Automatic discharging device and discharging method

Abstract

The application discloses an automatic discharging device and a discharging method, and belongs to the technical field of reagent sample transportation. The device comprises a first conveying mechanism and a second conveying mechanism. The first conveying mechanism is provided with a discharging port. The second conveying mechanism comprises a second support, a material blocking assembly and a picking assembly. The material blocking assembly is installed on the second support and arranged close to the discharging port. The picking assembly is movably arranged on the second support. When the picking assembly moves to a third moving position in a second direction, the picking assembly is arranged close to the discharging port and picks a tablet making bin of the discharging port, and the material blocking assembly is removed to the discharging port. When the picking assembly picks the tablet making bin and moves to a fourth moving position, the picking assembly is arranged away from the discharging port, at least part of the material blocking assembly is arranged in the discharging port, and the material blocking assembly is used for blocking the tablet making bin at the discharging port, thereby realizing single-time transportation of the tablet making bin.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the technical field of reagent sample transportation, and in particular to an automatic feeding device and feeding method. Background Technology

[0002] In pathological examination, the patient's sample is usually stored in consumables, and then the sample is mixed with test reagents and processed through a series of steps to obtain the test results.

[0003] In batch testing, consumables are used to hold samples or reagents. Before using these consumables, multiple consumables need to be arranged so that their openings face upwards. After arranging a large batch of consumables, they need to be individually transported to the processing station so that the robotic arm can pick them up one by one for the next step.

[0004] However, when the automatic feeding and sorting device sorts a large quantity of consumables, the large quantity of consumables piles up at the discharge port after sorting. The large quantity of consumables cannot be transported one by one from the discharge port. When the robotic arm grabs a single consumable from multiple consumables, adjacent consumables come into contact with each other. During the process of being grabbed by the robotic arm, adjacent consumables affect or interfere with each other, causing the robotic arm to be unable to effectively grab a single consumable. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The purpose of this invention is to improve the problem that large quantities of consumables cannot be transported sequentially in batch pathological testing, resulting in the inability of robotic arms to effectively grasp the consumables, and to provide an automatic feeding device and feeding method.

[0006] The technical solutions for achieving the above objectives include the following:

[0007] An automatic feeding device includes a first transport mechanism and a second transport mechanism. The first transport mechanism has a feeding port. The second transport mechanism includes a second support member, a material blocking component, and a picking component. The material blocking component is installed on the second support member and is disposed near the feeding port.

[0008] The picking component is movably disposed on the second support member, and in the second direction, the picking component has a third moving position and a fourth moving position. In the third moving position, the picking component is close to the discharge port; in the fourth moving position, the picking component is away from the discharge port, and at least a portion of the blocking component is located at the discharge port.

[0009] In one embodiment, the first transport mechanism has an inclined conveying channel, the discharge port is located at the lowest point of the conveying channel and communicates with the conveying channel; the second transport mechanism also has a second drive assembly mounted on a second support member, the pickup assembly is mounted on the second drive assembly, and the second drive assembly is used to drive the pickup assembly so that the pickup assembly has a third moving position and a fourth moving position on the second support member.

[0010] In one embodiment, the pickup assembly includes a pickup plate, a second sliding block, and a third side plate. The second sliding block is mounted on a second drive assembly, and the pickup plate is mounted on the second sliding block. The pickup plate has a pickup opening. The third side plate is mounted on a second support member. In a third moving position, the pickup opening of the pickup assembly faces the feed port. In a fourth moving position, the pickup opening of the pickup assembly faces the third side plate and is blocked by the third side plate.

[0011] In one embodiment, the pickup assembly further includes a second light-shielding plate and a second sensor. The second light-shielding plate is mounted on a second sliding block, and the second sensor is mounted on a second support member and electrically connected to a second drive assembly. In a third moving position, the second light-shielding plate and the second sensor engage in sensing cooperation.

[0012] In one embodiment, the second driving assembly includes a second driving member, a second guide rail, and a second transmission member. The second transmission member includes a second driving wheel, a second transmission belt, and a second driven wheel. The second driving member is mounted on a second support member. The second driving wheel is mounted on the output end of the second driving member. The second driven wheel is rotatably mounted on the second support member. The second transmission belt is in transmission engagement with the second driving wheel and the second driven wheel, respectively. The second guide rail is mounted on the second support member and extends along a second direction. The second sliding block of the pickup assembly is mounted on the second transmission belt, and the second sliding block is in sliding engagement with the second guide rail.

[0013] In one embodiment, the material blocking assembly includes an abutment plate, a baffle, a reset member, and a first mounting plate. The first mounting plate is mounted on a second support member, and a first end of the reset member is mounted on the first mounting plate. The abutment plate is connected to the baffle, and the abutment plate or the baffle is mounted on a second end of the reset member. The abutment plate is used to abut against the picking assembly, and the baffle is used to restrict the movement of the film-making chamber at the feeding port.

[0014] In one embodiment, the reset member includes a spring and at least one guide post. The first end of the guide post passes through the first mounting plate and slides with the first mounting plate, and the first end of the guide post is fixed to the abutment plate. The spring is sleeved on the outside of the guide post, and the two ends of the spring abut against the abutment plate and the first mounting plate, respectively.

[0015] In one embodiment, the automatic feeding device further includes a tray assembly mounted on a second support member, the pickup component being in a fourth movable position, the tray assembly being located below the pickup component, and the tray assembly being used to push the film preparation chamber out of the pickup component.

[0016] In one embodiment, the first transport mechanism further includes a first detector, which is disposed away from the discharge port and the detection direction of the first detector is toward the transport channel of the first transport mechanism.

[0017] The present invention also proposes a feeding method for an automatic feeding device, comprising the following steps:

[0018] Step 1: Activate the baffle assembly to block the film-making chamber at the feed inlet;

[0019] Step 2: The picking component moves to the third moving position, the material blocking component is removed from the feeding port, and the film-making chamber at the feeding port slides into the picking component;

[0020] Step 3: The picking component moves to the fourth moving position, the material blocking component resets, and blocks the film-making chamber at the feeding port.

