Gasket automated feeding apparatus and feeding method thereof

Abstract

The present application provides a gasket automatic feeding device for automatically delivering a gasket in a ball valve assembly process, which comprises a platform device, a vibration device group installed on the platform device, a conveying device group connected to the vibration device group in a conveying manner, a control unit, wherein the vibration device group and the conveying device group are controllably drivenly connected to the control unit.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to valves, and more particularly to an automated gasket feeding device and method for the automated assembly of ball valves. Background Technology

[0002] Valves are essential control components in fluid transport systems. They are typically connected to pipelines, and by operating the valve's opening and closing degree, the flow and velocity of the fluid within the pipeline can be controlled. Valves also come in various types and functions. Based on their application, valves can be categorized as shut-off valves, check valves, regulating valves, vacuum valves, etc. Shut-off valves, according to their structure, can be further divided into gate valves, globe valves, diaphragm valves, ball valves, plug valves, butterfly valves, etc. Among these, ball valves are particularly suitable for use as on / off switches to control or cut off fluid flow in pipelines, and are widely used in industries such as petroleum refining, long transport pipelines, chemicals, and papermaking, as well as in everyday life.

[0003] A ball valve, named for its spherical valve core, is the opening and closing element. The spherical valve core is a ball with a cylindrical channel. It rotates around an axis perpendicular to the channel, and the rotation of the valve stem opens and closes the channel. A ball valve requires only a small torque to rotate the valve stem 90° to rotate the valve core and close it tightly. Different external drive devices can be installed to control its opening and closing as needed.

[0004] When the ball valve rotates 90°, its internal cylindrical channel is isolated from the valve body channel, cutting off the flow of the medium inside the valve body. When the ball valve rotates back 90°, its internal cylindrical channel is reconnected with the valve body channel, allowing the internal medium to flow again and forming a passage.

[0005] In traditional ball valve assembly processes, the various components are mostly assembled manually. During manual assembly, the production speed is often affected by the skill level of the assemblers, and different assemblers will have different assembly speeds. This creates speed differences between different connections, and after a certain period, the assembly speed of a certain step may not be able to consume the semi-finished products produced in the previous step, thus creating a bottleneck that affects production efficiency. This necessitates adding more assemblers to eliminate the bottleneck, increasing labor costs. Furthermore, less skilled assemblers may make assembly errors, leading to a decrease in yield, increasing rework costs and time. Moreover, it is impossible for the human body to continuously produce 24 hours a day, and maintaining 24-hour production through shift work would also harm the health of production workers.

[0006] During automated assembly, an automated feeding device is required to continuously supply various parts to the assembly device for automated assembly. Due to the repetitive and monotonous nature of automated assembly actions, there are certain requirements for the automated feeding device, which needs to be able to continuously supply materials to the assembly device in a relatively standardized manner. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The present invention provides an automated gasket feeding device for automatically delivering a gasket during the assembly of a ball valve. The advantage of the automated gasket feeding device is that it can continuously and automatically feed the gasket to a gasket assembly device for automated assembly.

[0008] The present invention provides an automated gasket feeding device. Another advantage of the automated gasket feeding device is that it enables the gaskets to be transported to the gasket assembly equipment in the same posture, thereby reducing the difficulty of automating the operation of the gasket assembly equipment.

[0009] The present invention provides an automated gasket feeding device. Another advantage of the automated gasket feeding device is that it can automatically adjust each gasket to a uniform shape and feed it to the outside while feeding the gasket.

[0010] The present invention provides an automated gasket feeding device. Another advantage of the automated gasket feeding device is that it can ensure that the gasket assembly device can only pick up one gasket at a time, which can avoid errors in the automated assembly process of the gasket and improve the stability of the automated operation.

[0011] The present invention provides an automated gasket feeding device. Another advantage of the automated gasket feeding device is that it feeds the gaskets one by one, thereby avoiding multiple gaskets blocking the feeding channel.

[0012] The present invention provides an automated gasket feeding device. Another advantage of the automated gasket feeding device is that it has a material return function, which avoids excessive accumulation of the gaskets.

[0013] The present invention provides an automated gasket feeding device. Another advantage of the automated gasket feeding device is that it can monitor the internal material storage status in real time, and can add materials in a timely manner to avoid idling.

[0014] The present invention provides an automated gasket feeding device. Another advantage of the automated gasket feeding device is that it can effectively isolate some of the noise generated during operation, thus optimizing the working environment.

[0015] The present invention provides an automated gasket feeding device. Another advantage of the automated gasket feeding device is that the main equipment is enclosed and isolated from the outside, preventing external debris from entering and affecting the automated operation.

[0016] This invention provides an automated gasket feeding device for automatically delivering a gasket during a ball valve assembly process. To achieve the aforementioned and other objectives and advantages, the automated gasket feeding device includes:

[0017] A platform device.

[0018] A vibration device assembly is installed on the platform device.

[0019] A material transfer device group is connected to the vibration device group in a material transferable manner.

