Vacuum Control for Pneumatic Gripper Leak Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pneumatic gripping systems require multiple vacuum sensors for each gripping member, increasing cost and complexity, and existing methods to identify leaks are time-consuming or inaccurate.
Innovation Solution
A method using a single vacuum sensor and iterative valve switching to identify leaks in gripping members by comparing measured vacuum levels with a reference level, allowing precise identification of leaking members and reducing system complexity and cost.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a vacuum sensor is placed at each secondary pipe between the node and the corresponding gripping member to measure vacuum pressure at each gripping member, then the vacuum level at each gripping member can be monitored, but the number of sensors increases proportionally with the number of gripping members, increasing device cost and complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The pneumatic circuit is segmented into multiple zones, each controlled by a valve associated with a specific gripping member. A single vacuum sensor measures the vacuum level in each segment by sequentially isolating it from others, enabling individual monitoring without requiring multiple sensors throughout the system.
Solution Approach 2:
Valves act as intermediaries between the vacuum sensor and different gripping members. The sensor measures vacuum levels indirectly by isolating specific circuit segments through valve control, eliminating the need for direct sensor placement at each gripping member location.
2Reliability
If multiple vacuum sensors are used to identify leaking gripping members, then leak detection capability is improved, but the time required to identify the specific leaking member increases due to the need to check each sensor reading individually
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs periodic vacuum measurements by sequentially isolating different circuit segments controlled by individual valves. By cyclically switching valves and measuring vacuum levels in each segment, the system efficiently identifies leaking gripping members through time-multiplexed measurement rather than simultaneous multi-sensor reading.
Solution Approach 2:
The vacuum sensor provides feedback on the vacuum level in each isolated segment. By comparing vacuum levels across different segments and identifying abnormal readings, the system quickly locates leaking gripping members and provides feedback for corrective action.
3Adaptability or versatility
If valves are used to switch between closed and open positions to control fluid communication between the vacuum source and gripping members, then selective activation of gripping members is achieved, but the system complexity increases due to the additional valve components
Solution Approach 1:
Each valve serves multiple functions: it controls vacuum supply to the associated gripping member for selective activation, and simultaneously isolates the corresponding circuit segment for vacuum measurement. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components and justifies the valve inclusion by providing dual purposes.
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 method efficiently identifies and isolates leaking gripping members with a single sensor, reducing system complexity and cost while ensuring reliable object gripping.
Implementation Method 1
a pneumatic circuit 200 is generally provided comprising a vacuum source 206, such as a mechanical vacuum pump or a venturi vacuum generator, configured to create, at the level of each gripping member, a depression necessary for gripping the object
Implementation Method 2
at least one vacuum sensor adapted to measure a vacuum level in the pneumatic circuit between the vacuum source and the plurality of valves
Data Source
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Figure 3
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AI summary
A method (P) for controlling vacuum for a pneumatic gripping system (10) which comprises a vacuum source (26), a plurality of gripping members (13) and a pneumatic circuit (20), the pneumatic circuit (20) comprising a plurality of valves (27), each valve (27) being associated with a corresponding set of gripping members and being configured to switch between a closed position (F) and an open position (O), the pneumatic gripping system (10) comprising a vacuum sensor (28) adapted to measure a vacuum level in the pneumatic circuit (20) between the vacuum source (26) and the plurality of valves (27).