A continuous conveying type execution device for the inspection of aligned ampoule

Abstract

The present application relates to the technical field of medical production equipment, and specifically discloses a continuous conveying type execution device for inspection of a row of ampoules, which comprises a ring conveying mechanism including a feeding station, a turnover station, a turnover reset station and a discharging station; a turnover driving track and a clamping driving track are installed on the ring conveying mechanism; a plurality of clamping turnover mechanisms are installed on the ring conveying mechanism at intervals, and the ring conveying mechanism is used to drive the clamping turnover mechanisms to pass through the feeding station, the turnover station, the turnover reset station and the discharging station in sequence. Through the cooperative operation of the ring conveying mechanism and the clamping turnover mechanism, the full-process automatic operation of clamping, turnover, reset and discharging of the row of ampoules during continuous conveying is realized, the efficiency bottleneck caused by traditional stoppage and step-by-step execution is eliminated, and the device has the advantages of improving production rhythm adaptability, optimizing space layout, enhancing action continuity and detection stability.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of medical production equipment technology, and in particular to a continuous conveying actuator for light inspection of rows of ampoules. Background Technology

[0002] In the medical product manufacturing industry, automated production lines for multi-ampoule systems place extremely high demands on product quality control. Among these, the visual inspection process is a crucial step in ensuring product quality. It requires visual or optical inspection of the solution inside the ampoules to identify the presence of foreign objects, sediment, or abnormal liquid levels. For effective inspection, the multi-ampoule systems are typically clamped and fixed at a specific station and rotated 180° to create moderate agitation of the liquid inside, thus aiding in the observation of potential defects in the solution.

[0003] Currently, the mainstream clamping and flipping mechanisms for multi-amplifier bottles in the industry generally adopt a "positioning and stopping - step-by-step execution" working mode: that is, the product is first transported to a preset position by a conveyor mechanism and then stopped, and then the clamping and flipping actions are completed by independent clamping and flipping actuators respectively. Such mechanisms typically require the integration of multiple electrical and pneumatic components such as motors, cylinders, and sensors, which not only leads to a complex overall structure and high assembly difficulty, but also has the following significant drawbacks:

[0004] First, it has poor cycle time adaptability. Due to its reliance on stop operations, in scenarios with high cycle time requirements on the production line, the stop and restart processes will significantly consume production time, making it difficult to match the efficiency demands of continuous production. Second, it lacks spatial compatibility. The complex combination of components makes the overall size of the mechanism relatively large, making it difficult to achieve a compact layout in production workshops with limited space. Third, it limits quality stability. The step-by-step actions of multiple actuators require precise coordination. During long-term operation, issues such as component wear and signal delays can easily lead to uneven clamping force and deviations in the flipping angle, which in turn affect the liquid sloshing effect and reduce the reliability of light inspection quality.

[0005] In summary, with the increasing demands on cycle time, space, and quality in the automated production of ampoules, the existing clamping and flipping mechanisms can no longer meet actual production needs. Summary of the Invention

[0006] In response to the problems raised in the background art, the purpose of this invention is to provide a continuous conveying actuator for light inspection of rows of ampoules, which has the advantages of improving production cycle adaptability, optimizing spatial layout, enhancing action continuity and detection stability.

[0007] To achieve this objective, the present invention adopts the following technical solution:

[0008] A continuous conveying actuator for light inspection of rows of ampoules, characterized in that it includes a working platform, a feeding conveying mechanism, a discharging conveying mechanism, a ring conveying mechanism, several clamping and turning mechanisms, a turning drive track, and a clamping drive track.

[0009] The feeding conveyor and the discharging conveyor are installed on the top surface of the working platform. Both the feeding conveyor and the discharging conveyor extend in the front-to-back direction and are arranged opposite each other in the left-right direction.

[0010] The annular conveying mechanism is mounted on the upper part of the working platform via a frame. The annular conveying mechanism includes a loading station, a flipping station, a flipping and resetting station, and a unloading station arranged in a closed loop. The loading station is located above the feeding conveying mechanism, and the unloading station is located above the discharging conveying mechanism. The loading station and the unloading station are arranged in a front-to-back opposite manner.

[0011] The flipping drive track and the clamping drive track are installed on the annular conveying mechanism. The flipping drive track extends from the starting end of the flipping station to the end of the flipping reset station, and the clamping drive track extends from the starting end of the unloading station to the end of the loading station.

[0012] Several clamping and flipping mechanisms are installed at intervals on the annular conveying mechanism, and the annular conveying mechanism is used to drive the clamping and flipping mechanisms to pass sequentially through the loading station, the flipping station, the flipping and resetting station and the unloading station;

[0013] When the clamping and flipping mechanism passes the feeding station, the clamping and flipping mechanism contacts the clamping drive track, and the contact triggers the clamping and flipping mechanism to clamp and pick up the row of ampoules located on the feeding conveyor mechanism.

[0014] When the clamping and flipping mechanism passes the flipping station, the clamping and flipping mechanism contacts the flipping drive track, and the contact triggers the clamping and flipping mechanism to flip the row of ampoules.

[0015] When the clamping and flipping mechanism passes the flipping and resetting station, the clamping and flipping mechanism contacts the flipping drive track, and the contact triggers the clamping and flipping mechanism to flip and reset the row of ampoules.

[0016] When the clamping and flipping mechanism passes the unloading station, the clamping and flipping mechanism contacts the clamping drive track, and the contact triggers the clamping and flipping mechanism to release the row of ampoules to the discharge conveying mechanism.