[0021] The technical solution provided by this invention has the following advantages and effects:

[0022] The system employs a pickup component and a blocking component. When the pickup component moves to the third moving position, it approaches the discharge port and picks up the slide compartment, while the blocking component is removed from the discharge port. When the pickup component moves to the fourth moving position, it moves away from the discharge port, and at least a portion of the blocking component is located at the discharge port, blocking the slide compartment. This allows for single-transport of the slide compartment. The slide compartment at the discharge port is restricted by the blocking component, and the pickup component transports it to a preset position. The robotic arm then picks up the slide compartment from the pickup component, and the idle pickup component moves back to the discharge port to pick up a single slide compartment. Therefore, the pickup component picks up a single slide compartment each time, improving the ability to transport large quantities of consumables sequentially in batch pathological testing and solving the problem of the robotic arm's inability to effectively pick up slide compartments (consumables). Attached Figure Description

[0023] The accompanying drawings illustrate specific examples of the technical solutions described in this invention and, together with the detailed embodiments, form part of the specification, serving to explain the technical solutions, principles, and effects of this invention.

[0024] Unless otherwise specified or defined, the same reference numerals in different figures represent the same or similar technical features, and different reference numerals may be used to represent the same or similar technical features.

[0025] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an automatic feeding device in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0026] Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional view of an automatic feeding device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 1 ;

[0027] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of an automatic feeding device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 ;

[0028] Figure 4 This is the state of the moving material feeding mechanism in one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 1 ;

[0029] Figure 5 This is the state of the moving material feeding mechanism in one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 ;

[0030] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the moving material discharge mechanism in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0031] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the feeding hopper in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0032] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the pusher in one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 1 ;

[0033] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the pusher in one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 ;

[0034] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the film preparation chamber in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0035] Figure 11 This is a top view of the first and second transport mechanisms in cooperation in another embodiment of the present invention;

[0036] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the second transport mechanism in another embodiment of the present invention;

[0037] Figure 13This is a schematic diagram of the picking component in another embodiment of the present invention;

[0038] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of the material blocking assembly in another embodiment of the present invention;

[0039] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of the tray assembly in another embodiment of the present invention;

[0040] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first transportation mechanism in another embodiment of the present invention;

[0041] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0042] D100, Automatic feeding device

[0043] D1, Feeding bin; D11, Feed inlet; D12, Partition; D13, First chamber; D14, Second chamber; D141, Discharge outlet; D15, Through opening; D16, First bottom plate; D17, Second bottom plate; D18, Opening;

[0044] D2, Moving material feeding mechanism; D21, Pushing component; D211, Transport sorting track; D212, Pushing block; D213, First side plate; D214, Connecting block; D22, First drive assembly; D221, First drive component; D222, First transmission component; D2221, First driving wheel; D2222, First transmission belt; D2223, First driven wheel; D223, First sliding block; D224, First guide rail; D23, First support component; D24, First light shield; D25, First sensor;

[0045] D3, First transport mechanism; D31, Blocking component; D32, Transport component; D321, Second side plate; D322, Third bottom plate; D323, First detector; D324, Second detector; D33, Conveying channel; D34, First tilt angle; D35, Second tilt angle; D36, Discharge port;

[0046] D4, Second transport mechanism; D40, Second drive assembly; D41, Second drive component; D42, Second transmission component; D421, Second drive wheel; D422, Second transmission belt; D423, Second driven wheel; D43, Second guide rail; D44, Pick-up assembly; D441, Pick-up plate; D442, Pick-up port; D443, Second sliding block; D444, Second light shield; D445, Second sensor; D45, Pallet assembly; D451, Pallet; D452, Second mounting plate; D453, Third drive component; D454, Third light shield; D455, Third sensor; D46, Second support component; D47, Third side plate; D48, Material stop assembly; D481, First mounting plate; D482, Guide post; D483, Reset component; D484, Abutment plate; D485, Baffle; D486, Spring;

[0047] D5, film preparation chamber; D51, first shell; D52, second shell. Detailed Implementation

[0048] To facilitate understanding of the present invention, specific embodiments of the present invention will be described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0049] Unless otherwise specified or defined, the terms "first," "second," etc., used in this document are for distinguishing names only and do not represent a specific number or order.

[0050] Unless otherwise specified or defined, the term “and / or” as used herein includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0051] It should be noted that when a component is considered "fixed" to another component, it can be directly fixed to the other component or there can be an intervening component; when a component is considered "connected" to another component, it can be directly connected to the other component or there can be an intervening component; when a component is considered "mounted" on another component, it can be directly mounted on the other component or there can be an intervening component; when a component is considered "placed" on another component, it can be directly placed on the other component or there can be an intervening component.

[0052] Example 1

[0053] like Figures 1 to 5As shown, an automatic feeding device D100 includes a feeding bin D1, a moving feeding mechanism D2, and a blocking member D31. The feeding bin D1 has an inlet D11, an opening D18, and an outlet D141. The inlet D11 and the outlet D141 are connected. One end of the moving feeding mechanism D2 passes through the opening D18, and the moving feeding mechanism D2 is slidably engaged with the feeding bin D1 in a first direction. The blocking member D31 is installed in the feeding bin D1 and is at least partially located at the outlet D141. The moving feeding mechanism D2 has a transport sorting track D211. The moving feeding mechanism D2 has a first moving position and a second moving position within the feeding bin D1. In the first moving position, the transport sorting track D211 is located at the bottom of the feeding bin D1. In the second moving position, the transport sorting track D211 corresponds to the outlet D141. In this embodiment, the first direction is the height direction of the feeding bin D1. In this embodiment, the blocking member D31 can be an integral structure of the feeding bin D1. When the blocking member D31 and the feeding bin D1 are an integral structure, the side wall of the feeding bin D1 located above the discharge port D141 is the blocking member D31.

