Movable Magnet Element Switches Vacuum Conduit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing conveying devices for sheet goods lack a simple and efficient mechanism to switch between magnetic and vacuum holding means, requiring complex operations and multiple elements to manage both holding methods effectively.
Innovation Solution
A conveying device with a movable magnet element that deactivates magnetic holding by distancing from the conveyor and blocks or unblocks vacuum conduits to switch between holding methods, allowing dual functionality with minimal elements and a single movable part.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If separate control mechanisms are used for magnetic and vacuum holding means, then each holding method can be independently controlled, but the device complexity increases and operation becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the control functions for both magnetic and vacuum holding means into a single movable element. This element simultaneously controls the magnetic field activation and the vacuum conduit blocking, reducing the number of control mechanisms from two separate systems to one integrated system.
Solution Approach 2:
The movable element is designed with multi-functionality, serving dual purposes: it acts as a magnetic holder when activated and as a vacuum conduit blocker when positioned differently. This universal element replaces what would traditionally require separate control mechanisms for each holding method.
2Device complexity
If a single movable element controls both magnetic and vacuum holding means, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability of switching between holding methods may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the control functions into one movable element, the patent reduces the potential failure points associated with multiple separate mechanisms. The unified design ensures coordinated operation between magnetic and vacuum systems, improving reliability through synchronization.
Solution Approach 2:
The movable element automatically performs both control functions based on its position and state. When the element is activated, it simultaneously engages the magnetic field and blocks the vacuum conduit, creating a self-regulating system that reduces the need for additional control logic and improves operational reliability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple elements are used to manage both holding methods, then each function can be optimized independently, but the number of components increases
Solution Approach 1:
The single movable element is designed to be universally applicable for both magnetic and vacuum holding operations. It can handle ferromagnetic goods using magnetic attraction and non-ferromagnetic goods using vacuum suction, maintaining adaptability across different material types without requiring additional specialized components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges multiple control functions into one element, reducing the total component count while preserving the ability to handle various goods types. The element's design incorporates both magnetic activation capability and vacuum conduit blocking capability, eliminating the need for separate components for each function.
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 seamless operation between magnetic and vacuum holding means with a single movable element, simplifying the conveying process and reducing the number of components needed, facilitating efficient handling of ferromagnetic and non-ferromagnetic sheet goods.
Implementation Method 1
The magnetic holding means comprise at least one movable element comprising at least one magnet
Implementation Method 2
the holding unit comprising a plurality of vacuum conduits that allows communicating the vacuum holding means with the conveyor means
Data Source
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AI summary
Conveying device for conveying goods, in particular goods (50) in the form of a sheet, comprising a conveyor means (20) for conveying the goods (50) and a holding unit (10) for holding or releasing the goods (50) with respect to said conveyor means (20), the holding unit (10) comprising vacuum holding means (30) and magnetic holding means (40), said holding unit (10) comprising at least one vacuum conduit (33) that allows communicating the vacuum holding means (30) with the conveyor means (20). The magnetic holding means (40) comprise at least one movable element (41) comprising at least one magnet, being able to deactivate the magnetic holding means (40) by distancing said movable element (41) from the conveyor means (20), and being able to arrange the movable element (41) in a closed position in which said movable element (41) blocks the vacuum conduit (33).