Automated Lifting Device With Sliding Valve Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional lifting devices are cumbersome, require external specialists for programming, and involve complex equipment and programming processes, making them less efficient and more expensive compared to modern systems.
Innovation Solution
A lifting device comprising a first unit with a catching mechanism, such as suction pads, and a second unit that controls vertical and horizontal positions using a robot, allowing for safer operation, easier programming, and quicker installation by integrating a vacuum hoisting tube with a sliding member and valve system for adjustable lifting power.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional vacuum lifting device with manual valve operation is used, then the device can lift objects, but the device structure becomes cumbersome and requires complex programming by external specialists
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional manual valve operation mechanism with an automated robot system. The robot can automatically control the valve to admit air into the hoisting tube, eliminating the need for manual intervention and complex programming by specialists. This substitution of mechanical manual control with automated robotic control resolves the contradiction by simplifying operation while managing system complexity through integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The robot system is designed to perform multiple functions: it can position the lifting device, control the valve operation, and manage the lifting process. This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise require separate manual operations and programming into a single automated system, thereby improving ease of operation without proportionally increasing device complexity.
2Productivity
If a traditional vacuum lifting device with manual control is used, then the device can be operated, but it requires more equipment and longer programming processes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the positioning function and the valve control function into a single robot system. Instead of having separate manual controls for positioning and separate programming for valve operation, the robot integrates both functions. This consolidation reduces the overall equipment requirements and shortens the programming process, thereby improving productivity while keeping device complexity manageable through functional integration.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the hoisting tube is made axially extensible and contractible with a sliding member, then the lifting power can be adjusted, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a sliding member that can move axially within the hoisting tube to adjust the volume of air admitted, thereby dynamically adjusting the lifting power. This dynamic adjustment capability allows the device to adapt to different lifting requirements. The complexity is managed by integrating this sliding mechanism into the existing hoisting tube structure, making the adaptability feature part of the core lifting mechanism rather than an add-on.
4Volume of moving object
If a compact design is implemented to avoid covering the device, then the device size is reduced, but safety requirements become more challenging to meet
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses an automated robot system with sensors to monitor and control the lifting operation, replacing manual operation. This automation enhances safety by eliminating human exposure to potential hazards while maintaining a compact device design. The robot can detect and respond to safety conditions, ensuring reliable operation despite the reduced size and lack of physical covering.
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 solution provides a safer, more compact, and easier-to-program lifting device that reduces equipment and programming needs, enabling faster delivery and simpler installation, while maintaining efficient lifting capabilities for various objects.
Implementation Method 1
a first unit (1) configured with one or more catching parts such as suction pads (5)
Implementation Method 2
a valve device (13) configured to admit air to the hoisting tube (12) so that the hoisting tube (12) is axially extensible and contractible in dependence on the air pressure prevailing in the hoisting tube (12)
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a lifting device for lifting and vertically, and possibly horizontally, replacing an object. The lifting device comprises a first unit (1) configured with one or more catching parts such as suction pads and a second unit (2) configured to control vertical and optionally horizontal position of the object.The second unit (2) comprises a first attachment position and a second attachment position andthe first attachment position is fixed to a vertically extending part (3) of the first unit (1);the second attachment position is fixed to a sliding member (10) of the first unit (1) by a rigid joint configured to transfer all movements induced at the second attachment position by the second unit (2) to a sliding member (10) of the first unit configured to slide between two positions along a longitudinal member (11) of the first unit.