Suction Cup Pipe Valve Deformation Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing suction conveyor systems are complex, require intricate control and regulation, and are not low-maintenance, making them costly and unreliable for safe and efficient operation.
Innovation Solution
A suction cup device with a pipe valve featuring a socket element and annular closure element that can transition from a closed to open position through deformation of the actuating suction cup, eliminating the need for complex control systems and allowing for simple, reliable operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If complex control and regulation systems are used in suction conveyor systems, then precise vacuum control is achieved, but device complexity and maintenance requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The suction cup device uses the product itself to actuate the pipe valve through deformation, eliminating the need for external control systems. The system serves itself by using the loaded state (product weight) to automatically open the valve and enable vacuum, and the unloaded state to automatically close the valve and stop vacuum.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical control systems with a simple deformation-based actuation mechanism. The actuating suction cup deforms under product weight to mechanically open the pipe valve, substituting electronic or complex mechanical control with a direct mechanical response to loading conditions.
2Reliability
If complex control systems are implemented, then vacuum application is precise, but maintenance requirements and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The device automatically manages its own vacuum application cycle through product-induced deformation. When a product is loaded, deformation opens the valve to apply vacuum; when unloaded, the valve automatically closes to stop vacuum. This self-managing mechanism eliminates complex control systems that would require maintenance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs simple, inexpensive components like the deformation-based actuating suction cup and basic pipe valve structure. These simple mechanical components are more durable and easier to replace than complex electronic control systems, reducing long-term maintenance costs and improving ease of repair.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple vacuum zones with independent control are used, then product handling flexibility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The suction conveyor system divides the conveying path into multiple zones with suction cup devices spaced along the conveyor. Each zone operates independently through its own pipe valve, allowing selective vacuum application at different locations. This segmentation provides flexibility in product handling while keeping each individual zone simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The pipe valve design with deformation-based actuation serves multiple functions: it controls vacuum application, responds to product loading, and enables automatic operation without external control. This universal mechanism can be replicated across multiple zones, providing flexible product handling with a standardized simple component.
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 solution results in a low-maintenance, cost-effective, and safe suction conveyor system that requires minimal air flow control, reducing power consumption and ensuring secure product handling.
Implementation Method 1
the actuation of the tubular valve being effected by deformation of the actuating suction cup in such a way that the deformation of the actuating suction cup causes a displacement of the closure element in the vertical direction
Implementation Method 2
a suction cup device (2) for a suction conveyor (1) with a suction cup (42) for picking up a product and delimiting a suction space (43) and a connection port (29) for applying a negative pressure to the suction space (43)
Data Source
Figure 1~4
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Figure 7~9
AI summary
According to the invention, a suction cup device is provided for a vacuum conveyor. This conveyor comprises a suction cup for receiving a product, wherein the suction cup defines a suction chamber, and a connecting port for applying a vacuum to the suction chamber. The present invention is characterized in that the connecting port has a pipe valve, wherein the pipe valve comprises a bushing element and an annular sealing element, and wherein the pipe valve is designed such that the pipe valve can be moved from a closed to an open valve position by applying a product, wherein the actuation of the pipe valve is effected by deformation of the actuating suction cup such that the deformation of the actuating suction cup causes a displacement of the sealing element in the vertical direction, so that the annular sealing element of the pipe valve is moved into an open position.