[0017] Preferably, the clamping and flipping mechanism includes a mounting base, a flipping assembly, and a clamping assembly, wherein the mounting base is connected to the annular conveying mechanism;

[0018] The flipping assembly includes a flipping housing, a flipping rod, a flipping return spring, a flipping rack, a flipping gear, and a flipping cam. The flipping housing is mounted on the mounting base. The flipping rod is movably inserted into the interior of the flipping housing. The flipping cam is rotatably mounted on the top of the flipping rod. The flipping return spring is located inside the flipping housing, with its upper end connected to the flipping rod and its lower end abutting against the bottom of the flipping housing. The flipping rack is connected to the side wall of the flipping rod, with its rack portion located outside the flipping housing. The flipping gear is mounted on the clamping assembly, and the flipping rack meshes with the flipping gear. When the flipping rod moves downward, the flipping return spring is compressed, and the clamping assembly flips relative to the flipping assembly.

[0019] When the clamping and flipping mechanism passes the flipping drive track, the flipping cam is in rolling connection with the flipping drive track.

[0020] Preferably, the flipping drive track includes a flipping section, a flipping holding section, and a flipping reset section arranged sequentially;

[0021] The flipping section is inclined downward along the conveying direction, the flipping reset section is inclined upward along the conveying direction, and the height of the flipping holding section is the same as the height of the end of the flipping section and the height of the beginning of the flipping reset section.

[0022] Preferably, the clamping assembly includes a clamping housing, a clamping drive rod, two driven clamping arms, a clamping cam, and a clamping return spring;

[0023] The flipping gear is installed on the clamping housing. The clamping drive rod is movably inserted into the interior of the clamping housing. The clamping cam is rotatably provided on the top of the clamping drive rod. Racks are symmetrically provided on both sides of the lower part of the clamping drive rod. A cylindrical gear is provided at one end of the driven clamping arm, and a clamping plate is provided at the other end of the driven clamping arm. The cylindrical gear is rotatably installed on the clamping housing, and the cylindrical gears of the two driven clamping arms respectively mesh with the racks on both sides. The clamping return spring is sleeved on the outside of the clamping drive rod. The upper end of the clamping return spring is connected to the top of the clamping drive rod, and the lower end of the clamping return spring abuts against the top of the clamping housing. When the clamping drive rod moves downward, the clamping return spring is compressed, and the two driven clamping arms move away from each other.

[0024] When the clamping and flipping mechanism passes the clamping drive track, the clamping cam is in rolling connection with the clamping drive track.

[0025] Preferably, the clamping drive track includes a claw section, a transition section, and a clamping section arranged sequentially;

[0026] The claw section is inclined downward along the conveying direction, the clamping section is inclined upward along the conveying direction, and the height of the transition section is the same as the end height of the claw section and the beginning height of the clamping section.

[0027] Preferably, the projection of the claw segment in the top view direction coincides with the projection of the discharge conveying mechanism in the top view direction;

[0028] The projection of the clamping section in the top view direction coincides with the projection of the feeding conveying mechanism in the top view direction.

[0029] Preferably, the annular conveying mechanism further includes a waste disposal station, which is located between the flipping and resetting station and the unloading station;

[0030] The waste disposal station is equipped with a waste disposal mechanism, which is used to drive the clamping and flipping mechanism to open.

[0031] Preferably, the waste disposal mechanism includes a mounting frame, a drive cylinder, and a pressure block;

[0032] The driving cylinder is mounted on the annular conveying mechanism via the mounting bracket. The driving end of the driving cylinder is provided with the pressure rod block. The driving cylinder is used to drive the pressure rod block to move downward and press down the clamping driving rod.

[0033] Preferably, the annular conveying mechanism includes a mounting plate, a driving component, several sprockets, and an annular chain;

[0034] The mounting plate is horizontally positioned above the working platform. Several sprockets are mounted on the mounting plate via rotating shafts. An annular chain is sleeved on the outside of several sprockets and meshes with several sprockets respectively. The driving component is used to drive one of the rotating shafts to rotate.

[0035] The mounting base is connected to the annular chain via a chain buckle plate.

[0036] Preferably, the annular conveying mechanism further includes an annular guide rail, and the annular chain and the annular guide rail are respectively disposed on the upper and lower sides of the mounting plate;

[0037] The clamping and flipping mechanism further includes at least two sets of guide rollers, which are rotatably mounted on the mounting base, and the two sets of guide rollers are respectively rolled on the inner and outer sides of the annular guide track.

[0038] Compared with the prior art, one of the above technical solutions has the following beneficial effects:

[0039] Through the coordinated operation of the ring conveyor mechanism and the clamping and flipping mechanism, the entire process of clamping, flipping, resetting and unloading of the ampoules in the continuous conveying process is automated. This eliminates the efficiency bottleneck caused by the traditional step-by-step execution with machine stoppage, and has the advantages of improving the adaptability of production cycle, optimizing spatial layout, enhancing the continuity of action and the stability of detection. Attached Figure Description

[0040] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of one embodiment of the present invention;

[0041] Figure 2 This is a top view of an embodiment of the present invention;

[0042] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of a structural embodiment of the present invention (excluding the working platform).

[0043] Figure 4 This is a structural schematic diagram of another embodiment of the present invention (excluding the working platform).

[0044] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the clamping and flipping mechanism of the present invention;

[0045] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 Exploded view;

[0046] Figure 7 yes Figure 3 Enlarged view of point A in the middle;

[0047] Figure 8 yes Figure 3 Enlarged view of point B in the middle;

[0048] Figure 9 yes Figure 3 Enlarged view of point C in the middle;

[0049] Figure 10 yes Figure 4 Enlarged diagram of point D;

[0050] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the annular conveying mechanism of the present invention;

[0051] Figure 12This is a schematic diagram of the waste disposal mechanism of the present invention.

