WaveHandling

Year

2013

The idea

The principle of the wave served as the model for a pneumatic conveyor belt.

The objective

Objects can be simultaneously transported and sorted by means of WaveHandling with intelligent control technology.

Technical data

• Height: 11.5 cm
• Length: 93.6 cm
• Width: 62.4 cm
• Surface material: latex foil
• Bellows module height: 11.5 cm
• Bellows module length: 5.2 cm
• Bellows module width: 5.2 cm
• Stroke: 1-2 cm
• Bellows module material: polymer

Operating principle

A total of 216 bellows modules distort the smooth latex surface as soon as they are filled with compressed air. The bellows expand by one to two centimetres and simply move up and down like water molecules. Wave crests and troughs form on the surface, enabling the objects to be conveyed to the desired location. In the food industry, sensitive foodstuffs could be transported in this way with maximum energy efficiency and autonomy.

Object recognition

The camera system above the WaveHandling unit registers the objects on the conveyor belt. A computer then processes the image data by means of special software and addresses the microcontrollers of the individual bellows modules; the valves then regulate the required supply of compressed air to the bellows.

Commissioning

WaveHandling can be made ready for operation within a very short time: the bellows modules, which are plugged together in accordance with the task at hand, configure themselves. They are fitted with electronic circuit boards that enable them to communicate with each other. The system recognises its configuration, the computer generates a virtual twin – and the intelligent conveyor belt is ready for use.

Material

WaveHandling