[0054] The moving discharge mechanism D2 slides in conjunction with the feeding bin D1. When the moving discharge mechanism D2 moves to the first moving position, the transport sorting track D211 is located at the bottom of the feeding bin D1. The tablet-making bin D5 at the bottom of the feeding bin D1 slides onto the transport sorting track D211. The tablet-making bin D5 on the transport sorting track D211 can be in a positive or negative orientation. When the moving discharge mechanism D2 moves to the second moving position, the transport sorting track D211 corresponds to the discharge port D141. The tablet-making bin D5 in a positive orientation on the transport sorting track D211 falls to the discharge port D141. The blocking member D31 is used to block the tablet-making bin D5 in a negative orientation and guide the tablet-making bin D5 to slide down to the discharge port D141. The moving feeding mechanism D2 reciprocates between the first and second moving positions, causing the transport sorting track D211 to continuously transport the sorted slide container D5 to the discharge port D141. The misaligned slide container D5 is blocked by the blocking member D31, allowing the automatic feeding device D100 to sort the consumables (slide container D5), improving consumable sorting efficiency and addressing the low efficiency of manual consumable sorting in batch pathological testing. In this embodiment, the blocking member D31 limits the height of the outer side of the discharge port D141. When the slide container D5 is in a reverse orientation, its position on the transport sorting track D211 is higher, making it more likely to contact the blocking member D31 and be blocked, thus preventing it from being discharged from the discharge port D141.

[0055] like Figure 3 and Figure 10As shown, the transport sorting track D211 includes a receiving groove, the width of which is smaller than the width of the discharge port D141, and the height of which is smaller than the height of the discharge port D141. A guide groove is formed between the inner side of the blocking member D31 and the discharge port D141, gradually increasing in size from the top to the bottom of the discharge port D141. This guide groove is used to allow the reverse-moving tablet-making chamber D5 to move. After the tablet-making chamber D5 contacts the blocking member D31, it acts on the blocking member D31, generating a reverse force. The tablet-making chamber D5 moves and adjusts its direction within the guide groove. If the tablet-making chamber D5 adjusts to a forward orientation, it falls into the receiving groove and is discharged along the discharge port D141. If it cannot be adjusted to a forward orientation, it moves downwards along the transport sorting track D211 to the bottom of the loading chamber D1, or falls directly into the loading chamber D1 and is then transported, adjusted, and sorted by the transport sorting track D211 again.

[0056] In this embodiment, the transport sorting track D211 is a receiving groove. The width of the receiving groove is smaller than the width of the discharge port D141, and the width of the receiving groove is larger than the smallest end of the tablet preparation chamber D5, so that the smallest end of the tablet preparation chamber D5 can enter the receiving groove. Since the width of the receiving groove is smaller than the largest end of the tablet preparation chamber D5, the largest end of the tablet preparation chamber D5 cannot enter the receiving groove, so the tablet preparation chamber D5 cannot enter the receiving groove in a reverse posture. The width of the receiving groove is also smaller than the height of the tablet preparation chamber D5, so the tablet preparation chamber D5 cannot enter the receiving groove in a lateral posture. When the transport sorting track D211 is transporting the tablet preparation chamber D5, and the smallest end of the tablet preparation chamber D5 has not entered the receiving slot, the tablet preparation chamber D5 is extremely unstable on the transport sorting track D211. When the moving discharge mechanism D2 drives the transport sorting track D211 to move, the inertia generated can easily cause the unstable tablet preparation chamber D5 to fall off the transport sorting track D211. Moreover, when the transport sorting track D211 moves to the discharge port D141, the unstable tablet preparation chamber D5 is easily blocked by the blocking member D31 when it comes into contact with the blocking member D31 and falls off the transport sorting track D211. When the smallest end of the film preparation chamber D5 enters the receiving groove, at least a portion of the film preparation chamber D5 engages with the receiving groove. The film preparation chamber D5 is relatively stable on the transport sorting track D211. Since the width of the discharge port D141 is smaller than the maximum size of the film preparation chamber D5, the film preparation chamber D5 cannot be discharged from the discharge port D141 when it is placed horizontally on the transport sorting track D211. Therefore, it can only be discharged from the discharge port D141 through the transport sorting track D211 when the smallest end of the film preparation chamber D5 enters the receiving groove.

[0057] like Figure 2 , Figure 4 as well as Figure 5As shown, the blocking member D31 is installed obliquely on the feeding hopper D1. The length direction of the blocking member D31 forms a first inclination angle D34 with the height direction of the feeding hopper D1. After the obliquely installed blocking member D31 rises on the transport sorting track D211, it accumulates in the tablet-making hopper D5 at the discharge port D141. The guide slope of the blocking member D31 guides the tablet-making hopper to be discharged from the discharge port, or guides the tablet-making hopper D5 to fall in the opposite direction, reducing the squeezing phenomenon between the tablet-making hopper D5 and the blocking member D31, and avoiding excessive wear on the tablet-making hopper D5. In this embodiment, by obliquely installing the blocking member D31 on the feeding hopper D1, the space between the blocking member D31 and the discharge port D141 gradually increases from the top to the bottom of the discharge port D141. When the tablet preparation chamber D5 is positioned in the reverse or lateral direction on the transport sorting track D211, the smallest end of the tablet preparation chamber D5 cannot enter the receiving slot. The tablet preparation chamber D5 is positioned relatively high on the transport sorting track D211, and the smallest end of the tablet preparation chamber D5 will be blocked by the blocking member D31, preventing the tablet preparation chamber D5 from being discharged from the discharge port D141. When the tablet preparation chamber D5 is positioned in the forward direction on the transport sorting track D211, at least a portion of the tablet preparation chamber D5 is inserted into the receiving slot. The space between the blocking member D31 and the bottom of the discharge port D141 is just enough for the tablet preparation chamber D5 to be discharged from the discharge port D141. This further enables the tablet preparation chamber D5 to be discharged from the discharge port D141 after being sorted and arranged, and to move up and down in the loading chamber D1 via the transport sorting track D211, thereby further realizing the automatic sorting and arrangement of the tablet preparation chamber D5. In this embodiment, the maximum width between the bottom of the blocking member D31 and the discharge port D141 is less than the height of the film preparation chamber D5, but greater than the maximum outer diameter of the film preparation chamber D5.

