Flexible Gripping Device for Layer Palletizing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing palletizing solutions require significant space adjacent to the layer formation area for gripping and transferring layers, which is inefficient and cumbersome, and often necessitate the use of pushers that can damage fragile products.
Innovation Solution
A method and installation that utilize flexible loading surfaces on a gripping device with retractable aprons and conveyors to directly grip and lift layers from the formation table, eliminating the need for additional space and pushers, allowing for efficient transport and deposition between a pick-up and drop-off point.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If traditional palletizing installations with separate layer formation area and gripping area are used, then the layer can be formed and transferred, but the installation occupies excessive floor space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the layer formation area and gripping area into a single integrated workspace. The gripping device is positioned directly at the layer formation location on the table, eliminating the need for separate gripping and transfer areas. This merging of functions allows the layer to be formed and immediately gripped without requiring additional floor space for intermediate positioning areas.
Solution Approach 2:
The table surface serves multiple functions: it acts as both the layer formation surface and the gripping area. The gripping device can directly access layers formed on the table without requiring the layer to be moved to a separate gripping station. This multi-functionality of the table reduces the overall space requirement while maintaining operational effectiveness.
2Ease of operation
If pusher elements are used to move layers onto the gripping device, then the layer can be transferred, but the products may be damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical pusher system with a suction-based gripping mechanism. Instead of using physical contact and pushing forces that can damage fragile products, the gripping device uses suction cups to gently lift and transfer the layer. This substitution of the mechanical pushing action with a non-contact suction mechanism eliminates the harmful forces while maintaining effective layer transfer.
Solution Approach 2:
The suction cups act as an intermediary between the gripping device and the layer, providing a gentle holding force without direct mechanical contact that could cause damage. The suction mechanism mediates the transfer process by creating a vacuum bond that lifts the layer without the need for pushing or impacting forces.
3Adaptability or versatility
If additional space is provided next to the layer formation area for the gripping device, then the layer can be loaded, but the installation becomes cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The gripping device is integrated directly into the layer formation area rather than being positioned in a separate adjacent space. The suction cups are positioned to directly access the layer on the table surface, combining the loading function with the existing table structure. This integration eliminates the need for additional space and reduces installation complexity.
Data Source
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AI summary
The method involves positioning of a gripping device (1) on a table (26) such that a slat (2bis) of a flexible loading surface (2) is placed in a contiguous manner with an end of a set of aprons (12a, 12b) in the table. The set of aprons is allowed to be retracted and deployed simultaneously on the flexible loading surface that slides in a corresponding slideway such that the flexible loading surface takes the place of the displacement unit under a packing unit layer (25) on the table. An independent claim is also included for an installation for raising, transferring and depositing a layer of packing unit.