[0020] One control unit.

[0021] The vibration device group and the material transfer device group are respectively controllably driven and connected to the control unit. Attached Figure Description

[0022] Figure 1 The figure shown is a three-dimensional schematic diagram of a ball valve applicable to auxiliary assembly in the automated gasket feeding equipment of the present invention.

[0023] Figure 2 The figure shown is a cross-sectional view of the ball valve used in the auxiliary assembly of the automated gasket feeding equipment of the present invention.

[0024] Figure 3 The figure shown is an exploded view of the ball valve used in the auxiliary assembly of the automated gasket feeding equipment of the present invention.

[0025] Figure 4A The figure shown is a three-dimensional schematic diagram of a washer for automated feeding in the washer automated feeding device of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 4B The image shown is a side view of the gaskets for which the automated gasket feeding device of the present invention is applicable for automated feeding.

[0027] Figure 5A The figure shown is a perspective view of a first preferred embodiment of the automated gasket feeding device of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 5B The image shown is a partial exploded view of the first preferred embodiment of the automated gasket feeding device of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 6A and Figure 6BThe diagram shown is a perspective view of a vibration device group and a material transfer device group of the first preferred embodiment of the automated gasket feeding equipment of the present invention.

[0030] Figure 6C and Figure 6D The image shown is a partial enlarged view of the vibration device assembly in the first preferred embodiment of the automated gasket feeding device of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 6E and Figure 6F The diagram shown is a schematic diagram of the working principle of an adjustment mechanism of the vibration device group in the first preferred embodiment of the automated gasket feeding equipment of the present invention.

[0032] Figure 7A and Figure 7B The diagram shown is a schematic diagram of the working principle of a discharge track of the vibration device group in the first preferred embodiment of the automatic gasket feeding device of the invention.

[0033] Figure 8A The diagram shows a material transfer track of the material transfer device assembly in the first preferred embodiment of the automated gasket feeding device of the invention.

[0034] Figure 8B The diagram shown is a partially enlarged schematic of the material transfer device assembly of the first preferred embodiment of the automated gasket feeding device of the invention. Detailed Implementation

[0035] The following description is intended to disclose the present invention and enable those skilled in the art to implement it. The preferred embodiments described below are merely examples, and other obvious variations will occur to those skilled in the art. The basic principles of the invention defined in the following description can be applied to other embodiments, modifications, improvements, equivalents, and other technical solutions that do not depart from the spirit and scope of the invention.

[0036] Those skilled in the art should understand that, in the disclosure of this invention, the terms "longitudinal," "lateral," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, the above terms should not be construed as limiting this invention.

[0037] It is understood that the term "a" should be understood as "at least one" or "one or more", that is, in one embodiment, the number of an element can be one, while in another embodiment, the number of the element can be multiple, and the term "a" should not be understood as a limitation on the number.

[0038] The present invention provides an automated gasket feeding device for the assembly process of a ball valve, which automatically delivers a gasket to assist in the assembly of the ball valve. The automated gasket feeding device can continuously supply the gasket to an automated gasket assembly device in the same posture to automatically assist in the assembly of the ball valve.

[0039] like Figures 1 to 3 As shown, the ball valve 100W includes a valve body assembly 10W, a valve core 20W, a rotating component 30W, and an operating component 40W. The valve core 20W is movably disposed inside the valve body assembly 10W. The rotating component 30W is movably mounted on the valve body assembly 10W, and one end of the rotating component 30W is tractably connected to the valve core 20W. The operating component 40W is operably connected to the other end of the rotating component 30W.

[0040] The ball valve 100W includes a valve body assembly 10W comprising a valve body 11W, a valve body sealing ring 12W, a valve cap 13W, and a valve cap sealing ring 14W. The valve body sealing ring 12W is installed inside the valve body 11W, and the valve cap sealing ring 14W is installed inside the valve cap 13W. The valve cap 13W is sealed to the valve body 11W, and the valve cap 13W and the valve body 11W are sealed together with adhesive. The valve core 20W is movably disposed within the valve body 11W between the valve body sealing ring 12W and the valve cap sealing ring 14W.

[0041] The valve core 20W includes a valve core body 21W, and the valve core 20W has a guide hole 22W and a connecting groove 23W. The guide hole 22W is opened through the middle of the valve core body 21W, and the connecting groove 23W is opened on the side of the valve core body 21W.

[0042] The rotating component 30W includes a valve stem 31W, a valve stem sealing ring 32W, a valve stem ring 33W, and a valve stem nut 42W. The valve stem 31W is rotatably mounted on the valve body 11W of the valve body assembly 10W. The valve stem sealing ring 32W is mounted on one end of the valve stem 31W. The valve stem ring 33W is nested outside the valve stem 31W. The valve stem nut 42W is nested outside the valve stem 31W and is fixedly mounted on the valve body 11W.

