EP1299649B1 - Vacuum generator - Google Patents

Vacuum generator Download PDF

Info

Publication number
EP1299649B1
EP1299649B1 EP01949425A EP01949425A EP1299649B1 EP 1299649 B1 EP1299649 B1 EP 1299649B1 EP 01949425 A EP01949425 A EP 01949425A EP 01949425 A EP01949425 A EP 01949425A EP 1299649 B1 EP1299649 B1 EP 1299649B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
suction nozzle
nozzle unit
vacuum
main
vacuum generator
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Expired - Lifetime
Application number
EP01949425A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP1299649A1 (en
Inventor
Jürgen Schnatterer
Günter Gebauer
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Festo SE and Co KG
Original Assignee
Festo SE and Co KG
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Festo SE and Co KG filed Critical Festo SE and Co KG
Publication of EP1299649A1 publication Critical patent/EP1299649A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP1299649B1 publication Critical patent/EP1299649B1/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Expired - Lifetime legal-status Critical Current

Links

Images

Classifications

    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F04—POSITIVE - DISPLACEMENT MACHINES FOR LIQUIDS; PUMPS FOR LIQUIDS OR ELASTIC FLUIDS
    • F04F—PUMPING OF FLUID BY DIRECT CONTACT OF ANOTHER FLUID OR BY USING INERTIA OF FLUID TO BE PUMPED; SIPHONS
    • F04F5/00—Jet pumps, i.e. devices in which flow is induced by pressure drop caused by velocity of another fluid flow
    • F04F5/44—Component parts, details, or accessories not provided for in, or of interest apart from, groups F04F5/02 - F04F5/42
    • F04F5/48—Control
    • F04F5/52—Control of evacuating pumps
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F04—POSITIVE - DISPLACEMENT MACHINES FOR LIQUIDS; PUMPS FOR LIQUIDS OR ELASTIC FLUIDS
    • F04F—PUMPING OF FLUID BY DIRECT CONTACT OF ANOTHER FLUID OR BY USING INERTIA OF FLUID TO BE PUMPED; SIPHONS
    • F04F5/00—Jet pumps, i.e. devices in which flow is induced by pressure drop caused by velocity of another fluid flow
    • F04F5/14—Jet pumps, i.e. devices in which flow is induced by pressure drop caused by velocity of another fluid flow the inducing fluid being elastic fluid
    • F04F5/16—Jet pumps, i.e. devices in which flow is induced by pressure drop caused by velocity of another fluid flow the inducing fluid being elastic fluid displacing elastic fluids
    • F04F5/20—Jet pumps, i.e. devices in which flow is induced by pressure drop caused by velocity of another fluid flow the inducing fluid being elastic fluid displacing elastic fluids for evacuating
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10S—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10S137/00—Fluid handling
    • Y10S137/907—Vacuum-actuated valves
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T137/00—Fluid handling
    • Y10T137/206—Flow affected by fluid contact, energy field or coanda effect [e.g., pure fluid device or system]
    • Y10T137/218—Means to regulate or vary operation of device
    • Y10T137/2202—By movable element
    • Y10T137/2218—Means [e.g., valve] in control input
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T137/00—Fluid handling
    • Y10T137/8593—Systems
    • Y10T137/85978—With pump
    • Y10T137/86083—Vacuum pump

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a vacuum generating device, comprising a main suction nozzle unit, which can be supplied via a main inflow channel with a pressure medium under a predetermined operating pressure, which when passing through the main suction nozzle unit in a subsequent to a main suction port, with a connected to be evacuated space or connectable main suction channel causes a suction effect, wherein in the main inflow a depending on the currently prevailing in the evacuated space vacuum actuable shut-off valve is turned on, upon reaching a predetermined target negative pressure interruption of the pressure medium supply of the main Suction nozzle unit can cause, wherein one of the main suction nozzle unit operatively connected in parallel additional suction nozzle unit is provided, which in the operation of the device constantly under an operating pressure and standing by an additional outflow again is supplied from the outflowing pressure medium and which has a connected to the main suction channel of the main suction nozzle unit in fluid connection additional suction opening, wherein in the main suction channel between the two suction openings opposite to the suction
  • One from the German utility model no. 299 03 330 Outgoing vacuum generator device is used for example in handling technology to workpieces or other handling technology used to workpieces or other To transport objects without risk of damage.
  • the vacuum generating device is equipped with an air saving device which is intended to interrupt the pressure medium supply when the desired negative pressure is reached in the space to be evacuated. If the volume to be evacuated is relatively small, the desired effect will actually occur.
  • the volume to be evacuated is relatively large and accordingly only a gradual build-up of the negative pressure takes place, this, together with the gradually closing shut-off valve and the friction forces occurring in the valve, may cause the flow rate supplied to the main suction nozzle unit to decrease so sharply the desired negative pressure build-up is no longer possible.
  • the system then settles in a state in which the prevailing in the evacuated space vacuum is less than the desired desired negative pressure.
  • the exhaust performance suffers, and due to the never completely closing shut-off valve continues to result in a constant air consumption to a certain extent.
  • the suction power of the main suction nozzle unit is limited, carried by the still in operation located additional suction nozzle unit a residual evacuation to the desired target negative pressure, which is then able to Close the shut-off valve completely.
  • the invention provides that the shut-off valve is designed as a 2/2-way valve and the additional discharge channel of the additional suction nozzle unit communicates directly with the atmosphere.
  • Another advantage of the vacuum generator device according to the invention is that usually no Abschimpuls circuit is required to cancel the vacuum present in the space to be evacuated for the purpose of depositing an adherend article. It is usually sufficient to interrupt the pressure medium supply to the additional suction nozzle unit, so that the space to be evacuated is vented via the communicating with the environment outflow channel of the additional suction nozzle unit.
  • the additional suction nozzle unit is designed for a lower compared to the main suction nozzle unit maximum pressure medium flow rate of the injected pressure medium. So it has the main suction nozzle unit on high flow and the additional suction nozzle unit on lower flow, but at the same time designed high vacuum generator performance. Thus, the saving effect can be further optimized.
  • the additional suction nozzle unit is designed in such a way that the suction flow rate that can be generated by it when the operating pressure is applied is in the region of the leakage which is likely to occur in the space to be evacuated.
  • shut-off valve is conveniently a 2/2-way valve is used, which has a steady or continuous control behavior.
  • the shut-off valve required for its operation vacuum signal is expediently connected by the fact that a standing with the valve member of the shut-off valve in operative connection Beauftschungs character is provided, which one supplies the prevailing in the evacuated space vacuum.
  • further counter-acting means are provided which act on the valve member with one of the negative pressure caused by the actuating force counteracting counteracting force.
  • desired specification of the opposing force can be specifically intended to specify the desired vacuum in the room to be evacuated.
  • the counteracting means may have a counteracting force causing and preferably adjustable spring means, which may be a gas spring and / or a mechanical spring means.
  • the counter-loading means have a counter-acting surface which is in operative connection with the valve member of the shut-off valve and is constantly connected to the operating pressure applied to the main inflow channel. In this way, the counteracting force depends on the upcoming operating pressure. It can now be influenced by appropriate specification of the area ratios that can be set directly proportional by setting the operating pressure of the target negative pressure value.
  • suction nozzle units are supplied with the same operating pressure during operation of the device, so that a single pressure medium connection is sufficient to ensure the pressure medium supply.
  • the vacuum generator device can already be advantageously operated with a single main suction nozzle unit.
  • a plurality of parallel main suction nozzle units may be readily available, which can also be interconnected in such a way that sets a particular desired performance.
  • the illustrated vacuum generator apparatus 1 includes a main suction nozzle unit 2 and an auxiliary suction nozzle unit 3, and the terms "main” and “additive”, also in connection with the other components of the vacuum generating apparatus, are used only for better discrimination.
  • the term "suction nozzle unit” will generally be used without any precedence.
  • the suction nozzle units 2, 3 have a structure known per se and have an ejector device 4 with a jet nozzle channel 5 and a catch nozzle channel 6 arranged in the axial extension thereof. Between the two channels mentioned above there is an open space to the side, which forms a suction opening which are designated for better distinction in the two suction nozzle units 2, 3 as the main suction opening 7 and as an additional suction opening 8.
  • Each suction nozzle unit 2, 3 has a main or additional inflow opening 12, 13 which defines the inlet of a respective jet nozzle channel 5.
  • To the catching nozzle channel 6 joins a communicating with the atmosphere R main or additional discharge channel 14, 15 at.
  • a main inflow channel 16 Upstream of the main inflow opening 12 is a main inflow channel 16, which leads to a feed opening 18, via which a pressure medium, preferably compressed air, can be fed in at a desired operating pressure p B.
  • a pressure medium preferably compressed air
  • the additional inflow opening 13 of the additional suction nozzle unit 3 can also be supplied with the corresponding pressure medium.
  • a main suction channel 22 is connected, which leads to a space to be evacuated 24.
  • This can for example be formed by the interior of the suction cup or suction cup of a vacuum handling device, with the aid of objects can be sucked, transported and stored.
  • the vacuum generator device 1 may have a housing 25 which, with the exception of the space 24 to be evacuated, contains all the device components, the main suction channel 22 leading to a connection opening 26 located on the outer surface of the housing 25, to which via Channels or fluid lines a to be evacuated space 24 defining component can be connected.
  • the additional suction opening 8 of the additional suction nozzle unit 3 is also in communication with the main suction channel 22.
  • both suction ports 7, 8 simultaneously with the space to be evacuated 24 in connection, the channels used can be at least partially designed as a unit.
  • a preferably designed as a 2/2-way valve shut-off valve 27 is turned on, which can be actuated in response to the currently prevailing in the main suction passage 22 and thus in the evacuated space 24 vacuum p U.
  • Fig. 1 apparent open position in which it allows an unrestricted pressure medium supply of the main suction nozzle unit 2.
  • the passage through the main inflow channel 16 is shut off and the pressure medium supply to the main suction nozzle unit 2 is interrupted.
  • the control of the instantaneous position of the shut-off valve 27 takes place without electrical measures directly through the vacuum to be evacuated 24 currently prevailing vacuum p U , tapped in the embodiment at a tapping point 28 from the main suction channel 22 and fed as a fluid pressure signal Beaufschlagungs simulation a 32 of the shut-off valve 27 becomes.
  • a feed channel 33 extending between the tapping point 28 and the loading surface 32 may be provided, as shown in FIG Fig. 1 is indicated.
  • the supply channel 33 is omitted, since the tapping point 28 is here directly in the main suction channel 22, in that the loading surface 32 is realized as a movable wall section of the main suction channel 22.
  • the basic position of the shut-off valve 27 representing an open position is defined by counteracting means 34. While the negative pressure p U prevailing in the main inflow channel 16 exerts a loading force F B oriented in the closing direction of the shut-off valve 27 on the loading surface 32, the counter-loading means 34 cause a counteracting force F G oriented opposite to the loading force F B in the direction of the open position.
  • the counteracting force F G is caused by acting on a counter-acting surface 32 of the check valve 27 operating pressure p B.
  • both the loading surface 32 and the counterbearing surface 35 are expediently in operative connection with a valve member 36 of the shut-off valve 27 and are expediently provided directly on the valve member 36.
  • the valve member 36 Since the counter-application surface 35 is constantly exposed to the operating pressure p B , there is a counter-acting force F G constantly pushing the valve member 36 in the direction of the open position.
  • the valve member 36 actually switching force arises as a resultant force between the counter-acting force F G and derived from the currently prevailing negative pressure p U Beaufschlagungskraft F B.
  • the switching behavior of the shut-off valve 27 can be influenced by appropriate specification of the area ratio between the loading surface 32 and the counter-application surface 35.
  • the counter-application force F G depends on the height of the operating pressure p B in the embodiment, there is the advantageous possibility to variably set the desired target negative pressure by variable specification of the operating pressure p B. It can be specified on the area ratios that the height of the negative pressure or vacuum is achieved in proportion to the input side operating pressure.
  • the counteracting means for generating the counteracting force could also have an in Fig. 1 dash-dotted lines indicated spring device 37 have, for example, a gas spring device or a mechanical spring device, wherein the spring force can be adjusted appropriately to pretend the counter-acting force and thus the desired target vacuum as needed can.
  • the space to be evacuated 24 is circumferentially closed and contains a certain volume of air.
  • stationary pressure medium preferably compressed air, fed, which passes first unhindered to the inflow openings 12, 13 of both suction nozzle units 2, 3 and flows through the latter, where it via the outflow 14, 15 to the environment R is blown out.
  • a suction effect is caused in the region of the suction openings 7, 8, which is a suction of the air from the adjacent to the suction ports 7, 8 channels and to be evacuated Room 24 causes.
  • the suction devices 38 are in Fig. 1 indicated by arrows.
  • the target negative pressure p US builds up abruptly and immediately leads to a closing of the shut-off valve 27.
  • the main suction nozzle unit 2 is inoperative and only the auxiliary suction nozzle unit 3 is in operation.
  • the overall result is a reduction of the pressure medium consumption, which allows an economical operation of the vacuum generator device 1.
  • the additional suction nozzle unit 3 is unaffected by the position of the check valve 27 constantly, continuously in operation, it ultimately ensures the achievement of the desired target negative pressure, which then causes the complete closing of the check valve 27.
  • the main suction nozzle unit 2 is completely shut down, and the air consumption in turn depends on the geometric Parameters of the main suction nozzle unit 2 operatively connected in parallel additional suction nozzle unit. 3
  • a check valve 39 is turned on. It can according to the illustration of the Fig. 2 be designed as a flap-check valve. It is designed so that it prevents a flow of fluid opposite to that caused by the main suction nozzle unit 2 suction direction 38, with the main suction nozzle unit 2 in operation, however, allows the suction flow in the desired manner.
  • the Fig. 3 shows the flow rate V of the fed via the inlet port 18 and through the suction nozzle units 2, 3 total flowing therethrough pressure medium in time-dependent form, in other words the fluid consumption V over time t.
  • the flow rate of the vacuum generator device 1 according to the invention is plotted at 42 in a solid line. Accordingly, at the switch-on time t 0 of the device, a maximum volumetric flow determined by the sum of the flow rates of the two suction nozzle units 2, 3 then gradually decreases in accordance with the reduction in the flow cross-section predetermined by the shut-off valve 27, until finally the curve section 42a is achieved with a minimum volumetric flow , which is determined by the sole operation of the auxiliary suction nozzle unit 3.
  • dashed line 43 illustrates the much higher constant air consumption of a conventional Vacuum generating device 1, which has no air-saving function and has only one with the main suction nozzle unit 2 comparable suction nozzle unit.
  • the dot-dashed curve 44 finally illustrates the air consumption of a vacuum generating device according to the prior art, which has only one main suction nozzle unit 2 with upstream shut-off valve 27, but does not have the additional suction nozzle unit 3 according to the invention.
  • the curve is similar to that in the invention, the minimum air consumption indicated by the curve section 44a is considerably higher than in the case of the design according to the invention, despite the additional suction nozzle unit 3 constantly operating there.
  • the Fig. 4 shows the structure of the negative pressure p U as a function of the operating time, wherein the vacuum structure according to the invention with the solid line 45 is illustrated.
  • the dashed line 46 illustrates the vacuum structure of a comparable but comparable to the invention, but no additional suction nozzle unit possessing device, although the initial vacuum structure is similar, but the maximum value remains considerably below that of the inventive design.
  • the suction nozzle units 2, 3 there is the further possibility of designing the suction nozzle units 2, 3 differently with respect to the maximum possible flow rate and the suction power, and thus to adapt them specifically to the respective application.
  • the auxiliary suction nozzle unit 3 it is possible to design the auxiliary suction nozzle unit 3 in such a way that the suction flow rate which can be generated by the operating pressure applied to it is approximately comparable to the leakage flow which occurs in the region of the space 24 to be evacuated, for example the relevant suction cup does not lie absolutely hermetically close to the object to be handled.
  • the additional suction nozzle unit 3 is designed for a lower compared to the main suction nozzle unit 2 maximum pressure medium flow rate in terms of the injected pressure medium.
  • the main suction nozzle unit 2 it is possible to design the main suction nozzle unit 2 for high flow, which ensures that even a relatively high volume is emptied relatively quickly.
  • the additional suction nozzle unit 3, however, can be designed for high vacuum.
  • a dot-dash line 52 is in Fig. 1 makes it clear that the existing outflow channels 14, 15 can also be brought together without further notice, so that the venting takes place via a common outflow opening.
  • the Fig. 2 shows a particularly advantageous and compact embodiment of the vacuum generator device 1, in which the shut-off valve 27 is integrated into the housing 25, which also contains the suction nozzle units 2, 3.
  • the loading surface 32 is formed by a movable wall portion of the main flow channel 22, wherein they are on the end face of a piston portion of the valve member 36, which is adjustably guided in a corresponding receptacle 53 of the housing 25.
  • the valve member 36 protrudes more or less into the main suction channel 22 and thereby controls the provided fürströmquerrough 53 for the pressure medium.
  • the counter-application surface 35 has the same orientation as the loading surface 32 and is remote from a further loading surface 54 of the valve member 36, which is exposed via a bore 55 to the atmospheric pressure p A.
  • the maximum possible vacuum can be achieved despite an existing economy device.
  • the characteristic curves for the operating pressure and the vacuum are identical with and without economy device.
  • the existing pressure-dependent control of the markable as an air-saving valve shut-off valve is virtually static with small leakage in the suction channels or in the space to be evacuated. This results in low wear.

