Low-Profile Tool Change Mechanism for Compact Vacuum Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing transfer mechanisms in controlled environments, such as ultra high vacuum or ultra clean chambers, are bulky and time-consuming due to the need to accommodate rigid transfer devices, increasing the size and cost of the chamber and the time to achieve the desired controlled environment.
Innovation Solution
A low-profile transfer mechanism using a winch system under gravity to move objects vertically, paired with a gravity-activated tool and carousel, allowing objects to be transferred without opening the chamber, reducing the vertical extent of the mechanism and minimizing chamber size.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a rigid transfer mechanism is used to accommodate forces to move objects, then the transfer mechanism can handle various objects, but the size of the mechanism becomes large (on the order of the device or larger)
Solution Approach 1:
The transfer mechanism transitions from a rigid structure to a dynamic, flexible structure. The flexible transfer mechanism can change its configuration and adapt its shape to accommodate different objects and force requirements, eliminating the need for a large rigid structure while maintaining the ability to handle various objects.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanism changes its physical parameters (rigidity, shape, configuration) dynamically during operation. By adjusting these parameters, the mechanism can provide the necessary force for moving different objects without requiring a consistently large size, thus resolving the contradiction between versatility and volume.
2Ease of operation
If a large transfer mechanism is used, then objects can be transferred into and out of the device, but the chamber size must be increased to accommodate the mechanism
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible transfer mechanism can be stored in a compact configuration within the chamber and deployed only when needed for object transfer. This dynamic capability allows the chamber to maintain a small size while still providing full transfer functionality when required.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible transfer mechanism can be folded or nested within the chamber when not in use, similar to a nested doll structure. This allows the mechanism to occupy minimal space during storage while maintaining full functionality during operation, thus reducing the required chamber size.
3Ease of operation
If multiple chamber sections are used to accommodate the transfer mechanism and device, then objects can be transferred, but the time and expense to bring the chamber to controlled environment increases
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible transfer mechanism enables a more compact chamber design with fewer sections, allowing the entire chamber to be brought to the controlled environment more quickly. The mechanism's ability to adapt its configuration reduces the need for multiple chamber sections while maintaining full transfer capability.
4Ease of operation
If a rigid transfer mechanism is used, then objects can be moved back and forth, but the mechanism requires a vertical extent that increases chamber size
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible transfer mechanism can change its vertical configuration dynamically, collapsing to a compact form when not in use and extending only when needed for transfer operations. This eliminates the need for a permanently large vertical extent while maintaining full transfer functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanism uses flexible structural elements that can bend and fold, allowing it to achieve the necessary vertical reach during operation while maintaining a compact footprint during storage. This flexible construction replaces the rigid, permanently extended structure.
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 low-profile transfer mechanism saves space and time in achieving the controlled environment, reducing costs by minimizing the chamber's size and time to reach the desired conditions.
Implementation Method 1
a resilient element configured to bias the block horizontally laterally outward into the engaged position when the tool is suspended from the cradle
Implementation Method 2
a tool and a coupler, wherein the tool includes: a handle that is configured to suspend a remainder of the tool there below
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus includes a tool (3100, 3200). The tool includes: a handle (3106, 3206) that is configured to suspend a remainder of the tool there below and that includes a protruding overhang (3130, 3230); and a height lock assembly (4000) having a block (4002), the block having an upper tab (4010U). In a side view in which the tool is upright and in which the protruding overhang extends in a horizontally lateral direction: when the block is in an engaged position the upper tab extends in the horizontally lateral direction relatively further and is disposed under at least a portion of the protruding overhang; and in a disengaged position the upper tab extends in the horizontally lateral direction less such that the upper tab is retracted from under the at least a portion of the protruding overhang.