being oriented transversely to the graspable handle region and integrally connected to the first side of the rigid base member; and

[0043] A suction device is housed in the handle assembly and is at least partially mounted in the handle mounting area so as to be fluidically connected to the chamber through the base element, and the suction device is configured to continuously extract air from the chamber so that the contact surface is directed toward the object surface when under pressure, thereby clamping the object surface.

[0044] Thus, a compact arrangement of the vacuum chuck fixture can be achieved when different components of the vacuum extraction device are accommodated in different parts of the handle assembly.Two handle mounting areas can be used to at least partially accommodate most of the components of the vacuum extraction device.

[0045] In all of the above aspects and embodiments, the vacuum suction cup fixture may include: a support structure, the support structure protrudes from the second side of the base element to a lesser extent than the protruding portion of the vacuum sealing element protrudes from the second side of the base element, and the support structure is made of a material that is more rigid than the vacuum sealing element; wherein the support structure extends along at least a portion of the protruding portion of the vacuum sealing element. Since the support structure protrudes from the base element to a lesser extent than the protruding portion of the vacuum sealing element, the vacuum sealing element will be the first part to contact the surface of an object. Since the support structure is made of a harder material than the vacuum sealing element, the vacuum sealing element will first deform in a manner corresponding to the surface of the object, and then the support structure will provide sufficient support, rigidity and a structure to prevent the vacuum sealing element from being overly compressed.

[0046] Therefore, according to another aspect of the present invention, the present invention provides a vacuum suction cup fixture for clamping a surface of an object, the vacuum suction cup fixture comprising:

[0047] a rigid base element having a first side and a second side opposite to the first side, the second side having a central area and a periphery surrounding the central area;

[0048] an annular vacuum seal element having: an attachment surface on which the annular vacuum seal element is at least indirectly mounted to the periphery of the second side of the rigid base element; and a projection protruding from the rigid base element along an integral extension of the attachment surface in a direction away from the first side of the base element so as to define a chamber together with the central region of the second side of the rigid base element; the vacuum seal element includes a contact surface configured to at least partially contact the object surface, and an inner surrounding surface and an outer surrounding surface both extending between the attachment surface and the contact surface, the inner surrounding surface facing in a direction toward the central region and the chamber, and the outer surrounding surface facing in a direction away from the central region and the chamber; the vacuum seal element is elastically deformable at least at the contact surface so that the contact surface can conform to the object surface when pressed against the object surface and clamp the object surface when air is drawn from the chamber; and

[0049] a support structure attached to the periphery of the second side surface of the base element and protruding from the base element in a direction away from the first side surface of the base element, the degree of protrusion from the base element being less than the degree of protrusion of the protrusion of the vacuum sealing element; the support structure is made of a material with greater rigidity than the vacuum sealing element; and wherein the support structure extends along at least a portion of the vacuum sealing element.

[0050] The support structure may be made of a material that is less rigid than the base element. Since the support structure is made of a material that is less rigid than the base element, the support structure will be able to undergo slight deformations and will not damage the surface of the object. Conversely, a relatively rigid base element will provide structural integrity to the chamber.

[0051] The support structure may have a ring shape. With this arrangement, a support force can be provided for the entire length of the vacuum sealing element. Conversely, the support structure may have a discontinuous shape. Such a shape provides better flexibility in the deformability of the vacuum sealing structure.

[0052] The support structure may be arranged closer to the central area of ​​the second side than to a peripheral edge of the second side. In this arrangement, the support structure may be hidden within the chamber. Alternatively, the support structure may be arranged closer to the periphery of the second side than to the central area of ​​the second side. In this arrangement, the support structure is visible outside the chamber, so that it will be possible to know that once the maximum possible deformation is reached, the maximum possible vacuum is achieved and the most secure clamping is formed between the vacuum cup clamp and a surface of an object.

[0053] The support structure may include at least one of rubber, silicone and closed-cell foam. Such materials can maintain a high degree of structural integrity and rigidity while being flexible.

[0054] In all of the above aspects and embodiments, the vacuum sealing element may be at least partially made of a closed-cell foam material.

[0055] Therefore, according to another aspect of the present invention, the present invention provides a vacuum suction cup fixture for clamping a surface of an object, the vacuum suction cup fixture comprising:

[0056] a rigid base element having a first side and a second side opposite to the first side, the second side having a central area and a periphery surrounding the central area;

[0057] An annular vacuum seal element comprising: a closed cell foam material and an attachment surface on which the annular vacuum seal element is at least indirectly mounted to the periphery of the second side of the rigid base element; and a protrusion protruding from the rigid base element along an integral extension of the attachment surface in a direction away from the first side of the base element so as to define a chamber together with the central region of the second side of the rigid base element; the vacuum seal element includes a contact surface configured to at least partially contact the object surface, and an inner surrounding surface and an outer surrounding surface both extending between the attachment surface and the contact surface, the inner surrounding surface facing in a direction toward the central region and the chamber, and the outer surrounding surface facing in a direction away from the central region and the chamber; the vacuum seal element is elastically deformable at least at the contact surface so that the contact surface can conform to the object surface when pressed against the object surface and clamp the object surface when air is drawn from the chamber.

[0058] According to any one of the above aspects and any one of the vacuum suction cup clamps in the exemplary embodiments listed below, the vacuum suction cup clamp may have any one or more features of the vacuum suction cup clamps according to other aspects and embodiments.

[0059] The following are non-limiting examples of various embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter:

[0060] 1. A vacuum suction cup fixture for clamping a surface of an object, before the vacuum suction cup fixture contacts the surface of the object, the vacuum suction cup fixture comprises:

[0061] a rigid base element having a first side and a second side opposite to the first side, the second side having a central area and a periphery surrounding the central area;

[0062] An annular vacuum sealing element having:

[0063] an attachment surface on which said annular vacuum sealing element is at least indirectly mounted to said periphery of said second side of said rigid base element;

[0064] a protrusion not in contact with the rigid base element and projecting from the rigid base element along an integral extension of the attachment surface in a direction away from the first side of the base element;

[0065] a contact surface constituting a portion of the protruding portion and configured to at least partially contact the surface of the object,

[0066] The vacuum sealing element is elastically deformable at least at the contact surface so that the contact surface can conform to the surface of the object when pressed against the surface of the object; and

[0067] an inner surrounding surface facing in a direction toward the central region, and an outer surrounding surface facing in a direction away from the inner surrounding surface, the inner surrounding surface and the outer surrounding surface extending between the contact surface and the attachment surface;

[0068] a chamber defined by said projection and said central region of said second side of said rigid base member; and

[0069] An air extraction device is mounted to the first side of the base element so as to be in fluid communication with the chamber through the base element and is configured to continuously extract air from the chamber so that the contact surface is directed toward the object surface when under pressure, thereby clamping the object surface.

[0070] 2. A vacuum suction cup clamp as described in Example 1, wherein the protruding portion protrudes from the rigid base element to a predetermined distance and has a thickness between the inner surrounding surface and the outer surrounding surface, the thickness is at least not less than the predetermined distance and / or not less than the thickness of the vacuum sealing element between the inner surrounding surface and the outer surrounding surface at the attachment surface of the vacuum sealing element, the protruding portion protrudes at least along a portion of the predetermined distance, selectively protrudes at least along a major portion of the predetermined distance, and further selectively protrudes along the entire predetermined distance.

[0071] 3. A vacuum suction cup clamp as described in embodiment 1 or 2, wherein the periphery of the second side of the rigid base element is defined by a peripheral edge and includes a peripheral support area, and the attachment surface of the vacuum sealing element is attached to the periphery of the second side of the rigid base element at the peripheral support area.

[0072] 4. The vacuum chuck fixture of embodiment 3, wherein the peripheral support region constitutes a major portion of the periphery of the second side of the rigid base element.

[0073] 5. The vacuum chuck fixture of embodiment 3 or 4, wherein at least a major portion of the protruding portion of the vacuum sealing element is disposed within a lateral boundary defined by the peripheral edge.

