Glass Sheet Handling Apparatus with Adjustable Second Post
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing glass sheet handling apparatus face challenges in efficiently picking up and laying down glass sheets due to changes in sheet inclination caused by varying load stress, leading to potential breakage and increased handling time, particularly requiring numerous position sensors for accurate orientation.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus features a frame with a comb-like configuration and adjustable second post that can change inclination, allowing all suction cups to adhere uniformly to the sheet without prior inclination measurement, and includes sensor means to determine the second post's position for precise lay-down, enabling efficient handling of glass sheets of different inclinations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a large number of position sensors are used to determine sheet inclination and apparatus position, then the frame can be oriented parallel to the sheet surface, but the device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the position sensing function from multiple distributed sensors and concentrates it into a single sensor mounted on the second post. This single sensor measures the distance to the sheet surface, from which the control system calculates both the inclination angle and the distance to the sheet, thereby determining the complete position information without requiring multiple sensors throughout the apparatus.
Solution Approach 2:
The second post acts as an intermediary carrier that holds the single position sensor. By mounting the sensor on the movable second post rather than having multiple fixed sensors across the frame, the system uses this intermediary structure to achieve comprehensive position measurement with minimal sensor quantity.
2Device complexity
If the frame is oriented according to the sheet inclination without adjustment, then the apparatus structure remains simple, but some suction cups are placed forward causing non-uniform force distribution and sheet breakage risk
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamics by making the second post movable relative to the first post through hinge means, allowing it to rotate and adjust its inclination angle. This dynamic adjustment capability enables the pick-up surface to be oriented parallel to sheets at different inclinations, ensuring uniform suction cup contact and force distribution without requiring complex overall frame adjustment mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by allowing only the local second post to adjust its inclination independently, while the main frame structure remains fixed. This localized adjustment at the suction cup level is sufficient to achieve parallel orientation with the sheet surface, maintaining handling safety without complicating the global apparatus structure.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the second post is fixed in position, then the apparatus structure is simpler, but it cannot adapt to sheets with different inclinations stored on stands
Solution Approach 1:
The second post is designed to be dynamically adjustable through hinge connections, allowing it to rotate and change its inclination angle to match sheets stored at different angles on stands. This dynamic capability provides adaptability to various sheet positions without requiring the entire apparatus to be reconfigurable.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus is segmented into a fixed first post and a movable second post, allowing the second post to independently adjust its angle while the main structure remains stable. This segmentation enables localized adaptation to different sheet inclinations without affecting the overall apparatus complexity.
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
This solution allows for safe and efficient picking up and laying down of glass sheets by ensuring all suction cups adhere uniformly, reducing the risk of breakage and handling time, while minimizing the need for extensive position sensor systems.
Implementation Method 1
The apparatus comprises a frame (100) with comb-like configuration and at least one first post (110) extending in a longitudinal direction (Z1) and a second post (120) supported by the first post (110). The second post (120) is reversibly movable relative to the first post (110)... allowing all suction cups to adhere uniformly to the sheet
Implementation Method 2
The apparatus comprises sensor means (80) determining a position of the second post (120)... allowing all suction cups to adhere uniformly to the sheet without prior inclination measurement
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to an apparatus for handling glass sheets comprising a frame capable of moving relative to support means for at least one sheet, and comprising a crossbar with a first longitudinally extending post projecting therefrom, the free end of the first post being situated below said crossbar. The apparatus is further equipped with handling means for handling and orienting the frame to set its position against the larger surface of the sheet (3). Advantageously, the apparatus is characterized in that it comprises a second post supported by the first post and comprising first gripper means which define a first pick-up surface and are designed to engage and removably hold the sheet. The second post is also reversibly movable relative to the first post so that it may change the inclination of the second post to the first post from at least one first position to a second position.