Automated Lifting Device with Booster Valve for Dynamic Suction Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vacuum lifting devices lack the ability to dynamically control the suction valve during operation, limiting the variability of suction force and thus restricting the precision and efficiency of object lifting and placement.
Innovation Solution
The lifting device incorporates a valve unit with a movable plate that can be actuated to open and close, allowing for real-time adjustment of the suction force by regulating the air intake between the hoisting tube and the suction pad.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional vacuum lifting device uses a fixed valve position, then the structure is simple, but the suction force cannot be dynamically adjusted during operation
Solution Approach 1:
The valve is designed to be movable rather than fixed, allowing it to change position dynamically during operation. The valve can be actuated to open and close at different stages of the lifting process, enabling real-time adjustment of suction force to match varying operational requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve mechanism is integrated into the lifting device structure, allowing the device to control its own suction force without external intervention. The movable valve enables the system to automatically adapt suction levels based on the lifting phase (approach, hold, release).
2Use of energy by moving object
If the valve is kept closed to maintain vacuum, then lifting stability is improved, but energy consumption increases due to continuous vacuum maintenance
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of maintaining continuous vacuum, the valve is opened periodically or at specific phases when lifting stability is not critical (such as during approach or release phases). This periodic venting reduces energy consumption while maintaining stability during critical lifting phases when the valve remains closed.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically changes the vacuum parameter by adjusting valve position. When high stability is needed, the valve closes to maintain high vacuum. When energy saving is prioritized and stability is less critical, the valve opens to allow atmospheric pressure equalization, reducing the energy required for vacuum maintenance.
3Use of energy by moving object
If the valve opens to reduce vacuum, then energy consumption decreases, but the lifting force is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The valve is opened in advance during the approach phase before the suction pad contacts the object. This preliminary action allows the system to reduce vacuum and save energy during the non-critical approach phase, then close the valve and restore vacuum once the object is engaged and lifting force is needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts the balance between energy consumption and lifting force by controlling valve position based on operational phase. During approach and release, the valve opens to reduce energy use. During holding and lifting, the valve closes to maximize lifting force.
4Extent of automation
If the valve is manually operated, then control precision is improved, but the automation level decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The valve control system is integrated into the automated lifting device, allowing the device to control its own valve positioning based on operational phase and suction requirements. This self-service approach maintains automation while providing precise control through feedback mechanisms that adjust valve position according to actual lifting conditions.
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 enables improved control over the lifting process, allowing for precise adjustment of suction force, reduced energy consumption, and enhanced noise reduction, thereby improving the overall efficiency and accuracy of object handling.
Implementation Method 1
a vacuum pump for creating a vacuum within the hoisting tube (12)
Implementation Method 2
a movable plate (15) which can be actuated to open and close, allowing for real-time adjustment of the suction force by regulating the air intake between the hoisting tube and the suction pad
Data Source
AI summary
A hoisting tube (12) is attached to a suction pad (5) having an inner volume and an edge providing an air-tight closure to a surface of an object during operation. A vacuum source subjects the hoisting tube (12) to a low pressure, and the inner volume of the hoisting tube (12) is connected to the inner volume of the suction pad (5) in such a way that air may flow from one to the other, the vacuum source providing a lifting force when air flowing into the hoisting tube (12) is limited or cut-off. A valve unit (14) includes a separator (15) that in one position reduces an airflow between the inner volumes of the hoisting tube (12) and the suction pad (5) and in at least one open position allows a maximum airflow therebetween. The valve unit (14) includes an actuator (6) for controlling the position of the separator.