[0074] 6. A vacuum suction cup fixture as described in any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the vacuum sealing element is mounted to the second side of the rigid base element via a channel, the channel accommodating an attachment portion of the vacuum sealing element, the vacuum sealing element including the attachment surface of the vacuum sealing element, and the protrusion protrudes from the channel along the integral extension of the attachment portion.

[0075] 7. The vacuum chuck fixture of embodiment 6, wherein the channel is formed by at least one additional element other than the rigid base element, and the channel is mounted on the second side of the rigid base element.

[0076] 8. When directly or indirectly attached to Example 3, a vacuum suction cup fixture as described in Example 7, wherein the at least one additional element is attached to the second side of the rigid base element along the periphery of the rigid base element, and the periphery of the rigid base element is located between the peripheral edge and the central area.

[0077] 9. The vacuum chuck fixture of embodiment 7, wherein the channel is bounded on one side of the channel by the peripheral edge and on the other side opposite to the peripheral edge by a wall forming part of the additional element.

[0078] 10. A vacuum suction cup clamp as described in any one of Examples 6 to 9, wherein the channel has a width and a depth, the width corresponds to the thickness of the attachment portion between multiple corresponding portions of the inner surrounding surface and the outer surrounding surface arranged in the channel, and the depth corresponds to a height of the attachment portion along the portions of the inner surrounding surface and the outer surrounding surface, and the protrusion protrudes from the channel along the entire width of the channel.

[0079] 11. The vacuum chuck fixture of embodiment 10, wherein the channel meets one of the following conditions:

[0080] the width of the channel does not exceed the thickness of the protruding portion; or

[0081] said contact surface being coextensive with said channel along said entire width of said channel;

[0082] The periphery of the second side of the rigid base element is defined by a peripheral edge, the peripheral edge forming a wall of the channel.

[0083] 12. The vacuum suction cup clamp as described in any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the vacuum suction cup clamp is a portable or handheld vacuum suction cup clamp.

[0084] 13. The vacuum chuck fixture of embodiment 12, wherein the vacuum chuck fixture further comprises: a handle for holding the vacuum chuck fixture on the first side of the base element.

[0085] 14. The vacuum chuck fixture of embodiment 13, wherein the handle is connected to the first side of the rigid base member at at least two spaced apart locations.

[0086] 15. The vacuum chuck fixture of embodiment 14 when dependent upon embodiment 3 or any preceding embodiment directly or indirectly dependent upon embodiment 3, wherein the plurality of spaced apart locations are disposed closer to the peripheral edge than to the central region.

[0087] 16. A vacuum suction cup clamp as described in embodiment 14 or 15, wherein the handle includes: two handle mounting areas, at the multiple spaced-apart positions, the two handle mounting areas are integrally connected to the first side of the rigid base element, and a graspable handle area extends between the multiple spaced-apart positions.

[0088] 17. The vacuum chuck fixture of embodiment 16, wherein the vacuum device comprises a power source, and the power source is selectively at least partially mounted in the handle and selectively mounted in one of the two handle mounting areas.

[0089] 18. A vacuum suction cup clamp as described in Example 16 or 17, wherein the vacuum device includes: a vacuum mechanism, such as: an impeller or a pump, and the vacuum mechanism is selectively installed in the handle and selectively installed in one of the two handle installation areas.

[0090] 19. When dependent upon Example 14, the vacuum chuck fixture of Example 18, wherein the power source and the vacuum mechanism are at least partially accommodated in the two handle mounting areas, selectively accommodated in two different handle mounting areas.

[0091] 20. A vacuum suction cup clamp as described in any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the vacuum suction cup clamp further comprises: at least one supporting structure, wherein the degree to which the supporting structure protrudes from the second side surface of the base element is less than the degree to which the vacuum sealing element protrudes from the second side surface of the base element, and the supporting structure is made of a material with greater rigidity than that of the vacuum sealing element; wherein the supporting structure extends along a portion of the periphery that does not contact the vacuum sealing element.

[0092] 21. The vacuum chuck fixture of embodiment 20, wherein the support structure is made of a material that is less rigid than the base element.

[0093] 22. The vacuum chuck fixture of embodiment 20 or 21, wherein the support structure has a ring shape.

[0094] 23. When attached to embodiment 3 or any of the preceding embodiments directly or indirectly attached to embodiment 3, a vacuum suction cup clamp as described in embodiments 20, 21 or 22, wherein at least a portion of the support structure is arranged closer to the central area of ​​the second side than to the peripheral edge of the second side.

[0095] 24. The vacuum chuck fixture of embodiments 20, 21 or 22 when dependent upon embodiment 3 or any preceding embodiment directly or indirectly dependent upon embodiment 3, wherein at least a portion of the support structure is disposed closer to the peripheral edge than to the central region.

[0096] 25. The vacuum cup fixture of any one of embodiments 20 to 24, wherein the support structure comprises at least one of rubber, silicone, and closed-cell foam.

[0097] 26. A vacuum suction cup fixture for clamping a surface of an object, before the vacuum suction cup fixture contacts the surface of the object, the vacuum suction cup fixture comprises:

[0098] a rigid base element having two opposing sides, the second side having a central region and a periphery surrounding the central region, and the central region is defined by a peripheral edge;

[0099] an annular vacuum seal element having: an attachment surface on which the annular vacuum seal element is at least indirectly mounted to the periphery of the second side of the rigid base element; and a protruding portion that is not in contact with the rigid base element and protrudes in a direction away from the first side of the rigid base element so that at least a major portion of the protruding portion is disposed within a lateral boundary defined by the peripheral edge; the protruding portion includes: a contact surface configured to at least partially contact the surface of the object; the vacuum seal element is elastically deformable at least at the contact surface so that the contact surface can conform to the surface of the object when pressed against the surface of the object;

[0100] a chamber defined by said projection and said central region of said second side of said rigid base member; and

[0101] An air extraction device is mounted to the first side of the base element so as to be in fluid communication with the chamber through the base element and is configured to continuously extract air from the chamber so that the contact surface is directed toward the object surface when under pressure, thereby clamping the object surface.

[0102] 27. A vacuum suction cup fixture as described in Example 23, wherein the vacuum sealing element has an inner surrounding surface and an outer surrounding surface, and the inner surrounding surface and the outer surrounding surface extend between the contact surface and the attachment surface; the inner surrounding surface faces the central area and the chamber, and the outer surrounding surface faces away from the central area and the chamber.

[0103] 28. A vacuum suction cup clamp as described in Example 24, wherein the protrusion protrudes from the second side of the rigid base element to a predetermined distance and has a thickness between the inner surrounding surface and the outer surrounding surface, the protrusion protrudes at least along a portion of the predetermined distance, selectively protrudes at least along a major portion of the predetermined distance, and the thickness is at least not less than the predetermined distance and / or at least not less than the thickness of the vacuum sealing element at the attachment surface of the vacuum sealing element.

[0104] 29. The vacuum chuck fixture of any one of embodiments 23 to 25, wherein the vacuum chuck fixture further comprises: a handle for holding the vacuum chuck fixture on the first side of the base element.

[0105] 30. The vacuum cup fixture of embodiment 26, wherein the handle comprises two handle mounting areas connected to the first side of the rigid base member at at least two spaced apart locations.

[0106] 31. The vacuum chuck fixture of embodiment 27, wherein the at least two locations are disposed near the peripheral edge of the rigid base element.

[0107] 32. The vacuum cup fixture of embodiment 27 or 28, wherein the suction device is at least partially accommodated in the two handle mounting areas.

[0108] 33. A vacuum suction cup fixture for clamping a surface of an object, before the vacuum suction cup fixture contacts the surface of the object, the vacuum suction cup fixture comprises:

[0109] a rigid base element having a first side and a second side opposite to the first side, the second side having a central area and a periphery surrounding the central area;

[0110] An annular vacuum sealing element having: an attachment surface on which the annular vacuum sealing element is at least indirectly mounted to the periphery of the second side of the rigid base element; and a protruding portion that is not in contact with the rigid base element and protrudes from the rigid base element in a direction away from the first side of the rigid base element; the protruding portion of the vacuum sealing element includes: a contact surface configured to at least partially contact the surface of the object; the contact surface and the attachment surface extend between an inner surrounding surface and an outer surrounding surface, the inner surrounding surface facing a direction of the central region and the outer surrounding surface facing a direction away from the inner surrounding surface; the vacuum sealing element is elastically deformable at least at the contact surface so that the contact surface can conform to the surface of the object when pressed against the surface of the object;

[0111] a chamber defined by said projection and said central region of said rigid base member;

[0112] a handle assembly having a graspable handle area and two handle mounting areas oriented transversely to the graspable handle area, via which the handle is connected to the first side of the rigid base element; and

[0113] A suction device is at least partially housed in the two handle mounting areas so as to be in fluid communication with the chamber through the base element, and the suction device is configured to continuously draw air from the chamber so as to move the contact surface toward the object surface when under pressure, thereby clamping the object surface.