[0043] The operating component 40W includes a control handle 41W, a washer 42W, and a handle nut 43W. The control handle 41W is operably nested in the valve stem 31W of the rotating component 30W. The washer 42W is spring-loaded into the valve stem 31W and is located within the control handle 41W. The handle nut 43W is fixed to the top of the valve stem 31W and presses down on the washer 42W.

[0044] like Figure 4A and Figure 4B As shown, the washer 42W is a spring washer, which includes a ring body 421W, a first end 422W, a second end 423W, and a ring hole 42W. The ring body 421W is a spiral ring structure. The first end 422W and the second end 423W are respectively formed at both ends of the ring body 421W. The ring hole 42W is formed around the ring body 421W. At the same time, the first end 422W and the second end 423W are close to each other but at different heights.

[0045] This construction gives the washer 42W a certain degree of elasticity in terms of mechanical properties. At the same time, in terms of physical structure, the thickness of one side of the part where the first end 422W and the second end 423W of the washer 42W are located is greater than that of the other side of the washer 42W.

[0046] like Figure 4B As shown, viewed from the side, the thickness of the washer 42W is greatest at the first end 422W and the second end 423W, and smallest on the other side of the ring body 421W. That is, the washer 42W has a maximum thickness H and a minimum thickness h. This characteristic of different thicknesses can be used by automated equipment to screen and adjust its shape.

[0047] Figure 5A The image shows a first preferred embodiment of the present invention: an automated gasket feeding device 1. The automated gasket feeding device 1 is used to automatically and continuously feed the gaskets 42W in the same posture to a gasket assembly device for automated assembly of the ball valve 100W.

[0048] The automated gasket feeding device 1 includes a platform device 10, a vibration device group 20, a material transfer device group 30, and a control unit 40. The vibration device group 20 is installed on the platform device 10, and the material transfer device group 30 is connected to the vibration device group 20 in a material-transferable manner. At the same time, the vibration device group 20 and the material transfer device group 30 are respectively controllably driven and connected to the control unit 40.

[0049] The platform device 10 is mainly used to install the vibration device group 20 and provide a stable working environment for the vibration device group 20. The vibration device group 20 is mainly used for vibration material transfer. Through its own vibration, the vibration device group 20 continuously transfers the washer 42W placed within it to the material transfer device group 30 in a set posture. The material transfer device group 30 continues to transfer the washer 42W to the outside in a set posture. Finally, the external device obtains the washer 42W for other actions, that is, an external washer assembly device obtains the washer 42W and performs assembly actions. The control unit 40 coordinates the detection and control of the vibration device group 20 and the material transfer device group 30 to ensure that they can work stably and effectively.

[0050] The platform device 10 includes a housing 11 and a mounting base 12. The housing 11 is enclosedly mounted on the mounting base 12, and the vibration device assembly 20 is disposed within the housing 11.

[0051] The housing 11 is used to install and accommodate the vibration device assembly 20, and the mounting base 12 is used to install the housing 11 and stably support the weight of the housing 11 and other equipment installed thereon.

[0052] Preferably, the housing 11 is designed as an openable housing to facilitate the feeding of the vibration device assembly 20 installed inside it, that is, to add the washer 42W to the vibration device assembly 20.

[0053] Preferably, the housing 11 is designed as a housing with a transparent observation window, which facilitates operators or automated equipment to monitor the quantity of the gaskets 42W inside the vibration device assembly 20.

[0054] Preferably, the housing 11 is designed to absorb some noise, which can reduce the noise generated when the vibration device assembly 20 is working.

[0055] like Figure 5B As shown, the enclosure 11 further includes a cover 111, a wall structure 112, and multiple sound insulation layers 113. The enclosure 11 also has a through hole 114. The cover 111 is closably connected to the wall structure 112. The wall structure 112 surrounds the vibrating device assembly 20. Each of the sound insulation layers 113 is attached to the inner surface of the wall structure 112. The through hole 114 is horizontally opened on the side of the wall structure 112.

[0056] The cover 111 is used to controllably open and close the housing 11. When the cover 111 is open, the operator or equipment can add the gasket 42W to the vibration device assembly 20, or perform adjustments or maintenance on the vibration device assembly 20. When the cover 111 is closed, the housing 11 can isolate the vibration device assembly 20, so that the vibration device assembly 20 is not affected by external factors, and can also prevent external debris from entering the vibration device 20 and interfering with its operation.

[0057] Preferably, the lid 111 is made of transparent material, so that the internal condition of the box 11 can be easily observed from the outside, and the working status of the internal vibration device group 20 and the amount of the gasket 42W can be detected at any time.

[0058] More preferably, the lid 111 is made of acrylic material, which is transparent and lightweight, making it easy to handle.

[0059] The box wall structure 112 is used to enclose and isolate the vibration device group 20, reducing the influence of external factors on it.

[0060] The sound insulation layer 113 is used to absorb some of the noise generated when the vibration device assembly 20 is working, thereby optimizing the production environment.

[0061] Preferably, the sound insulation layer 113 is made of sound-absorbing sponge, which is inexpensive, easy to install, and has a good sound absorption effect.

