Multi-Principle Vacuum Generator for High Flow and Holding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vacuum generators struggle to efficiently combine high volume flow and high vacuum generation, leading to ineffective object manipulation and holding during the suction process.
Innovation Solution
A multi-stage vacuum generator using at least two different vacuum generation principles, such as Venturi, Bernoulli, Coanda, and vortex principles, connected in series or parallel, with movable flaps to control volume flows and pressures, and a blow-off device for quick ejection, allowing for simultaneous or sequential operation of vacuum units.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a single vacuum generation principle is used, then the device structure is simple, but it cannot achieve both high volume flow and high vacuum simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple vacuum generation principles (Venturi, Bernoulli, Coanda, vortex) into a single integrated device. The first vacuum unit generates high volume flow while the second vacuum unit generates high vacuum, and both units operate within one device structure to achieve simultaneous high productivity and controlled complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The vacuum generator is divided into multiple independent vacuum units (first vacuum unit and second vacuum unit), each responsible for a specific function. This segmentation allows each unit to optimize for its specific task while maintaining overall device manageability
2Productivity
If high volume flow is generated, then object pickup is effective, but vacuum holding is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The device separates the pickup function (handled by the first vacuum unit generating high volume flow) from the holding function (handled by the second vacuum unit generating high vacuum). This functional segmentation ensures that each stage of object manipulation is optimized for its specific purpose
Solution Approach 2:
The first vacuum unit performs preliminary action by generating high volume flow to attract and pickup the object. Once the object is secured, the second vacuum unit takes over to maintain firm holding through high vacuum, ensuring reliable object retention throughout the process
3Reliability
If high vacuum is generated, then object holding is firm, but object pickup response is slow
Solution Approach 1:
The device separates the rapid response pickup function (first vacuum unit with high volume flow) from the stable holding function (second vacuum unit with high vacuum). This allows the system to achieve both fast response and firm holding by activating the appropriate unit at the appropriate time
Solution Approach 2:
The first vacuum unit performs preliminary action by quickly generating high volume flow to attract the object immediately. After pickup is achieved, the second vacuum unit is activated to establish firm holding, ensuring both speed and reliability are optimized at different stages
4Productivity
If multiple vacuum units are combined, then both high volume flow and high vacuum are achieved, but construction volume increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent arranges the multiple vacuum units in a nested or compact configuration where components are integrated within a shared housing. The exhaust air jet of one unit serves as the driving air jet for the next unit, creating a cascaded arrangement that minimizes overall device volume while maintaining multiple functional units
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple vacuum units are merged into a single integrated device with shared components and housing. The units are arranged to share common structural elements and fluid pathways, reducing the total construction volume compared to separate devices
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 efficient object pickup and secure holding by combining high volume flow for initial attraction and high vacuum for retention, with controlled pressure and volume flow management, and quick ejection capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
the Venturi principle with a propulsion and a receiver nozzle
Implementation Method 2
the Coanda principle where air follows a curved surface
Implementation Method 3
the Bernoulli principle where 'fast' air with high dynamic pressure creates a static vacuum
Implementation Method 4
the vortex principle
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2a~2b
Figure 3
AI summary
The invention relates to a compressed-air-operated vacuum generator or vacuum gripper having at least two vacuum units, wherein each vacuum unit has a suction chamber, an intake opening which opens into the suction chamber, an outflow opening which opens out of the suction chamber, and at least one drive air opening which opens into the outflow opening between the intake opening and the outflow opening, and wherein the vacuum units operate on the basis of at least two different principles (venturi, Bernoulli, coanda, vortex, etc.) for vacuum generation.