Auto-release venturi with vacuum switch
US8096598B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 23, 2008 |
| Grant date | Jan 17, 2012 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 17, 2030 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB65G47/917
- WIPO fieldHandling
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A material handling system has a vacuum cup assembly engagable with an object and movable to move the object using a pressurized air source, a vacuum cup, a venturi device and a vacuum valve and auto-release valve. The venturi device is in fluid communication with the vacuum cup and connected to the supply line so that pressurized air can be supplied to and through said venturi device to generate a partial vacuum when the perimeter seal of the vacuum cup is engaged with the object surface. The vacuum valve may open and close the supply line at a location upstream of the venturi device in response to a pressure level at the vacuum cup cavity. The auto-release valve may vent the vacuum cup cavity to atmosphere in response to reduced pressure in the supply line at a location upstream from the vacuum valve.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.