A vacuum cup, also known as a suction cup, is a device designed to create a partial vacuum between the cup and a surface, allowing it to adhere to the surface without the need for adhesives or fasteners. Vacuum cups are commonly made of materials like rubber or silicone and feature a concave shape.
Vacuum cups are often used in material handling applications to grip and lift objects. When the cup is pressed firmly against a smooth surface and the air is expelled from the space between the cup and the surface, a vacuum is created, generating suction. This suction force allows the cup to securely grip the object, enabling it to be lifted and moved.
Vacuum cups can be used to mount or hold objects onto smooth surfaces, such as glass, metal, or plastic. By pressing the cup against the surface and expelling the air, the vacuum created holds the cup in place, providing a temporary or semi-permanent attachment point for items like signs, hooks, or displays.
Vacuum cups are also used for sealing and clamping applications. They can create an airtight seal between the cup and a surface, preventing the ingress of air, liquids, or contaminants. This sealing capability makes vacuum cups suitable for applications such as vacuum sealing food containers, holding parts in place during machining processes, or creating airtight seals in medical devices.
Vacuum cups are commonly used as end effectors on robotic arms in automated manufacturing and assembly processes. Robots equipped with vacuum cups can pick up and manipulate objects with various shapes, sizes, and surface textures, providing flexibility and versatility in production environments.
In dentistry, vacuum cups are sometimes used to hold dental dams in place during procedures, providing isolation and protection for the patient's teeth and gums.
Overall, vacuum cups offer a versatile and efficient solution for a wide range of gripping, holding, sealing, and lifting applications across industries such as manufacturing, logistics, robotics, and healthcare.