Vacuum cup control system
US4828306A · kind A · utility
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 7, 1988 |
| Grant date | May 9, 1989 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 7, 2008 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB65G47/917
- WIPO fieldHandling
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A control system for applying and releasing vacuum in a work-gripping vacuum cup includes a housing having a venturi passage for inducing a vacuum within the cup upon the flow of air through the venturi passage. A one-way check valve in a passage extending through the housing between the venturi and the vacuum cap will seal the vacuum in the cup upon cessation of flow through the venturi passage, thus enabling the cup to grip the workpiece in response to a timed pulse of air through the venturi and to maintain the grip after the air flow is stopped. A second valve controlled passage through the housing enables air under pressure to be injected into the vacuum cup to quickly release its grip on the workpiece.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.