Concentric Suction Cup Exchange Mechanism for Variable Object Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional suction cup mechanisms are inadequate for lifting objects of varying sizes and weights, as smaller cups cannot handle larger or heavier objects, while larger cups are too large for smaller objects, limiting their versatility in facilities with diverse object sizes.
Innovation Solution
A robotic mechanism employing a single linear telescoping actuator to exchange and deploy two or more suction cups of different sizes, allowing a larger outer suction cup and a smaller inner suction cup to be used based on object size, with interlocks such as ball detents and electromagnets for secure attachment and detachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If a larger suction cup is used, then the lifting capacity for heavier objects is improved, but the cup becomes too large to seal around smaller objects
Solution Approach 1:
The suction cup system is divided into multiple independently controllable suction cups of different sizes. The end effector can selectively engage only the necessary number and size of suction cups based on the object being lifted, allowing a small suction cup to lift a small object while a large suction cup is available for heavier objects.
Solution Approach 2:
The end effector incorporates a mechanism that allows dynamic adjustment of the suction cup configuration. The suction cups can be independently actuated, extended, or retracted based on real-time requirements, enabling the system to adapt its effective suction area and lifting capacity to match the size and weight of the object being handled.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a smaller suction cup is used, then the seal around smaller objects is improved, but the cup becomes incapable of lifting larger or heavier objects
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses multiple suction cups of varying sizes that can be independently controlled. When lifting small objects, only the appropriately sized smaller suction cups are engaged to achieve effective sealing, while larger suction cups remain inactive or retracted, preventing over-sizing issues.
Solution Approach 2:
The end effector is designed as a universal system that can handle objects of varying sizes and weights using the same base mechanism. By selectively deploying different sized suction cups from the same end effector assembly, the system achieves multi-functionality without requiring separate specialized tools for different object classes.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple suction cups of different sizes are maintained, then adaptability to different object sizes is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The suction cups are arranged in a nested or concentric configuration where smaller suction cups are positioned within or alongside larger suction cups. This nesting allows multiple sized suction cups to be integrated into a compact end effector structure, reducing the overall space required and simplifying the mechanical arrangement while maintaining the ability to selectively engage different sizes.
4Device complexity
If a single suction cup size is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the productivity for handling diverse objects decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs dynamic control of multiple suction cups, where the actuation state of each suction cup can be independently adjusted based on the object being handled. This dynamic capability allows the simple base mechanism to achieve high productivity by optimizing the suction cup configuration for each specific lifting task, whether that involves one small cup, one large cup, or multiple cups working together.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables efficient and adaptable lifting of objects of different sizes by allowing the robotic mechanism to switch between larger and smaller suction cups, ensuring effective engagement and lifting capacity regardless of object size or weight.
Implementation Method 1
A linear telescoping actuator is provided that has a proximal end that is affixed relative to the housing and a distal end that is operatively coupled to the inner tube such that the actuator can extend and retract the inner tube.
Implementation Method 2
interlocks such as ball detents and electromagnets for secure attachment and detachment
Data Source
AI summary
A multiple suction cup apparatus for lifting an object includes the capability of exchanging a large and small suction cup. At least one interlock enables the large or small suction cup to be deployed. The interlocks include passive interlocks, such as ball detents and conventional magnets, and active interlocks, such as a twist lock and electronic actuated magnets.