Abstract

A vacuum producing device ( 1 ) possessing a principal suction nozzle unit ( 2 ) with a shut off valve ( 27 ) on the upstream side thereof and an additional suction nozzle unit ( 3 ) connected in parallel to the principal suction nozzle unit ( 2 ). While the supply of pressure medium for the principal suction nozzle unit ( 2 ) is controlled in a manner dependent on the negative pressure produced by controlling the shut off valve ( 27 ), the additional suction nozzle unit ( 3 ) remains ( 3 ) constantly in operation. This means that a complete build up of vacuum may be ensured in conjunction with a complete switching off of the principal suction nozzle unit ( 2 ) together with a resulting air economizing effect.

Description

Die Erfindung betrifft eine Vakuumerzeugervorrichtung, mit einer Haupt-Saugdüseneinheit, die über einen Haupt-Zuströmkanal mit einem unter einem vorgegebenen Betriebsdruck stehenden Druckmedium versorgt werden kann, das beim Hindurchströmen durch die Haupt-Saugdüseneinheit in einem sich an eine Haupt-Saugöffnung anschließenden, mit einem zu evakuierenden Raum verbundenen oder verbindbaren Haupt-Saugkanal eine Absaugwirkung hervorruft, wobei in den Haupt-Zuströmkanal ein in Abhängigkeit von dem momentan im zu evakuierenden Raum herrschenden Unterdruck betätigbares Absperrventil eingeschaltet ist, das bei Erreichen eines vorbestimmten Soll-Unterdruckes eine Unterbrechung der Druckmediumversorgung der Haupt-Saugdüseneinheit hervorrufen kann, wobei eine der Haupt-Saugdüseneinheit wirkungsmäßig parallelgeschaltete Zusatz-Saugdüseneinheit vorgesehen ist, die im Betrieb der Vorrichtung ständig mit unter einem Betriebsdruck stehendem und über einen Zusatz-Abströmkanal wieder abströmenden Druckmedium versorgt wird und die über eine mit dem Haupt-Saugkanal der Haupt-Saugdüseneinheit in Fluidverbindung stehende Zusatz-Saugöffnung verfügt, wobei in den Haupt-Saugkanal zwischen den beiden Saugöffnungen ein entgegen der von der Haupt-Saugdüseneinheit hervorrufbaren Absaugrichtung sperrendes Rückschlagventil eingeschaltet ist, wie es im Oberbegriff des Anspruchs 1 definiert wird. Eine solche Vorrichtung ist aus des JP-A-61055400 bekannt.The invention relates to a vacuum generating device, comprising a main suction nozzle unit, which can be supplied via a main inflow channel with a pressure medium under a predetermined operating pressure, which when passing through the main suction nozzle unit in a subsequent to a main suction port, with a connected to be evacuated space or connectable main suction channel causes a suction effect, wherein in the main inflow a depending on the currently prevailing in the evacuated space vacuum actuable shut-off valve is turned on, upon reaching a predetermined target negative pressure interruption of the pressure medium supply of the main Suction nozzle unit can cause, wherein one of the main suction nozzle unit operatively connected in parallel additional suction nozzle unit is provided, which in the operation of the device constantly under an operating pressure and standing by an additional outflow again is supplied from the outflowing pressure medium and which has a connected to the main suction channel of the main suction nozzle unit in fluid connection additional suction opening, wherein in the main suction channel between the two suction openings opposite to the suction nozzle of the direction of the main suction nozzle blocking check valve is turned on, as defined in the preamble of claim 1. Such a device is from the JP-A-61055400 known.

