End Effector Connector Vacuum Generation for Robotic Picking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing robotic picking stations face challenges with vacuum systems, including heat generation hazards, vacuum line stiffness reducing dexterity, and incompatibility with environments below 5°C due to vane pump limitations.
Innovation Solution
An end effector connector with an integrated suction assembly featuring a manifold with a venturi restriction, a reconfigurable valve assembly, and a filter, allowing for vacuum pressure generation, measurement, and positive pressure delivery to enhance operational flexibility and efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a vane pump is used to generate vacuum pressure, then vacuum pressure can be generated, but the system cannot operate in environments below 5°C and heat generation creates hazards
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the operating parameters by using a venturi restriction that functions effectively at sub-zero temperatures unlike vane pumps. The venturi design allows vacuum generation without mechanical moving parts that fail in cold environments, enabling operation below 5°C while maintaining reliable vacuum pressure generation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical vane pump system with a venturi-based vacuum generation system. The venturi uses fluid dynamics principles rather than mechanical rotating vanes, eliminating the mechanical components that are incompatible with cold environments and removing heat generation hazards
2Reliability
If vacuum lines are made stiff to prevent collapse, then vacuum pressure can be maintained, but dexterity of the robotic manipulator is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the vacuum generation function from a centralized location with long vacuum lines and integrates it directly into the end effector connector. This eliminates the need for long vacuum lines between the manipulator and vacuum source, allowing flexible, thin-walled tubing that maintains dexterity while preventing vacuum collapse through proximity to the vacuum generation point
3Loss of energy
If the vacuum system is integrated into the robotic arm, then vacuum losses are reduced, but the robotic arm becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the vacuum system into a separate end effector connector module that interfaces with the robotic manipulator. This modular approach integrates vacuum generation close to the point of use to minimize losses while keeping the robotic arm itself relatively simple, with the vacuum components contained in a separate attachable unit
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
The integrated suction assembly reduces vacuum losses, enhances dexterity by minimizing the need for stiff vacuum lines, and allows operation in various environments, including chilled areas, thereby improving the overall performance and reliability of robotic picking stations.
Implementation Method 1
a first channel connectable to a pressure source, the first channel being configured to direct a pressurized fluid through the venturi restriction in order to generate the vacuum pressure within the chamber
Implementation Method 2
a suction assembly configured to generate vacuum pressure for releasably engaging an item
Data Source
AI summary
An end effector connector for a robotic arm, the end effector connector comprising a suction assembly configured to generate vacuum pressure for releasably engaging an item. The suction assembly comprises a manifold comprising a chamber and a vacuum generator housed within the chamber, the vacuum generator comprising a venturi restriction in fluid communication with the chamber. The suction assembly also comprises a first channel connectable to a pressure source, the first channel being configured to direct a pressurized fluid through the venturi restriction in order to generate the vacuum pressure within the chamber. The suction assembly further comprises a second channel opening into the chamber, wherein the second channel is alternately connectable to i) a vacuum measuring unit for measuring the vacuum pressure within the chamber when a pressurized fluid is directed through the venturi restriction; or, ii) the pressure source for delivering a pressurized fluid to the chamber in order to generate a positive pressure therein when the first channel is disconnected from the pressure source.