Noncontact support platform with edge lifting
US10689209B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 6, 2017 |
| Grant date | Jun 23, 2020 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 6, 2037 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB65G2249/04
- WIPO fieldHandling
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A noncontact support platform includes pressure ports distributed on a surface of a table, each connected to a pressure source. Vacuum ports are distributed on the surface of the table, each connected to a vacuum source. Outward flow through the pressure ports and inward flow through the vacuum ports form a fluid cushion to support a workpiece at a nonzero distance from the table. A plurality of channels each connect at least two of the vacuum ports to enable flow of fluid between the connected vacuum ports. When one of the connected vacuum ports is covered by an edge of the workpiece and the other is not, a suction force that is exerted by the connected vacuum ports on the edge is weaker than the suction force that is exerted on a part of the workpiece where both of the connected vacuum ports are covered.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.