Eine aus dem deutschen Gebrauchsmuster Nr. 299 03 330 hervor gehende Vakuumerzeugervorrichtung wird beispielsweise in der Handhabungstechnik eingesetzt, um Werkstücke oder sonstige Handhabungstechnik eingesetzt, um Werkstücke oder sonstige Gegenstände ohne Beschädigungsgefahr zu transportieren. Dabei stehen ein oder mehrere, jeweils einen zu evakuierenden Raum begrenzende Saugnäpfe mit dem Haupt-Saugkanal in Verbindung und lassen sich auf einem zu transportierenden Gegenstand positionieren, wobei durch Absaugung ein Vakuum erzeugt werden kann, das für ein unterdruckbedingtes Anhaften des zu transportierenden Gegenstandes am jeweiligen Saugnapf sorgt. Um einen unnötigen Verbrauch des üblicherweise von Druckluft gebildeten Druckmediums zu verhindern, ist die Vakuumerzeugervorrichtung mit einer Luftspareinrichtung ausgestattet, die die Druckmediumversorgung unterbrechen soll, wenn im zu evakuierenden Raum der gewünschte Unterdruck erreicht ist. Ist das zu evakuierende Volumen relativ gering, wird sich der gewünschte Effekt auch tatsächlich einstellen. Ist das zu evakuierende Volumen hingegen relativ groß und findet dementsprechend ein nur allmählicher Aufbau des Unterdruckes statt, kann dies in Verbindung mit dem allmählich schließenden Absperrventil und den im Ventil auftretenden Reibungskräften dazu führen, daß die der Haupt-Saugdüseneinheit zugeführte Strömungsrate so stark abnimmt, daß der gewünschte Unterdruckaufbau nicht mehr möglich ist. Das System pendelt sich dann in einem Zustand ein, bei dem der im zu evakuierenden Raum herrschende Unterdruck geringer ist als der gewünschte Soll-Unterdruck. Somit leidet die Absaugleistung, und auf Grund des nie vollständig schließenden Absperrventils ergibt sich auch weiterhin ein ständiger Luftverbrauch in einem gewissen Umfange.One from the German utility model no. 299 03 330 Outgoing vacuum generator device is used for example in handling technology to workpieces or other handling technology used to workpieces or other To transport objects without risk of damage. In this case, one or more, each one to be evacuated space limiting suction cups with the main suction channel and can be positioned on an object to be transported, a vacuum can be generated by suction, the vacuum for adhering the object to be transported on the respective Suction cup provides. In order to prevent unnecessary consumption of the pressure medium usually formed by compressed air, the vacuum generating device is equipped with an air saving device which is intended to interrupt the pressure medium supply when the desired negative pressure is reached in the space to be evacuated. If the volume to be evacuated is relatively small, the desired effect will actually occur. If, on the other hand, the volume to be evacuated is relatively large and accordingly only a gradual build-up of the negative pressure takes place, this, together with the gradually closing shut-off valve and the friction forces occurring in the valve, may cause the flow rate supplied to the main suction nozzle unit to decrease so sharply the desired negative pressure build-up is no longer possible. The system then settles in a state in which the prevailing in the evacuated space vacuum is less than the desired desired negative pressure. Thus, the exhaust performance suffers, and due to the never completely closing shut-off valve continues to result in a constant air consumption to a certain extent.

Bei einer aus der JP-A-61055400 bekannten Vakuumerzeugervorrichtung der eingangs genannten Art werden zu Beginn des Absaugbetriebes sämtliche Saugdüseneinheiten mit dem unter einem gewünschten Betriebsdruck stehenden Druckmedium versorgt und bewirken parallel zueinander ein Absaugen der Luft aus dem zu evakuierenden Raum. Die Absaugleistung ergibt sich hierbei aus der Summe der Absaug-Strömungsraten sämtlicher vorhandener Saugdüseneinheiten. Stellt sich nach einer gewissen Zeit der eingangs erwähnte Zustand ein, bei dem durch allmähliches Umschalten des als 3/2-Wegeventil ausgebildeten Absperrventils die Absaugleistung der Haupt-Saugdüseneinheit eingeschränkt wird, erfolgt durch die weiterhin unverändert in Betrieb befindliche Zusatz-Saugdüseneinheit eine Rest-Evakuierung bis zum gewünschten Soll-Unterdruck, der dann in der Lage ist, das Absperrventil vollends zu schließen. Es ist dann ein Stadium erreicht, bei dem seitens der Haupt-Saugdüseneinheit überhaupt kein Druckmediumverbrauch mehr stattfindet und der Gesamtverbrauch der Vakuumerzeugervorrichtung allein vom Druckmediumverbrauch der Zusatz-Saugdüseneinheit abhängt. Deren Abströmkanal ist an die Saugöffnung einer weiteren Saugdüseneinheit angeschlossen, die über das Absperrventil gespeist wird.At one of the JP-A-61055400 known vacuum generator device of the type mentioned are supplied at the beginning of the suction all suction nozzle units with the pressure medium under a desired operating pressure and cause parallel to each other, a suction of air from the room to be evacuated. The suction power results here from the sum of the suction flow rates of all existing suction nozzle units. If, after a certain period of time, the state mentioned at the beginning occurs, during which gradual switching of the shut-off valve designed as a 3/2-way valve, the suction power of the main suction nozzle unit is limited, carried by the still in operation located additional suction nozzle unit a residual evacuation to the desired target negative pressure, which is then able to Close the shut-off valve completely. It is then reached a stage in which no more pressure medium consumption takes place on the part of the main suction nozzle unit and the total consumption of the vacuum generator device depends solely on the pressure medium consumption of the additional suction nozzle unit. Its outflow channel is connected to the suction port of another suction nozzle unit, which is fed via the shut-off valve.

Es ist die Aufgabe der vorliegenden Erfindung, eine Vakuumerzeugervorrichtung der eingangs genannten Art zu schaffen, mit der sich der gewünschte Soll-Unterdruck in Verbindung mit wirksameren Druckmedium-Sparmaßnahmen zuverlässig erreichen läßt.It is the object of the present invention to provide a vacuum generating device of the type mentioned, with which the desired target vacuum can be reliably achieved in conjunction with more effective pressure medium-saving measures.

Zur Lösung dieser Aufgabe ist erfindungsgemäß vorgesehen, dass das Absperrventil als 2/2-Wegeventil ausgeführt ist und der Zusatz-Abströmkanal der Zusatz-Saugdüseneinheit direkt mit der Atmosphäre kommuniziert.To achieve this object, the invention provides that the shut-off valve is designed as a 2/2-way valve and the additional discharge channel of the additional suction nozzle unit communicates directly with the atmosphere.

Da der Druckmediumverbrauch der Zusatz-Saugdüse bei geschlossenem Absperrventil nur einen Bruchteil des ursprünglichen maximalen Druckmediumverbrauches darstellt, ist die Energiebilanz trotz der ständig aufrechterhaltenen Druckmediumströmung wesentlich günstiger als beim Stand der Technik.Since the pressure medium consumption of the additional suction nozzle is only a fraction of the original maximum pressure medium consumption when the shut-off valve is closed, the energy balance is considerably more favorable than in the prior art despite the constantly maintained pressure medium flow.

Ein weiterer Vorteil der erfindungsgemäßen Vakuumerzeugervorrichtung liegt darin, daß in aller Regel keine Abwurfimpuls-Schaltung erforderlich ist, um den im zu evakuierenden Raum vorhandenen Unterdruck zum Zwecke des Ablegens eines anhaftenden Gegenstandes aufzuheben. Es genügt in der Regel, die Druckmediumversorgung zur Zusatz-Saugdüseneinheit zu unterbrechen, so daß der zu evakuierende Raum über den mit der Umgebung kommunizierenden Abströmkanal der Zusatz-Saugdüseneinheit entlüftet wird.Another advantage of the vacuum generator device according to the invention is that usually no Abwurfimpuls circuit is required to cancel the vacuum present in the space to be evacuated for the purpose of depositing an adherend article. It is usually sufficient to interrupt the pressure medium supply to the additional suction nozzle unit, so that the space to be evacuated is vented via the communicating with the environment outflow channel of the additional suction nozzle unit.

Fällt im Betrieb der Vorrichtung auf Grund einer auftretenden Leckage der im zu evakuierenden Raum herrschende Unterdruck in unerwünschter Weise ab, wird durch die daraus resultierende Druckerhöhung ein Öffnen des Absperrventils hervorgerufen, so daß vorübergehend wieder die volle Saugleistung sämtlicher. Saugdüseneinheiten zur Verfügung steht.Falls in the operation of the device due to a leakage occurring in the prevailing space to be evacuated vacuum in an undesirable manner, caused by the resulting increase in pressure opening the shut-off valve, so that temporarily again the full suction of all. Suction nozzle units is available.

Vorteilhafte Weiterbildungen der Erfindung gehen aus den Unteransprüchen hervor.Advantageous developments of the invention will become apparent from the dependent claims.

Zweckmäßigerweise ist die Zusatz-Saugdüseneinheit auf eine im Vergleich zur Haupt-Saugdüseneinheit geringere maximale Druckmedium-Durchflußrate des eingespeisten Druckmediums ausgelegt. Man hat also die Haupt-Saugdüseneinheit auf hohen Durchfluß und die Zusatz-Saugdüseneinheit auf geringeren Durchfluß, zugleich jedoch hohe Vakuumerzeugerleistung ausgelegt. Dadurch läßt sich der Spareffekt noch weiter optimieren.Conveniently, the additional suction nozzle unit is designed for a lower compared to the main suction nozzle unit maximum pressure medium flow rate of the injected pressure medium. So it has the main suction nozzle unit on high flow and the additional suction nozzle unit on lower flow, but at the same time designed high vacuum generator performance. Thus, the saving effect can be further optimized.

Im Bereich des zu evakuierenden Raumes auftretende Leckage kann mit der Vakuumerzeugervorrichtung durch die Zusatz-Saugdüseneinheit bis zu deren Saugleistung ausgeglichen werden. Es ist daher von Vorteil, wenn die Zusatz-Saugdüseneinheit derart ausgelegt wird, daß die bei Anliegen des Betriebsdruckes durch sie erzeugbare Absaug-Strömungsrate im Bereich der bei dem zu evakuierenden Raum voraussichtlich auftretenden Leckage liegt.Occurring in the region of the space to be evacuated leakage can be compensated with the vacuum generating device by the additional suction nozzle unit up to the suction power. It is therefore advantageous if the additional suction nozzle unit is designed in such a way that the suction flow rate that can be generated by it when the operating pressure is applied is in the region of the leakage which is likely to occur in the space to be evacuated.

Als Absperrventil kommt zweckmäßigerweise ein 2/2-Wegeventil zum Einsatz, das über ein stetiges bzw. kontinuierliches Stellverhalten verfügt.As a shut-off valve is conveniently a 2/2-way valve is used, which has a steady or continuous control behavior.