[0114] 34. The vacuum chuck fixture of embodiment 30, wherein the two handle mounting areas are connected to the first side of the rigid base member at two spaced apart locations along a length of the rigid base member.

[0115] 35. The vacuum chuck fixture of embodiment 31, wherein the perimeter of the second side of the rigid base element is defined by a peripheral edge, and the two spaced apart locations are disposed adjacent the peripheral edge of the rigid base element.

[0116] 36. The vacuum chuck fixture of embodiment 30, 31 or 32, wherein the vacuum device comprises a power source.

[0117] 37. The vacuum chuck fixture of embodiment 33, wherein the power supply is at least partially mounted within the handle, selectively within the two handle mounting areas.

[0118] 38. A vacuum suction cup clamp as described in any one of embodiments 30 to 34, wherein the vacuum device includes a vacuum mechanism, selectively a pump or an impeller, and the vacuum mechanism is selectively installed in the handle and selectively installed in one of the two handle installation areas.

[0119] 39. The vacuum suction cup fixture of embodiment 35, wherein the power supply and the vacuum mechanism are at least partially accommodated in the two handle mounting areas, selectively accommodated in two different handle mounting areas.

[0120] 40. A vacuum suction cup clamp as described in any one of embodiments 23 to 36, wherein the vacuum suction cup clamp also includes: a channel, which constitutes a portion of the periphery of the second side of the rigid base element and accommodates an attachment portion of the vacuum sealing element, the attachment portion includes the attachment surface and multiple portions of the inner surrounding surface and the outer surrounding surface arranged in the channel, the channel has a width and a depth, the width corresponds to a thickness of the attachment portion between the multiple portions of the inner surrounding surface and the outer surrounding surface, and the depth corresponds to a height of the attachment portion along the portions of the inner surrounding surface and the outer surrounding surface, and the protrusion protrudes from the channel along the entire width of the channel.

[0121] 41. A vacuum suction cup fixture for clamping a surface of an object, before the vacuum suction cup fixture contacts the surface of the object, the vacuum suction cup fixture comprises:

[0122] a rigid base element having two opposing sides, the second side having a central area and a periphery surrounding the central area; the periphery having a channel having a width along the second side of the rigid base element and a depth extending in a direction toward the first side of the rigid base element;

[0123] an annular vacuum sealing element, comprising: an attachment portion received in the channel, through which the vacuum sealing element is mounted to the rigid base element; and a protruding portion not in contact with the rigid base element and protruding from the channel along the entire width of the channel in a direction away from the first side of the rigid base element; the protruding portion comprising: a contact surface configured to at least partially contact the surface of the object; the vacuum sealing element being elastically deformable at least at the contact surface so that the contact surface can conform to the surface of the object when pressed against the surface of the object;

[0124] a chamber defined by said projection and said central region of said second side of said rigid base member; and

[0125] A suction device is mounted to the first side of the base element so as to be in fluid communication with the chamber through the base element, and the suction device is configured to continuously extract air from the chamber so that the contact surface is directed toward the object surface when under pressure, thereby clamping the object surface.

[0126] 42. The vacuum chuck fixture of embodiment 38, wherein the width of the channel does not exceed the thickness of the protrusion.

[0127] 43. The vacuum chuck fixture of embodiment 38 or embodiment 39, wherein the contact surface is coextensive with the channel along the entire width of the channel.

[0128] 44. A vacuum suction cup fixture as described in any one of embodiments 37 to 40, wherein the periphery of the second side of the rigid base element is defined by a peripheral edge, the peripheral edge is separated from the central area, and wherein the channel is arranged near the peripheral edge, and wherein the peripheral edge selectively constitutes a wall of the channel.

[0129] 45. A vacuum suction cup fixture as described in any one of embodiments 37 to 40, wherein the periphery of the second side of the rigid base element is defined by a peripheral edge, the peripheral edge is separated from the central area, and wherein the channel is arranged near the peripheral edge, and wherein the peripheral edge selectively constitutes a wall of the channel.

[0130] 46. ​​The vacuum chuck fixture of any one of embodiments 38 to 41, wherein the channel is formed by at least one additional element other than the rigid element, and the channel is mounted on the second side of the rigid base element.

[0131] 47. When attached to embodiment 41, a vacuum suction cup fixture as described in embodiment 42, wherein the at least one additional element is attached to the second side of the rigid base element along the periphery of the rigid base element, and the periphery of the rigid base element is located between the peripheral edge and the central area.

[0132] 48. The vacuum chuck fixture of embodiment 42 or 43, wherein the channel is bounded on one side of the channel by the peripheral edge and on the other side opposite to the peripheral edge by a wall forming part of the additional element.

[0133] 49. The vacuum chuck fixture of any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the vacuum sealing element comprises a closed cell material.

[0134] Illustration

[0135] In order to better understand the subject matter disclosed herein and to illustrate how it may be implemented by way of example, several embodiments will now be described, by way of non-limiting examples only, with reference to the accompanying schematic drawings, in which:

[0136] Figure 1 A bottom perspective view of a vacuum cup fixture according to an example of the presently disclosed subject matter is shown;

[0137] Figure 2 A bottom perspective view showing a vacuum cup fixture according to a second example of the presently disclosed subject matter;

[0138] Figure 3 A bottom perspective view of a vacuum cup fixture according to another example of the presently disclosed subject matter is shown;

[0139] Figure 4 A top perspective view of a vacuum cup fixture according to another example of the presently disclosed subject matter is shown;

[0140] Figure 5 Shown along Figure 4 A plane AA cut in Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of the vacuum chuck fixture shown;

[0141] Figure 6 Shown along Figure 4 A plane BB section Figure 4 A stereoscopic view of the vacuum suction cup fixture shown;

[0142] Figure 7 Shown along Figure 4 A plane CC section Figure 4 A three-dimensional view of the vacuum tool shown;

[0143] Figure 8 Shown along Figure 4 A plane DD section Figure 4 A partial perspective view of the vacuum chuck fixture shown;

[0144] Fig. 9 Show Figure 4 An exploded perspective view of multiple components of a base portion of the vacuum chuck fixture shown in; and

[0145] Fig.10 An exploded perspective view showing components of a vacuum release mechanism. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0146] A vacuum cup gripper is a device suitable for gripping an object at a surface of the object due to the vacuum created between the vacuum cup gripper and the surface of the object.

[0147] According to an example, Figure 1 Schematically shown, a vacuum chuck fixture 200 includes a rigid base member 210 having a first side 212 and a second side 214 opposite the first side 212. The second side 214 has a central region 216 and a periphery 218 surrounding the central region 216. The periphery 218 (only a portion of which is shown) is defined by a peripheral edge 218a radially spaced from the central region.

[0148] The vacuum chuck fixture 200 further includes an annular vacuum sealing element 220 having an attachment surface 221 attached to the periphery 218 along a periphery support region 218 b (not shown).

[0149] The annular vacuum sealing element 220 further includes a protruding portion 223 which does not contact the base element 210 and protrudes from the second side surface 214 of the base element 210 to a predetermined distance D1 in a direction away from the first side surface 212 of the base element.

[0150] The protruding portion 223 of the vacuum sealing element 220 includes: a contact surface 222 configured to at least partially contact a surface of an object. The vacuum sealing element 220 also includes an inner surrounding surface 224, which is oriented transversely to the contact surface 222 and extends from the contact surface 222 and faces the central area 216, thereby defining a chamber 230 along the protruding portion 223. The vacuum sealing element 220 also includes: an outer surrounding surface 225, which is oriented transversely to the contact surface 222 and extends from the contact surface 222, and faces away from the central area 216 and the chamber 230, and the peripheral edge 218a of the second side of the base element protrudes outwardly from the outer surrounding surface.