[0052] The components include: a ring conveyor mechanism 1, a mounting plate 11, a drive unit 12, a ring chain 14, a ring guide rail 15, a loading station 101, a tilting station 102, a tilting reset station 103, a unloading station 104, a waste disposal station 105, a clamping and tilting mechanism 2, a tilting assembly 21, a tilting housing 211, a tilting rod 212, a tilting reset spring 213, a tilting rack 214, a tilting gear 215, a tilting cam 216, a clamping assembly 22, a clamping housing 221, a clamping drive rod 222, and a rack. 2221, driven clamping arm 223, cylindrical gear 2231, clamping plate 2232, clamping cam 224, clamping return spring 225, mounting base 23, chain buckle plate 24, guide roller 25, flipping drive track 31, flipping section 311, flipping holding section 312, flipping return section 313, clamping drive track 32, claw section 321, transition section 322, clamping section 323, waste disposal mechanism 4, mounting frame 41, drive cylinder 42, pressure bar block 43, feeding conveying mechanism 91 and discharging conveying mechanism 92. Detailed Implementation

[0053] Embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below. Examples of these embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions throughout. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and are only used to explain the present invention, and should not be construed as limiting the present invention.

[0054] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the terms "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "top", "bottom", "inner", "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, they should not be construed as limitations on this invention.

[0055] Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," and "third" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first," "second," and "third" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature.

[0056] It should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to fixed connections, detachable connections, or integral connections; they can refer to mechanical connections or electrical connections; they can refer to direct connections or indirect connections through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention based on the specific circumstances.

[0057] The following is in conjunction with the appendix Figures 1 to 12 The technical solution of the present invention will be further illustrated through specific embodiments.

[0058] A continuous conveying actuator for light inspection of rows of ampoules includes a working platform, a feeding conveying mechanism 91, a discharging conveying mechanism 92, a ring conveying mechanism 1, several clamping and turning mechanisms 2, a turning drive track 31, and a clamping drive track 32.

[0059] The feeding conveying mechanism 91 and the discharging conveying mechanism 92 are installed on the top surface of the working platform. Both the feeding conveying mechanism 91 and the discharging conveying mechanism 92 extend in the front-back direction, and the discharging conveying mechanism 92 and the feeding conveying mechanism 91 are arranged opposite each other in the left and right directions.

[0060] The annular conveying mechanism 1 is mounted on the upper part of the working platform via a frame. The annular conveying mechanism 1 includes a loading station 101, a flipping station 102, a flipping and resetting station 103, and a unloading station 104 arranged in a closed loop. The loading station 101 is located above the feeding conveying mechanism 91, and the unloading station 104 is located above the discharging conveying mechanism 92. The loading station 101 and the unloading station 104 are arranged in a front-to-back opposite manner.

[0061] The flipping drive track 31 and the clamping drive track 32 are installed on the annular conveying mechanism 1. The flipping drive track 31 extends from the starting end of the flipping station 102 to the end of the flipping reset station 103, and the clamping drive track 32 extends from the starting end of the unloading station 104 to the end of the loading station 101.

[0062] Several clamping and flipping mechanisms 2 are installed at intervals on the annular conveying mechanism 1. The annular conveying mechanism 1 is used to drive the clamping and flipping mechanisms 2 to pass sequentially through the loading station 101, the flipping station 102, the flipping and resetting station 103 and the unloading station 104.

[0063] When the clamping and flipping mechanism 2 passes the loading station 101, the clamping and flipping mechanism 2 contacts the clamping drive track 32 and triggers the clamping and flipping mechanism 2 to clamp and pick up the row of ampoules located on the feeding conveying mechanism 91.

[0064] When the clamping and flipping mechanism 2 passes the flipping station 102, the clamping and flipping mechanism 2 contacts the flipping drive track 31, and the contact triggers the clamping and flipping mechanism 2 to flip the row of ampoules.

[0065] When the clamping and flipping mechanism 2 passes the flipping and resetting station 103, the clamping and flipping mechanism 2 contacts the flipping drive track 31 and triggers the clamping and flipping mechanism 2 to flip and reset the row of ampoules.

[0066] When the clamping and flipping mechanism 2 passes the unloading station 104, the clamping and flipping mechanism 2 contacts the clamping drive track 32, and the contact triggers the clamping and flipping mechanism 2 to release the row of ampoules to the discharge conveying mechanism 92.

[0067] This invention addresses three core problems in existing ampoule production lines: slow cycle time, large space occupation, and poor stability of the clamping and turning mechanisms. It proposes a technical solution based on continuous flow and mechanical track drive. Through highly integrated continuous mechanical operation, it overturns the traditional "positioning stop - step-by-step execution" operation mode. Specifically, the device uses the continuous, uniform movement of the circular conveyor mechanism 1 to drive several clamping and turning mechanisms 2 to circulate through various workstations. Under the mechanical action of the fixed turning drive track 31 and clamping drive track 32, all actions are passively and precisely completed. This device firstly greatly improves production cycle time and efficiency, eliminating time wasted due to repeated start-stop cycles. The production rhythm depends solely on the running speed of the circular line, perfectly matching the needs of high-speed continuous production. Secondly, the device has a compact structure and excellent space compatibility. It highly integrates complex drive and control functions into the circular conveyor system, replacing numerous independent motors, cylinders, and other actuators and their associated pipelines, resulting in a compact overall layout and saving equipment floor space. Finally, the quality stability and reliability of the device have been fundamentally improved. Since the clamping and flipping actions are both forcibly driven by the flipping drive rail 31 and the clamping drive rail 32, the mechanical constraints on each clamping and flipping mechanism 2 are exactly the same when passing through the same position. This ensures that the clamping position, release position, flipping position, clamping force and flipping angle are consistent, avoiding signal delay, air pressure fluctuation or wear deviation problems that may be caused by the electrical coordination of multiple systems. It provides a stable and repeatable liquid sloshing effect for the light inspection process and significantly improves the accuracy of defect detection.

