Vacuum Generator Module with Master-Slave Segmentation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vacuum gripping systems face challenges in accessing and managing vacuum generators located near suction cups during operation, making it difficult to adjust vacuum levels and address defects, especially due to safety concerns and the need for centralized control and monitoring.
Innovation Solution
A vacuum generation module system with a master module communicating via a field BUS and dedicated BUS, allowing centralization of parameter setting and operation control, featuring microcontrollers for communication protocols like Ethernet, ProfiBus, and ModBus, enabling remote monitoring and adjustment of vacuum levels and fault signaling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If vacuum generators are located close to suction cups to optimize energy saving and response time, then energy consumption is reduced and response time is improved, but accessibility for adjustment and maintenance becomes difficult or dangerous
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into a master vacuum generator module with communication capabilities and multiple slave modules. The master module serves as a centralized control point that can be accessed remotely, while slave modules remain positioned near suction cups for optimal performance. This segmentation allows close positioning of vacuum generators without compromising accessibility, as the master module handles centralized management.
Solution Approach 2:
A communication bus system acts as an intermediary between the master module and slave modules. This intermediary enables remote monitoring and adjustment of vacuum parameters through the master module, eliminating the need for direct physical access to slave modules located in hazardous areas. The communication interface serves as the mediator that resolves the conflict between close positioning and accessibility.
2Loss of energy
If vacuum generators are located close to suction cups to optimize energy saving, then energy consumption is reduced, but accessibility for maintenance and adjustment becomes difficult or dangerous
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides vacuum generation functions across master and slave modules, with the master module positioned for accessibility and slave modules positioned near suction cups for energy efficiency. This segmentation allows the system to maintain low energy consumption while providing safe access points for maintenance through the master module's communication interface.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces direct mechanical access to vacuum generators with electronic communication for monitoring and adjustment. Instead of physically accessing slave modules in hazardous areas, operators can remotely monitor and adjust parameters through the master module via communication bus, eliminating safety risks while maintaining energy efficiency.
3Ease of operation
If centralized control is implemented through a master module, then ease of operation and safety are improved, but device complexity increases due to communication protocols and microcontrollers
Solution Approach 1:
The master module serves multiple functions: it acts as a vacuum generator, a communication hub, a monitoring station, and a control interface. By consolidating these diverse functions into a single multi-functional unit, the system achieves centralized control and safety benefits without proportionally increasing complexity, as the master module handles multiple roles that would otherwise require separate components.
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 allows for safe and efficient centralized management of vacuum parameters, improving energy consumption and response times, enhancing versatility and reducing the risk of operator exposure to hazardous areas.
Implementation Method 1
Vacuum gripping systems apply the Venturi effect to generate the suction necessary for gripping and handling objects by means of suction cups in which the generated vacuum is made to reign. These vacuum generators or vacuum pumps, sometimes called ejectors, are in the form of boxes or modules, powered by a pressurized gas whose passage at the level of an internal flow neck creates suction in a chamber at the level of this neck
Data Source
Figure 1~2
AI summary
The invention relates to a vacuum generator module, which comprises a substantially box-shaped housing (1) in which the following elements are housed: the pneumatic vacuum generating means (2,3,4,5,6,7,8) and the channels for connecting same to a port (14) for taking in a pressurized gas, to a gas exhaust port (16), and to a suction port (15), each port communicating with the outside through one (1b, 1c) of the surfaces of the case (1); and electronic means (12) for controlling and monitoring the operation of the pneumatic means and the electrical connections thereof to an electrical power source and external members for control according to a defined program, comprising two connectors, one (17) for input and the other (18) for output also embedded into one (1b) of the surfaces of the case, characterized in that the electronic means consists of a multi-network microcontroller (20) for managing inputs/outputs, capable of assigning the module a master or slave function depending on whether or not the module is directly connected to a fieldbus in a vacuum handling machine incorporating the module.