Dem Absperrventil wird das zu seiner Betätigung erforderliche Unterdrucksignal zweckmäßigerweise dadurch aufgeschaltet, daß eine mit dem Ventilglied des Absperrventils in Wirkverbindung stehende Beaufschlagungsfläche vorgesehen ist, der man den im zu evakuierenden Raum herrschenden Unterdruck zuführt. Zur Vorgabe des Betätigungsverhaltens des Absperrventils sind ferner Gegenbeaufschlagungsmittel vorgesehen, die das Ventilglied mit einer der vom aufgeschalteten Unterdruck hervorgerufenen Betätigungskraft entgegenwirkenden Gegenbeaufschlagungskraft beaufschlagen. Durch gewünschte Vorgabe der Gegenbeaufschlagungskraft läßt sich gezielt der im zu evakuierenden Raum angestrebte Soll-Unterdruck vorgeben.The shut-off valve required for its operation vacuum signal is expediently connected by the fact that a standing with the valve member of the shut-off valve in operative connection Beaufschlagungsfläche is provided, which one supplies the prevailing in the evacuated space vacuum. To specify the operating behavior of the shut-off valve further counter-acting means are provided which act on the valve member with one of the negative pressure caused by the actuating force counteracting counteracting force. By desired specification of the opposing force can be specifically intended to specify the desired vacuum in the room to be evacuated.

Die Gegenbeaufschlagungsmittel können über eine die Gegenbeaufschlagungskraft hervorrufende und vorzugsweise einstellbare Federeinrichtung verfügen, wobei es sich um eine Gasfeder und/oder um eine mechanische Federeinrichtung handeln kann. Bei einer besonders vorteilhaften Ausführungsform verfügen die Gegenbeaufschlagungsmittel über eine mit dem Ventilglied des Absperrventils in Wirkverbindung stehende Gegenbeaufschlagungsfläche, der ständig der am Haupt-Zuströmkanal anliegende Betriebsdruck aufgeschaltet ist. Auf diese Weise hängt die Gegenbeaufschlagungskraft vom anstehenden Betriebsdruck ab. Es kann nun durch geeignete Vorgabe der Flächenverhältnisse darauf Einfluß genommen werden, daß sich der Soll-Unterdruckwert direkt proportional durch Vorgabe des Betriebsdruckes einstellen läßt.The counteracting means may have a counteracting force causing and preferably adjustable spring means, which may be a gas spring and / or a mechanical spring means. In a particularly advantageous embodiment, the counter-loading means have a counter-acting surface which is in operative connection with the valve member of the shut-off valve and is constantly connected to the operating pressure applied to the main inflow channel. In this way, the counteracting force depends on the upcoming operating pressure. It can now be influenced by appropriate specification of the area ratios that can be set directly proportional by setting the operating pressure of the target negative pressure value.

Es versteht sich, daß zweckmäßigerweise sämtliche Saugdüseneinheiten im Betrieb der Vorrichtung mit dem gleichen Betriebsdruck versorgt werden, so daß ein einziger Druckmediumanschluß ausreicht, um die Druckmediumversorgung zu gewährleisten.It is understood that expediently all suction nozzle units are supplied with the same operating pressure during operation of the device, so that a single pressure medium connection is sufficient to ensure the pressure medium supply.

Die Vakuumerzeugervorrichtung läßt sich bereits mit einer einzigen Haupt-Saugdüseneinheit vorteilhaft betreiben. Allerdings können ohne weiteres mehrere parallelgeschaltete Haupt-Saugdüseneinheiten vorhanden sein, die man zudem derart miteinander verschalten kann, daß sich ein besonderes gewünschtes Betriebsverhalten einstellt.The vacuum generator device can already be advantageously operated with a single main suction nozzle unit. However, a plurality of parallel main suction nozzle units may be readily available, which can also be interconnected in such a way that sets a particular desired performance.

Nachfolgend wird die Erfindung anhand der beiliegenden Zeichnung näher erläutert. In dieser zeigen:

Fig. 1
das Schaltbild einer bevorzugten Ausführungsform der erfindungsgemäßen Vakuumerzeugervorrichtung,
Fig. 2
eine nach dem Schaltbild der Fig. 1 realisierte konstruktive Ausgestaltung einer Vakuumerzeugervorrichtung,
Fig. 3
ein den Spareffekt der Vakuumerzeugervorrichtung verdeutlichendes Diagramm und
Fig. 4
ein den Druckaufbau der Vakuumerzeugervorrichtung im Vergleich zu konventionellen Bauformen aufzeigendes Diagramm.
The invention will be explained in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In this show:
Fig. 1
the diagram of a preferred embodiment of the vacuum generator device according to the invention,
Fig. 2
one after the diagram of the Fig. 1 realized structural design of a vacuum generator device,
Fig. 3
a diagram illustrating the saving effect of the vacuum generating device
Fig. 4
a diagram showing the pressure buildup of the vacuum generating device compared to conventional designs.

Die in Fig. 1 und 2 abgebildete Vakuumerzeugervorrichtung 1 enthält eine Haupt-Saugdüseneinheit 2 und eine Zusatz-Saugdüseneinheit 3, wobei die Bezeichnungen "Haupt" und "Zusatz", auch im Zusammenhang mit den anderen Bestandteilen der Vakuumerzeugervorrichtung, lediglich zur besseren Unterscheidung verwendet werden. Im übrigen wird, sofern sich die Beschreibung sowohl auf die Haupt-Saugdüseneinheit 2 als auch auf die Zusatz-Saugdüseneinheit 3 bezieht, allgemein der Begriff "Saugdüseneinheit" ohne vorangestellten Zusatz verwendet werden.In the Fig. 1 and 2 The illustrated vacuum generator apparatus 1 includes a main suction nozzle unit 2 and an auxiliary suction nozzle unit 3, and the terms "main" and "additive", also in connection with the other components of the vacuum generating apparatus, are used only for better discrimination. Incidentally, insofar as the description refers to both the main suction nozzle unit 2 and the auxiliary suction nozzle unit 3, the term "suction nozzle unit" will generally be used without any precedence.

Die Saugdüseneinheiten 2, 3 haben als solches einen an sich bekannten Aufbau und besitzen eine Ejektoreinrichtung 4 mit einem Strahldüsenkanal 5 und einem in axialer Verlängerung desselben angeordneten Fangdüsenkanal 6. Zwischen den beiden vorerwähnten Kanälen befindet sich ein zur Seite hin offener Zwischenraum, der eine Saugöffnung bildet, welche zur besseren Unterscheidung bei den beiden Saugdüseneinheiten 2, 3 als Haupt-Saugöffnung 7 und als Zusatz-Saugöffnung 8 bezeichnet seien.As such, the suction nozzle units 2, 3 have a structure known per se and have an ejector device 4 with a jet nozzle channel 5 and a catch nozzle channel 6 arranged in the axial extension thereof. Between the two channels mentioned above there is an open space to the side, which forms a suction opening which are designated for better distinction in the two suction nozzle units 2, 3 as the main suction opening 7 and as an additional suction opening 8.

Jede Saugdüseneinheit 2, 3 hat eine Haupt- bzw. Zusatz-Zuströmöffnung 12, 13, die den Eingang eines jeweiligen Strahldüsenkanals 5 definiert. An den Fangdüsenkanal 6 schließt sich ein mit der Atmosphäre R kommunizierender Haupt- bzw. Zusatz-Abströmkanal 14, 15 an.Each suction nozzle unit 2, 3 has a main or additional inflow opening 12, 13 which defines the inlet of a respective jet nozzle channel 5. To the catching nozzle channel 6 joins a communicating with the atmosphere R main or additional discharge channel 14, 15 at.

Der Haupt-Zuströmöffnung 12 vorgeordnet ist ein Haupt-Zuströmkanal 16, der zu einer Einspeiseöffnung 18 führt, über die ein unter einem gewünschten Betriebsdruck pB stehendes Druckmedium, vorzugsweise Druckluft, eingespeist werden kann. Über einen bevorzugt zur gleichen Einspeiseöffnung 18 führenden Zusatz-Zuströmkanal 17 kann auch die Zusatz-Zuströmöffnung 13 der Zusatz-Saugdüseneinheit 3 mit dem entsprechenden Druckmedium versorgt werden. Dabei können die beiden Zuströmkanäle 16, 17, wie dies aus Fig. 2 hervorgeht, über wenigstens einen Teil ihrer Länge als Baueinheit ausgeführt sein, um den baulichen Aufwand zur Realisierung geeigneter Fluidkanäle zu minimieren.Upstream of the main inflow opening 12 is a main inflow channel 16, which leads to a feed opening 18, via which a pressure medium, preferably compressed air, can be fed in at a desired operating pressure p B. By means of an additional inflow channel 17 which preferably leads to the same feed opening 18, the additional inflow opening 13 of the additional suction nozzle unit 3 can also be supplied with the corresponding pressure medium. In this case, the two inflow channels 16, 17, as can be seen from Fig. 2 shows, be executed over at least part of their length as a unit to minimize the structural complexity for the realization of suitable fluid channels.

Wenn die Zuströmkanäle 16, 17 zu getrennten Einspeiseöffnungen führen würden, könnten besonders einfach unterschiedliche Betriebsdrücke für die beiden Saugdüseneinheiten 2, 3 vorgegeben werden. Es empfiehlt sich jedoch in der Regel, auf den gleichen Betriebsdruck für sämtliche Saugdüseneinheiten 2, 3 zurückzugreifen, wie dies beim Ausführungsbeispiel der Fall ist.If the inflow channels 16, 17 would lead to separate feed openings, different operating pressures for the two suction nozzle units 2, 3 could be specified in a particularly simple manner. However, it is generally advisable to resort to the same operating pressure for all suction nozzle units 2, 3, as is the case in the embodiment.

An die Haupt-Saugöffnung 7 ist ein Haupt-Saugkanal 22 angeschlossen, der zu einem zu evakuierenden Raum 24 führt. Dieser kann beispielsweise vom Innenraum des Saugnapfes oder Saugtellers einer Vakuumhandhabungsvorrichtung gebildet sein, mit deren Hilfe Gegenstände angesaugt, transportiert und abgelegt werden können.To the main suction port 7, a main suction channel 22 is connected, which leads to a space to be evacuated 24. This can for example be formed by the interior of the suction cup or suction cup of a vacuum handling device, with the aid of objects can be sucked, transported and stored.

Gemäß Fig. 2 kann die Vakuumerzeugervorrichtung 1 ein Gehäuse 25 aufweisen, das mit Ausnahme des zu evakuierenden Raumes 24 sämtliche Vorrichtungs-Komponenten beinhaltet, wobei der Haupt-Saugkanal 22 zu einer an der Außenfläche des Gehäuses 25 befindlichen Anschlußöffnung 26 führt, an die über weiterführende Kanäle oder Fluidleitungen ein den zu evakuierenden Raum 24 definierendes Bauteil anschließbar ist.According to Fig. 2 For example, the vacuum generator device 1 may have a housing 25 which, with the exception of the space 24 to be evacuated, contains all the device components, the main suction channel 22 leading to a connection opening 26 located on the outer surface of the housing 25, to which via Channels or fluid lines a to be evacuated space 24 defining component can be connected.