[0068] The actual operating principle of the device of this invention is a highly efficient and continuous mechanical cycle. Its core is a ring conveyor mechanism 1 as the power source, carrying multiple evenly distributed clamping and flipping mechanisms 2 in a cyclical motion, sequentially passing through four functional stations: loading station 101, flipping station 102, flipping and resetting station 103, and unloading station 104. Under the triggering action of a fixed module at a specific station, all operations are automatically completed. The detailed principle is as follows:

[0069] 1. Dynamic grasping is implemented at loading station 101.

[0070] The ring conveyor 1 operates continuously at a constant speed, transporting an empty clamping and flipping mechanism 2 to directly above the feeding conveyor 91 (i.e., the loading station 101). At this time, the triggering component on the clamping and flipping mechanism 2 contacts the clamping drive track 32. Under the mechanical force of the track curve, the clamping gripper is driven to close, thereby accurately clamping the row of ampoules conveyed from the feeding conveyor 91 in a dynamic process without stopping the machine, and lifting them away from the feeding conveyor 91.

[0071] 2. The flipping station 102 achieves flipping.

[0072] The clamping and flipping mechanism 2, which holds the row of ampoules, enters the flipping station 102. The flipping component on it contacts and interacts with the flipping drive track 31. During continuous movement, it is forced to rotate (flip 180°) by the track, so that the bottle body can be flipped so that the liquid inside the bottle can be fully shaken.

[0073] To further explain, a light inspection mechanism is set up on the conveyor path after the flipping to perform light inspection on the product after it has been flipped and shaken.

[0074] 3. Reverse reset station 103 returns to the correct posture.

[0075] The flipped ampoules continue to interact with the flip drive track 31 at the flip reset station 103. The track is designed to provide reverse drive here, forcing the clamping flip mechanism 2 to rotate 180° in the opposite direction, accurately restoring the ampoules to their original position.

[0076] To further explain, multiple light inspection mechanisms can be added as needed on the conveying path after the product is flipped and reset. This is equivalent to performing multiple inspections on the product after it is flipped and shaken again, ensuring the quality of product inspection and avoiding missed inspections.

[0077] 4. Dynamic release of material unloading station 104

[0078] Finally, the clamping and flipping mechanism 2 moves to the unloading station 104, where its clamping components once again contact the clamping drive track 32. The track curve forces the gripper to open, releasing the row of ampoules that have completed light inspection onto the discharge conveyor 92 for transport away. The unloaded clamping and flipping mechanism 2 then continues to return along the circular line, starting the next cycle.

[0079] Throughout the process, all complex action commands originate from the physical contact between the mechanical track and the clamping and flipping mechanism 2, eliminating the need for complex electronic control programs to synchronize, thus achieving truly efficient, stable, and reliable continuous automated production.

[0080] This invention enables the clamping and flipping of ampoules in a continuous conveying process, avoiding interruptions caused by machine downtime. The symmetrical layout of the feeding and discharging paths reduces the equipment's footprint. The mechanical contact triggering mechanism of the clamping drive track 32 and the flipping drive track 31 reduces the risk of multi-component coordination errors, ensures stable clamping force, improves the consistency of flipping angle, and ensures that the liquid agitation effect of the product meets the testing requirements.

[0081] Furthermore, the clamping and flipping mechanism 2 includes a mounting base 23, a flipping component 21, and a clamping component 22, wherein the mounting base 23 is connected to the annular conveying mechanism 1;

[0082] The flipping assembly 21 includes a flipping housing 211, a flipping rod 212, a flipping return spring 213, a flipping rack 214, a flipping gear 215, and a flipping cam 216. The flipping housing 211 is mounted on the mounting base 23. The flipping rod 212 is movably inserted into the interior of the flipping housing 211. The flipping cam 216 is rotatably mounted on the top of the flipping rod 212. The flipping return spring 213 is located inside the flipping housing 211, and its upper end is connected to the flipping... The lever 212 is connected, the lower end of the flipping return spring 213 abuts against the bottom of the flipping housing 211, the flipping rack 214 is connected to the side wall of the flipping lever 212, the rack portion of the flipping rack 214 is located outside the flipping housing 11, the flipping gear 215 is installed on the clamping assembly 22, and the flipping rack 214 meshes with the flipping gear 215; when the flipping lever 212 moves downward, the flipping return spring 213 is compressed, and the clamping assembly 22 flips relative to the flipping assembly 21.

[0083] When the clamping and flipping mechanism 2 passes through the flipping drive track 31, the flipping cam 216 is in rolling connection with the flipping drive track 31.

[0084] When the clamping and flipping mechanism 2 moves along the annular conveying path to the area of ​​the flipping drive track 31, the flipping cam 216 contacts the flipping drive track 31 and is pressed down, causing the flipping rod 212 to move downwards against the resistance of the flipping return spring 213. At this time, the flipping rack 214 moves downwards accordingly, driving the flipping gear 215 meshing with it to rotate, thereby causing the clamping assembly 22 to perform a flipping action around the axis. The flipping return spring 213 stores elastic potential energy during compression. When the clamping and flipping mechanism 2 moves out of the working area of ​​the flipping drive track 31, the flipping return spring 213 releases energy to push the flipping rod 212 upwards to reset, and the flipping gear 215 rotates in the opposite direction to flip and reset the clamping assembly 22. The entire process is achieved entirely through the physical contact and linkage of mechanical components, without relying on external electrical control signals or pneumatic components, ensuring strict synchronization between the flipping action and the conveying feed. The height variation design of the flipping drive track 31 precisely controls the stroke of the flipping rod 212, enabling the clamping assembly 22 to complete a 180° flip and reset at the designated station, avoiding action lag or angle deviation.

[0085] Furthermore, the flip drive track 31 includes a flip section 311, a flip holding section 312, and a flip reset section 313 arranged sequentially.

