Pneumatic Vacuum Generator Non-Circular Venturi Nozzles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vacuum generators, such as multistage ejectors and Coanda ejectors, are bulkier due to their cylindrical venturi nozzles, which occupy significant installation space and increase production costs.
Innovation Solution
A pneumatic vacuum generator with venturi nozzles having a non-circular flow cross section, such as rectangular, oval, or elliptical, in a sandwich construction with parallel plates, allowing for a compact design and reduced installation space, and the option to integrate vacuum control with a vacuum sensor and flap valve.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If cylindrical venturi nozzles are used in multistage ejectors, then the vacuum generator can achieve sufficient vacuum performance, but the device becomes bulkier and occupies significant installation space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from cylindrical (3D rotational symmetry) venturi nozzles to planar (2D flat) venturi nozzles, changing the geometric dimension of the flow cross-section. This dimensional change allows the vacuum generator to be flattened, reducing the installation space volume while maintaining the vacuum performance through optimized planar geometry design
2Ease of manufacture
If cylindrical venturi nozzles are used, then the vacuum generator achieves sufficient vacuum generation, but production costs increase due to more complex manufacturing
Solution Approach 1:
By changing from cylindrical to planar venturi nozzles, the manufacturing process is simplified. Planar nozzles can be manufactured using standard sheet metal forming or laser cutting techniques, which are more cost-effective and easier to produce than precision-cylindrical components, thereby reducing production costs while maintaining vacuum generation capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the geometric parameters of the venturi nozzle from circular cross-section to planar cross-section with specific aspect ratios. This parameter change enables the use of simpler, more cost-effective manufacturing processes while optimizing the vacuum performance through careful selection of planar dimensions and flow characteristics
3Length of stationary object
If conventional multistage ejectors with cylindrical nozzles are used, then adequate vacuum performance is achieved, but the device height and overall dimensions increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dimensional change by replacing cylindrical nozzles with planar nozzles, which fundamentally reduces the height dimension of the vacuum generator. The planar geometry allows for a flattened profile that maintains vacuum flow capability through optimized two-dimensional flow paths and pressure differentials
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 compact design of the vacuum generator with non-circular venturi nozzles reduces installation space requirements and production costs, enabling efficient use of available space and integration with area vacuum grippers.
Implementation Method 1
vacuum generators which generate a negative pressure using the Venturi principle
Implementation Method 2
cylindrical transport ejectors that operate according to the Coanda principle
Data Source
AI summary
A pneumatic vacuum generator includes at least one venturi nozzle having a flow cross section which deviates for a circularity. The venturi nozzle may thus have a substantial rectangular or non-circular flow cross section like for example an oval flow cross section or an elliptical flow cross section. At least two plates are disposed in parallel relationship and joined in sandwich construction, with one of the plates constructed to accommodate the venturi nozzle.