Die Zusatz-Saugöffnung 8 der Zusatz-Saugdüseneinheit 3 steht ebenfalls mit dem Haupt-Saugkanal 22 in Verbindung. Bei der konstruktiven Ausführungsform gemäß Fig. 2 geschieht dies dadurch, daß die Zusatz-Saugöffnung 8 unmittelbar in den Verlauf des Haupt-Saugkanals 22 gelegt ist. Ohne weiteres wäre jedoch auch eine Verbindung über einen entsprechenden Zusatz-Saugkanal 23 denkbar, wie dies aus dem Schaltbild der Fig. 1 hervorgeht. Jedenfalls stehen auf diese Weise beide Saugöffnungen 7, 8 gleichzeitig mit dem zu evakuierenden Raum 24 in Verbindung, wobei die dabei verwendeten Kanäle zumindest partiell als Baueinheit ausgeführt sein können.The additional suction opening 8 of the additional suction nozzle unit 3 is also in communication with the main suction channel 22. In the constructive embodiment according to Fig. 2 This happens because the additional suction opening 8 is placed directly in the course of the main suction channel 22. Without further ado, however, a connection via a corresponding additional suction channel 23 would be conceivable, as can be seen from the circuit diagram of FIG Fig. 1 evident. In any case, in this way, both suction ports 7, 8 simultaneously with the space to be evacuated 24 in connection, the channels used can be at least partially designed as a unit.

In den Haupt-Zuströmkanal 16 ist ein vorzugsweise als 2/2-Wegeventil ausgebildetes Absperrventil 27 eingeschaltet, das in Abhängigkeit von dem momentan im Haupt-Saugkanal 22 und somit im zu evakuierenden Raum 24 herrschenden Unterdruck pU betätigbar ist. Normalerweise nimmt es die aus Fig. 1 ersichtliche Offenstellung ein, bei der es eine uneingeschränkte Druckmediumversorgung der Haupt-Saugdüseneinheit 2 gestattet. Ist es in seine Schließstellung umgeschaltet, wird der Durchgang durch den Haupt-Zuströmkanal 16 abgesperrt und die Druckmediumversorgung der Haupt-Saugdüseneinheit 2 unterbrochen. Die Steuerung der momentanen Stellung des Absperrventils 27 erfolgt ohne elektrische Maßnahmen direkt durch den im zu evakuierenden Raum 24 momentan herrschenden Unterdruck pU, der beim Ausführungsbeispiel an einer Abgreifstelle 28 vom Haupt-Saugkanal 22 abgegriffen und als fluidisches Drucksignal einer Beaufschlagungsfläche 32 des Absperrventils 27 zugeleitet wird. Hierzu kann bei entsprechender Ausgestaltung ein zwischen der Abgreifstelle 28 und der Beaufschlagungsfläche 32 verlaufender Zuführkanal 33 vorgesehen sein, wie dies in Fig. 1 angedeutet ist. Bei der konstruktiven Ausführungsform der Fig. 2 ist der Zuführkanal 33 entfallen, da sich die Abgreifstelle 28 hier unmittelbar im Haupt-Saugkanal 22 befindet, indem die Beaufschlagungsfläche 32 als beweglicher Wandabschnitt des Haupt-Saugkanals 22 realisiert ist.In the main inflow passage 16, a preferably designed as a 2/2-way valve shut-off valve 27 is turned on, which can be actuated in response to the currently prevailing in the main suction passage 22 and thus in the evacuated space 24 vacuum p U. Usually it takes that out Fig. 1 apparent open position, in which it allows an unrestricted pressure medium supply of the main suction nozzle unit 2. When it is switched to its closed position, the passage through the main inflow channel 16 is shut off and the pressure medium supply to the main suction nozzle unit 2 is interrupted. The control of the instantaneous position of the shut-off valve 27 takes place without electrical measures directly through the vacuum to be evacuated 24 currently prevailing vacuum p U , tapped in the embodiment at a tapping point 28 from the main suction channel 22 and fed as a fluid pressure signal Beaufschlagungsfläche a 32 of the shut-off valve 27 becomes. For this purpose, with a corresponding configuration, a feed channel 33 extending between the tapping point 28 and the loading surface 32 may be provided, as shown in FIG Fig. 1 is indicated. In the constructive embodiment of the Fig. 2 the supply channel 33 is omitted, since the tapping point 28 is here directly in the main suction channel 22, in that the loading surface 32 is realized as a movable wall section of the main suction channel 22.

Die eine Offenstellung darstellende Grundstellung des Absperrventils 27 wird durch Gegenbeaufschlagungsmittel 34 definiert. Während der im Haupt-Zuströmkanal 16 herrschende Unterdruck pU eine in der Schließrichtung des Absperrventils 27 orientierte Beaufschlagungskraft FB auf die Beaufschlagungsfläche 32 ausübt, bewirken die Gegenbeaufschlagungsmittel 34 eine entgegengesetzt zur Beaufschlagungskraft FB in Richtung der Offenstellung orientierte Gegenbeaufschlagungskraft FG.The basic position of the shut-off valve 27 representing an open position is defined by counteracting means 34. While the negative pressure p U prevailing in the main inflow channel 16 exerts a loading force F B oriented in the closing direction of the shut-off valve 27 on the loading surface 32, the counter-loading means 34 cause a counteracting force F G oriented opposite to the loading force F B in the direction of the open position.

Beim Ausführungsbeispiel wird die Gegenbeaufschlagungskraft FG durch den auf eine Gegenbeaufschlagungsfläche 32 des Absperrventils 27 wirkenden Betriebsdruck pB verursacht. Dabei stehen sowohl die Beaufschlagungsfläche 32 als auch die Gegenbeaufschlagungsfläche 35 zweckmäßigerweise in Wirkverbindung mit einem Ventilglied 36 des Absperrventils 27 und sind zweckmäßigerweise unmittelbar an dem Ventilglied 36 vorgesehen.In the embodiment, the counteracting force F G is caused by acting on a counter-acting surface 32 of the check valve 27 operating pressure p B. In this case, both the loading surface 32 and the counterbearing surface 35 are expediently in operative connection with a valve member 36 of the shut-off valve 27 and are expediently provided directly on the valve member 36.

Da die Gegenbeaufschlagungsfläche 35 ständig dem Betriebsdruck pB ausgesetzt ist, ergibt sich eine das Ventilglied 36 ständig in Richtung der Offenstellung drückende Gegenbeaufschlagungskraft FG. Die das Ventilglied 36 tatsächlich umschaltende Stellkraft ergibt sich als resultierende Kraft zwischen der Gegenbeaufschlagungskraft FG und der aus dem momentan herrschenden Unterdruck pU abgeleiteten Beaufschlagungskraft FB. Dabei läßt sich das Schaltverhalten des Absperrventils 27 durch entsprechende Vorgabe des Flächenverhältnisses zwischen der Beaufschlagungsfläche 32 und der Gegenbeaufschlagungsfläche 35 beeinflussen. Dadurch läßt sich wiederum Einfluß nehmen auf denjenigen Unterdruckwert - als Soll-Unterdruck pUS bezeichnet -, bei dem das Absperrventil 27 bzw. dessen Ventilglied 36 die die Druckversorgung der Haupt-Saugdüseneinheit 2 unterbrechende Schließ- bzw. Absperrstellung einnimmt.Since the counter-application surface 35 is constantly exposed to the operating pressure p B , there is a counter-acting force F G constantly pushing the valve member 36 in the direction of the open position. The valve member 36 actually switching force arises as a resultant force between the counter-acting force F G and derived from the currently prevailing negative pressure p U Beaufschlagungskraft F B. In this case, the switching behavior of the shut-off valve 27 can be influenced by appropriate specification of the area ratio between the loading surface 32 and the counter-application surface 35. As a result, it is possible in turn to influence the negative pressure value - referred to as desired negative pressure p US - in which the shut-off valve 27 or its valve member 36 occupies the closing or shut-off position interrupting the pressure supply of the main suction nozzle unit 2.

Indem beim Ausführungsbeispiel die Gegenbeaufschlagungskraft FG von der Höhe des Betriebsdruckes pB abhängt, besteht die vorteilhafte Möglichkeit, den gewünschten Soll-Unterdruck durch veränderliche Vorgabe des Betriebsdruckes pB variabel einzustellen. Dabei kann über die Flächenverhältnisse vorgegeben werden, daß die Höhe des Unterdruckes bzw. Vakuums proportional zum eingangsseitigen Betriebsdruck erreicht wird.By the counter-application force F G depends on the height of the operating pressure p B in the embodiment, there is the advantageous possibility to variably set the desired target negative pressure by variable specification of the operating pressure p B. It can be specified on the area ratios that the height of the negative pressure or vacuum is achieved in proportion to the input side operating pressure.

Alternativ könnten die Gegenbeaufschlagungsmittel zur Erzeugung der Gegenbeaufschlagungskraft auch über eine in Fig. 1 strichpunktiert angedeutete Federeinrichtung 37 verfügen, beispielsweise eine Gasfedereinrichtung oder eine mechanische Federeinrichtung, wobei sich die Federkraft zweckmäßigerweise einstellen läßt, um die Gegenbeaufschlagungskraft und somit den gewünschten Soll-Unterdruck nach Bedarf vorgeben zu können.Alternatively, the counteracting means for generating the counteracting force could also have an in Fig. 1 dash-dotted lines indicated spring device 37 have, for example, a gas spring device or a mechanical spring device, wherein the spring force can be adjusted appropriately to pretend the counter-acting force and thus the desired target vacuum as needed can.

Eine bevorzugte Funktionsweise der Vakuumerzeugervorrichtung wird nachfolgend erläutert.A preferred operation of the vacuum generating apparatus will be explained below.

Zunächst wird durch geeignete Positionierung an einem handzuhabenden Gegenstand dafür Sorge getragen, daß der zu evakuierende Raum 24 umfangsseitig geschlossen ist und ein bestimmtes Luftvolumen enthält.First, it is ensured by suitable positioning on an object to be handled that the space to be evacuated 24 is circumferentially closed and contains a certain volume of air.