[0062] The through hole 114 of the housing 11 is used to provide a material channel for the vibration device group 20 to transmit the washer 42W to the material transfer device group 30.

[0063] like Figure 6A and 6B As shown, the vibration device assembly 20 includes a vibrating transfer device 21, a vibrating transfer track 22, a buffer device 24, an adjustment device 25, and a discharge track 26. The vibration device assembly 20 also has a storage space 23. The vibrating transfer device 21 is stably mounted on the buffer device 24. The vibrating transfer track 22 is spirally arranged on the inner side wall of the vibrating transfer device 21. The adjustment device 25 is arranged on the vibrating transfer track to adjust the orientation of the parts. The discharge track 26 is connected to the vibrating transfer track 22 for screening and transferring materials. The storage space 23 is formed inside the vibrating transfer device 21.

[0064] Meanwhile, the vibrating material transfer device 21 is controllably driven and connected to the control unit 40, the buffer device 24 is stably set on the mounting base 12 of the platform device 10, and the discharge track 26 is transferably connected to the material transfer device group 30.

[0065] The vibrating transfer device 21 is used to controllably and continuously vibrate, thereby causing the washer 42W stored in the storage space 23 to continuously move forward along the vibrating transfer track 22.

[0066] The vibrating transfer track 22 provides a moving path for the washer 42W, allowing it to move continuously outward along the vibrating transfer track 22 and enabling the washer 42W to be moved to the discharge track 26.

[0067] Furthermore, the vibrating transfer device 21 continuously performs torsional up-and-down vibration, causing the workpiece placed therein to move from low to high along the vibrating transfer track 22.

[0068] The storage space 23 is mainly used to store the gasket 42W.

[0069] The buffer device 24 is disposed between the vibrating transfer device 21 and the mounting base 12, and can absorb the vibration transmitted outward by the vibrating transfer device 21, so as to prevent the mounting base 12 from vibrating along with the vibrating transfer device 21.

[0070] The adjustment device 25 is used to passively adjust the posture of the washer 42W on the vibrating material transfer track 22, so that the washer 42W can be transferred to the discharge track 26 in an appropriate posture. At the same time, the adjustment device 25 can return the washer 42W that does not meet the posture requirements or is piled up too much to the storage space 23.

[0071] The discharge track 26 is used to selectively accept the washers 42W transmitted by the vibrating transfer track 22. That is, the discharge track 26 can accept and transmit the washers 42W with appropriate posture, but does not accept those washers 42W with inappropriate posture, and returns the washers 42W with inappropriate posture to the storage space 23.

[0072] The adjustment device 25 further includes an adjustment mechanism 251 and a guide mechanism 252. The adjustment device 25 also has a return channel 253. The adjustment mechanism 251 is disposed on the vibrating material transfer track 22. The guide mechanism 252 is connected between the vibrating material transfer track 22 and the discharge track 26. The return channel 253 is opened near the guide mechanism 252 and is connected to the storage space 23 of the vibration device group 20.

[0073] like Figure 6B , Figure 6C , Figure 6E and Figure 6F As shown, the adjustment mechanism 251 is used to make a preliminary posture adjustment of the washer 42W that is continuously vibrated. Through its structural design, the adjustment mechanism 251 can adjust most of the passing washer 42W to a flat position or screen them back into the storage space 23. On the other hand, when there are multiple clustered washer 42W, the adjustment mechanism 251 can also adjust the excess washer 42W back into the storage space 23.

[0074] like Figure 6D As shown, the guiding mechanism 252 is disposed at the end of the vibrating material transfer track 22, which is used to guide the washer 42W into the discharge track 26. At the same time, the guiding mechanism 252 can screen the washer 42W with incorrect posture or excess accumulation into the return channel 253.

[0075] The return channel 253 is used to return the gasket 42W that has entered it to the storage space 23, so that the gasket 42W can be vibrated and moved again and its posture adjusted.

[0076] The adjustment mechanism 251 further includes an adjustment element 2511, and the adjustment mechanism 251 also has a passage space 2512. The adjustment element 2511 is connected to the vibrating transfer track 22 at an elevation angle, and the passage space 2512 is formed between the adjustment element 2511 and the vibrating transfer track 22.

[0077] The adjusting element 2511 adjusts the improperly positioned washer 42W at an appropriate elevation angle, while returning the excessively accumulated washer 42W to the storage space 23.

[0078] The passage space 2512 allows the properly positioned washer 42W to pass through unimpeded.

[0079] In this preferred embodiment of the invention, the adjusting element 2511 of the adjusting mechanism 251 can adjust the washer 42W to a flat position, and the passage space 2512 of the adjusting mechanism allows the flat washer 42W to pass through.

[0080] The guiding mechanism 252 further includes a guiding element 2521, and the guiding mechanism 252 also has a guiding ramp 2522. The guiding element 2521 is connected between the vibrating material transfer track 22 and the discharge track 26 in a material-guideable manner. The guiding ramp 2522 is inclinedly formed between the vibrating material transfer track 22 and the discharge track 26, and the guiding element 2521 is disposed on the guiding ramp 2522.