[0058] like Figure 2 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figure 7As shown, the automatic feeding device D100 also has a partition D12, which is installed in the feeding bin D1 and divides the inner cavity of the feeding bin D1 to form a first chamber D13 and a second chamber D14. The feed inlet D11 is connected to the first chamber D13, and the second chamber D14 is connected to the discharge outlet D141. A passage D15 is formed between the partition D12 and the bottom of the feeding bin D1, and the first chamber D13 is connected to the second chamber D14 through the passage D15. The bottom of the feeding bin D1 is inclined. In this embodiment, a large number of tablet-making bins D5 enter the feeding bin D1 through the inlet D11. A partition D12 divides the inner cavity of the feeding bin D1 into a first chamber D13 and a second chamber D14. The first chamber D13 is used to store a large number of tablet-making bins D5. A transport and sorting track D211 is used to organize and sort the tablet-making bins D5 within the second chamber D14. By using the partition D12, a large number of tablet-making bins D5 are prevented from accumulating near the transport and sorting track D211, reducing the resistance of the transport and sorting track D211 during movement. Furthermore, by providing the opening D15, the tablet-making bins D5 in the first chamber D13 gradually enter the second chamber D14, also preventing material blockage in the feeding bin D1. The bottom of the feeding bin D1 is inclined. The feeding bin D1 has a first bottom plate D16 and a second bottom plate D17. Both the first bottom plate D16 and the second bottom plate D17 are inclined, and the lowest point of the first bottom plate D16 and the second bottom plate D17 is close to the opening D18. This allows the tablet preparation bin D5 in the first chamber D13 to slide to the second chamber D14 due to its own weight. When the moving discharge mechanism D2 is in the first moving position, the tablet preparation bin D5 in the second chamber D14 slides onto the transport sorting track D211, and then is sorted on the transport sorting track D211.

[0059] like Figures 1 to 5As shown, the automatic feeding device D100 also has a first transport mechanism D3. The first transport mechanism D3 has an inclined conveying channel D33. The conveying channel D33 is connected to the second chamber D14 through the discharge port D141. The transport sorting track D211 is inclined. The transport sorting track D211, the bottom of the feeding bin D1, and the conveying channel D33 are inclined in the same direction, and the direction of their inclination forms a second inclination angle 35 with the height direction of the feeding bin D1. In this embodiment, the first transport mechanism D3 is used to transport the sorted and arranged film preparation bins D5. The bottom of the transport sorting track D211, the loading bin D1, and the conveying channel D33 are inclined in the same direction, making it easier for the film preparation bins D5 to slide onto the transport sorting track D211 within the second chamber D14. When the loading bin D1 moves to correspond with the discharge port D141, the sorted and arranged film preparation bins D5 on the transport sorting track D211 easily slide into the conveying channel D33 of the first transport mechanism D3 due to their own weight. The film preparation bins D5 on the conveying channel D33 are automatically transported or moved sequentially by their own weight, further improving the mobility of the film preparation bins D5 within the automatic unloading device D100.

[0060] In this embodiment, the height of the film preparation compartment D5 is greater than the outer diameter of its maximum end, and the center of gravity of the film preparation compartment D5 is close to its minimum end. When the film preparation compartment D5 is on the transport sorting track D211, the transport sorting track D211 is inclined. Multiple film preparation compartments D5 move within the loading compartment D1 via the transport sorting track D211. Due to its own weight, the minimum end of the film preparation compartment D5 tends to move downwards and will preferentially approach the transport sorting track D211 in a forward or forward-biased posture. When the forward-biased film preparation compartment D5 slides within the transport sorting track D211, it will adjust its posture under the action of gravity and the center of gravity, so that the posture of the forward-biased film preparation compartment D5 returns to the correct position, further realizing the sorting and arrangement of the film preparation compartments D5 within the transport sorting track D211.

[0061] like Figures 1 to 6As shown, the moving material discharge mechanism D2 includes a first support member D23, a pusher member D21, and a first drive assembly D22. The first support member D23 is mounted on the feeding bin D1. The first end of the first drive assembly D22 is mounted on the first support member D23, and the pusher member D21 is mounted on the second end of the first drive assembly D22. One end of the pusher member D21 passes through the opening D18 and is at least partially located inside the feeding bin D1. The pusher member D21 is slidably engaged with the feeding bin D1. The transport sorting track D211 is located on top of the pusher member D21. The first drive assembly D22 is used to drive the pusher member D21 to move, so that the pusher member D21 has a first moving position and a second moving position within the feeding bin D1. In this embodiment, a first drive component D22 is used to enhance the up-and-down movement of the pusher D21. The first drive component D22 is fixed to the feeding bin D1 via a first support component D23, thereby improving the stability of the first drive component D22 on the feeding bin D1. The pusher D21 is used to move up and down within the feeding bin D1 and fill the opening D18. The transport sorting track D211 is located on top of the pusher D21. When the pusher D21 moves up and down, the transport sorting track D211 arranges and sorts the film preparation bins D5 at the bottom of the feeding bin D1 and transports the arranged and sorted film preparation bins D5 at the top of the feeding bin D1.

[0062] like Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, the pushing component D21 includes a pushing block D212, a connecting block D214, and two first side plates D213. The pushing block D212 is mounted on the first driving assembly D22 via the connecting block D214. The two first side plates D213 are mounted on both sides of the pushing block D212, and the transport sorting track D211 is formed between the inner top of the two first side plates D213 and the top of the pushing block D212. The width of the transport sorting track D211 is greater than the minimum end of the film preparation chamber D5 and less than the maximum end of the film preparation chamber D5. The pushing block D212 is used to improve the support strength of the transport sorting track D211, and the two first side plates D213 are used to support the maximum end of the film preparation chamber D5 and restrict the maximum end of the film preparation chamber D5 from entering the transport sorting track D211. Moreover, the transport sorting track D211 formed between the pushing block D212 and the two first side plates D213 has a simple structure and is easy to manufacture.

