Modeling of Radial Flow on a Non-Contact End Effector for Robotic Handling of Non-Rigid Material

 

E. Toklu*, F. Erzincanli

 

Duzce University, Duzce, Turkey, *ethemtoklu@duzce.edu.tr.

 

ABSTRACT

In this study a numerical model on radial flow and pressure distribution showing regions of negative values which tend to levitate products is developed. The end effector operates on the principle of generating a high-speed fluid flow between the end effector and product surface thereby creating a vacuum which levitates the product. The Navier-Stokes equations and the equation of continuity describing the flow between the nozzle and material are numerically solved by finite volume discretization method. The lifting forces and conditions are discussed by comparing numerical results with experimental findings.

Keywords: Radial flow, robotic handling, non-contact end effector, levitation, lifting force.

 

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