Handling Device With 3D Printed Central Flange for Flat Articles
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing handling devices for picking up flat objects, such as intermediate layers for pallets, often have complex structures due to extensive hose connections and may not ensure synchronous control of suction pads, leading to reliability and manufacturing efficiency issues.
Innovation Solution
A handling device with multiple cantilever arms equipped with suction heads, a central flange section, and a line system for transmitting negative pressure, where the central flange section is produced using three-dimensional printing for a compact and cost-effective design, eliminating the need for direct hose connections and incorporating a Venturi effect for pressure generation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If extensive hose connections are used to supply vacuum to individual suction grippers, then each gripper can be independently controlled, but the device design becomes complex and manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple suction grippers into a single common suction element that can simultaneously engage multiple intermediate layers. Instead of using separate hose connections for each gripper, the invention uses a unified suction structure with a single vacuum supply, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining the ability to handle multiple layers independently through the distributed suction openings along the boom arms.
Solution Approach 2:
The common suction element serves multiple functions: it can pick up one or multiple intermediate layers simultaneously, the boom arms can be positioned at different angles to access different locations, and the same vacuum system handles both suction and positioning functions. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate control systems for each gripper.
2Reliability
If individual hose connections are provided for each suction gripper, then vacuum can be transmitted to each gripper, but the overall device size increases and compactness is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The suction openings are integrated directly into the structure of the boom arms, which are themselves part of the vacuum generation unit. The hollow boom arms contain the vacuum channels, and the suction openings are formed as part of the boom arm structure rather than being separate components. This nesting eliminates the need for external hose connections and reduces device size.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the vacuum transmission function with the structural function of the boom arms. The boom arms serve both as mechanical support structures and as conduits for vacuum transmission, eliminating the need for separate hose connections and reducing overall device complexity and size.
3Productivity
If synchronous control of multiple suction grippers is implemented, then all grippers can operate simultaneously, but control complexity and manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple suction grippers into a single common suction element controlled by a unified vacuum system. Since all suction openings are connected to the same vacuum source through the hollow boom arms, synchronous operation is achieved automatically through the common vacuum pressure, eliminating the need for complex individual control systems for each gripper.
Solution Approach 2:
The vacuum system automatically synchronizes the operation of all suction openings through the common vacuum pressure. When vacuum is applied to the boom arms, all suction openings simultaneously engage intermediate layers without requiring individual control signals. The system self-regulates through the physical properties of vacuum pressure distribution.
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 device provides a simpler, more reliable, and cost-effective means to pick up and place flat objects with synchronized suction, ensuring stability and efficiency in handling without the complexity of traditional systems.
Implementation Method 1
A handling device with multiple cantilever arms equipped with suction heads, a central flange section, and a line system for transmitting negative pressure
Implementation Method 2
incorporating a Venturi effect for pressure generation
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The invention relates to a handling device (1) and a method for picking up flat articles. The handling device (1) comprises a plurality of radial arms (3), each having at least one suction head (6) for gripping the flat article. The handling device further comprises a central flange section (4) from which the plurality of radial arms (3) extend away in different directions and which has a supporting function for the plurality of radial arms (3). The central flange section (4) comprises a conduit system which is fluidically connected to the suction heads (6) in order to transmit a negative pressure onto the suction heads (6) of the plurality of radial arms (3).