Suction Cup Deformation Sensing for Deterioration Detection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing suction apparatuses require dedicated manufacturing for versatile operation and lack a straightforward method to determine suction portion deterioration.

Innovation Solution

A suction apparatus with a deterioration determination unit that calculates the deformation ratio of multiple suction portion regions without holding an object, using proximity sensors or strain sensors to assess deterioration based on deformation data.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a dedicated suction portion is manufactured for each application, then the suction performance and reliability are improved, but the manufacturing complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesuction performanceVSAvoidmanufacturing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The suction portion is designed with a universal structure that can be used across different applications without dedicated manufacturing for each case. The invention uses a standard化的 suction component that maintains reliable suction performance while eliminating the need for custom manufacturing, thereby reducing device complexity and manufacturing cost.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If a dedicated suction portion is manufactured for each application, then the suction performance is improved, but the ease of manufacture deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesuction performanceVSAvoidease of manufacture
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The invention employs a universal suction portion design that can be manufactured using standard processes and applied to multiple applications. This eliminates the need for dedicated manufacturing for each application, significantly improving ease of manufacture while maintaining suction performance through proper design of the universal component.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Measurement precision

If the suction portion is monitored while holding an object, then the deterioration detection accuracy is improved, but the operational time and productivity are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedeterioration detection accuracyVSAvoidoperational time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The invention performs deterioration detection by monitoring the suction portion in a state where it is not holding an object, which is a preliminary check before actual operation. This allows for accurate assessment of the suction portion's condition without interrupting operational time, as the detection can be performed during idle periods or before the suction portion is put into service.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

4Ease of operation

If the suction portion is monitored in a static state, then the measurement simplicity is improved, but the detection comprehensiveness may deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasurement simplicityVSAvoiddetection comprehensiveness
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The invention performs deterioration detection in a static state where the suction portion is not holding an object, simplifying the measurement process. By conducting the assessment before operation, the system ensures that the suction portion is properly positioned and prepared, allowing for simple yet comprehensive detection of potential deterioration without the complexity of monitoring during active operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

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

Enables easy determination of suction portion deterioration, allowing for timely maintenance and preventing operational failures.

Implementation Method 1

a suction portion 112 configured to hold an object by suction with negative pressure

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSuction with negative pressure: Suction

Data Source

PatentEP4049812B1Degradation determination device, degradation determination method, and control program
Publication Date: 2024.12.11 OMRON CORP
  • EP4049812B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4049812B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4049812B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

Provided is a suction apparatus capable of easily determining whether a suction portion has deteriorated. A deterioration determination apparatus according to an aspect of the present disclosure includes: an information obtainment unit (113) configured to obtain information on deformation of one or more regions of a suction portion configured to hold an object by suction with negative pressure; and a deterioration determination unit (115) configured to determine whether or not the suction portion has deteriorated, depending on the deformation of the one or more regions of the suction portion in a state in which the suction portion does not hold an object by suction.