[0081] The guiding element 2521 is used to guide the movement direction of the washer 42W on the guiding inclined surface 2522, so that the washer 42W can move to the discharge track 26 in a more accurate direction.

[0082] The guide ramp 2522 can utilize its inclined characteristic to give the washer 42W a downward sliding force, allowing the washer 42W with a suitable orientation to slide into the discharge track 26. The washer 42W with an unsuitable orientation will be stuck on the guide ramp 2522 or slide directly into the return channel 253. When too many washer 42Ws are stuck on the guide ramp 2522, the washer 42W will also be pushed into the return channel 253 and return to the storage space 23.

[0083] like Figure 7A and 7B As shown, the discharge track 26 further includes two discharge walls 261, and the discharge track 26 also has a discharge channel 262. The two discharge walls 261 are connected in parallel with gaps between them. The discharge channel 262 is formed between the two discharge walls 261. At the same time, the two discharge walls 261 are connected between the vibrating material transfer track 22 and the material transfer device group 30.

[0084] The two discharge walls 261 are used to clamp and secure the washer 42W, so that after the washer 42W enters the discharge track 26, it can be stably transferred in the discharge track 26.

[0085] The discharge channel 262 allows the gasket 42W to be stably and continuously passed through and enter the subsequent material transfer device group 30.

[0086] Preferably, the width of the discharge channel 262 is slightly larger than the minimum thickness h of the washer 42W and slightly smaller than the maximum thickness H of the washer 42W. This design allows the washer 42W to slide into the discharge channel 262 of the discharge track 26 at the minimum thickness h, while the washer 42W cannot enter the discharge channel 262 at the maximum thickness H.

[0087] The final effect is that the washer 42W is sequentially transferred to the discharge track 26 with the minimum thickness h facing inward and the maximum thickness H facing outward, that is, the first end 422W and the second end 423W of the washer 42W are facing outward of the discharge track 26.

[0088] The washer 42W that slides toward the discharge track 26 in the wrong posture will not be able to enter the discharge channel 262 of the discharge track 26, and will instead slide into the return channel 253 and return to the storage space 23.

[0089] The material transfer device assembly 30 further includes a material transfer track 31, a transfer device 32, a blocking device 33, and a detection device 34. The transfer track 31 is transferably connected to the transfer device 32, the blocking device 33 is connected to the end of the material transfer track 31, and the detection device 34 is detectably disposed on the blocking device 33.

[0090] Meanwhile, the material transfer track 31 is connected to the discharge track 26 of the vibration device group 20 in a material transferable manner, the transfer device 32 is stably installed on the platform device 10, and the transfer device 32 is controllably driven and connected to the control unit 40, and the detection device 34 is communicatively connected to the control unit 40.

[0091] The material transfer track 31 is used to transfer the washer 42W after its posture has been adjusted, so that the washer 42W is arranged sequentially on the material transfer track 31.

[0092] The transfer device 32 applies displacement force to each of the washers 42W arranged sequentially on the transfer track 31, so that each of the washers 42W can be continuously pushed forward on the transfer track 31.

[0093] Preferably, the transmission device 32 is a linear vibrator, which can cause the washer 42W to move forward on the material transmission track 32 through its own vibration.

[0094] The blocking device 33 is used to stop the washer 42W at the end of the material transfer track 31 and keep the washer 42W stationary there until it is picked up by another device.

[0095] The detection device 34 is used to detect whether the signal of the washer 42W exists at the blocking device 33, and transmit the signal to the control unit 40 so that the control unit 40 can control other devices to perform the next action on the washer 42W.

[0096] like Figure 8A As shown, the material transfer track 31 further includes two material transfer walls 311. At the same time, the material transfer track 31 also has a material transfer channel 312 and a discharge notch 313. The two material transfer walls 311 are connected in parallel with a gap. The material transfer channel 312 is formed with an upward opening between the two material transfer walls 311. The discharge notch 313 is opened at the connection between the material transfer track 31 and the blocking device 33.

[0097] Similar to the discharge track 26 of the vibration device assembly 20, the two transfer walls 311 are used to stabilize each of the washers 42W so that the washers 42W can be transferred on the transfer track 31.

[0098] The width of the material transfer channel 312 is implemented to be slightly larger than the minimum thickness h of the washer 42W and slightly smaller than the maximum thickness H of the washer 42W, so that the first end 422W and the second end 423 of the washer 42W can be held in an upward position.

[0099] It is worth mentioning that, after the discharge track 26 is adjusted, the washer 42W is adjusted to a vertical position to enter the transfer track 31, and then is vertically transferred into the discharge notch 313 of the transfer track 31, as shown. Figures 7A to 8B As shown in the image.