[0151] Therefore, the contact surface 222 and the attachment surface 221 of the vacuum sealing element both extend between the inner surrounding surface 224 and the outer surrounding surface 225. Figure 1 It will be appreciated that in this example, the contact surface 222 is coextensive with the attachment surface 221 along the circumference of the second side of the base element.

[0152] like Figure 1 As further shown, the predetermined distance D of the protruding portion 223 protruding from the second side surface of the rigid base element does not exceed a thickness T of the protruding portion between the inner surrounding surface and the outer surrounding surface. More specifically, the thickness T of the protruding portion is greater than the predetermined distance D1.

[0153] The vacuum sealing element 220 is elastically deformable at least at its contact surface 222, so that the contact surface can conform to the surface of an object when pressed against the surface of the object. The vacuum suction cup fixture 200 also includes an air extraction device 240, which is mounted to the first side 212 of the base element 210, so as to be in fluid communication with the chamber 230 through the base element 210. The air extraction device 240 is configured to continuously extract air from the chamber so that the contact surface 222 is directed toward the surface of the object when pressed, thereby clamping the surface of the object.

[0154] According to another example, Figure 2 As shown, a vacuum chuck fixture 300 includes a rigid base member 310 having a first side 312 and a second side 314 opposite to the first side 312. The second side 314 has a central region 316 and a periphery 318, the periphery 318 surrounding the central region 316 and defined by a peripheral edge 318a.

[0155] The vacuum chuck fixture 300 also includes an annular vacuum sealing element 320 attached to the periphery of the second side 314 of the base element 310, the annular vacuum sealing element 320 having an attachment surface 321 along a peripheral support area 318b (not shown).

[0156] The annular vacuum sealing element 320 includes: a protruding portion 323 that does not contact the base element 310, and the protruding portion 323 protrudes from the second side surface 314 of the base element 310 to a predetermined distance D1 in a direction away from the first side surface 312 of the base element 310. The protruding portion 323 of the vacuum sealing element 320 includes: a contact surface 322 configured to at least partially contact a surface of an object. The vacuum sealing element 320 also includes an inner surrounding surface 324, which is oriented transversely to the contact surface 322 and extends from the contact surface 322, and at least partially faces the central area 316, thereby defining a chamber 330 along the protruding portion 323. The vacuum seal element 320 also includes an outer surrounding surface 325, which is oriented transversely to the contact surface 322 and extends from the contact surface 322 and faces away from the central area 316 and the chamber 330, and the peripheral edge 318a of the second side of the base element protrudes outwardly from the outer surrounding surface. Therefore, the contact surface 322 and the attachment surface 321 of the vacuum seal element both extend between the inner surrounding surface 324 and the outer surrounding surface 325. Figure 2 It will be appreciated that the contact surface 322 is coextensive with the attachment surface 321 along the circumference of the second side surface of the base element.

[0157] like Figure 2 As further shown, the predetermined distance D1 of the protruding portion 323 protruding from the second side surface of the rigid base element does not exceed a thickness T of the protruding portion between the inner surrounding surface and the outer surrounding surface. More specifically, the thickness T of the protruding portion is greater than the predetermined distance D1.

[0158] The vacuum sealing element 320 is elastically deformable at least at its contact surface 322 so that the contact surface 322 can conform to the surface of an object when pressed. The vacuum suction cup fixture 300 also includes a support structure 350, which is attached to the peripheral support area 318b (not shown) of the second side surface 314 of the base element 310, and in a direction away from the first side surface 312 of the base element, the support structure 350 protrudes from the second side surface of the base element to a lesser extent than the vacuum sealing element 320 protrudes from the second side surface of the base element. The support structure 350 is made of a material with greater rigidity than the vacuum sealing element 320. The support structure 350 extends along at least a portion of the vacuum sealing element 320.

[0159] According to another example, Figure 3 As shown, a vacuum chuck fixture 400 includes a rigid base member 410 having a first side 412 and a second side 414 opposite to the first side 412. The second side 414 has a central region 416 and a periphery 418, the periphery 418 surrounding the central region 416, and the periphery 418 is defined by a peripheral edge 418a radially spaced from the central region.

[0160] The vacuum suction cup fixture 400 also includes an annular vacuum sealing element 420, which is attached to the peripheral support area 418b of the second side surface 414 of the base element 310, and an attachment surface 421 of the annular vacuum sealing element 420 is located at a peripheral support area 418b (not shown).

[0161] like Figure 3 As shown, the annular vacuum sealing element 420 is attached to the second side surface 414 of the base element 410. The annular vacuum sealing element 420 includes: a protruding portion 423 that does not contact the base element, and the protruding portion 423 protrudes from the second side surface 414 of the base element 410 to a predetermined distance D1 in a direction away from the first side surface 412 of the base element 410. The protruding portion 423 of the vacuum sealing element 420 includes: a contact surface 422 configured to at least partially contact a surface of an object. The vacuum sealing element 420 also includes an inner surrounding surface 424, which is oriented transversely to the contact surface 422 and extends from the contact surface 422, and at least partially faces the central area 416, thereby defining a chamber 430 along the protruding portion 423. The vacuum seal element 420 also includes an outer surrounding surface 425, which is oriented transversely to the contact surface 422 and extends from the contact surface 422 and faces away from the central area 416 and the chamber 430, and the peripheral edge 418a of the second side of the base element protrudes outwardly from the outer surrounding surface. Therefore, the contact surface 422 and the attachment surface 421 of the vacuum seal element both extend between the inner surrounding surface 424 and the outer surrounding surface 425. Figure 3 It will be appreciated that the contact surface 422 is coextensive with the attachment surface 421 along the circumference of the second side surface of the base element.

[0162] like Figure 3As further shown, the predetermined distance D1 of the protruding portion 423 protruding from the second side surface of the rigid base element does not exceed a thickness T of the protruding portion between the inner surrounding surface and the outer surrounding surface. More specifically, the thickness T of the protruding portion is greater than the predetermined distance D1.

[0163] The vacuum sealing element 420 is elastically deformable at least at its contact surface 422, so that the contact surface 422 can conform to the surface of an object when pressed. The vacuum sealing element 420 includes a closed-cell foam material.

[0164] For example, an exemplary closed cell foam material may be formed from: styrene, 1,3-butadiene polymer, also known as: benzene, vinyl-, polymer with 1,3-butadiene; butadiene-styrene latex; butadiene-styrene resin; poly(styrene-co-butadiene), 5% styrene; styrene, 1,3-butadiene polymer; styrene-butadiene copolymer; styrene-butadiene copolymer; and having the following properties:

[0165] CAS (Chemical Abstracts Service) registration number: 9003-55-8

[0166] Molecular formula: C 12 H 14

[0167] Molecular weight: 158.243

[0168] Density: 1.04 g / ml at 25°C

[0169] Solubility: Soluble in solvents with solubility parameters between 7.7 and 9.4 Form: Flakes / blocks

[0170] Stability: Stable, flammable, incompatible with strong oxidants.

[0171] Breaking strength (million Pa): 24.5~26.5

[0172] Elongation at break (%): 800~1000

[0173] Rebound rate (%): 50~80

[0174] Compression ratio 100℃70h(%): 2~40

[0175] Maximum operating temperature (℃): 150

[0176] Brittle temperature (℃): -35~-42

[0177] Expansion rate (%): gasoline 10-45; benzene 100-300; acetone 15-50; ethanol 5-20.

[0178] The material can be shaped or made into a closed-cell foam using the manufacturing method of SBR foaming, and the manufacturing method of the finished product can be carried out by die cutting.

[0179] The present invention may alternatively or additionally use any other suitable material, ie a material having comparable properties, such as but not limited to one or more of the following properties: breaking strength, breaking elongation, compression, resilience and air tightness.

[0180] In each of the above examples, the first side and the second side of the rigid base element define a thickness of the rigid base element therebetween along a central axis thereof.

