An uncovered branch is a circuit condition, not simply another cup with a smaller holding-force number.
Identify the branch-control function
Schmalz distinguishes vacuum check valves, flow resistors and sensing valves for different coverage-related functions. Preserve the actual mechanism rather than grouping all as check valves. Primary reference: Schmalz branch-control functions.
Draw the shared vacuum path and each cup branch. State which branches can be uncovered or partly covered in the intended product arrangement. The selected mechanism's actual response and conditions need to match those cases; a fully covered demonstration does not assess an omitted branch condition.
A hypothetical coverage matrix
Imagine a four-cup arrangement handles two product formats. The first covers all four cups; the second leaves one branch uncovered. Create separate coverage rows and ask how the identified circuit handles the second case. Do not multiply a single-cup force by four while ignoring the changed circuit condition.
Make columns for format, covered branches, partly covered branches, branch device and supporting result. The example contains no HM gripper layout or verified retained vacuum. It offers no universal closing threshold or flow-resistor size.
Preserve the actual function through changes
Ask whether the selected branch device responds to flow, mechanical coverage or another documented condition. Keep the part and reference identifiable, because these mechanisms can leave different evidence gaps for partial coverage or porous surfaces.
A changed cup count or product format should trigger a circuit-specific review. This guide supports a complete branch-condition assessment without assuming a generic non-return valve automatically disconnects every uncovered cup or that a restriction guarantees the full handling duty. The actual component and application evidence determine the accepted relationship.
Customer Questions
Does an all-cups-covered demonstration assess an uncovered branch?
No. Include the relevant coverage case.
Are sensing valves and flow resistors identical functions?
No. Preserve the actual mechanism.
Can four times a cup force ignore shared circuit conditions?
No. Review the complete arrangement.
Primary References
These references support the technical principles discussed in this guide. The worked examples and review questions are educational.
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