Anschließend wird über die Einspeiseöffnung 18 unter dem Betriebsdruck pB stehendes Druckmedium, vorzugsweise Druckluft, eingespeist, die zunächst ungehindert zu den Zuströmöffnungen 12, 13 beider Saugdüseneinheiten 2, 3 gelangt und durch letztere hindurchströmt, wobei es über die Abströmkanäle 14, 15 zur Umgebung R ausgeblasen wird.Subsequently, via the feed port 18 under the operating pressure p B stationary pressure medium, preferably compressed air, fed, which passes first unhindered to the inflow openings 12, 13 of both suction nozzle units 2, 3 and flows through the latter, where it via the outflow 14, 15 to the environment R is blown out.

Beim Hindurchströmen durch die Saugdüseneinheiten 2, 3 wird im Bereich der Saugöffnungen 7, 8 eine Absaugwirkung hervorgerufen, die ein Absaugen der Luft aus den sich an die Saugöffnungen 7, 8 anschließenden Kanälen sowie dem zu evakuierenden Raum 24 bewirkt. Die Absaugrichtungen 38 sind in Fig. 1 durch Pfeile angedeutet.When passing through the suction nozzle units 2, 3, a suction effect is caused in the region of the suction openings 7, 8, which is a suction of the air from the adjacent to the suction ports 7, 8 channels and to be evacuated Room 24 causes. The suction devices 38 are in Fig. 1 indicated by arrows.

Ist das zu evakuierende Volumen relativ gering, baut sich der Soll-Unterdruck pUS praktisch schlagartig auf und führt umgehend zu einem Schließen des Absperrventils 27. Dadurch ist die Haupt-Saugdüseneinheit 2 funktionslos, und es ist nurmehr die Zusatz-Saugdüseneinheit 3 in Betrieb. Da deren maximale Druckmedium-Durchflußrate jedoch konstruktionsbedingt begrenzt ist, ergibt sich insgesamt eine Reduzierung des Druckmediumverbrauches, was einen wirtschaftlichen Betrieb der Vakuumerzeugervorrichtung 1 gestattet.If the volume to be evacuated is relatively small, the target negative pressure p US builds up abruptly and immediately leads to a closing of the shut-off valve 27. As a result, the main suction nozzle unit 2 is inoperative and only the auxiliary suction nozzle unit 3 is in operation. However, since their maximum pressure medium flow rate is limited by design, the overall result is a reduction of the pressure medium consumption, which allows an economical operation of the vacuum generator device 1.

Ist das zu evakuierende Volumen relativ groß, baut sich auch der Unterdruck pU erst allmählich im zu evakuierenden Raum 24 auf. Dementsprechend ergibt sich eine stetige Zunahme der Beaufschlagungskraft FB, die das über ein stetiges bzw. kontinuierliches Stellverhalten verfügende Absperrventil 27 bzw. dessen Ventilglied 36 ganz allmählich in Richtung der Schließstellung verlagert. Dies führt zu einer allmählichen Reduzierung der vom Absperrventil 27 zugelassenen Durchflußrate, so daß sich noch vor dem absoluten Absperren ein reduzierter Durchsatz einstellt, der die Absaugwirkung der Haupt-Saugdüseneinheit 2 stark herabsetzt. Ohne die Zusatz-Saugdüseneinheit 3 wäre diese Absaugwirkung nicht in der Lage, den gewünschten Soll-Unterdruck pUS herbeizuführen. Damit verbunden wäre gleichzeitig ein Luftverbrauch auf weiterhin relativ hohem Niveau.If the volume to be evacuated relatively large, also the negative pressure p U builds gradually on the space to be evacuated 24th Accordingly, there is a steady increase in the application force F B , which displaces the shut-off valve 27 or its valve member 36, which has a continuous or continuous actuating behavior, quite gradually in the direction of the closed position. This leads to a gradual reduction of the flow rate permitted by the shut-off valve 27, so that a reduced flow rate is established even before the absolute shut-off, which greatly reduces the suction effect of the main suction nozzle unit 2. Without the additional suction nozzle unit 3, this suction effect would not be able to bring about the desired desired negative pressure p US . At the same time, air consumption would remain at a relatively high level.

Indem nun aber die Zusatz-Saugdüseneinheit 3 unbeeinflußt von der Stellung des Absperrventils 27 ständig, ununterbrochen in Betrieb ist, sorgt sie letztendlich für das Erreichen des gewünschten Soll-Unterdruckes, der dann auch das vollständige Schließen des Absperrventils 27 hervorruft. Als Folge ist die Haupt-Saugdüseneinheit 2 vollständig stillgelegt, und der Luftverbrauch richtet sich wiederum nach den geometrischen Parametern der der Haupt-Saugdüseneinheit 2 wirkungsmäßig parallelgeschalteten Zusatz-Saugdüseneinheit 3.But now that the additional suction nozzle unit 3 is unaffected by the position of the check valve 27 constantly, continuously in operation, it ultimately ensures the achievement of the desired target negative pressure, which then causes the complete closing of the check valve 27. As a result, the main suction nozzle unit 2 is completely shut down, and the air consumption in turn depends on the geometric Parameters of the main suction nozzle unit 2 operatively connected in parallel additional suction nozzle unit. 3

Damit der zu evakuierende Raum 24 bei nicht mit Druckmedium versorgter Haupt-Saugdüseneinheit 2 über deren Haupt-Abströmkanal 14 nicht entlüftet wird, ist in den Haupt-Saugkanal 22 in den zwischen den beiden Saugöffnungen 7, 8 liegenden Bereich noch ein Rückschlagventil 39 eingeschaltet. Es kann gemäß Abbildung der Fig. 2 als Klappen-Rückschlagventil ausgeführt sein. Es ist so ausgelegt, daß es eine Fluidströmung entgegen der von der Haupt-Saugdüseneinheit 2 hervorgerufenen Absaugrichtung 38 verhindert, bei in Betrieb befindlicher Haupt-Saugdüseneinheit 2 die Absaugströmung jedoch in der gewünschten Weise zuläßt.So that the space to be evacuated 24 is not vented at not supplied with pressure medium main suction nozzle unit 2 via the main discharge channel 14, in the main suction channel 22 in the area between the two suction ports 7, 8 area still a check valve 39 is turned on. It can according to the illustration of the Fig. 2 be designed as a flap-check valve. It is designed so that it prevents a flow of fluid opposite to that caused by the main suction nozzle unit 2 suction direction 38, with the main suction nozzle unit 2 in operation, however, allows the suction flow in the desired manner.

Die besondere Wirksamkeit der sich aus der Vakuumerzeugervorrichtung 1 ergebenden Druckmedium-Sparmaßnahmen in Verbindung mit einer hohen Saugleistung werden aus den Diagrammen der Fig. 3 und 4 deutlich.The particular effectiveness of resulting from the vacuum generator device 1 pressure medium-saving measures in conjunction with a high suction power will be apparent from the diagrams of 3 and 4 clear.

Die Fig. 3 zeigt die Durchströmrate V des über die Einspeiseöffnung 18 eingespeisten und durch die Saugdüseneinheiten 2, 3 insgesamt hindurchströmenden Druckmediums in zeitabhängiger Form, mit anderen Worten den Fluidverbrauch V über der Zeit t. Mit durchgezogener Linie bei 42 ist die Strömungsrate der erfindungsgemäßen Vakuumerzeugervorrichtung 1 aufgetragen. Demnach ergibt sich zum Einschaltzeitpunkt t0 der Vorrichtung ein durch die Summe der Durchflußraten der beiden Saugdüseneinheiten 2, 3 bestimmter maximaler Volumenstrom, der dann entsprechend der Verringerung des durch das Absperrventil 27 vorgegebenen Strömungsquerschnittes allmählich absinkt, bis schließlich der Kurvenabschnitt 42a mit minimalem Volumenstrom erreicht wird, der durch den alleinigen Betrieb der Zusatz-Saugdüseneinheit 3 bestimmt ist.The Fig. 3 shows the flow rate V of the fed via the inlet port 18 and through the suction nozzle units 2, 3 total flowing therethrough pressure medium in time-dependent form, in other words the fluid consumption V over time t. The flow rate of the vacuum generator device 1 according to the invention is plotted at 42 in a solid line. Accordingly, at the switch-on time t 0 of the device, a maximum volumetric flow determined by the sum of the flow rates of the two suction nozzle units 2, 3 then gradually decreases in accordance with the reduction in the flow cross-section predetermined by the shut-off valve 27, until finally the curve section 42a is achieved with a minimum volumetric flow , which is determined by the sole operation of the auxiliary suction nozzle unit 3.

Im Vergleich dazu verdeutlicht die gestrichelte Linie 43 den wesentlich höheren konstanten Luftverbrauch einer konventionellen Vakuumerzeugervorrichtung 1, die keinerlei Luftsparfunktion besitzt und lediglich über eine mit der Haupt-Saugdüseneinheit 2 vergleichbare Saugdüseneinheit verfügt.In comparison, the dashed line 43 illustrates the much higher constant air consumption of a conventional Vacuum generating device 1, which has no air-saving function and has only one with the main suction nozzle unit 2 comparable suction nozzle unit.

Die strichpunktierte Kurve 44 schließlich verdeutlicht den Luftverbrauch einer Vakuumerzeugervorrichtung gemäß Stand der Technik, die lediglich über eine Haupt-Saugdüseneinheit 2 mit vorgeschaltetem Absperrventil 27 verfügt, nicht jedoch die erfindungsgemäße Zusatz-Saugdüseneinheit 3 aufweist. Der Kurvenverlauf ist zwar ähnlich demjenigen bei der Erfindung, der durch den Kurvenabschnitt 44a angedeutete minimale Luftverbrauch ist jedoch erheblich höher als bei der erfindungsgemäßen Bauform, trotz der dort ständig in Betrieb befindlichen Zusatz-Saugdüseneinheit 3.The dot-dashed curve 44 finally illustrates the air consumption of a vacuum generating device according to the prior art, which has only one main suction nozzle unit 2 with upstream shut-off valve 27, but does not have the additional suction nozzle unit 3 according to the invention. Although the curve is similar to that in the invention, the minimum air consumption indicated by the curve section 44a is considerably higher than in the case of the design according to the invention, despite the additional suction nozzle unit 3 constantly operating there.

Die Fig. 4 zeigt den Aufbau des Unterdruckes pU in Abhängigkeit von der Betriebsdauer, wobei der erfindungsgemäße Vakuumaufbau mit der durchgezogenen Linie 45 verdeutlicht ist. Ersichtlich ergeben sich nur geringfügige Unterschiede zu dem durch die gestrichelte Linie 46 angedeuteten Vakuumaufbau einer ohne jegliche Luftsparfunktion aufweisenden Vorrichtung. Die gestrichelte Linie 47 verdeutlicht den Unterdruckaufbau einer mit der Erfindung vergleichbaren, jedoch keine Zusatz-Saugdüseneinheit besitzenden Vorrichtung, wobei zwar der anfängliche Vakuumaufbau ähnlich verläuft, der Maximalwert jedoch erheblich unterhalb demjenigen der erfindungsgemäßen Bauform bleibt.The Fig. 4 shows the structure of the negative pressure p U as a function of the operating time, wherein the vacuum structure according to the invention with the solid line 45 is illustrated. As can be seen, there are only slight differences from the vacuum construction of a device without any air-saving function, as indicated by the dashed line 46. The dashed line 47 illustrates the vacuum structure of a comparable but comparable to the invention, but no additional suction nozzle unit possessing device, although the initial vacuum structure is similar, but the maximum value remains considerably below that of the inventive design.

