Suction Device Lever Mechanism for Single-Handed Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing suction devices lack efficient mechanisms for both activating and releasing suction, particularly in applications requiring single-handed operation and easy release from surfaces, such as glazing panel replacement and repair.
Innovation Solution
A suction device with a flexible sucker having a peripherally extending skirt, an actuator that reconfigures between suction released and enhanced configurations, and a lever-operated edge lifter mechanism to facilitate single-handed operation and easy release, utilizing a cam arrangement and suction relieving groove for efficient air passage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional suction device uses a separate mechanism for activation and release, then the suction function is reliable, but the device complexity increases and single-handed operation becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the activation and release functions into a single lever mechanism. The lever can be operated in two directions: one direction activates suction by pressing the flexible membrane against the surface, while the opposite direction releases suction by lifting the membrane edge. This merging of functions allows single-handed operation without increasing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The lever actuator serves multiple functions: it activates suction, releases suction, and controls the edge-lifting mechanism. By making the lever multi-functional, the device reduces the number of separate components needed, thereby simplifying the overall mechanism while maintaining reliable suction control.
2Ease of operation
If the suction device uses a rigid structure, then the suction force is strong, but the ease of release from surfaces decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a flexible membrane instead of a rigid structure for the suction surface. This flexible membrane can dynamically adapt to the surface being suctioned, maintaining strong suction force while allowing easy release when the lever is operated to lift the edge. The flexibility enables the membrane to conform to slight surface variations while still providing sufficient suction strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The suction device uses a flexible membrane that can be deformed by the lever mechanism. When the lever lifts the edge of the membrane, air can pass underneath, breaking the vacuum seal and releasing suction. This flexible film approach maintains strong suction during normal operation while enabling easy release through controlled deformation.
3Ease of operation
If the suction device includes edge-lifting capability, then the release function is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The edge-lifting mechanism is merged with the existing lever actuator. The same lever that controls suction activation also controls edge lifting through a linkage system. This integration means that the release function is added without requiring a completely separate mechanism, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
A linkage mechanism acts as an intermediary between the lever and the membrane edge. This linkage translates the lever's rotational motion into the linear motion needed to lift the membrane edge. By using this intermediary mechanism, the complex motion requirements are satisfied while keeping the overall structure relatively simple and integrated with the existing lever system.
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 convenient and single-handed activation and release of suction, enhancing vacuum effect during application and easy detachment from surfaces, suitable for tasks like glazing panel handling and mounting.
Implementation Method 1
the lever preferably including a cam arrangement to act to apply the force on the sucker to reconfigure the sucker between the suction released configuration and the suction enhanced configuration
Implementation Method 2
a flexible sucker having a peripherally extending skirt; an actuator operable to: i) apply or release an activating force at a central region of the sucker to reconfigure the sucker between a suction released configuration and a suction enhanced configuration
Implementation Method 3
Lifting the edge of the sucker membrane allows air to pass under the edge and aid in release of the sucker device
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
A suction device (1) has a flexible sucker membrane having a peripherally-extending skirt (4), and an actuator (6) arranged to act to reconfigure the sucker between a suction enhanced configuration and a suction released configuration. The actuator (6) is also operable to lift an outer edge of the peripherally extending skirt (4) which enables more convenient release of the suction device than would otherwise be possible.