[0086] The flipping section 311 is inclined downward along the conveying direction, the flipping reset section 313 is inclined upward along the conveying direction, and the height of the flipping holding section 312 is the same as the end height of the flipping section 311 and the beginning height of the flipping reset section 313.

[0087] The flipping section 311 refers to the inclined transition area in the flipping drive track 31 used to trigger the downward movement of the flipping assembly 21. Specifically, it can be implemented using a ramp structure forming an angle of 5° to 15° with the conveying direction. The flipping section 311 forces the flipping rod 212 downward and compresses the flipping return spring 213 through mechanical compression. The flipping holding section 312 refers to the horizontal transition area in the flipping drive track 31 that maintains the height of the flipping rod 212. Specifically, it can be implemented using a straight track structure at the same height as the end of the flipping section 311. The flipping holding section 312 restricts the rotational freedom of the flipping gear 215 by maintaining a constant height. The flipping reset section 313 refers to the reverse inclined transition area in the flipping drive track 31 that guides the flipping assembly 21 to reset. Specifically, it can be implemented using an upward inclined track structure connected to the end of the flipping holding section 312. The flipping reset section 313 releases the compression effect on the flipping rod 212 through a change in slope.

[0088] Specifically, such as Figures 8 to 10As shown, when the clamping and flipping mechanism 2 moves along the annular conveyor mechanism 1 to the flipping section 311 of the flipping drive track 31, the downwardly inclined track surface continuously presses down on the flipping cam 216, forcing the flipping rod 212 to overcome the resistance of the flipping reset spring 213 and move downward. At this time, the flipping rack 214 drives the flipping gear 215 to complete a 180° rotation (equivalent to the clamping assembly 22 achieving flipping). After entering the flipping holding section 312, the track height remains constant, and the flipping gear 215 remains stationary without external interference, ensuring that the ampoules in the row are in a stable inverted state at the inspection station. When reaching the flipping reset section 313, the upwardly inclined track surface gradually releases the pressure on the flipping cam 216, the flipping reset spring 213 pushes the flipping rod 212 upward, and the flipping rack 214 drives the flipping gear 215 to rotate and reset. The three track sections form a continuous mechanical control path through height changes, replacing the step-by-step adjustment of the flipping action by the traditional electronic control system.

[0089] Furthermore, the clamping assembly 22 includes a clamping housing 221, a clamping drive rod 222, two driven clamping arms 223, a clamping cam 224, and a clamping return spring 225;

[0090] The flipping gear 215 is mounted on the clamping housing 221. The clamping drive rod 222 is movably inserted into the interior of the clamping housing 221. The clamping cam 224 is rotatably provided on the top of the clamping drive rod 222. Racks 2221 are symmetrically provided on both sides of the lower part of the clamping drive rod 222. A cylindrical gear 2231 is provided at one end of the driven clamping arm 223, and a clamping plate 2232 is provided at the other end of the driven clamping arm 223. The cylindrical gear 2231 is rotatably mounted on the clamping housing. The body 221 has cylindrical gears 2231 of the two driven clamping arms meshing with racks 2221 on both sides respectively. The clamping return spring 225 is sleeved on the outside of the clamping drive rod 222. The upper end of the clamping return spring 225 is connected to the top of the clamping drive rod 222, and the lower end of the clamping return spring 225 abuts against the top of the clamping housing 221. When the clamping drive rod 222 moves downward, the clamping return spring 225 is compressed, and the two driven clamping arms 223 move away from each other.

[0091] When the clamping and flipping mechanism 2 passes through the clamping drive track 32, the clamping cam 224 is in rolling connection with the clamping drive track 32.

[0092] When the clamping and flipping mechanism 2 moves along the circular conveying path to the unloading station 104 in the area of ​​the clamping drive track 32, the clamping drive track 32 forces the clamping drive rod 222 downward by pressing down the clamping cam 224. At this time, the clamping return spring 225 is compressed and stores elastic potential energy. The racks 2221 on both sides of the clamping drive rod 222 move downward synchronously, and through the meshing transmission with the cylindrical gear 2231, force the two driven clamping arms 223 to rotate relative to each other around the axis of their own cylindrical gears, realizing the opening action of the two clamping plates 2232. When the clamping and flipping mechanism 2 is released from the pressure of the clamping drive track 32, the clamping return spring 225 releases potential energy to push the clamping drive rod 222 upward to reset, and the racks 2221 move in the opposite direction to drive the cylindrical gear 2231 to rotate, so that the two clamping plates 2232 come closer together to close and complete the clamping. This process realizes the automatic switching of the clamping state through pure mechanical linkage, and the clamping action can be completed in continuous conveying without stopping the machine.

[0093] Furthermore, the clamping drive track 32 includes a claw section 321, a transition section 322, and a clamping section 323 arranged sequentially;

[0094] The claw section 321 is inclined downward along the conveying direction, the clamping section 323 is inclined upward along the conveying direction, and the height of the transition section 322 is the same as the end height of the claw section 321 and the beginning height of the clamping section 323.

[0095] The claw section 321 refers to a track section with a preset tilt angle, which can be implemented using a linear ramp structure. Its slope design allows the clamping drive rod 222 to generate controlled vertical (up and down) displacement during movement. The transition section 322 refers to a track section with a constant height, which can be implemented using a horizontally extending planar structure to maintain the stability of the clamping drive rod 222 during a specific stroke. The clamping section 323 refers to a track section with a reverse tilt angle, which can be implemented using a ramp structure symmetrical to the claw section 321. The reverse slope drives the clamping drive rod 222 to reset.