[0181] In each of the above examples, the annular vacuum sealing element is mounted to the second side of the rigid base element, such as Figure 1 , 2 As shown in Figure 3, they can be considered to have the following characteristics:

[0182] said protruding portion of said vacuum sealing element being disposed within a lateral boundary defined by said peripheral edge of said second side of said rigid base element;

[0183] the protruding portion being disposed closer to the central region of the chamber than to the peripheral edge of the second side of the rigid base element;

[0184] The contact surface of the protruding portion and the attachment surface of the attachment portion are substantially coextensive in a radial direction.

[0185] Each of the above examples may further include any features from other examples in these examples, and may additionally or alternatively include any features described below with respect to another example of the currently disclosed subject matter. For example, the second and third examples may also include an air extraction device as described in the first example, and the air extraction device may be a pump or an impeller, and may operate in a stable or variable manner.

[0186] Alternatively or additionally, each of the first and third examples may include a support structure as described in the second example. In addition, in any example, the support structure may be made of a material less rigid than the base element, and the support structure may be annular, and may be disposed closer to the peripheral edge of the second side than the central area of ​​the second side and / or may include at least one of rubber, silicone, and closed-cell foam.

[0187] Alternatively or additionally, the vacuum sealing element of the vacuum chuck fixture of each of the first example and the second example may include a closed-cell foam material. Alternatively or additionally, the vacuum sealing element may include a silicon and / or rubber material.

[0188] Alternatively or additionally, any one of the first to third examples is a portable or handheld vacuum suction cup clamp, and the suction device may further include a power source, which may include a battery pack, and the power source and at least one of the pump or impeller may be arranged on the first side of the base element, and the vacuum suction cup clamp may include a handle for holding the vacuum suction cup clamp, and / or the power source and at least one of the pump or impeller may be at least partially accommodated in the handle.

[0189] In the vacuum chuck fixtures 200 , 300 , and 400 , the vacuum sealing element of the vacuum chuck fixtures 200 , 300 , and 400 may be attached to the surrounding area of ​​the second side surface of the rigid base element thereof directly or indirectly in any suitable manner.

[0190] Figure 4 Another example of a vacuum chuck fixture is shown, namely a vacuum chuck fixture 100. The vacuum chuck fixture 100 includes a handle portion 110, a power supply portion 120 (see also Figure 5 ), a pump portion 130 (see also Figure 5 ) and a base portion 140. The handle portion 110 has a first end 111a and a second end 111b, and the handle portion 110 is connected or mounted to the base portion 140 via the first end 111a and the second end 111b.

[0191] like Figure 4 As shown, the base portion 140 includes a rigid base member 141 having a first side 141a and a second side 141b opposite the first side 141a, and a vacuum sealing member 145 retained therein.

[0192] The first side 141a of the base element 141 is identical to the first side 140a of the base portion 140. The handle portion, the power supply portion and the pump portion are disposed on the first side 141a of the rigid base element 141 and can be mounted on the first side 141a directly or via each other. For example, the power supply portion and the pump portion can be mounted to the first side 141a of the base element 141 via the handle portion 110. Such a mounting method can avoid disconnection of components due to vibration of a pump of the pump portion during operation.

[0193] The handle portion 110 may be a single component or may include multiple components. If the handle portion includes multiple components, the handle portion may be hollow and thus various components may be accommodated within the handle. For example, such a housing may be connected by screws, bolts, adhesives or snap-fit ​​devices.

[0194] The handle may be connected to the base portion along a single surface or multiple surfaces. The handle may have a wider palm grip portion and a narrower finger grip portion to facilitate gripping of the handle. Alternatively, the handle may include a hole or aperture when connected to the base portion to enable the hand to easily grasp the handle. The handle may be elongated in shape to facilitate gripping. To facilitate gripping, the handle may be provided with a textured surface in the form of projections and / or depressions to improve friction with a user's hand.

[0195] like Figure 6 As shown in the vacuum suction cup fixture 100, the handle portion 110 includes an upper shell 112 and a lower shell 114, and the upper shell 112 and the lower shell 114 are connected together by at least one screw or bolt 116. In this example, the upper shell 112 and the lower shell 114 are configured to have an elongated shape, which is easy to be grasped by the user's hand.

[0196] In order to improve the grip of the user's hand, the surfaces of the upper shell 112 and the lower shell 114 are provided with a plurality of notches 118 arranged in a plurality of rows and columns (see Figure 6 ).

[0197] The power supply portion and the pump portion may be disposed separately from the handle portion, or may be disposed within the handle portion. For example, a variety of arrangements have been envisioned in which the power supply portion and the pump portion are disposed at the same or opposite ends of the handle portion, or one or both are not disposed at either end but in the middle of the handle portion. Alternatively, one or both of the power supply portion and the pump portion may be disposed within one end of the handle portion and further extend into the handle portion away from the end of the handle.

[0198] In such Figure 5 In the vacuum chuck fixture shown, the power supply portion 120 is disposed at and inside the first end 111a of the handle portion 110, and the pump portion 130 is disposed inside the second end 111b of the handle portion 110, which is the opposite end of the handle portion 110 to the first end 111a. The pump portion 130 further extends into the handle portion 110 from the second end 111b.

[0199] The power supply part is used to supply power to the pump part, and the power supply part can be a battery pack. The power supply part can be electrically connected to the pump part through the handle or outside the handle, for example: the power supply part is electrically connected to the pump part along the first surface of the base part on which the handle is mounted. In the above case, the electrical connection has better structural integrity, so the power supply part can be protected from environmental damage.

[0200] As in Figure 5 and Figure 7 As shown in more detail in FIG. 1 , the power supply portion 120 includes a battery or battery pack 122, which is configured to supply power to the pump portion 130 of the vacuum chuck fixture 100. The battery pack 122 is electrically connected to the pump portion 130 through the handle portion 110 so as to supply power to the pump portion 130.

[0201] The present invention may provide a variety of operating controls to control the power provided by the power supply portion to the pump portion. For example, various buttons, sliders, control dials for adjusting the power intensity, triggers or other devices may be provided. The power operating control may be configured to remain in the "on" position until the user turns it to "off". In this way, the user is able to retain full function of his hand to safely lift the vacuum suction cup fixture. Alternatively, as a safety mechanism, the power operating control may only be "on" as long as a user presses the power knob 124, and then turned to "off" when released. Such an arrangement ensures safety and power savings when the vacuum suction cup fixture is unattended, and can save electricity in the case of use where no further vacuuming is required.

[0202] like Figure 4 , 5 As shown in Figures 6 and 7, the battery pack 122 is further electrically connected to a power knob 124 provided at the first end 111a of the handle portion 110a. The user can drive the power knob 124 to operate, i.e., turn on and off and change the power supplied to the pump portion 130. In this case, the power knob 124 is a press-release button, i.e., it is necessary to press and hold the power knob to supply power to the pump portion 130. There is also an on / off button 126 (see Figure 10 ) at the second end 111b of the handle portion 110. Figure 4 ), in the "off" state, the button enables charging of the battery, and in the "on" state allows power to be supplied to the pump portion.

[0203] The pump portion may include a pump, impeller or other air extraction mechanism / device, and may be partially disposed in the handle as described above. The pump is fixedly mounted to the base portion directly or through the handle. Such a fixing provides structural integrity. The pump may include a filtering device, such as a filter and filter holder for filtering air passing through the pump to prevent the entry of particles that may damage the pump or impair the operation of the pump.

[0204] like Figure 5 and Figure 8 As shown, the pump portion 130 includes a pump 132, which is partially disposed in the second end 111b of the handle portion 110 and partially continues into the handle portion 110, and partially extends through the handle portion 110 in a direction toward the first end 111a. The pump 132 is a vacuum pump, that is, it is configured to extract air, as will be further described below. The end of the pump 132 disposed toward the first end 111a of the handle portion 110 is electrically connected to the battery pack 122 of the power supply portion 120 and is powered by the battery pack 122. An opposite end of the pump 132 is disposed in the second end 111b of the handle portion 110 and is separated from the base portion 140 via a filter holder 134 containing a filter 136. The filter 136 is configured to prevent particles from entering the pump 132 during pump operation in which air is extracted through the pump 132 via the filter 136.

