Vacuum chuck for efficient clamping and handling of objects
The technology comprises a novel device for the efficient clamping and handling of objects by means of vacuum.
Challenge
The vacuum clamping technology refers to the clamping and handling of objects or workpieces by means of vacuum. Available technologies refer to clamping tables, which allow objects to be clamped on flat surfaces. Furthermore, vacuum chucks are known, which are coupled to turning lathes, whereby the object or workpiece is sucked into a metal suction bell by means of negative pressure. In application, the holding or clamping force is often solely defined by the clamping cross-section and the pressure difference, which can lead to slipping of objects, for example, if there is little static friction between the object and the clamping device. Moreover, objects with slender geometry can tilt, so that known technologies may be technically limited in combination with slender objects. However, precise and safe handling of objects or workpieces can often be an important prerequisite in coordinated production sequences or production processes.
Our Solution
A scientist from the University of Applied Sciences and Arts (Göttingen, Germany) has invented a vacuum chuck system, which enables a highly reproducible and safe clamping of objects. The system is particularly tailored but not limited for objects with a slender geometry. The specific design of the vacuum chuck seat in relation to the object contours ensures a clamping and fitting accuracy with short cycle times. The inner surface of the vacuum chuck seat is fully closed in a ring configuration around the main axis. If an object area, which fits into the seat, is at least partially introduced into the vacuum chuck seat, it is sealed towards the circumferential inner surface. Hence, a negative pressure can be formed by a vacuum source in the intake area, which is located adjacent to a vacuum chamber. The arising pressure difference between this negative pressure and a pressure of one atmosphere in the vicinity of the device results in a force, that supplies the object area to be clamped towards the direction of the main axis into the seat, and hence, into the vacuum chuck. The main axis sheath lines of the inner surface are specifically designed, in order to align the object in a defined manner in relation to the chuck. Furthermore, the specific geometry of the seat inner surface stabilizes the object with respect to the prevalent forces.
Vacuum chuck system according to the present invention and patent application (source: Mr. Gröger, University of Applied Sciences and Arts, Göttingen, Germany).
Advantages
- Precise, safe and reproducible clamping and handling of objects
- Vacuum clamping with reduced cycle times
- Efficient clamping of objects with a slender geometry
- Sufficient clamping forces at 400 mbar pressure difference
Applications
- Clamping of objects by means of vacuum
- Precision mechanical engineering
- Production facilities
- Automation and positioning technology
- Additive manufacturing
- Useful interface between alignment, measurement and processing of workpieces
Development Status
The technology exhibits efficiency and reproducibility on laboratory scale. Engineering drawings, 3D models and a prototype are available.
Patent Status
German patent application filed.
Patent holder: University of Applied Sciences and Arts Hildesheim/Holzminden/ Göttingen (Germany)
Contact
Dr. Mirza Mackovic
Patent & Innovation Manager Technology
E-Mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Tel.: +49 551 30724 153
Reference: BioV-2558-HAWK