[0096] Specifically, such as Figure 3 and Figure 7As shown, when the clamping and flipping mechanism 2 and the annular conveying mechanism 1 move to the opening claw section 321 of the clamping drive track 32, the downward slope causes the clamping drive rod 222 to gradually move down, driving the cylindrical gears 2231 and racks 2221 of the two driven clamping arms 223 to mesh and rotate, so that the clamping plates 2232 can open smoothly to complete the unloading action (preparing the opening claws for the subsequent loading station 101). The horizontal extension structure of the transition section 322 keeps the clamping drive rod 222 in a stable downward state during the station switching process, preventing the clamping assembly 22 from accidentally closing in the non-operating area. The upward slope of the clamping section 323 allows the clamping drive rod 222 to return to its original position under the elastic action of the clamping return spring 225, driving the two clamping plates 2232 to gradually close to complete the clamping action. The high-connection design of the three-section track ensures that the opening and closing action of the clamping component 22 is synchronized with the time and space of the conveying path, so that the clamping operation is precisely matched with the spatial position of the loading station 101 and the unloading station 104.

[0097] Furthermore, the projection of the claw segment 321 in the top view direction coincides with the projection of the discharge conveying mechanism 92 in the top view direction.

[0098] The projection of the clamping section 323 in the top view direction coincides with the projection of the feeding conveying mechanism 91 in the top view direction.

[0099] The gripper section 321 is the section in the clamping drive track 32 that controls the clamping component 22 to release material. Its projection partially overlaps with the discharge conveyor mechanism 92, ensuring that the clamping component 22 and the conveying path of the discharge conveyor mechanism 92 remain spatially synchronized during material feeding. The clamping section 323 refers to the section in the clamping drive track 32 that controls the clamping component 22 to grasp material. Its projection partially overlaps with the feeding conveyor mechanism 91, ensuring that the starting point of the clamping action precisely corresponds to the material supply position.

[0100] Specifically, when the clamping assembly 22 moves to the unloading station 104, the track trajectory of the gripper section 321 overlaps with the material movement path of the discharge conveying mechanism 92 in the top-view direction. The clamping drive rod 222, under the downward pressure of the track, causes the clamping plate 2232 to open. At this time, the release position of the ampoules in the row maintains spatial consistency with the receiving area of ​​the discharge conveying mechanism 92, preventing material from falling due to positional deviation. When the clamping assembly 22 moves to the loading station 101, the track trajectory of the clamping section 323 overlaps with the material conveying path of the feeding conveying mechanism 91 in the top-view direction. The clamping drive rod 222, under the lifting action of the track, causes the clamping plate 2232 to close. At this time, the starting point of the clamping action perfectly matches the position of the ampoules in the row supplied by the feeding conveying mechanism 91, achieving gapless gripping. Through the spatial constraints of the top-view projection, the clamping drive track 32 and the conveying mechanisms (feeding conveying mechanism 91 and discharge conveying mechanism 92) form a coordinated three-dimensional motion trajectory.

[0101] Furthermore, the annular conveying mechanism 1 also includes a waste disposal station 105, which is located between the flipping and resetting station 103 and the unloading station 104.

[0102] The waste disposal station 105 is equipped with a waste disposal mechanism 4, which is used to drive the clamping and flipping mechanism 2 to open.

[0103] The waste disposal station 105 is a specific area set in the circular conveyor path for performing non-conforming product rejection operations. It can be implemented by integrating an independent station module with the conveyor mechanism. Its spatial position forms a continuous process connection with the flipping and resetting station 103 and the unloading station 104. The waste disposal mechanism 4 is used to trigger the drive device of the clamping and flipping mechanism 2 to release the product.

[0104] Specifically, when the clamping and flipping mechanism 2 carries the row of ampoules past the waste disposal station 105, the waste disposal mechanism 4 presses down the clamping drive rod 222, thereby driving the two driven clamping arms 223 to separate outwards, causing the clamping assembly 22 to open and release the defective products. This action is completed synchronously during the continuous operation of the circular conveyor mechanism 1, without interrupting the conveying cycle. The layout of the waste disposal station 105 ensures that the products immediately enter the sorting process after completing the flipping and resetting, avoiding the retention of inspected products in the conveying path.

[0105] To further explain, a sensing component can be installed on each clamping and flipping mechanism 2, and a photoelectric sensor switch can be installed at the waste disposal station 105. When a row of ampoules held by a clamping and flipping mechanism 2 fails the light inspection, the control system marks the clamping and flipping mechanism 2. When the clamping and flipping mechanism 2 moves to the waste disposal station 105 and senses each other with the photoelectric sensor switch, the control system information matches, and the waste disposal mechanism 4 is triggered to start, and the clamping and flipping mechanism 2 is opened to discard the waste.

[0106] Furthermore, the waste disposal mechanism 4 includes a mounting frame 41, a drive cylinder 42, and a pressure block 43;

[0107] The driving cylinder 42 is mounted on the annular conveying mechanism 1 via the mounting bracket 41. The driving end of the driving cylinder 42 is provided with the pressure rod block 43. The driving cylinder 42 is used to drive the pressure rod block 43 to move downward and press down the clamping driving rod 222.

[0108] When the clamping and flipping mechanism 2 carrying the row of ampoules reaches the waste disposal station 105, the drive cylinder 42 on the mounting frame 41 is activated, pushing the pressure block 43 downwards in the vertical direction. After the pressure block 43 contacts the top of the clamping drive rod 222, it continuously applies axial pressure, forcing the clamping drive rod 222 to slide downwards. The racks 2221 on both sides of the clamping drive rod 222 mesh with the cylindrical gears 2231 of the driven clamping arm 223, driving the two clamping plates 2232 to expand outwards synchronously, thereby releasing the clamping state of the row of ampoules. The released defective products fall vertically into the waste disposal channel under the action of gravity, while the clamping and flipping mechanism 2 continues to move forward with the annular conveyor mechanism 1. The entire process is completed under the condition that the annular conveyor mechanism 1 is running continuously, without interrupting the production line cycle.

