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

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.