Transfer Device Side Suction Load Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional picking robots face difficulties in transferring cardboard boxes with open tops, as suctioning the upper surface is challenging, and suctioning the side surface can result in a large oblique load, potentially damaging the box.
Innovation Solution
A transfer device with a base portion, support plate, front-rear actuator, and vertical actuator that suctions the side surface of the box, lifts it, and then places it on a support plate, distributing the load to ensure safety and prevent damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the suction device suctions the side surface of the article, then the article can be lifted, but a large load acts obliquely on the suction device which may damage the article
Solution Approach 1:
The support plate is moved forward to insert it under the article before the suction device applies full suction force. This preliminary positioning ensures that when suction is applied, the load is already partially supported by the plate, preventing excessive oblique loading on the article
Solution Approach 2:
The support plate acts as an intermediary between the suction device and the article. It distributes the load from the suction device across a larger area and provides stable support, preventing the concentrated oblique load that would otherwise act directly on the article
2Reliability
If the support plate is inserted under the article during transfer, then the load is distributed safely, but the device complexity increases due to additional actuators and coordination
Solution Approach 1:
The support plate is integrated with the base portion of the transfer device, combining the support function with the existing structural components. This reduces overall system complexity compared to having separate support mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The support plate is designed to be movable rather than fixed, allowing it to dynamically adjust its position to insert under the article as needed. This dynamic capability enables load distribution while maintaining operational flexibility and relatively simple control
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 transfer device safely handles boxes with open tops by distributing the load onto a support plate while suctioning, enhancing the safety of the suction device and preventing damage during transfer.
Implementation Method 1
The suction device is provided on the base portion so as to be movable in the vertical direction, and can suction a side surface of the article.
Data Source
AI summary
A transfer device to transfer an article by moving the article in a front-rear direction includes a base portion, a support plate movable in the front-rear direction with respect to the base portion and able to support a bottom surface of the article, a front-rear actuator that actuates the support plate in the front-rear direction with respect to the base portion, a suction device that is provided on the base portion to be movable in a vertical direction to suction a side surface of the article, and a vertical actuator that actuates the suction device at least in an ascending direction with respect to the base portion and supports the suction device to be detachable from the suction device in a descending direction.