Robot Container Handling With Isolator Sealing for Bulk Transfer
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for handling containers, such as emptying and filling bulk materials, are laborious, time-consuming, and costly due to manual operations involving O-rings and inflatable seals.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising a robot device with a robot arm, gripper, and controller, operating an opening element to access container interiors, and an isolator for sealed handling, using inflatable seals and a flexible connecting element to ensure contamination-free operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual operations with O-rings and inflatable seals are used, then sealing and container handling are achieved, but the process becomes laborious, time-consuming, and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The robot device autonomously performs container handling operations including opening the opening element, inserting the conveyor line, and closing components without human intervention. The system serves itself by automatically executing the entire sequence of operations that previously required manual labor with O-rings and inflatable seals
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operations with an automated robot device that uses a gripper to manipulate components. The robot arm mechanically performs tasks such as opening the opening element, inserting the conveyor line into the container, and closing the closure, substituting human mechanical actions with automated mechanical systems
2Productivity
If manual handling is used, then container access and material transfer are achieved, but labor costs and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The robot device performs multiple functions within a single integrated system: it opens the opening element, inserts the conveyor line, positions it correctly in the container, and closes the closure. This multi-functional approach increases productivity while managing complexity by consolidating operations into one automated device rather than multiple separate mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The conveyor line acts as an intermediary component that the robot device manipulates to transfer bulk material. The robot grips and positions the conveyor line, which then serves as the medium for material transfer between the container and external systems, simplifying the overall automation architecture
3Extent of automation
If automated robot device is used, then operational efficiency is improved, but the system requires sealed isolation to prevent contamination
Solution Approach 1:
The isolator creates a sealed, isolated environment that protects the bulk material from contamination during automated handling. This controlled atmosphere prevents external contaminants from entering while allowing the robot device to perform operations, effectively managing the contamination risk associated with automation
Solution Approach 2:
The system divides the handling process into separate sealed zones: the isolator contains the bulk material, the opening element provides a controlled interface, and the conveyor line transfers material through sealed connections. This segmentation maintains automation while preventing contamination by creating distinct isolated compartments
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
Facilitates simplified, efficient, and contamination-free handling of containers by automating the process, reducing labor and time, and minimizing material loss.
Implementation Method 1
an inflatable seal arranged to seal the passage portion
Implementation Method 2
a pump arranged outside the isolator generates such a vacuum in the delivery line or suction pipe that the user can empty the drum
Data Source
AI summary
The application relates to a device for handling containers including: a robot device configured to operate an opening element provided on/in a container in such a way that the robot device has access to an interior space of the container via the opening element, and to subsequently fill and/or empty the container via the opening element.