[0205] The filter holder 134 and the filter 136 are fluidly connected in a sealed manner to a hole 146 that passes through the base element 141 from the first side 141 a of the base element 141 to the second side 141 b of the base element 141 .

[0206] like Figures 5 to 8 As shown, the first side and the second side of the rigid base element define a thickness of the rigid base element along its central axis therebetween, and the second side 141b of the base element has a central area 160 and a periphery 180, the periphery 180 surrounds the central area 160 and is defined by a peripheral edge 180a radially spaced apart from the central area.

[0207] The vacuum sealing element 145 is attached at an attachment portion 145a to a peripheral support area 180b, which forms part of the periphery 180 of the second side of the base element 141, and the attachment portion 145a has an attachment surface 145f that contacts the peripheral support area.

[0208] The vacuum sealing member 145 further includes a protruding portion 145b which does not contact the base member and protrudes from the base member to a predetermined distance D1 in a direction away from the first side surface 141a. The protruding portion and the attachment portion 145a extend together along the peripheral support area 180b. The surface of the protruding portion 145b of the vacuum sealing member 145 away from the second side surface 141b is a contact surface 145c for contacting a surface of an object.

[0209] The vacuum seal element 145 further comprises an inner surrounding surface 145d oriented transversely to and extending from the contact surface 145c and partially facing the central region 160, thereby defining a chamber 170 along the protruding portion 145b. The vacuum seal element 145 also comprises an outer surrounding surface 145e oriented transversely to and extending from the contact surface 145c and facing away from the central region 160 and the chamber 170, and the peripheral edge 180a of the second side of the base element protrudes outwardly from the outer surrounding surface. Thus, the contact surface 145c and the attachment surface 145f of the vacuum seal element both extend between the inner surrounding surface 145d and the outer surrounding surface 145e, and the contact surface 145c and the attachment surface 145f extend together along the peripheral support region 180b of the second side of the base element.

[0210] As shown, the predetermined distance D1 of the protruding portion 145b protruding from the second side surface of the rigid base element does not exceed a thickness T of the protruding portion between the inner surrounding surface and the outer surrounding surface. More specifically, the thickness T of the protruding portion is greater than the predetermined distance D1.

[0211] The vacuum sealing element is disposed at a peripheral edge 180a closer to the second side surface 141b than the central area 160 of the second side surface 141b, and the vacuum sealing element is annular. Annular means that the vacuum sealing element seals the chamber 170 in a sealed manner. The annular shape may be ring-shaped, i.e. circular, or may include any other tortuous shape, i.e. a closed boundary, such as an ellipse.

[0212] In each of the above examples, the annular vacuum sealing element is mounted to the second side of the rigid base element, such as Figure 1 , 2 As shown in Figure 3, they can be considered to have the following characteristics:

[0213] said protruding portion of said vacuum sealing element being disposed within a lateral boundary defined by said peripheral edge of said second side of said rigid base element;

[0214] the protruding portion being disposed closer to the central region of the chamber than to the peripheral edge of the second side of the rigid base element;

[0215] The contact surface of the protruding portion and the attachment surface of the attachment portion are substantially coextensive in a radial direction.

[0216] The vacuum sealing element 145 and the attachment portion 145a mounted to the peripheral support area 180b of the second side 141b of the rigid base element can be considered to constitute a vacuum sealing assembly with this area (and any other elements used in this mounting method, as described in detail below), such as Figures 5 to 8 As shown, this component has each of the following functions:

[0217] The protruding portion of the vacuum sealing element is disposed within a lateral boundary of the assembly defined by the peripheral edge of the second side of the rigid base element (the boundary being indicated by a dashed line, in FIG. Figure 5 180c); and

[0218] The assembly includes a channel 180d ( Figure 5 ), the channel 180d accommodates the attachment portion 145a and conforms to the shape of the attachment portion 145a, that is, the channel has a width and a depth, the width corresponding to the thickness of the attachment portion, and the depth corresponding to a height of the attachment portion along its inner and outer surrounding surfaces, (these widths and depths are Figure 5 denoted as W and D2 respectively); in this particular example, the width exceeds the depth.

[0219] The base portion 140 may include other structural components, such as: the structural components on the second side of the rigid element, such as: a sealing structural element for supporting the vacuum sealing element 145, a leakage sealing element for ensuring a seal between the base element 141 and the sealing structural element, and a supporting structure for providing structural integrity of the vacuum sealing element 145.

[0220] exist Fig. 9 In the specific example shown in the exploded view of Figure 7 and Figure 8As can be seen in the cross section shown, the base portion 140 has a generally oval shape and includes a leakage sealing element 142, a sealing structural element 143 and a support structure 144 in addition to the rigid base element 141 and the vacuum sealing element 145. The rigid base element 141 provides a support structure, and the ends 111a, 111b of the handle portion 110 are attached to the first side 141a of the base element 141 in the manner described above. In addition, at least some components of the power supply portion 120 and the pump portion 130 can be securely fixed to the base element 141 to prevent disconnection of the components due to vibrations during operation of the pump.

[0221] The base element can be formed by injection molding or casting, and can include polymers, plastics or metals. A plurality of ribs can be provided on the lower side of the base element to strengthen the strength and structure of the base element, and when a vacuum is formed near the base element, the base element will withstand high loads, which will be described in more detail below. The base element can also include a plurality of holes passing therethrough so that bolts or other fixing members pass through, and these bolts or other fixing members can provide a firm mounting connection between the base element and the end of the handle portion, the pump portion and / or the power supply portion. The ribs are provided to vary according to the specific arrangement mode of the parts, the connection and the size of each structural member.

[0222] As shown in the example, Fig. 9 As depicted in FIG. 1 , various ribs 147 are shown on the second side 141b of the base element 141, and various holes are shown passing through the base element from the second side 141b to the first side 141a.

[0223] The present invention may provide various other structural arrangements to hold and / or support the various components of the base portion. For example, various clips, channels or tracks may be provided on the second side of the base element to securely hold the vacuum sealing element and any or all other components of the base portion in place.

[0224] like Fig. 9As shown, in this particular example, the base element 141 includes an elliptical track 148 at its second side 141b, the elliptical track is open in a direction away from the first side 141a, and the elliptical track 148 has a plurality of track sides for supporting various components for sealing. The leakage sealing element 142 is completely disposed in the track 148, disposed between the base element 141 and the sealing structural element 143 (and adjacent to the base element 141), so as to form a fluid-tight seal between the base element 141 and the sealing structural element 143.

[0225] The sealing structural element 143 comprises an elliptical annular structure having a T-shaped radial cross section. The top of the "T-shape" contacts and is parallel to the leakage sealing element 142, while the legs of the "T-shape" extend transversely to the leakage sealing element 142. Therefore, two channels are respectively elliptical and are formed in the track 148. Each channel is defined by one of the multiple channel sides and a corresponding side of the legs of the "T-shape". The two channels are open in a direction away from the second side 141b and are concentric, that is, there is an inner channel and an outer channel. The support structure 144 is fixed in the inner channel, and the vacuum sealing element 145 is fixed in the outer channel.

[0226] The support structure is configured to prevent over-compression or over-deformation of the vacuum sealing element. Thus, for example, the support structure may be less flexible or more rigid than the vacuum sealing element. In other words, the support structure includes a material that is relatively less flexible or rigid and less deformable than the vacuum sealing element. A variety of exemplary materials for the support structure include, but are not limited to, silicone, rubber and / or relatively rigid closed-cell foam, while exemplary materials for the vacuum sealing element include, but are not limited to, silicone, rubber and / or closed-cell foam. It should be understood that in the case where similar materials are selected for each of the support structure and the vacuum sealing element, the support structure should be provided with a less flexible, more rigid material form, and the vacuum sealing element should be provided with a more deformable, less rigid material form.

[0227] The support structure protrudes from the second side of the base element to a lesser extent than the vacuum sealing element protrudes. The support structure may include an annular shape that is concentrically disposed within or outside the vacuum sealing element. Alternatively, the support structure may include one or more extended intermittent support elements, such as curved or straight portions extending along the vacuum sealing element, or even a plurality of support pillars spaced apart along the vacuum sealing element (i.e., extending along the vacuum sealing element) to provide support at multiple locations around and along the annular vacuum sealing element.