[0109] Furthermore, the annular conveying mechanism 1 includes a mounting plate 11, a driving component 12, a plurality of sprockets, and an annular chain 14;

[0110] The mounting plate 11 is horizontally positioned above the working platform. Several sprockets are mounted on the mounting plate 11 via rotating shafts. An annular chain 14 is sleeved on the outside of several sprockets and meshes with several sprockets respectively. The driving member 12 is used to drive one of the rotating shafts to rotate.

[0111] The mounting base 23 is connected to the annular chain 14 via a chain buckle plate 24.

[0112] The mounting plate 11 serves as the basic support platform, and its horizontal installation ensures the coaxiality and flatness of the sprocket assembly. The drive unit 12 outputs power to the rotating shaft, causing the sprocket to rotate and driving the annular chain 14 to move along a closed-loop path. The meshing transmission between the sprocket and the annular chain 14 forms a continuous cyclic motion, avoiding the start-stop gaps present in traditional segmented drives. The chain buckle plate 24 rigidly connects the mounting base 23 to the annular chain 14, achieving equidistant distribution and synchronous movement of the clamping and flipping mechanism 2 along the conveying path. This structure replaces multi-motor segmented drives with modular transmission components, reducing mechanical complexity and improving transmission synchronization accuracy.

[0113] Furthermore, the annular conveying mechanism 1 also includes an annular guide rail 15, with the annular chain 14 and the annular guide rail 15 respectively disposed on the upper and lower sides of the mounting plate 11;

[0114] The clamping and flipping mechanism 2 further includes at least two sets of guide rollers 25, which are rotatably mounted on the mounting base 23. The two sets of guide rollers 25 are respectively rolled on the inner and outer sides of the annular guide track 15.

[0115] The annular guide rail 15 is a closed-loop track structure that extends circumferentially around the mounting plate 11. It and the annular chain 14 are respectively located on the upper and lower sides of the mounting plate 11, forming a spatial layered layout, which can disperse the pressure of mechanical load on a single plane.

[0116] Guide rollers 25 are mounted on the mounting base 23 via a rotating shaft. The guide rollers 25 contact the inner and outer edges of the annular guide rail 15 respectively, forming a double-sided rolling limiting structure.

[0117] Specifically, when the annular chain 14 moves cyclically along the sprocket under the drive of the drive member 12, the mounting base 23 is connected to the annular chain 14 through the chain buckle plate 24 and moves with it. At this time, the guide rollers 25 provided on the mounting base 23 are respectively rolledly connected to the inner and outer walls of the annular guide rail 15, and roll under the constraint of the rail. Since the annular chain 14 and the annular guide rail 15 are respectively located on the upper and lower sides of the mounting plate 11, the traction force of the annular chain 14 and the constraint force of the annular guide rail 15 form a spatially separated mechanical transmission path, avoiding the risk of deformation caused by the concentration of force on a single plane. The inner and outer double-sided rolling contact of the guide rollers 25 can simultaneously limit the horizontal displacement of the mounting base, so that the clamping and flipping mechanism 2 always moves along the predetermined trajectory.

[0118] The technical principles of the present invention have been described above with reference to specific embodiments. These descriptions are merely for explaining the principles of the invention and should not be construed as limiting the scope of protection of the invention in any way. Based on this explanation, those skilled in the art can readily conceive of other specific embodiments of the invention without inventive effort, and these embodiments will all fall within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A continuous conveying actuator for light inspection of rows of ampoules, characterized in that: It includes a working platform, a feeding conveyor (91), a discharging conveyor (92), a ring conveyor (1), several clamping and turning mechanisms (2), a turning drive track (31), and a clamping drive track (32). The feeding conveyor (91) and the discharging conveyor (92) are installed on the top surface of the working platform. The feeding conveyor (91) and the discharging conveyor (92) both extend in the front-back direction, and the discharging conveyor (92) and the feeding conveyor (91) are arranged opposite each other in the left and right directions. The annular conveying mechanism (1) is mounted on the upper part of the working platform via a frame. The annular conveying mechanism (1) includes a loading station (101), a flipping station (102), a flipping and resetting station (103), and a unloading station (104) arranged in a closed loop. The loading station (101) is located above the feeding conveying mechanism (91), and the unloading station (104) is located above the discharging conveying mechanism (92). The loading station (101) and the unloading station (104) are arranged in a front-to-back arrangement. The flipping drive rail (31) and the clamping drive rail (32) are installed on the annular conveying mechanism (1). The flipping drive rail (31) extends from the starting end of the flipping station (102) to the end of the flipping reset station (103). The clamping drive rail (32) extends from the starting end of the unloading station (104) to the end of the loading station (101). Several clamping and flipping mechanisms (2) are installed at intervals on the annular conveying mechanism (1). The annular conveying mechanism (1) is used to drive the clamping and flipping mechanisms (2) to pass through the loading station (101), flipping station (102), flipping and resetting station (103) and unloading station (104) in sequence. When the clamping and flipping mechanism (2) passes the loading station (101), the clamping and flipping mechanism (2) contacts the clamping drive track (32) and triggers the clamping and flipping mechanism (2) to clamp and pick up the row of ampoules located on the feeding conveying mechanism (91); When the clamping and flipping mechanism (2) passes the flipping station (102), the clamping and flipping mechanism (2) contacts the flipping drive track (31) and triggers the clamping and flipping mechanism (2) to flip the row of ampoules; When the clamping and flipping mechanism (2) passes the flipping and resetting station (103), the clamping and flipping mechanism (2) contacts the flipping drive track (31) and triggers the clamping and flipping mechanism (2) to flip and reset the row of ampoules; When the clamping and flipping mechanism (2) passes the unloading station (104), the clamping and flipping mechanism (2) contacts the clamping drive track (32) and triggers the clamping and flipping mechanism (2) to release the row of ampoules to the discharge conveying mechanism (92). The clamping and flipping mechanism (2) includes a mounting base (23), a flipping component (21), and a clamping component (22), wherein the mounting base (23) is connected to the annular conveying mechanism (1); The flipping assembly (21) includes a flipping housing (211), a flipping rod (212), a flipping return spring (213), a flipping rack (214), a flipping gear (215), and a flipping cam (216). The flipping housing (211) is mounted on the mounting base (23). The flipping rod (212) is movably inserted into the interior of the flipping housing (211). The flipping cam (216) is rotatably mounted on the top of the flipping rod (212). The flipping return spring (213) is located inside the flipping housing (211). The upper end of the flipping return spring (213) is connected to the flipping... The rod (212) is connected, the lower end of the flipping return spring (213) abuts against the bottom of the flipping housing (211), the flipping rack (214) is connected to the side wall of the flipping rod (212), the rack part of the flipping rack (214) is located outside the flipping housing (211), the flipping gear (215) is installed on the clamping assembly (22), and the flipping rack (214) meshes with the flipping gear (215); when the flipping rod (212) moves downward, the flipping return spring (213) is compressed, and the clamping assembly (22) flips relative to the flipping assembly (21); When the clamping and flipping mechanism (2) passes through the flipping drive track (31), the flipping cam (216) is in rolling connection with the flipping drive track (31).