[0063] like Figure 6As shown, the first drive assembly D22 includes a first drive member D221, a first transmission member D222, a first guide rail D224, and a first sliding block D223. The first drive member D221 is mounted on the first support member D23. The first end of the first transmission member D222 is mounted on the output end of the first drive member D221, and the first sliding block D223 is mounted on the second end of the first transmission member D222. The first guide rail D224 is mounted on the first support member D23 and extends along a first direction. The first sliding block D223 slides against the first guide rail D224. The first driving member D221 provides power, and the first transmission member D222 changes the direction of the transmission torque of the first driving member D221, so that the first sliding block D223 drives the connecting block D214 to move, and drives the pushing member D21 to move up and down; moreover, the first guide rail D224 is mounted on the first support member D23 and extends along the first direction. The first sliding block D223 slides in cooperation with the first guide rail D224 in the first direction. The first guide rail D224 restricts the movement direction of the pushing member D21 and improves the stability of the pushing member D21 in the first direction.

[0064] Furthermore, the first transmission member D222 includes a first driving wheel D2221, a first transmission belt D2222, and a first driven wheel D2223. The first driving wheel D2221 is mounted on the output end of the first driving member D221, and the first driven wheel D2223 is rotatably mounted on the first support member D23. The two ends of the first transmission belt D2222 are respectively engaged with the first driving wheel D2221 and the first driven wheel D2223. A first sliding block D223 is mounted on the first transmission belt D2222. The first driving member D221 drives the first driving wheel D2221 to rotate, and drives the first driven wheel D2223 to rotate via the first transmission belt D2222, causing the first transmission belt D2222 to move in a first direction, and driving the first sliding block D223 to move in the first direction via the first transmission belt D2222.

[0065] like Figure 6As shown, the moving material discharge mechanism D2 also has a first light-shielding plate D24 and a first sensor D25. The first sensor D25 is mounted on the first support member D23 and is electrically connected to the first drive member D221 of the first drive assembly D22. The first light-shielding plate D24 is mounted on the connecting block D214 of the push member D21. When the push member D21 is in the first moving position, the first light-shielding plate D24 and the first sensor D25 are in sensory engagement. In this embodiment, when the first light-shielding plate D24 moves downward along with the pusher D21, the first light-shielding plate D24 blocks the light source of the first sensor D25, allowing the first sensor D25 to sense the moving position of the first light-shielding plate D24, thereby determining the position of the pusher D21 within the feeding hopper D1. After sensing the first light-shielding plate D24, the first sensor D25 sends a first electrical signal to the first drive member D221, causing the first drive member D221 to drive the pusher D21 to move upward. By setting the first light-shielding plate D24 and the first sensor D25, the pusher D21 moves back and forth, realizing the automated control of the moving material discharge mechanism D2 for sorting, sequencing, and transportation.

[0066] like Figure 10 As shown, the film preparation chamber D5 includes a first shell D51 and a second shell D52. Both the first shell D51 and the second shell D52 are columnar and are integral structures. The outer diameter of the first shell D51 is smaller than the outer diameter of the second shell D52. The first shell D51 is the smallest end of the film preparation chamber D5, and the second shell D52 is the largest end of the film preparation chamber D5.

[0067] like Figures 1 to 10 As shown, the present invention also proposes a sorting method for the automatic feeding device D100, comprising the following steps:

[0068] Step 1: The moving feeding mechanism D2 moves to the first moving position in the feeding bin D1, and the film-making bin D5 of the feeding bin D1 slides onto the transport sorting track D211;

[0069] Step 2: The moving material feeding mechanism D2 moves to the second moving position in the feeding bin D1. The film preparation bin D5 is moved to the discharge port D141 by the transport sorting track D211. The film preparation bin D5 that has been sorted by the transport sorting track D211 is moved out of the discharge port D141. The film preparation bin D5 that has not been sorted by the transport sorting track D211 is blocked by the blocking part D31.

[0070] Through the above sorting method, the automated control of the moving material feeding mechanism D2 is realized to sort, arrange, and transport the film preparation warehouse D5 within the feeding bin D1. In this sorting method, mechanical automation is achieved, improving the feeding efficiency of the automatic unloading device D100.

[0071] Example 2

[0072] like Figure 1 and Figure 11 As shown, an automatic feeding device D100 further includes a first transport mechanism D3 and a second transport mechanism D4. The first transport mechanism D3 has a feeding port D36. The second transport mechanism D4 includes a second support member D46, a material blocking component D48, and a picking component D44. The material blocking component D48 is mounted on the second support member D46 and is disposed near the feeding port D36. The picking component D44 is movably disposed on the second support member D46 and has a third moving position and a fourth moving position in a second direction. In the third moving position, the picking component D44 is close to the feeding port D36. In the fourth moving position, the picking component D44 is away from the feeding port D36, and at least a portion of the material blocking component D48 is located at the feeding port D36.

[0073] The pickup component D44 and the blocking component D48 work together. When the pickup component D44 moves to the third moving position, it approaches the discharge port D36 and picks up the film preparation chamber D5 at the discharge port D36, while the blocking component D48 is removed from the discharge port D36. When the pickup component D44 picks up the film preparation chamber D5 and moves to the fourth moving position, it moves away from the discharge port D36, at least a portion of the blocking component D48 is located at the discharge port D36, and the blocking component D48 is used to block the film preparation chamber D5 at the discharge port D36, thus achieving... During a single transport of the slide preparation compartment D5, the slide preparation compartment D5 at the discharge port D36 is restricted by the blocking component D48. The slide preparation compartment D5 is transported to the preset position by the picking component D44. After the robotic arm grabs the slide preparation compartment D5 on the picking component D44, the idle picking component D44 moves to the third position to pick up the next slide preparation compartment D5. Therefore, the picking component D44 picks up a single slide preparation compartment D5 each time, which can improve the problem of large-volume consumables being piled up messily and unable to be transported sequentially in batch pathological testing, and the robotic arm being unable to efficiently and accurately grab the slide preparation compartment D5 (consumables).