[0228] For example, in Figure 8 In the particular example shown, the support structure 144 protrudes less from the channel than the outer vacuum sealing element 145 protrudes from the channel. Thus, if the contact surface of the vacuum sealing element 144 contacts an object surface, such as a textured panel to be lifted, the vacuum sealing element 145 will contact the object surface and the support structure 144 will be spaced apart, i.e. offset, from the object surface. In this way, the chamber defined by the surrounding surface and the second side 141b of the base element 141 becomes closed, as the chamber is additionally bounded by the object surface.

[0229] When the pump 132 is activated, i.e., power is supplied to the pump 132 (when the vacuum chuck fixture 100 is activated by actuating (pressing) the power knob 124 and "turning on" the on / off button 126), air is drawn from the chamber through the holes 146, through the base element 141, through the filter 136, through the pump 132, and the air is drawn from the vacuum chuck fixture. If the contact surface of the vacuum sealing element 144 is already in contact with an object surface, the chamber will be closed. Therefore, when the pump 132 is activated, the air pressure within the closed chamber is reduced relative to the ambient air pressure outside the chamber, so that the vacuum chuck fixture 100 and the object surface are pushed to get closer.

[0230] As the pressure in the closed chamber decreases and the driving force increases, the contact surface of the vacuum sealing element 145 will begin to deform and compress, so that the vacuum suction cup fixture 100 and the surface of the object are closer and the contact surface of the vacuum sealing element 145 adapts to the shape of the object to more closely conform to the texture of the surface of the object.

[0231] When the vacuum chuck fixture 100 and the object surface are closer and more in contact with each other, a better seal is created, thereby reducing the undesirable situation of air entering the enclosed space through the gap between the vacuum sealing element 145 and the object surface. This creates a more effective vacuum, resulting in a stronger urging force between the vacuum chuck fixture 100 and the object surface toward each other.

[0232] Over-compression of the vacuum sealing element 145 may be problematic because it may damage the vacuum sealing element 145 via the transition from elastic deformation to plastic deformation. This may therefore result in reduced effectiveness of the vacuum sealing element 145, resulting in reduced gripping effect.

[0233] The support structure 144 helps prevent over-compression of the vacuum sealing element 145, as described below. As the vacuum chuck fixture 100 and the object surface are brought closer together, the offset or space between the support structure 144 and the object surface decreases due to the relative protrusion distances of the support structure 144 and the contact surface of the vacuum sealing element 145 from the second side of the base element 141. At a certain compression threshold, at least some of the vacuum sealing element 145 or its contact surface will be compressed to effectively protrude to the same extent as the support structure, so that the support structure 144 will contact the object surface. Because the support structure 144 is less prone to deformation than the vacuum sealing element 145, the support structure will resist and withstand further pushing forces caused by the vacuum, thereby preventing the vacuum sealing element 145 from further significant compression, i.e., over-compression.

[0234] An alternative to the above is an arrangement that uses only a vacuum sealing element whose material and shape are selected to be deformable but resistant to excessive deformation, thereby allowing the vacuum chuck fixture 100 to conform to the outer surface while avoiding excessive compression due to inherent material rigidity.

[0235] In each case, since the vacuum suction cup fixture 100 has a vacuum sealing element having a contact surface that can conform to the surface of an object, an effective vacuum can be easily formed, and therefore a smaller, i.e., more energy-efficient pump can be used. For example, the pump has an operating voltage of 9 to 14 volts DC, a vacuum degree of 80 kPa, a rated flow rate of 20 liters / minute, a rated power of 16 watts, and a rated voltage of 12 volts DC. Since the pump is smaller and consumes less energy, a smaller power supply is required. Therefore, both the pump portion 130 and the power supply portion 120 can be small and light, thereby increasing the portability and ease of use of the vacuum suction cup fixture, especially when the vacuum suction cup fixture is used to support and lift objects that are heavier in themselves.

[0236] In addition, the present invention can also improve energy efficiency by operating the pump in a variable manner, for example, by reducing the power provided to the pump to a level sufficient to maintain the vacuum grip of an object without having to reduce the pressure in the chamber to a stronger vacuum. In this way, the vacuum chuck clamp is better suited for different gripping situations, thereby saving power.

[0237] The vacuum cup clamp can be used on a variety of surfaces, including smooth and textured surfaces. This is because the deformability of the contact surface of the vacuum sealing element 145 of the vacuum cup clamp 100 allows the vacuum cup clamp 100 to conform to the surface of an object to be carried, thereby ensuring a sufficient vacuum even when the exterior is a textured surface (i.e., not a smooth surface).

[0238] Vacuum means that the limit pressure in the closed chamber is substantially lower than the atmospheric pressure, for example, having a pressure in the range of 50 to 80 kPa.

[0239] The vacuum suction cup clamp 100 can be used to pick up, support, hold, place and release objects, such as boxes, furniture, panels and other heavy, bulky, fragile or difficult to grasp objects. When the user wishes to release the object from the grip of the vacuum suction cup clamp, a simple release mechanism can be provided, which creates a gap on one surface of the closed chamber, allowing air to enter, thereby reducing the vacuum degree and the clamping force, so that the vacuum suction cup clamp 100 is separated from the outer surface of the object.

[0240] exist Figure 4 and more specifically in Figure 5 and 10In the example shown, a mechanical release is provided in the form of a release mechanism 150 having a release button 152 disposed at the first end 111a of the handle portion 110. The release button 152 is connected via a shaft 153 to a blocking member 158, which is located at the second side 141b of the base member via a hole in the base member 141. A surface of the blocking member 158 faces the second side 141b of the base member 141, and the surface includes an annular channel, wherein an O-ring or other sealing member is placed in the annular channel. The diameter of the O-ring or sealing member is larger than the outer circumference of the hole in the base member 141, and the O-ring or sealing member surrounds the outer circumference of the hole in the base member 141, wherein the shaft 153 passes through the hole. A compression spring 154 bears at one end against a circlip 155 on the shaft 153 and at the other end against the upper surface of the main base member 141, i.e. the upper surface 140a of the base portion 140. This causes the blocking member 158 to be biased and pulled upwards and compresses the O-ring or sealing member between the blocking member 158 and the second side 141b of the base member 141. This forms an effective airtight seal to prevent air from leaking into the closed chamber under vacuum conditions.

[0241] In the event that a user wishes to release a clamped item, the user may first release the push-to-release power knob 124 and / or "turn off" the on / off button 126 to turn off power to the pump portion 130. This will make release easier once an attempt is made to separate the item from the vacuum cup gripper 100. The user may then press the release button 152. This will overcome the biasing force of the spring 153 to push the shaft 153 downward and push the blocking element 158 ​​and the O-ring or sealing component away from the bottom side of the main base element 141, allowing air to enter the closed chamber. The pressure in the closed chamber increases to atmospheric pressure, and the vacuum cup gripper 100 can then be simply lifted and removed from the outer surface of the item.

[0242] Because the power button 126 and the release button 152 are conveniently located adjacent to each other at the first end 111a of the handle portion 110, the user can simply and easily use, for example, a single digit, such as: successively pressing each button with a thumb or index finger to release the vacuum suction cup clamp 100 from the outer surface of the object.

[0243] Although the above examples relate to a handheld vacuum cup gripper, it is also conceivable to connect a vacuum cup gripper to the end of a robotic arm. In such an embodiment, the vacuum cup gripper may not have a handle portion as described above, and the pump portion may be arranged on the first side of the base element, or mounted directly on the base element, or mounted at a distance, for example, in the robotic arm. The power supply portion may be in the form of a stored energy source, i.e., may be a battery, and / or may be a power connection via a wire or other conductive member along and / or through the robotic arm.

[0244] In such a robot arm, the vacuum chuck fixture may not have an on / off knob, but the power to the vacuum chuck fixture may be remotely controlled by a human or computer operator.

