Pivoting Receiving Unit for Automated Plasma Cleaning of Small Parts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing plasma cleaning systems for small parts are complex to handle due to the need for manual placement of parts into separate carrier devices or bags before loading into the cleaning chamber, which hinders efficient automation and ease of use.
Innovation Solution
The plasma cleaning system allows the receiving unit to pivot between a cleaning position and a loading/removal position by at least 30°, enabling easier filling and removal of small parts, and can be designed for automatic operation with a gripping device, allowing for pre- and post-cleaning steps to be integrated into the process sequence.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If small parts are filled into separate carrier devices or bags before loading into the cleaning chamber, then the plasma cleaning process can be effective, but the handling complexity increases and automation becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The receiving unit is divided into multiple compartments that can be independently filled and processed. Each compartment can hold small parts directly without requiring separate carrier devices, simplifying the loading process while maintaining effective plasma exposure for each compartment
Solution Approach 2:
The receiving unit serves multiple functions: it acts as both the container for small parts and the processing chamber. The unit can be directly loaded with parts, positioned in the plasma field for cleaning, and then removed for unloading, eliminating the need for separate carrier devices and bags
2Reliability
If manual placement of parts into carrier devices is used, then parts can be protected during handling, but the operation time and labor requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The receiving unit is designed to be pre-filled with small parts outside the cleaning chamber using automated filling systems. This preliminary action eliminates the need for manual placement during the cleaning process, reducing operation time while maintaining parts protection through the unit's design
Solution Approach 2:
The receiving unit is designed with self-loading capabilities where parts can be automatically deposited into the unit without manual intervention. The unit's structure facilitates automated handling and protection of parts throughout the process
3Device complexity
If the receiving unit is stationary in the cleaning chamber, then the plasma application is simple, but the ease of loading and unloading parts is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The receiving unit is designed to be movable within the cleaning chamber, capable of being positioned into and out of the plasma field. This dynamic positioning allows the unit to be easily loaded and unloaded while maintaining simple plasma application when in the cleaning position
Solution Approach 2:
The receiving unit can be extracted from the cleaning chamber entirely for loading and unloading operations. This extraction capability simplifies the plasma application process (since the unit is only in the plasma field during cleaning) while greatly improving ease of operation during loading and unloading
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 design simplifies the handling and automation of small parts, improving the efficiency and ease of use of the plasma cleaning process while maintaining effective plasma application for surface cleaning.
Implementation Method 1
plasma cleaning systems, even small residual amounts of interfering substances can be removed with great reliability, e.g. by using low-pressure plasmas
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
For a plasma cleaning system for small parts, comprising a cleaning chamber (1), plasma generating means (10) for generating a plasma and a receiving unit (3) arranged in the cleaning chamber (1) having a receiving opening (9) for receiving the small parts (12), it is proposed that the receiving unit (3) be pivotable within the cleaning chamber (1) by at least 30° between a cleaning position and a loading/unloading position.