[0074] like Figure 1 , Figure 11 , Figure 12As shown, the first transport mechanism D3 has an inclined conveying channel D33, and the discharge port D36 is located at the lowest point of the conveying channel D33 and communicates with the conveying channel D33; the second transport mechanism D4 also has a second drive assembly D40, which is mounted on a second support member D46, and the pickup assembly D44 is mounted on the second drive assembly D40. The second drive assembly D40 is used to drive the pickup assembly D44 so that the pickup assembly D44 has a third moving position and a fourth moving position on the second support member D46. In this embodiment, the first transport mechanism D3 is installed at the discharge port D141 of the loading hopper D1. The film preparation hopper D5 at the discharge port D141 moves into the first transport mechanism D3. The conveying channel D33 of the first transport mechanism D3 is used to transport the sorted and arranged film preparation hopper D5. The film preparation hopper D5 slides to the unloading port D36 in the inclined conveying channel D33 due to its own weight. The second drive component D40 is installed on the second support member D46. The second drive component D40 is used to drive the picking component D44 to move, so that the picking component D44 moves on the second support member D46 and has a third moving position and a fourth moving position.

[0075] like Figures 11 to 13As shown, the pickup assembly D44 includes a pickup plate D441, a second sliding block D443, and a third side plate D47. The second sliding block D443 is mounted on the second drive assembly D40, and the pickup plate D441 is mounted on the second sliding block D443. The pickup plate D441 has a pickup opening D442. The third side plate D47 is mounted on the second support member D46. In the third moving position, the pickup opening D442 faces the feed port D36. In the fourth moving position, the pickup opening D442 faces the third side plate D47, and the pickup opening D442 is blocked by the third side plate D47. In this embodiment, the second driving component D40 is used to drive the second sliding block D443 to move, so that the second sliding block D443 drives the pickup plate D441 to move in the second direction. The third side plate D47 is installed on the second support member D46. The third side plate D47 is used to block the outside of the second support member D46, so that the pickup plate D441 is not easy to fall off the second support member D46 when the pickup film chamber D5 moves in the second direction, and also improves the stability of the film chamber D5 moving in the second direction. The pickup port D442 of the pickup plate D441 faces the discharge port D36, and the diameter of the pickup port D442 should be greater than the minimum end diameter of the film preparation chamber D5 and less than the maximum end diameter of the film preparation chamber D5, so that the pickup port D442 can just accommodate a single film preparation chamber D5. The film preparation chamber D5 is stuck in the pickup port D442 to prevent the film preparation chamber D5 from falling out of the pickup port D442. When the pickup component D44 picks up the film preparation chamber D5 and moves from the discharge port D36 to the fourth moving position, the blocking component D48 moves to the discharge port D36 to restrict the film preparation chamber D5 at the discharge port D36.

[0076] like Figure 12 and Figure 13 As shown, the pickup component D44 further includes a second light-shielding plate D444 and a second sensor D445. The second light-shielding plate D444 is mounted on the second sliding block D443, and the second sensor D445 is mounted on the second support member D46 and electrically connected to the second drive component D40. In the third moving position, the second light-shielding plate D444 and the second sensor D445 are inductively engaged. In this embodiment, when the pickup component D44 moves to the third moving position, the second light-shielding plate D444 blocks the light source of the second sensor D445, causing the second sensor D445 to generate a second electrical signal. This second electrical signal drives the second drive component D40, causing the second drive component D40 to drive the pickup component D44 from the discharge port D36 to the fourth moving position, completing a single transport of the film preparation chamber D5.

[0077] like Figure 11 and Figure 12As shown, the second drive assembly D40 includes a second drive member D41, a second guide rail D43, and a second transmission member D42. The second transmission member D42 includes a second drive wheel D421, a second transmission belt D422, and a second driven wheel D423. The second drive member D41 is mounted on the second support member D46. The second drive wheel D421 is mounted on the output end of the second drive member D41. The second driven wheel D423 is rotatably mounted on the second support member D46. The second transmission belt D422 is in transmission cooperation with the second drive wheel D421 and the second driven wheel D423 respectively. The second guide rail D43 is mounted on the second support member D46 and extends along the second direction. The second sliding block D443 of the pickup assembly D44 is mounted on the second transmission belt D422, and the second sliding block D443 is in sliding cooperation with the second guide rail D43. The second driving member D41 drives the second driving wheel D421 to rotate, and through cooperation with the second transmission belt D422 and the second driven wheel D423, drives the second transmission belt D422 to move in the second direction. When the second transmission belt D422 moves, it drives the second sliding block D443 to move. Since the second guide rail D43 is mounted on the second support member D46 and extends along the second direction, the second sliding block D443 slides in cooperation with the second guide rail D43. The second guide rail D43 is used to improve the stability of the second sliding block D443 moving in the second direction.

[0078] like Figure 11 and Figure 14As shown, the material blocking assembly D48 includes an abutment plate D484, a baffle plate D485, a reset member D483, and a first mounting plate D481. The first mounting plate D481 is mounted on the second support member D46. The first end of the reset member D483 is mounted on the first mounting plate D481. The abutment plate D484 is connected to the baffle plate D485. The abutment plate D484 or the baffle plate D485 is mounted on the second end of the reset member D483. The abutment plate D484 is used to abut against the pickup assembly D44, and the baffle plate D485 is used to restrict the movement of the film preparation chamber D5 of the discharge port D36. The material blocking assembly D48 can be triggered by electrical control or mechanical contact. In this embodiment, mechanical contact triggering is mainly disclosed. When the pickup assembly D44 picks up the film preparation chamber D5 at the third moving position, the pickup assembly D44 will abut against the abutment plate D484 of the material blocking assembly D48 and squeeze the abutment plate D484, causing the abutment plate D484 to drive the baffle plate D485 away from the discharge port D36. When the baffle plate D485 is moved away, the film preparation chamber D5 of the discharge port D36 slides into the pickup port D442, completing the pickup action of the pickup assembly D44. Furthermore, when the abutment plate D484 moves, it presses against the reset component D483, causing the reset component D483 to generate a compressive reaction force. When the pickup component D44 moves and separates from the abutment plate D484, the reaction force generated by the reset component D483 drives the abutment plate D484 and the baffle plate D485 to reset. After the baffle plate D485 resets, its position is exactly at the discharge port D36, restricting the tablet chamber D5 at the discharge port D36 and preventing the tablet chamber D5 from sliding down from the discharge port D36. When the pickup component D44 moves back and forth in the second direction, the pickup component D44 makes mechanical contact with the baffle component D48, triggering the baffle component D48 to operate, realizing that the automatic feeding device D100 transports individual tablet chambers D5 in sequence, further facilitating the tablet chamber D5 to be gripped by the robotic arm.