[0100] The advantage of adjusting the washer 42W to a vertical position is that the washer 42W can be moved by passing other devices with rod-like structures through the ring hole 424W of the washer 42W, thus preventing it from falling off during movement.

[0101] like Figure 8B As shown, the feeding notch 313 is provided to facilitate other equipment to obtain the washer 42W from the material transfer track of the material transfer device group 30.

[0102] The control unit 40 further includes a control module 41 and a power module 42. The control module 41 is electrically connected to the power module 42. The control module 41 is controllably driven to the vibrating material transfer device 21 of the vibrating device group 20, the transfer device 32 of the material transfer device group 30, and the detection device 34. Meanwhile, the power module 42 is powered to the vibrating material transfer device 21 of the vibrating device group 20, the transfer device 32 of the material transfer device group 30, and the detection device 34.

[0103] The control module 41 is used to controllably drive the vibration device group 20 and the material transfer device group 30 to adjust and control the vibration device group 20 and the material transfer device group 30 according to the working conditions of the automatic gasket feeding device 1.

[0104] The power module 42 is used to provide the necessary power to the vibration device group 20 and the material transfer device group 30 for their operation, which can be electricity, air supply or any other form of available power.

[0105] Before the automatic gasket feeding device 1 starts automatic feeding, the box cover 111 of the box body 11 can be opened first, and the gasket 42W can be added to the storage space 23 of the vibrating transfer device 21 manually or by automated equipment. After the feeding is completed, the box cover 111 can be closed.

[0106] Then, the automatic gasket feeding device 1 is controlled by the control unit 40 to perform automated operation, that is, the control unit 40 simultaneously controls the vibration device group 20 and the material transfer device group 30 to perform automated operation and provides power to the vibration device group 20 and the material transfer device group 30.

[0107] The vibration device group 20 continuously performs torsional up-and-down vibration under the control of the control unit 40, causing each of the washers 42W placed in the storage space 23 of the vibration device group 20 to move from low to high along the vibration transfer track 22.

[0108] When each of the washers 42W spirals upward and moves along the vibrating material transfer track 22 due to the vibration of the vibration device assembly 20, it passes through the adjustment mechanism 251. Some of the washers 42W are adjusted to a flat position, while others are squeezed off and returned to the storage space 23.

[0109] Then, each of the washers 42W lying flat on the vibrating transfer track 22 is continuously vibrated and transported to the guide mechanism 252. Through the guide element 2521 and the guide ramp 2522 of the guide mechanism 252, some of the washers 42W are guided into the discharge channel 262 of the discharge track 26 in sequence and are arranged in the discharge channel 262 by the two discharge walls 261 in sequence.

[0110] Under the continuous vibration of the vibration device group 20, each of the washers 42W that sequentially enters the discharge track 26 is pushed forward to the material transfer device group 30 and then sequentially enters the material transfer track 31. Each of the washers 42W that enters the material transfer track 31 is then sequentially arranged and pushed into the material transfer channel 312 of the material transfer track 31.

[0111] Simultaneously, under the control of the control unit 40, the transfer device 32 continuously vibrates and propels each washer 42W onto the material transfer track 31.

[0112] The washer 42W at the foremost end is stopped by the blocking device 33 at the feeding notch of the material conveying track 312.

[0113] At this time, when the detection device 34 detects that the washer 42W is stopped at the feeding notch 313, it transmits an presence signal to the control module 41 of the control unit 40. The control module 41 of the control unit 40 transmits the presence signal of the washer 42W to a washer assembly device, and the washer assembly device removes the washer 42W that is stopped at the feeding notch 313.

[0114] After the gasket 42W, which is stopped at the feeding notch 313, is taken away by the gasket assembly equipment, the gasket 42W will be vibrated and pushed forward again and stopped at the feeding notch 313, and this process will be repeated to continuously and automatically supply the gasket 42W in the automated assembly of the ball valve 100W.

[0115] The present invention also provides an automated gasket feeding method, wherein an automated gasket feeding device 1 automatically supplies the gasket 42W during the assembly process of the ball valve 100W. The automated gasket feeding method includes the following steps:

[0116] A. Add multiple gaskets 42W to the vibration device assembly 20, thereby adding a large number of gaskets 42W required during the assembly of the ball valve 100W to the vibration device assembly 20 for continuous automatic feeding.

[0117] B, the vibration device group 20 continuously vibrates and propels each of the washers 42W, and the vibration device group 20 continuously performs torsional up and down vibration to drive each of the washers 42W to continuously move from low to high.

[0118] C. The vibration device group 20 adjusts the posture of each washer 42W, and each washer 42W is adjusted to a suitable shape, which is a flat posture in this embodiment.

[0119] D. The washers 42W in suitable positions are automatically guided and transferred to the material transfer device group 30 in sequence. Under suitable positions, the washers 42W are transferred into the material transfer device group 30. In this embodiment, the washers 42W are transferred into the material transfer device group 30 with the maximum thickness H upward and the minimum thickness h downward.

