Vacuum Pump Driven by Electromagnetic Induction for Moving Pallets
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional transport systems face challenges in providing reliable power and vacuum to moving elements, particularly when they are in motion, which can lead to issues with handling fragile or flexible parts and maintaining precise positioning during processing.
Innovation Solution
A transport system with a moving element equipped with a vacuum pump driven by energy generated through electromagnetic induction or mechanical interaction, allowing for continuous vacuum provision to the pallet while in motion, using a vacuum pump powered by interaction between the moving element and the transport system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If a battery or complex cabling system is used to provide power to the moving element, then the moving element can have a power source, but the system becomes more complex and bulky
Solution Approach 1:
The power source function is extracted from the moving element itself and provided externally through the track system. The moving element no longer needs to carry batteries or complex cabling, as power is delivered through the interaction with the track's electromagnetic field.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical cabling system is replaced with an electromagnetic field-based power transfer system. The track generates electromagnetic fields that induce current in the moving element, eliminating the need for physical electrical connections.
2Reliability
If a vacuum pump is mounted on the moving element to provide vacuum while moving, then vacuum is available during motion, but the moving element becomes heavier and more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The vacuum pump is removed from the moving element and relocated to the stationary track system. The track provides vacuum through outlets that engage with the moving element, eliminating the need for the moving element to carry its own vacuum pump.
Solution Approach 2:
A vacuum interface mechanism acts as an intermediary between the stationary vacuum source and the moving element. This interface allows vacuum to be transferred from the track to the moving element without requiring the moving element to have its own vacuum generation system.
3Ease of operation
If conventional fixtures are used to hold parts, then parts can be reliably loaded and unloaded, but the fixtures are larger than needed and parts are not held in precise locations
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using large fixtures that accommodate full tolerance ranges, the system uses localized vacuum outlets that provide precise holding forces only where needed. The vacuum is applied locally to the part surface, enabling precise positioning without requiring oversized fixtures.
Solution Approach 2:
The holding mechanism changes from mechanical contact with large fixtures to pneumatic vacuum holding. This parameter change allows for more precise control of part positioning and reduces the size of the holding structure while maintaining reliable operation.
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 reliable vacuum support for moving elements, enhancing the handling of fragile parts and maintaining precise positioning without the need for bulky power sources, improving the flexibility and precision of part handling and processing.
Implementation Method 1
the vacuum pump is driven by energy generated by interaction between the moving element and the transport system
Implementation Method 2
The vacuum source may be driven by mechanical energy. For example, the mechanical energy may be generated by a friction wheel on the moving element engaging with a stationary element of the transport system
Data Source
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AI summary
A system for providing vacuum to a moving element of a transport system, the system includes: a vacuum chamber on the moving element for storing vacuum; a vacuum source; a vacuum inlet provided on the vacuum chamber and for connection to the vacuum source; and a vacuum outlet in communication with the vacuum chamber and positioned on the moving element. The vacuum source may be provided on and travel with the moving element or on the transport system and periodically engage with the vacuum chamber. Where the vacuum source is provided on the moving element, a vacuum chamber may not be required. Further, the vacuum source may be driven by electrical energy and/or mechanical energy in various configurations.