Modular Suction Frame with Programmable Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing suction frames are inflexible and require complex, prone-to-defect line systems, making it difficult to change or reconfigure suction elements quickly, and they have large space requirements for multiple configurations.
Innovation Solution
A suction frame with an adapter and multiple suction units connected via a line network, where each suction unit is coupled and decoupled using a coupling head, allowing for fully automatic and programmable configuration, and a transfer station for automatic handling and reconfiguration of suction units.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If suction elements are manually assembled on an adapter plate with predefined positions, then the suction frame structure is simple, but the adaptability to different components is poor and reconfiguration is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The suction frame is segmented into modular components: an adapter plate with multiple coupling receptacles arranged in a raster pattern, and individual suction units with coupling heads. This segmentation allows independent positioning and configuration of suction elements according to different component requirements, improving adaptability while maintaining structural simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling receptacles and coupling heads are designed as universal interfaces that can accommodate different suction unit configurations. The raster arrangement of coupling receptacles allows the same adapter plate to support various suction element patterns, enabling one system to handle multiple component types without requiring complex dedicated line systems for each configuration.
2Reliability
If complex line systems are routed in the region of suction elements, then the suction elements can be positioned, but the systems are prone to defects and changes in configuration or position are impeded
Solution Approach 1:
The complex line routing is extracted from the suction element region and consolidated into a centralized line network on the adapter plate. The coupling heads connect directly to coupling receptacles that are already integrated with the line network, eliminating the need for separate hose routing in the suction element region. This reduces defect-prone connections and simplifies reconfiguration operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling receptacles serve as intermediaries between the centralized line network and the coupling heads of suction units. This intermediary structure provides standardized connection points that simplify the interface between the fixed line network and movable suction elements, improving reliability by reducing complex routing while maintaining ease of operation through standardized coupling mechanisms.
3Adaptability or versatility
If complete suction frames are prepared in advance for different configurations and stored in an accumulator, then various configurations can be handled, but the space requirement increases and flexibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The suction frame transitions from a static, pre-configured system to a dynamic, reconfigurable system. Individual suction units can be coupled and decoupled from the adapter plate as needed, allowing the system to adapt to different component configurations on-demand. This eliminates the need to store multiple complete suction frame configurations in an accumulator, significantly reducing space requirements while maintaining versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter plate is prepared in advance with a raster arrangement of coupling receptacles and integrated line network, creating a ready-to-use foundation. Individual suction units are pre-manufactured with coupling heads, but the actual configuration assembly is deferred until needed. This preliminary preparation of components rather than complete systems enables quick reconfiguration without requiring large storage space for multiple full configurations.
4Productivity
If suction units are manually assembled and connected, then the system is simple to construct, but the equipping process is time-consuming and not freely programmable
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism is designed to be self-servicing, allowing suction units to be coupled to and decoupled from the adapter plate through simple, standardized interfaces. The latching connection and unlatching connection provide automatic mechanical engagement and disengagement, enabling rapid equipping operations that can be easily automated without complex assembly procedures. This self-service design facilitates both manual and automated operation with equal efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables parameter changes in the configuration of suction elements through programmable control of the equipping process. By varying which suction units are coupled to which coupling receptacles according to programmed instructions, the system can be freely configured for different components. This parametric control of configuration, combined with the simple coupling mechanism, enables high-speed automatic equipping while maintaining flexibility.
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 flexible, automatic equipping of suction frames with suction elements for different components without manual intervention or complex line routing, improving handling speed and reliability.
Implementation Method 1
Suction frames in which suction elements, in particular suction sticks, are received on an adapter plate
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a suction frame for conveying flat workpieces (e.g. circuit boards), a manipulator for equipping the suction frame, and a system for handling flat workpieces, e.g. circuit boards. A method for adjusting a suction frame is also claimed. Overall, the present invention allows suction frames to be equipped in a fully automatic, freely programmable manner for the production of different components within a production line.