Bei der erfindungsgemäßen Vakuumerzeugervorrichtung 1 besteht die weitere Möglichkeit, die Saugdüseneinheiten 2, 3 hinsichtlich der maximal möglichen Durchströmrate und der Absaugleistung unterschiedlich auszulegen und somit an den jeweiligen Anwendungsfall spezifisch anzupassen. Man kann insbesondere die Zusatz-Saugdüseneinheit 3 so auslegen, daß die bei Anliegen des Betriebsdruckes durch sie erzeugbare Absaug-Strömungsrate etwa vergleichbar der Leckageströmung ist, die im Bereich des zu evakuierenden Raumes 24 auftritt, weil beispielsweise der betreffende Saugnapf nicht absolut hermetisch dicht am handzuhabenden Gegenstand anliegt.In the case of the vacuum generator device 1 according to the invention, there is the further possibility of designing the suction nozzle units 2, 3 differently with respect to the maximum possible flow rate and the suction power, and thus to adapt them specifically to the respective application. In particular, it is possible to design the auxiliary suction nozzle unit 3 in such a way that the suction flow rate which can be generated by the operating pressure applied to it is approximately comparable to the leakage flow which occurs in the region of the space 24 to be evacuated, for example the relevant suction cup does not lie absolutely hermetically close to the object to be handled.

Es ist ferner von Vorteil, wenn die Zusatz-Saugdüseneinheit 3 auf eine im Vergleich zur Haupt-Saugdüseneinheit 2 geringere maximale Druckmedium-Durchflußrate hinsichtlich des eingespeisten Druckmediums ausgelegt ist. Hier besteht die Möglichkeit, die Haupt-Saugdüseneinheit 2 auf hohen Durchfluß auszulegen, der dafür sorgt, daß auch ein relativ hohes Volumen relativ rasch entleert wird. Die Zusatz-Saugdüseneinheit 3 hingegen kann auf hohes Vakuum ausgelegt werden.It is also advantageous if the additional suction nozzle unit 3 is designed for a lower compared to the main suction nozzle unit 2 maximum pressure medium flow rate in terms of the injected pressure medium. Here, it is possible to design the main suction nozzle unit 2 for high flow, which ensures that even a relatively high volume is emptied relatively quickly. The additional suction nozzle unit 3, however, can be designed for high vacuum.

Insgesamt kann mit der erfindungsgemäßen Vakuumerzeugervorrichtung eine Lufteinsparung im Bereich von 90 % im Vergleich zu einer Vorrichtung ohne Luftspareinrichtung erzielt werden.Overall, with the vacuum generating device according to the invention an air saving in the range of 90% compared to a device without air-saving device can be achieved.

Es wäre ohne weiteres möglich, mehr als eine Haupt-Saugdüseneinheit vorzusehen, wie dies in Fig. 1 strichpunktiert bei 48 angedeutet ist. Diese mehreren Haupt-Saugdüseneinheiten 2 können dann parallelgeschaltet werden, wobei ihre Saugkanäle zu einem gemeinsamen Haupt-Saugkanal zusammengeführt werden. Zweckmäßigerweise wird dabei die Druckmediumversorgung sämtlicher Haupt-Saugdüseneinheiten 2 durch ein einziges Absperrventil 27 gesteuert.It would be readily possible to provide more than one main suction nozzle unit, as in Fig. 1 dash-dotted lines at 48 is indicated. These multiple main suction nozzle units 2 can then be connected in parallel, their suction channels being merged into a common main suction channel. Conveniently, the pressure medium supply of all main suction nozzle units 2 is controlled by a single shut-off valve 27.

Durch eine strichpunktierte Linie 52 ist in Fig. 1 noch verdeutlicht, daß die vorhandenen Abströmkanäle 14, 15 ohne weiteres auch zusammengeführt werden können, so daß die Entlüftung über eine gemeinsame Abströmöffnung erfolgt.By a dot-dash line 52 is in Fig. 1 makes it clear that the existing outflow channels 14, 15 can also be brought together without further notice, so that the venting takes place via a common outflow opening.

Die Fig. 2 zeigt eine besonders vorteilhafte und kompakte Ausführungsform der Vakuumerzeugervorrichtung 1, bei der das Absperrventil 27 in das auch die Saugdüseneinheiten 2, 3 enthaltende Gehäuse 25 integriert ist. Wie schon angedeutet, ist hier die Beaufschlagungsfläche 32 von einem beweglichen Wandabschnitt des Haupt-Strömungskanals 22 gebildet, wobei sie sich an der Stirnfläche eines Kolbenabschnittes des Ventilgliedes 36 befindet, das in einer entsprechenden Aufnahme 53 des Gehäuses 25 verstellbar geführt ist. Je nach Stellung ragt das Ventilglied 36 mehr oder weniger weit in den Haupt-Saugkanal 22 hinein und steuert dabei den zur Verfügung gestellten Durchströmquerschnitt 53 für das Druckmedium. Die Gegenbeaufschlagungsfläche 35 besitzt die gleiche Ausrichtung wie die Beaufschlagungsfläche 32 und ist von einer weiteren Beaufschlagungsfläche 54 des Ventilgliedes 36 abgewandt, die über eine Bohrung 55 dem Atmosphärendruck pA ausgesetzt ist.The Fig. 2 shows a particularly advantageous and compact embodiment of the vacuum generator device 1, in which the shut-off valve 27 is integrated into the housing 25, which also contains the suction nozzle units 2, 3. As already indicated, here the loading surface 32 is formed by a movable wall portion of the main flow channel 22, wherein they are on the end face of a piston portion of the valve member 36, which is adjustably guided in a corresponding receptacle 53 of the housing 25. Depending on the position, the valve member 36 protrudes more or less into the main suction channel 22 and thereby controls the provided Durchströmquerschnitt 53 for the pressure medium. The counter-application surface 35 has the same orientation as the loading surface 32 and is remote from a further loading surface 54 of the valve member 36, which is exposed via a bore 55 to the atmospheric pressure p A.

Zusammenfassend kann zu der beschriebenen Vakuumerzeugervorrichtung 1 ausgeführt werden, daß sich das maximal mögliche Vakuum trotz einer vorhandenen Spareinrichtung erreichen läßt. Die Kennlinien für den Betriebsdruck und das Vakuum sind mit und ohne Spareinrichtung identisch. Die vorhandene druckabhängige Regelung des auch als Luftsparventil bezeichenbaren Absperrventils ist bei kleiner Leckage in den Saugkanälen bzw. im zu evakuierenden Raum quasi statisch. Daraus resultiert ein geringer Verschleiß.In summary, it can be stated with respect to the described vacuum generator device 1 that the maximum possible vacuum can be achieved despite an existing economy device. The characteristic curves for the operating pressure and the vacuum are identical with and without economy device. The existing pressure-dependent control of the markable as an air-saving valve shut-off valve is virtually static with small leakage in the suction channels or in the space to be evacuated. This results in low wear.

Claims (11)

  1. Vacuum generator device with a main suction nozzle unit (2) capable of being supplied with a pressure fluid under a preset operating pressure via a main inlet passage (16), said pressure fluid, when passing through the main suction nozzle unit (2), causing an extraction effect in a main suction passage (22) adjoining a main suction port (7) and connected or connectable to a space (24) to be evacuated, wherein the main inlet passage (16) is fitted with a shutoff valve (27) actuated in dependence on the current vacuum prevailing in the space (24) to be evacuated and capable of causing an interruption in the pressure fluid supply to the main suction nozzle unit (2) when a predetermined set vacuum is reached, wherein an auxiliary suction nozzle unit (3) is provided to act in parallel with the main suction nozzle unit (2), which, during the operation of the device, is continuously supplied with a pressure fluid under an operating pressure and discharged via an auxiliary outlet passage (15) and which is provided with an auxiliary suction port (8) in fluidic connection with the main suction passage (22) of the main suction nozzle unit (2), wherein a check valve (39) blocking against the direction of evacuation (38) which can be caused by the main suction nozzle unit (2) is installed between the two suction ports (7, 8), characterised in that the shutoff valve (27) is designed as a 2/2-way valve and in that the auxiliary outlet passage (15) of the auxiliary suction nozzle unit (3) directly communicates with the atmosphere (R).
  2. Vacuum generator device according to claim 1, characterised in that the auxiliary suction nozzle unit (3) is designed for a lower maximum pressure fluid flow rate of the supplied pressure fluid than the main suction nozzle unit (2).
  3. Vacuum generator device according to claim 1 or 2, characterised in that the auxiliary suction nozzle unit (3) is designed such the evacuation flow rate it can produce when the operating pressure is applied is in the range of the leakage occurring in the space (24) to be evacuated.
  4. Vacuum generator device according to any of claims 1 to 3, characterised in that the vacuum prevailing in the space (24) to be evacuated is, for the actuation of the shutoff valve (27), continuously applied to a pressurisation surface (32) in operative connection with the valve member (36) of the shutoff valve (27), wherein counter-pressurisation means (34) are provided, which produce a counter-pressurisation force (FG) directed against the pressurisation force (FB) produced by the applied vacuum in relation to the valve member (36).
  5. Vacuum generator device according to claim 4, characterised in that the counter-pressurisation means include a spring device (37), which produces the counter-pressurisation force (FG) and is preferably adjustable.
  6. Vacuum generator device according to claim 4, characterised in that the counter-pressurisation means (34) include a counter-pressurisation surface (35) in operative connection with the valve member (36) of the shutoff valve (27); to which the operating pressure prevailing at the main inlet passage (16) is continuously applied.
  7. Vacuum generator device according to claim 6, characterised in that the area ratio between the pressurisation surface (32) and the counter-pressurisation surface (35) is chosen such that the vacuum which can be generated in the space (24) to be evacuated is proportional to the operating pressure applied to the main inlet passage (16).
  8. Vacuum generator device according to any of claims 4 to 7, characterised in that the pressurisation surface (32) is represented by a movable wall section of the main inlet passage (16) and preferably located at an end face of the valve member (36).
  9. Vacuum generator device according to any of claims 1 to 8, characterised in that all of the suction nozzle units (2, 3) are supplied with pressure fluid under the same operating pressure in the operation of the device.
  10. Vacuum generator device according to any of claims 1 to 9, characterised in that a plurality of main suction nozzle units (2, 48) connected in parallel is provided.
  11. Vacuum generator device according to any of claims 1 to 10, characterised by a shutoff valve (27) with a uniform actuating behaviour.
EP01949425A 2000-07-07 2001-06-21 Vacuum generator Expired - Lifetime EP1299649B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DE10033212A DE10033212C1 (en) 2000-07-07 2000-07-07 Vacuum generator device
DE10033212 2000-07-07
PCT/EP2001/006997 WO2002004817A1 (en) 2000-07-07 2001-06-21 Vacuum generator