[0120] E, the material transfer device group 30 automatically transfers each of the washers 42W in sequence for use by external assembly equipment. The material transfer device group 30 sequentially transfers and stops the washers 42W to a position for automatic use by external assembly equipment, namely the washer assembly equipment.

[0121] Step A further includes the following steps:

[0122] A1, open the lid 111 of the box 11 of the platform device 10.

[0123] A2, add a plurality of washers 42W to the storage space 23 of the vibration device assembly 20.

[0124] A3, close the lid 111 of the housing 11 of the platform device 10.

[0125] Step B further includes the following steps:

[0126] B1, the vibration device group 20 drives each washer 42W to continuously perform torsional up-and-down vibration.

[0127] B2 causes each washer 42W to move from low to high along the vibrating material transfer track 22.

[0128] Step C further includes the following steps:

[0129] C1, the adjusting mechanism 251 adjusts the washer 42W to a flat position.

[0130] C2, the adjusting mechanism 251 returns a portion of the washer 42W to the storage space 23 of the vibration device assembly 20.

[0131] Step D further includes the following steps:

[0132] D1, the guiding mechanism 252 continuously guides part of the washer 42W into the discharge track 26.

[0133] D2, a portion of the gasket 42W is returned to the storage space 23 by the guide mechanism 252.

[0134] D3, each of the washers 42W that enter the discharge track 26 is sequentially transferred to the material transfer device group 30.

[0135] Step E further includes the following steps:

[0136] E1, the discharge track 31 continuously and sequentially transmits the washers 42W.

[0137] E2, the blocking device 33 blocks the stationary front end washer 42W.

[0138] E3, the detection device 34 detected the presence signal of the foremost washer 42W.

[0139] E4, the detection device 34 transmits the presence signal of the gasket 42W to the control unit 40.

[0140] E5, the control unit 40 controls the external device to take the foremost washer 42W.

[0141] Step D3 further includes the following steps:

[0142] D31, each of the washers 42W is gradually and automatically adjusted to a vertical position.

[0143] D32, each of the washers 42W is sequentially passed vertically into the material transfer track of the material transfer device group 30.

[0144] Those skilled in the art should understand that the preferred embodiments of the present invention described above and shown in the accompanying drawings are merely examples and do not limit the present invention. Furthermore, the objectives of the present invention have been fully and effectively achieved, and the functions and structural principles of the present invention have been demonstrated and explained in the embodiments. Without departing from the stated principles, the implementation of the present invention may have any variations or modifications.

Claims

1. An automated gasket feeding device for automatically delivering a gasket during the assembly process of a ball valve, wherein the gasket is a non-closed annular elastic helical structure, wherein the gasket includes a ring body, a first end, a second end, and a ring hole, the first end and the second end are respectively formed at both ends of the ring body, the ring hole is formed around the ring body, and the first end and the second end are offset vertically to form a thickness difference, characterized in that... The automated gasket feeding device utilizes the different thicknesses of the gaskets to screen and adjust their shape. It also utilizes the inherent elasticity and thickness difference of the gaskets to achieve directional screening. The automated gasket feeding device includes: A platform device; A vibrating device assembly is vibratingly and material-transferringly mounted on the platform device. The vibrating device assembly includes a vibrating transfer device, a vibrating transfer track, a discharge track, and a storage space. The vibrating transfer track is spirally arranged on the inner side wall of the vibrating transfer device. The discharge track is connected to the vibrating transfer track for material transfer in a screening manner. The storage space is formed inside the vibrating transfer device. A material transfer device group, wherein the material transfer device group is transferably connected to the vibrating device group; One control unit; The vibration device group and the material transfer device group are respectively controllably driven and connected to the control unit. The automated washer feeding equipment further includes an adjustment device, which includes an adjustment mechanism and a guide mechanism. The adjustment mechanism and the guide mechanism work together to achieve unique orientation and sorting of the washer based on its elastic characteristics and non-closed ring structure. The adjustment mechanism includes an adjustment element, which is connected to the vibrating transfer track at an elevation angle. A passage space is formed between the adjustment element and the vibrating transfer track, allowing only washers in a flat position to pass through. Washers that are elastically warped, stacked, or misaligned are bounced back to the storage tank. The material space includes a guiding mechanism comprising a guiding element. The guiding mechanism has a guiding ramp formed obliquely between the vibrating material transfer track and the discharge track of the vibrating device assembly. The guiding element is disposed on the guiding ramp and is used to guide the movement direction of the washer on the guiding ramp, constrain the bounce offset of the washer, and allow the washer to slide into the discharge track along a fixed trajectory. The discharge track has a discharge channel, the width of which is implemented to be slightly larger than a minimum thickness of the washer and slightly smaller than a maximum thickness of the washer, allowing only the washer in a vertical orientation in the thickness direction to pass through.

2. The automated gasket feeding device according to claim 1, wherein, The platform device includes a housing and a mounting base. The housing is enclosedly mounted on the mounting base, and the vibration device assembly is disposed within the housing.