[0079] like Figure 14As shown, the reset component D483 includes a spring D486 and at least one guide post D482. The first end of the guide post D482 passes through the first mounting plate D481 and slides with the first mounting plate D481. The first end of the guide post D482 is fixed to the abutment plate D484. The spring D486 is sleeved on the outside of the guide post D482, and the two ends of the spring D486 abut against the abutment plate D484 and the first mounting plate D481, respectively. The channel mounts the guide post D482 onto the first mounting plate D481, and the guide post D482 slides in cooperation with the first mounting plate D481. When the abutment plate D484 moves, it drives the guide post D482 to move in the second direction. The first mounting plate D481 restricts the direction of movement of the guide post D482, further improving the stability of the abutment plate D484 when it moves. Moreover, when the abutment plate D484 moves, it compresses the spring D486, causing the spring D486 to generate a reverse force. Since the two ends of the spring D486 abut against the abutment plate D484 and the first mounting plate D481 respectively, after the pressure on the abutment plate D484 is removed, the abutment plate D484 is driven to reset by the reaction force of the spring D486. The abutment plate D484 and the baffle D485 are an integral structure, thereby driving the baffle D485 to reset, so that the baffle D485 restricts the movement of the tablet chamber D5 at the feed port D36.

[0080] like Figure 11 and Figure 15 As shown, the automatic unloading device D100 also includes a tray assembly D45, which is mounted on the second support member D46. When the picking component D44 is in the fourth moving position, the tray assembly D45 is located below the picking component D44, and the tray assembly D45 is used to push the film preparation chamber D5 off the picking component D44. In this embodiment, because the picking plate D441 wraps or clamps the outer surface of the film preparation chamber D5 when picking it up, the contact surface available for the robotic arm to grip is small, resulting in the robotic arm's picking claw being unable to grip the film preparation chamber D5. Therefore, the tray assembly D45 is used to drive the film preparation chamber D5 to move on the pick-up assembly D44, so that the film preparation chamber D5 is pushed out of the pick-up assembly D44. After the maximum end of the film preparation chamber D5 is pushed out, the outer wall of the film preparation chamber D5 has an outer surface that can be gripped by the pick-up claw, so that the film preparation chamber D5 can be easily gripped by the pick-up claw and moved to the next process.

[0081] like Figure 15As shown, the tray assembly D45 includes a third drive member D453, a second mounting plate D452, a tray 451, a third light-shielding plate D454, and a third sensor D455. The third drive member D453 is mounted on the second support member D46 via the second mounting plate 452. The tray D451 is mounted on the output end of the third drive member D453 and is at least partially located in the fourth moving position. The third light-shielding plate D454 is mounted on the tray D451. The third sensor D455 is mounted on the second support plate D452 and is electrically connected to the third drive member D453. The third light-shielding plate D454 is used for sensing and cooperating with the third sensor D455. The third drive unit D453 is mounted on the second support unit D46 via the second mounting plate D452, improving the flexibility and stability of the third drive unit D453 on the second support unit D46. When the pallet D451 moves, it drives the third light-shielding plate D454 to move. When the third light-shielding plate D454 blocks the light source of the third sensor D455 and the pickup component D44 reaches the fourth position, the third sensor D455 generates a third electrical signal. The third electrical signal is used to drive the third drive unit D453 to work, causing the third drive unit D453 to drive the pallet D451 to move upward and push out the film preparation chamber D5.

[0082] like Figure 16As shown, the first transport mechanism D3 includes a transport component D32, a first detector D323, and a second detector D324. The transport component D32 has a discharge port D141 and a conveying channel D33 is formed inside the transport component D32. The discharge port D141, the conveying channel D33, and the discharge port D36 are connected in sequence. The transport component D32 is inclined. The first detector D323 and the second detector D324 are both installed on the transport component D32, and the installation height of the first detector D323 is greater than the installation height of the second detector D324. The first detector D323 is electrically connected to the first drive assembly D22. In this embodiment, the transport component D32 includes a third base plate D322 and two second side plates D321. The two second side plates D321 are respectively installed on both sides of the third base plate D322, and the inner sides of the two second side plates D321 and the upper end face of the third base plate D322 form a conveying channel D33. The third base plate D322 is installed obliquely on the side wall of the loading hopper D1. The first detector D323 and the second detector D324 are both installed on the second side plates D321. Because the installation height of the first detector D323 is greater than that of the second detector D324, the first detector D323 is closer to the discharge port D141. The first detector D323 is used to detect whether the discharging port D141 contains the tablet-making chamber D5. When the discharging port D36 is blocked by the baffle assembly D48, the tablet-making chamber D5 accumulates in the conveying channel D33. When the first detector D323 detects the presence of the tablet-making chamber D5 at the discharging port D141, it indicates that the conveying channel D33 is full of tablet-making chamber D5. The first detector D323 sends a fourth electrical signal to drive the first drive assembly D22 to stop operating, thereby stopping the feeding chamber D1 from feeding and saving power. When the first detector D323 does not detect the presence of the tablet-making chamber D5, it indicates that the discharging port D141 is full of tablet-making chamber D5. The first detector D323 sends a fourth electrical signal to drive the first drive assembly D22 to stop operating, thereby stopping the feeding of the feeding chamber D1 and saving power. When there is a tablet preparation chamber D5 at the feed inlet D141, it indicates that the conveying channel D33 is not full or there is no tablet preparation chamber D5. The first detector D323 sends a fifth electrical signal to drive the first drive component D22 to operate until the conveying channel D33 is full of tablet preparation chamber D5. After the first detector D323 sends a fifth electrical signal to drive the first drive component D22 to operate, if there is still no tablet preparation chamber D5 detected at the discharge outlet D141, it indicates that there is no tablet preparation chamber D5 in the feed hopper D1. The first detector D323 sends a sixth electrical signal, which is used to transmit to the main control console to realize the alarm, so as to indicate that there is no tablet preparation chamber D5 in the feed hopper D1 and remind to add tablet preparation chamber D5 to the feed hopper D1.

