Patent ID: 6979032
Filing Date: 2005-12-27
Classification: B25J,B65G,Y10S

Abstract:
1. A vacuum pick-up device usable in a material handling system for grasping an object with vacuum suction, comprising: a distribution manifold having a detection device port, a vacuum valve port, and at least one suction cup port, and at least one conduit interconnecting the suction cup port and the vacuum valve port; at least one suction cup connected to the distribution manifold, the suction cup having a sealable contact surface defining an orifice, the orifice connected in fluid communication with the suction cup port for receiving a supply of vacuum suction thereto; a detection device connected to the distribution manifold, the detection device operable to detect the presence of the object; and a vacuum supply valve defining a chamber and having a piston movably disposed therein, the chamber connected in fluid connection to a source of vacuum suction, and further connected in fluid communication to the detection device port and the suction cup port, the vacuum supply valve having a first position, wherein vacuum suction from the source of vacuum suction is supplied to the orifice of the suction cup, and a second position, wherein vacuum suction from the source of vacuum suction is interrupted to the orifice of the suction cup, the movement of the piston between the first and second positions being controlled automatically by the detection device.