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP1299649A1 EP1299649A1 (en) 2003-04-09
EP1299649B1 true EP1299649B1 (en) 2008-02-13

Family

ID=7648228

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP01949425A Expired - Lifetime EP1299649B1 (en) 2000-07-07 2001-06-21 Vacuum generator

Country Status (7)

Country Link
US (1) US7140389B2 (en)
EP (1) EP1299649B1 (en)
JP (1) JP2004502904A (en)
AT (1) ATE386213T1 (en)
DE (2) DE10033212C1 (en)
ES (1) ES2298241T3 (en)
WO (1) WO2002004817A1 (en)

Families Citing this family (19)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE10250532B3 (en) * 2002-10-29 2004-07-01 J. Schmalz Gmbh Propellant powered ejector assembly
SE530787C2 (en) * 2007-01-16 2008-09-09 Xerex Ab Ejector device with ventilation function
US20090078899A1 (en) * 2007-09-20 2009-03-26 Advanced Pneumatics Inc. Solenoid Operated Vacuum Control Valve for Document Feeding
SE532167C2 (en) * 2008-03-26 2009-11-03 Xerex Ab Compressed air driven vacuum generator with device whereby a gripped object can be actively released from a vacuum gripper means
FR2952683B1 (en) * 2009-11-18 2011-11-04 Alcatel Lucent METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PUMPING WITH REDUCED ENERGY CONSUMPTION
US20120261011A1 (en) * 2011-04-14 2012-10-18 Young Man Cho Energy reduction module using a depressurizing vacuum apparatus for vacuum pump
EP2815132B1 (en) * 2012-02-13 2016-07-20 J. Schmalz GmbH Method for operating a suction generating device and suction generating device for carrying out the method
DE102015202603A1 (en) * 2015-02-12 2016-08-18 J. Schmalz Gmbh Vacuum generating device and tube lifter with a vacuum generating device
US10343284B2 (en) 2015-08-26 2019-07-09 Berkshire Grey, Inc. Systems and methods for providing contact detection in an articulated arm
EP4219096A1 (en) 2015-08-26 2023-08-02 Berkshire Grey Operating Company, Inc. Systems and methods for providing vacuum valve assemblies for end effectors
CN113954106B (en) 2015-09-08 2023-10-27 伯克希尔格雷营业股份有限公司 System and method for providing high flow vacuum acquisition in an automated system
CA3169689C (en) 2016-01-08 2024-04-02 Berkshire Grey Operating Company, Inc. Systems and methods for acquiring and moving objects
EP3193023B1 (en) * 2016-01-15 2023-03-29 Piab Ab Vacuum generator device
EP3243608B1 (en) * 2016-05-09 2022-04-06 J. Schmalz GmbH Method for monitoring the functioning states of a pressure driven actuator and pressure driven actuator
CN110958932B (en) 2017-08-02 2023-05-16 伯克希尔格雷营业股份有限公司 System and method for acquiring and moving objects having complex outer surfaces
CA3080961C (en) 2017-11-07 2023-10-03 Berkshire Grey, Inc. Systems and methods for providing dynamic vacuum pressure at an end effector using a single vacuum source
EP3501738B1 (en) * 2017-12-22 2022-03-16 Biesse S.p.A. A suction cup unit for gripping workpieces
JP3219755U (en) * 2018-05-16 2019-01-24 台灣氣立股▲ふん▼有限公司 Vacuum holding type multistage vacuum generation and vacuum break valve
WO2022020157A1 (en) 2020-07-22 2022-01-27 Berkshire Grey, Inc. Systems and methods for object processing using a passively folding vacuum gripper

Family Cites Families (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JPS6155400A (en) 1984-08-27 1986-03-19 Shoketsu Kinzoku Kogyo Co Ltd Vacuum generator
JPH06185499A (en) 1991-01-01 1994-07-05 Smc Corp Vacuum generating device
US5188411A (en) * 1991-01-24 1993-02-23 John A. Blatt Vacuum cup control apparatus
SE469291B (en) 1991-10-31 1993-06-14 Piab Ab EJECTOR ARRANGEMENTS INCLUDING AT LEAST TWO PRESSURIZED EJECTORS AND PROCEDURAL PROVIDES THAT WITH A MINIMUM TWO PRESSURE AIRED EJECTORS ACHIEVES A DIFFERENT PREVENTION OF A MINIMUM DIFFICULTY OF A MINIMUM DIFFICULTY OF A MINIMUM DIFFICULTY OF A MINIMUM DIFFICULTY OF A MINIMUM DIFFICULTY OF A MINIMUM DIFFICULTY OF A MINIMUM DIFFICULTY OF A MINIMUM DIFFICULTY OF A MINIMUM DIFFICULTY OF A MINIMUM DIFFICULTY.
DE19808548A1 (en) * 1998-02-28 1999-09-02 Itt Mfg Enterprises Inc Negative pressure creating device for pneumatic brake amplifier of vehicle
DE29903330U1 (en) * 1999-02-24 1999-06-24 Festo Ag & Co Suction device for vacuum generation
DE10118885C1 (en) * 2001-04-18 2002-11-07 Schmalz J Gmbh vacuum generator

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
WO2002004817A1 (en) 2002-01-17
DE10033212C1 (en) 2002-01-24
DE50113599D1 (en) 2008-03-27
ES2298241T3 (en) 2008-05-16
ATE386213T1 (en) 2008-03-15
US20020144739A1 (en) 2002-10-10
JP2004502904A (en) 2004-01-29
EP1299649A1 (en) 2003-04-09
US7140389B2 (en) 2006-11-28

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
EP1299649B1 (en) Vacuum generator
WO1995032364A1 (en) Control arrangement for at least two hydraulic consumers
EP1987257A1 (en) Pneumatic drive system
WO2017108183A1 (en) Valve, in particular a 4/2-way slide valve
EP1288504B1 (en) Vacuum generating device
DE10019254C2 (en) Pressure control valve
DE10061384B4 (en) Jet pump arrangement for generating vacuum and method for operating such a jet pump arrangement
CH708877B1 (en) Hydraulic valve arrangement with control / regulation function and associated return valve.
DE19943828A1 (en) Hydraulic directional valve has central duct passing through main piston and connecting consumer chamber and return chamber which are set at opposite ends of main piston
DE10009167B4 (en) Air saving device for a suction device
EP0894753B1 (en) Suction system for a transfer system
EP2799722B1 (en) Hydraulic control device
WO2003102427A1 (en) Hydraulic cylinder comprising a valve arrangement
DE102006010845B4 (en) Valve device with soft start function
DE102018214101B4 (en) vacuum generator device
DE202015009024U1 (en) Vacuum generator device
DE19702948C2 (en) Valve arrangement
AT404065B (en) START VALVE FOR PNEUMATIC PLANTS
EP3746662A1 (en) Control valve assembly for an indirect pneumatic control, and method for controlling a working fluid pressure
DE102021208932B3 (en) stabilization module
DE10023583A1 (en) Electro-hydraulic lowering module, to control the load moved by a hydraulic motor, has a seat valve with its function integrated in the pressure balance in a simple structure with an emergency cut-out
AT412112B (en) PRESSURE VALVE WITH AT LEAST TWO SWITCHING STEPS AND HYDRAULIC ACTUATING ARRANGEMENT
EP0766009A2 (en) System for controlling a hydraulic motor
EP3390840B1 (en) Double stage valve assembly for hydraulic control of a piston cylinder for a high or middle voltage switch
CH649651A5 (en) Hydraulic-oil drive device for power circuit breakers

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
PUAI Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012

17P Request for examination filed

Effective date: 20020207

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: A1

Designated state(s): AT BE CH CY DE DK ES FI FR GB GR IE IT LI LU MC NL PT SE TR

17Q First examination report despatched

Effective date: 20070328

GRAP Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR1

GRAS Grant fee paid

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR3

GRAA (expected) grant

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009210

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: B1

Designated state(s): AT BE CH CY DE DK ES FI FR GB GR IE IT LI LU MC NL PT SE TR

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: GB

Ref legal event code: FG4D

Free format text: NOT ENGLISH

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: EP

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: IE

Ref legal event code: FG4D

Free format text: LANGUAGE OF EP DOCUMENT: GERMAN

REF Corresponds to:

Ref document number: 50113599

Country of ref document: DE

Date of ref document: 20080327

Kind code of ref document: P

GBT Gb: translation of ep patent filed (gb section 77(6)(a)/1977)

Effective date: 20080417

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: ES

Ref legal event code: FG2A

Ref document number: 2298241

Country of ref document: ES

Kind code of ref document: T3

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: FI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20080213

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: ES

Payment date: 20080609

Year of fee payment: 8

NLV1 Nl: lapsed or annulled due to failure to fulfill the requirements of art. 29p and 29m of the patents act
PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: IT

Payment date: 20080506

Year of fee payment: 8

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: IE

Ref legal event code: FD4D

ET Fr: translation filed
PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: SE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20080513

Ref country code: DK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20080213

Ref country code: IE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20080213

Ref country code: NL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20080213

Ref country code: PT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20080714

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: DE

Payment date: 20080607

Year of fee payment: 8

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: FR

Payment date: 20080618

Year of fee payment: 8

PLBE No opposition filed within time limit

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009261

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: NO OPPOSITION FILED WITHIN TIME LIMIT

BERE Be: lapsed

Owner name: FESTO A.G. & CO.

Effective date: 20080630

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: GB

Payment date: 20080516

Year of fee payment: 8

26N No opposition filed

Effective date: 20081114

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: MC

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20080630

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: PL

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: BE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20080630

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: LI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20080630

Ref country code: CH

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20080630

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: CY

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20080213

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: AT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20080621

GBPC Gb: european patent ceased through non-payment of renewal fee

Effective date: 20090621

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: FR

Ref legal event code: ST

Effective date: 20100226

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: FR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20090630

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: GB

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20090621

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: DE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20100101

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: LU

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20080621

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: ES

Ref legal event code: FD2A

Effective date: 20090622

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: TR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20080213

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: ES

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20090622

Ref country code: GR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20080514

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: IT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20090621