[0245] The vacuum provided by the vacuum cup clamp is strong enough to lift an object to which the vacuum cup clamp is attached.

Claims

1. A vacuum suction cup fixture for clamping a surface of an object, comprising: a base member having a first side and a second side opposite the first side; a vacuum sealing element attached to the second side of the base element, the vacuum sealing element and the second side of the base element defining a chamber, the vacuum sealing element having a contact surface for at least partially contacting the surface of the object, the vacuum sealing element being elastically deformable at least at the contact surface; an air extraction device mounted to the first side of the base member so as to be in fluid communication with the chamber through the base member and configured to continuously extract air from the chamber; and A sealing structural element having a T-shaped radial cross section, wherein the top of the T is parallel to the second side surface of the base element and is used to be attached to the second side surface, the legs of the T extend transversely to the second side surface of the base element, and the vacuum sealing element is located on one side of the legs of the T.

2. The vacuum suction cup fixture according to claim 1, characterized in that: A leakage sealing element is also included, and the leakage sealing element is arranged between the base element and the sealing structure element.

3. The vacuum suction cup fixture according to claim 2, characterized in that: The top of the T-shape contacts and is parallel to the leakage sealing element, and the legs of the T-shape extend transverse to the leakage sealing element.

4. The vacuum suction cup fixture according to claim 2, characterized in that: The base element includes an elliptical track on the second side, and the sealing structure element and the leakage sealing element are arranged in the elliptical track.

5. The vacuum suction cup fixture according to claim 4, characterized in that: The elliptical track has multiple track sides, forming an inner channel and an outer channel in the elliptical track, wherein the inner channel and the outer channel are defined by one of the multiple track sides and a corresponding side of the leg of the T-shape, and the vacuum sealing element is located in one of the inner channel and the outer channel.

6. The vacuum suction cup fixture according to claim 5, characterized in that: Also included is a support structure, which is attached to the second side of the base element and protrudes from the base element in a direction away from the first side of the base element, the extent to which the support structure protrudes from the second side of the base element is less than the extent to which the vacuum sealing element protrudes from the second side of the base element.

7. The vacuum suction cup fixture according to claim 6, characterized in that: The support structure is located in the other of the inner channel and the outer channel.

8. A vacuum suction cup fixture for clamping a surface of an object, comprising: a base member having a first side and a second side opposite the first side; a vacuum sealing element attached to the second side of the base element, the vacuum sealing element and the second side of the base element defining a chamber, the vacuum sealing element having a contact surface for at least partially contacting the surface of the object, the vacuum sealing element being elastically deformable at least at the contact surface; an air extraction device mounted to the first side of the base member so as to be in fluid communication with the chamber through the base member and configured to continuously extract air from the chamber; and a handle assembly having a graspable handle region and two spaced apart handle mounting regions oriented transversely to the handle region and integrally connected to the first side of the base member, Wherein, the air extraction device is accommodated in the handle assembly and is at least partially installed in the handle installation area.

9. The vacuum suction cup fixture according to claim 8, characterized in that: The air extraction device includes a power source, which is at least partially mounted in the handle mounting area.

10. The vacuum suction cup fixture according to claim 9, characterized in that: The power supply is mounted in one of the two handle mounting areas.

11. The vacuum suction cup fixture according to claim 8, characterized in that: The air extraction device includes an air extraction mechanism, which is at least partially installed in the handle installation area.

12. The vacuum suction cup fixture according to claim 11, characterized in that: The air extraction mechanism is mounted in one of the two handle mounting areas.

13. The vacuum suction cup fixture according to claim 8, characterized in that: The air extraction device comprises a power source and an air extraction mechanism, and the power source and / or the air extraction mechanism are at least partially accommodated in the handle installation area.

14. The vacuum suction cup fixture according to claim 13, characterized in that: The power source and the air extraction mechanism are respectively accommodated in the two handle installation areas.

15. The vacuum suction cup fixture according to claim 13, characterized in that: The power source and the air extraction mechanism are arranged at the same end or opposite ends of the handle assembly.

16. The vacuum suction cup fixture according to claim 13, characterized in that: The power source and one of the air extraction mechanism are not located at any end of the handle assembly, but are located in the middle of the handle assembly.

17. The vacuum suction cup fixture according to claim 13, characterized in that: One or both of the power source and the air extraction mechanism are disposed in one end of the handle assembly and extend further into the handle assembly away from the one end of the handle assembly.

18. The vacuum suction cup fixture according to claim 13, characterized in that: The air extraction mechanism is a pump or an impeller.

19. The vacuum suction cup fixture according to claim 8, characterized in that: The two handle mounting areas are connected to the first side of the base element at two locations spaced apart along the length of the base element, the base element having a lateral boundary, and the two spaced apart locations are closer to the lateral boundary than to the center of the second side.

20. A vacuum suction cup fixture for clamping a surface of an object, comprising: a base member having a first side and a second side opposite the first side; a vacuum sealing element, the vacuum sealing element being configured in an annular shape and attached to the second side surface of the base element, the vacuum sealing element and the second side surface of the base element defining a chamber, the vacuum sealing element having a contact surface for at least partially contacting the surface of the object, the vacuum sealing element being elastically deformable at least at the contact surface; an air extraction device mounted to the first side of the base member so as to be in fluid communication with the chamber through the base member and configured to continuously extract air from the chamber; The material of the vacuum sealing element has a compressibility of 75%.

21. The vacuum suction cup fixture according to claim 20, characterized in that: The material of the vacuum sealing element includes at least one of rubber, silicone and closed-cell foam.

22. The vacuum suction cup fixture according to claim 20, characterized in that: The vacuum chuck fixture further includes a support structure attached to the second side of the base element and protruding from the base element in a direction away from the first side of the base element.

23. The vacuum suction cup fixture according to claim 22, characterized in that: The support structure is made of a material that is more rigid than the vacuum sealing element.

24. The vacuum suction cup fixture according to claim 22, characterized in that: The material of the support structure includes at least one of rubber, silicone and closed-cell foam.

25. A vacuum suction cup fixture for clamping a surface of an object, comprising: A base element having a first side surface and a second side surface opposite to the first side surface, the second side surface having a central area and a periphery surrounding the central area, the second side surface being provided with an annular track and a plurality of ribs, the annular track having a plurality of track side surfaces, wherein the track side surface closer to the central area protrudes from the second side surface to a greater extent than the rib protrudes from the second side surface; a vacuum sealing element, configured in an annular shape and disposed in the annular track, the vacuum sealing element and the central region defining a chamber, the vacuum sealing element having a contact surface for at least partially contacting the surface of the object, the vacuum sealing element being elastically deformable at least at the contact surface; and An air extraction device is mounted to the first side of the base member so as to be in fluid communication with the chamber through the base member and is configured to continuously extract air from the chamber.

26. The vacuum chuck fixture according to claim 25, characterized in that: The annular orbit is an elliptical orbit.

27. A vacuum suction cup fixture for clamping a surface of an object, comprising: a base member having a first side and a second side opposite the first side; a vacuum sealing element attached to the second side of the base element, the vacuum sealing element and the second side of the base element defining a chamber, the vacuum sealing element having a contact surface for at least partially contacting the surface of the object, the vacuum sealing element being elastically deformable at least at the contact surface; an air extraction device mounted to the first side of the base member so as to be in fluid communication with the chamber through the base member and configured to continuously extract air from the chamber; Wherein, the air extraction device is operated in at least one of the following ways: a. Provide fluctuating operating power to the pumping device; b. reducing the power supplied to the vacuum device to a level sufficient to maintain the vacuum clamping of the surface of the object.

28. The vacuum chuck fixture according to claim 27, characterized in that: The air extraction device is an impeller or a pump.

29. The vacuum suction cup fixture according to claim 27, characterized in that: The fluctuating operating power includes at least one of pulse operation or intermittent operation.

30. The vacuum chuck fixture according to claim 27, characterized in that The air extraction device comprises a power source.

31. The vacuum chuck fixture according to claim 30, characterized in that: The power source includes a battery pack.

32. The vacuum suction cup fixture according to any one of claims 1 to 31, characterized in that The vacuum suction cup fixture is a portable or hand-held vacuum suction cup fixture.

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