Segmented Separation Layer for Reliable Vacuum Gripping
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Solution Overview
Problem
In the production of mechanical components, such as bearing components, separation layers used for palletization often bond together due to fluids like conservation fluid and lubricant, leading to issues with gripping robots and increased manufacturing costs from work-intensive washing processes.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a separation layer with slots and a handling apparatus, preferably a vacuum gripper, that moves the separation layer by bending it to open the slots and release adhesion, allowing for secure handling and detachment without raising multiple layers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of stationary object
If separation layers are stacked for storage after use, then space is saved, but the layers bond together due to fluids carried by components
Solution Approach 1:
The separation layer is segmented by introducing slots that divide the layer into multiple sections. These slots create separation zones that prevent the bonding of stacked layers while maintaining the overall integrity of the separation layer during its functional use.
Solution Approach 2:
The slots act as intermediary spaces between stacked separation layers. When layers are stacked for storage, the slots create air gaps or fluid channels that prevent direct contact and bonding between adjacent layers, allowing them to be stored compactly while remaining detachable.
2Reliability
If a washing process is installed to prevent bonding of stacked separation layers, then layer detachment reliability improves, but manufacturing costs and work intensity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The separation layer design is self-service in nature. The slots are built into the layer structure itself, providing the bonding prevention function inherently without requiring external washing processes or additional cleaning equipment. The design solves the problem through its own structural features.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of investing in expensive washing infrastructure, the solution uses a simple structural modification (slots) that is inexpensive to implement. The separation layers can be used and discarded without requiring costly cleaning equipment, reducing overall system complexity.
3Extent of automation
If a gripping robot is used to handle stacked separation layers, then handling automation improves, but the robot may raise multiple bonded layers instead of a single layer
Solution Approach 1:
The slots segment the separation layer structure, creating physical separation zones that allow the gripping robot to engage only the top layer. The segmented structure prevents multiple layers from being gripped simultaneously, ensuring precise single-layer selection even in automated handling.
Solution Approach 2:
The slots create local quality differences in the separation layer structure. The areas around the slots have different mechanical properties compared to the solid portions, allowing the gripping robot to apply force locally and selectively grip only the intended layer without inadvertently lifting bonded layers below.
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 prevents the bonding of separation layers, reducing the need for a washing process and associated costs, while enabling efficient handling and movement of individual layers in a production process.
Implementation Method 1
a handling apparatus (4) which is configured to move the separation layer
Data Source
AI summary
A system for handling separation layers in a production process includes at least one separation layer and a handling apparatus. The handling apparatus is preferably a vacuum gripper and is provided to move the separation layer. The separation layer has at least one slot which facilitates bending of the separation layer during lifting of the layer by the handling apparatus, such bending releasing the separation layer being lifted from another separation layer located in a stack of separation layers beneath the lifted layer.