2. The continuous conveying actuator for light inspection of rows of ampoules according to claim 1, characterized in that: The flip drive track (31) includes a flip section (311), a flip holding section (312), and a flip reset section (313) arranged in sequence. The flipping section (311) is inclined downward along the conveying direction, the flipping reset section (313) is inclined upward along the conveying direction, and the height of the flipping holding section (312) is consistent with the end height of the flipping section (311) and the beginning height of the flipping reset section (313).

3. The continuous conveying actuator for light inspection of rows of ampoules according to claim 1, characterized in that: The clamping assembly (22) includes a clamping housing (221), a clamping drive rod (222), two driven clamping arms (223), a clamping cam (224), and a clamping return spring (225). The flipping gear (215) is installed on the clamping housing (221). The clamping drive rod (222) is movably inserted into the interior of the clamping housing (221). The clamping cam (224) is rotatably provided on the top of the clamping drive rod (222). Racks (2221) are symmetrically provided on both sides of the lower part of the clamping drive rod (222). A cylindrical gear (2231) is provided at one end of the driven clamping arm (223), and a clamping plate (2232) is provided at the other end of the driven clamping arm (223). The cylindrical gear (2231) is rotatably installed on the clamping housing. The housing (221) has cylindrical gears (2231) of the two driven clamping arms respectively meshing with racks (2221) on both sides. The clamping return spring (225) is sleeved on the outside of the clamping drive rod (222). The upper end of the clamping return spring (225) is connected to the top of the clamping drive rod (222), and the lower end of the clamping return spring (225) abuts against the top of the clamping housing (221). When the clamping drive rod (222) moves downward, the clamping return spring (225) is compressed, and the two driven clamping arms (223) move away from each other. When the clamping and flipping mechanism (2) passes through the clamping drive track (32), the clamping cam (224) is in rolling connection with the clamping drive track (32).

4. A continuous conveying actuator for light inspection of rows of ampoules according to claim 3, characterized in that: The clamping drive track (32) includes a claw section (321), a transition section (322) and a clamping section (323) arranged in sequence. The claw section (321) is inclined downward along the conveying direction, the clamping section (323) is inclined upward along the conveying direction, and the height of the transition section (322) is consistent with the end height of the claw section (321) and the beginning height of the clamping section (323).

5. A continuous conveying actuator for light inspection of rows of ampoules according to claim 4, characterized in that: The projection of the claw segment (321) in the top view direction coincides with the projection of the discharge conveying mechanism (92) in the top view direction. The projection of the clamping section (323) in the top view direction coincides with the projection of the feeding conveying mechanism (91) in the top view direction.

6. A continuous conveying actuator for light inspection of rows of ampoules according to claim 5, characterized in that: The annular conveying mechanism (1) also includes a waste disposal station (105), which is located between the flipping and resetting station (103) and the unloading station (104); The waste disposal station (105) is equipped with a waste disposal mechanism (4), which is used to drive the clamping and flipping mechanism (2) to open.

7. A continuous conveying actuator for light inspection of rows of ampoules according to claim 6, characterized in that: The waste disposal mechanism (4) includes a mounting frame (41), a drive cylinder (42), and a pressure block (43). The drive cylinder (42) is mounted on the annular conveying mechanism (1) via the mounting bracket (41). The drive end of the drive cylinder (42) is provided with the pressure block (43). The drive cylinder (42) is used to drive the pressure block (43) to move downward and press down the clamping drive rod (222).

8. A continuous conveying actuator for light inspection of rows of ampoules according to claim 1, characterized in that: The annular conveying mechanism (1) includes a mounting plate (11), a driving component (12), several sprockets, and an annular chain (14). The mounting plate (11) is horizontally positioned above the working platform. Several sprockets are mounted on the mounting plate (11) via rotating shafts. The annular chain (14) is sleeved on the outside of several sprockets. The annular chain (14) meshes with several sprockets respectively. The driving member (12) is used to drive one of the rotating shafts to rotate. The mounting base (23) is connected to the annular chain (14) via a chain buckle plate (24).

9. A continuous conveying actuator for light inspection of rows of ampoules according to claim 8, characterized in that: The annular conveying mechanism (1) further includes an annular guide rail (15), and the annular chain (14) and the annular guide rail (15) are respectively located on the upper and lower sides of the mounting plate (11); The clamping and flipping mechanism (2) further includes at least two sets of guide rollers (25), which are rotatably mounted on the mounting base (23). The two sets of guide rollers (25) are respectively rolled on the inner and outer sides of the annular guide rail (15).

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