[0083] In addition, the second detector D324 is used to detect whether the feed port D36 of the conveyor channel D33 has a film preparation chamber D5. When the second detector D324 detects that the film preparation chamber D5 of the feed port D36 is missing, it means that there is no film preparation chamber D5 on the conveyor channel D33. The second detector D324 generates a seventh electrical signal, which is transmitted to the main control console to trigger an alarm and stop the subsequent film preparation and staining process.

[0084] In addition, the automatic unloading device D100 also includes a third detector, which detects whether there is a film preparation compartment D5 at that position after the tray assembly D54 is placed on top, for the robot arm to grab, and also detects whether the robot arm has successfully taken away the film preparation compartment D5.

[0085] like Figures 11 to 15 As shown, the present invention also proposes a transportation method for the automatic unloading device D100, comprising the following steps:

[0086] Step 1: Activate the baffle assembly D48 to block the film preparation chamber D5 at the feed port D36;

[0087] Step 2: The pickup component D44 moves to the third moving position, and the pickup component D44 pushes the baffle component D48 to be removed from the feed port D36. The film preparation chamber D5 at the feed port D36 slides into the pickup component D44.

[0088] Step 3: The picking component D44 moves to the fourth moving position, the material blocking component D48 resets, and blocks the film preparation chamber D5 at the feeding port D36.

[0089] By employing the aforementioned transportation method, the picking component D44 moves a single film preparation chamber D5 at a time. After the film preparation chambers D5 are sequentially moved to the braking position, they are easily grasped by the robotic arm's picking claw. Furthermore, the material stop component D48 restricts the film preparation chambers D5 at the discharge port D36. The material stop component D48 works in conjunction with the picking component D44 to improve the transportation efficiency of the automatic feeding device D100.

[0090] When referencing drawings, new features are explained. To avoid redundant references to drawings that would make the description less concise, features already described will not be referenced again on the drawings if the description is clear.

[0091] The purpose of the above embodiments is to reproduce and derive the technical solution of the present invention by way of example, and to fully describe the technical solution, purpose and effect of the present invention. The purpose is to enable the public to have a more thorough and comprehensive understanding of the disclosure of the present invention, and not to limit the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0092] The above embodiments are not an exhaustive list based on the present invention, and there may be many other embodiments not listed. Any substitutions and improvements made without departing from the concept of the present invention are within the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. An automatic feeding device, characterized in that, It includes a first transport mechanism and a second transport mechanism. The first transport mechanism has a discharge port. The second transport mechanism includes a second support member, a material blocking component, and a picking component. The material blocking component is installed on the second support member and is located near the discharge port. The picking component is movably disposed on the second support member, and in a second direction, the picking component has a third moving position and a fourth moving position. In the third moving position, the picking component is close to the discharge port; in the fourth moving position, the picking component is away from the discharge port, and at least a portion of the blocking component is located at the discharge port. The material blocking assembly includes an abutment plate, a baffle plate, a resetting member, and a first mounting plate. The first mounting plate is mounted on a second support member. The first end of the resetting member is mounted on the first mounting plate. The abutment plate is connected to the baffle plate, and the abutment plate or baffle plate is mounted on the second end of the resetting member. The abutment plate is used to abut against the picking assembly, and the baffle plate is used to abut against the discharge port. The first transport mechanism has an inclined conveying channel, and the discharge port is located at the lowest point of the conveying channel and communicates with the conveying channel; the second transport mechanism also has a second drive assembly, which is mounted on a second support member, and the pickup assembly is mounted on the second drive assembly. The second drive assembly is used to drive the pickup assembly so that the pickup assembly has a third moving position and a fourth moving position on the second support member; The pickup assembly includes a pickup plate, a second sliding block, and a third side plate. The second sliding block is mounted on a second drive assembly, and the pickup plate is mounted on the second sliding block. The pickup plate has a pickup opening. The third side plate is mounted on a second support member. In a third moving position, the pickup opening of the pickup assembly faces the feed port. In a fourth moving position, the pickup opening of the pickup assembly faces the third side plate, and the pickup opening is blocked by the third side plate.

2. The automatic feeding device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The pickup assembly further includes a second light-shielding plate and a second sensor. The second light-shielding plate is mounted on a second sliding block, and the second sensor is mounted on a second support member and electrically connected to a second drive assembly. In the third moving position, the second light-shielding plate and the second sensor engage in sensing cooperation.

3. The automatic feeding device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The second drive assembly includes a second drive member, a second guide rail, and a second transmission member. The second transmission member includes a second drive wheel, a second transmission belt, and a second driven wheel. The second drive member is mounted on a second support member. The second drive wheel is mounted on the output end of the second drive member. The second driven wheel is rotatably mounted on the second support member. The second transmission belt is in transmission engagement with the second drive wheel and the second driven wheel, respectively. The second guide rail is mounted on the second support member and extends along a second direction. The second sliding block of the pickup assembly is mounted on the second transmission belt, and the second sliding block is in sliding engagement with the second guide rail.

4. The automatic feeding device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The reset component includes a spring and at least one guide post. The first end of the guide post passes through the first mounting plate and slides with the first mounting plate, and the first end of the guide post is fixed to the abutment plate. The spring is sleeved on the outside of the guide post, and the two ends of the spring abut against the abutment plate and the first mounting plate, respectively.

5. The automatic feeding device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The automatic feeding device also has a tray assembly mounted on a second support member. The picking component is in a fourth moving position, the tray assembly is located below the picking component, and the tray assembly is used to push the film preparation chamber out of the picking component.

6. The automatic feeding device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The first transport mechanism also has a first detector, which is located away from the discharge port and the detection direction of the first detector is towards the transport channel of the first transport mechanism.

7. A feeding method for an automatic feeding device, employing the automatic feeding device according to any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: Activate the baffle assembly to block the film-making chamber at the feed inlet; The pickup component moves to the third moving position, the baffle component is removed from the feed port, and the film-making chamber at the feed port slides into the pickup component; The picking component moves to the fourth moving position, the material blocking component resets, and blocks the film-making chamber at the feeding port.

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