3. The automated gasket feeding device according to claim 2, wherein, The enclosure further includes a lid, a wall structure, and multiple sound insulation layers. The enclosure also has a through hole. The lid is closably connected to the wall structure. The wall structure surrounds the vibrating device assembly. Each of the sound insulation layers is attached to the inner surface of the wall structure. The through hole is horizontally opened on the side of the wall structure.

4. The automated gasket feeding device according to claim 3, wherein, The lid is made of a transparent material.

5. The automated gasket feeding device according to claim 3, wherein, The sound insulation layer is made of sound-absorbing sponge.

6. The automated gasket feeding device according to claim 1, wherein, The vibration device group also includes a buffer device. The vibrating material transfer device is stably installed on the buffer device. At the same time, the vibrating material transfer device is controllably driven and connected to the control unit. The buffer device is stably set on the platform device. The discharge track is connected to the material transfer device group in a material transfer manner.

7. The automated gasket feeding device according to claim 6, wherein, The adjustment device also has a return channel. The adjustment mechanism is disposed on the vibrating material transfer track. The guiding mechanism is connected between the vibrating material transfer track and the discharge track. The return channel is opened near the guiding mechanism and is connected to the storage space of the vibrating device assembly.

8. The automated gasket feeding device according to claim 7, wherein the guiding element is connected between the vibrating transfer track and the discharge track in a material-guided manner.

9. The automated gasket feeding device according to claim 6, wherein, The discharge track further includes two discharge walls, which are connected in parallel with a gap between them. The discharge channel is formed between the two discharge walls. At the same time, the two discharge walls are connected between the vibrating material transfer track and the material transfer device assembly.

10. The automated gasket feeding device according to claim 1, wherein, The material transfer device group further includes a material transfer track, a transfer device, a blocking device, and a detection device. The transfer track is transferably connected to the transfer device, the blocking device is connected to the end of the material transfer track, and the detection device is detectably disposed on the blocking device. Meanwhile, the material transfer track is transferably connected to the vibration device group, the transfer device is stably installed on the platform device, and the transfer device is controllably driven and connected to the control unit. The detection device is communicatively connected to the control unit.

11. The automated gasket feeding device according to claim 10, wherein, The material transfer track further includes two material transfer walls. The material transfer track also has a material transfer channel and a discharge notch. The two material transfer walls are connected in parallel with a gap. The material transfer channel is formed with an upward opening between the two material transfer walls. The discharge notch is opened at the connection between the material transfer track and the blocking device.

12. The automated gasket feeding device according to claim 11, wherein, The transmission device is a linear vibrator.

13. The automated gasket feeding device according to claim 1, wherein, The control unit further includes a control module and a power module. The control module is electrically connected to the power module and is controllably driven to the vibration device group and the material transfer device group. Meanwhile, the power module is powered to the vibration device group and the material transfer device group.

14. An automated gasket feeding method, wherein an automated gasket feeding device automatically provides a gasket during the assembly process of a ball valve, the gasket being a non-closed annular elastic helical structure, the gasket comprising a ring body, a first end, a second end, and a ring hole, the first end and the second end being formed at opposite ends of the ring body, the ring hole being formed around the ring body, the first end and the second end being offset vertically to form a thickness difference, the automated gasket feeding method utilizing the gasket's own elasticity and thickness difference for directional orientation screening, comprising the following steps: A. Add multiple of the washers to a vibration device group of the automated washer feeding equipment; B, the vibration device group continuously vibrates to propel each of the washers; C, the vibration device group automatically adjusts each of the washers to a flat position, and rebounds the washers that are elastically raised, stacked, or in the wrong position back into a storage space; D. The washer with the appropriate posture is constrained and deflected by a guide mechanism, and automatically guided to a discharge track of the automatic washer feeding equipment. The discharge track has a channel width that matches the thickness difference, allowing only the washer that enters with a vertical thickness posture to pass through, and is then sequentially transferred to a material transfer device group. E, the material transfer device group will automatically transfer each washer in a unique orientation to other devices for use.

15. The automated gasket feeding method according to claim 14, wherein, Step A further includes the following steps: A1. Open the cover of one box of the automated gasket feeding equipment; A2, add a plurality of the washers to a storage space of the vibration device assembly; A3, close the lid of the box.

16. The automated gasket feeding method according to claim 15, wherein, Step B further includes the following steps: B1, the vibration device group drives each washer to continuously perform torsional up-and-down vibration; B2 causes the washer to move from low to high along the vibrating material transfer track.

17. The automated gasket feeding method according to claim 16, wherein, Step E further includes the following steps: E1, the discharge track of the vibration device group continuously and sequentially transmits the washers; E2, a blocking device of the material conveying device group blocks the stationary front end washer; E3, A detection device of the material transfer device group detects the presence signal of the frontmost washer; E4, the detection device transmits the presence signal of the gasket to the control unit of the automated gasket feeding equipment; E5, the control unit controls the external device to take the foremost washer.

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