Vacuum Gripper Handling for Hollow Precast Structure Flipping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing construction technologies face challenges in efficiently handling precast structures, particularly hollow and volumetric types, due to high process time, damage risk, and additional costs associated with manual lifting and flipping, and the need for improved, automated, and robust handling systems.
Innovation Solution
A precast structure handling system with vertically parallel members and adjustable gripper units equipped with suction pads and a control system that adjusts based on structure properties, using vacuum and hydraulic power for precise lifting and flipping without causing damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual lifting and flipping with hooks is used, then the precast structure can be handled, but the process time is very high and there is a high chance of causing damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical hook system with an automated vacuum-based gripping system. The vacuum gripper units create suction forces that securely hold the precast structure without requiring manual intervention, thereby reducing process time while maintaining structure integrity through controlled, automated handling.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs vacuum technology (a form of pneumatics) to create holding forces through vacuum gripper units. The vacuum system generates negative pressure to secure the precast structure, enabling automated lifting and flipping operations that are both faster and safer than manual methods.
2Adaptability or versatility
If vacuum lifters are used for non-volumetric precast elements, then handling is simplified, but they cannot be used for hollow and volumetric structures with thin walls
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses adjustable vacuum gripper units that can dynamically adapt their positioning and suction force distribution. This allows the system to handle various structure types including hollow and volumetric forms with thin walls, as the grippers can be positioned optimally and adjust their gripping force to prevent wall damage.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the parameters of vacuum application by using multiple adjustable gripper units that can be positioned at different locations and apply varying suction forces. This enables safe handling of hollow and volumetric structures with thin walls by distributing the vacuum load appropriately across the structure surface.
3Ease of operation
If repeated hooking and unhooking is performed manually, then the precast structure can be lifted and flipped, but additional costs are incurred and process time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into a single automated vacuum handling system. The vacuum gripper units perform both lifting and flipping operations through coordinated movement, eliminating the need for separate hooking and unhooking steps required by manual methods, thereby reducing process cycle time while maintaining operational simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The automated vacuum system performs handling operations without requiring manual hooking and unhooking by workers. The system self-regulates the gripping and releasing processes through automated control, reducing both time loss and labor costs while maintaining ease of operation through centralized control.
4Device complexity
If manual handling methods are used, then equipment costs are reduced, but the chance of causing massive damage to structures is high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces simple manual handling tools with an automated vacuum system that provides controlled, damage-free handling. The vacuum grippers distribute forces evenly across the structure surface, preventing the localized stress concentrations that occur with manual hooks, thereby improving reliability while maintaining reasonable system simplicity through modular vacuum unit design.
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 system significantly reduces handling time and effort, minimizes process cycles, and enhances throughput by efficiently lifting and flipping precast structures with minimal damage, optimizing handling for hollow and volumetric structures.
Implementation Method 1
a suction pad configured for coupling with a surface of a precast structure based on a pressure difference generated by a vacuum system
Data Source
AI summary
A precast structure handling system includes at least two vertically parallel members having top ends and bottom ends. The top ends are mechanically coupled with a longitudinal rail at a bottom of a horizontal member. The precast structure handling system further includes at least two adjustable gripper units coupled with opposite bottom ends of the at least two vertically parallel members. Each adjustable gripper unit includes a suction pad configured for coupling with a surface of a precast structure based on a pressure difference generated by a vacuum system. The precast structure handling system further includes a control system that controls a plurality of systems to handle the precast structure based on a plurality of settings in alignment with properties of the precast structure.