Feeding device

Abstract

The application provides a feeding device, and relates to the technical field of feeding, which comprises a feeding device, a taking device, a discharging device, a first transferring device, a second transferring device and a feeding device; the feeding device is provided with K first material channels; the taking device comprises a first sliding mechanism which reciprocally moves along the arrangement direction of the first material channels, and the first sliding mechanism is provided with n1K taking claws; the discharging device is provided with n1K discharging cavities; the first transferring device is provided with n1K first transferring claws, and the first transferring claws are used for transferring the material on the taking claws to the discharging cavities; the feeding device is provided with n2n1K second material channels, the second transferring device comprises a second sliding mechanism which reciprocally moves along the arrangement direction of the second material channels, the second sliding mechanism is provided with n1K second transferring claws, and the second transferring claws are configured to transfer the material in the discharging cavities to the second material channels. The feeding device provided by the application meets the demand of modern automatic production for a high-beat, multi-channel and compact feeding system.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of material feeding technology, and in particular to a material feeding device. Background Technology

[0002] As a core feeding device in automated production lines, vibratory feeders typically work in conjunction with linear vibrators to achieve the directional arrangement and precise conveying of disordered materials through vibration. Because vibratory feeders require internal spiral tracks to achieve material orientation, their floor space increases exponentially with the number of linear vibratory feed channels, thus significantly limiting the number of linear vibratory feed channels a single vibratory feeder can connect to.

[0003] With the rapid development of industrial automation technology, the material processing field has placed higher demands on the efficiency and space optimization of feeding systems. In actual production scenarios, when adding feeding channels to improve production cycle time, multiple independent vibratory feeders are often required. This solution not only significantly increases the equipment footprint but also leads to increased production line layout complexity and maintenance costs, making it difficult to meet the requirements of parallel feeding operations with multiple material channels in modern industrial production. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The purpose of this invention is to provide a feeding device that meets the needs of modern automated production for high-speed, multi-channel, and compact feeding systems.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides the following technical solution: In a first aspect, the present invention provides a feeding device, including a feeding device, a picking device, a discharging device, a first conveying device, a second conveying device, and a loading device; The feeding device is provided with K first material channels; The material handling device is located downstream of the feeding device. The material handling device includes a first sliding mechanism that reciprocates along the arrangement direction of the first material channel. The first sliding mechanism is provided with n1K material handling claws. The feeding device has n1K feeding chambers; The first transfer device is provided with n1K first transfer claws, which are used to transfer the material on the picking claw to the discharging chamber; The feeding device has n2n1K second material channels, and the second transfer device includes a second sliding mechanism that reciprocates along the arrangement direction of the second material channels. The second sliding mechanism has n1K second transfer claws, and the second transfer claws are configured to transfer the material in the discharge chamber to the second material channel.

[0006] The feeding device provided by this invention achieves a n2n1-fold increase in the number of feeding channels by setting up a feeding device with K first feeding channels and a picking device equipped with n1K picking claws, combined with a first transfer device, a second transfer device, and a feeding device with n2n1K second feeding channels. This breaks through the bottleneck of the number of feeding channels caused by the limitation of the spiral track in traditional vibratory feeders. Compared with using multiple independent vibratory feeders to increase the number of feeding channels, this invention mainly achieves parallel feeding to a large number of second feeding channels through mechanical transfer, effectively reducing the equipment footprint. At the same time, the graded transfer strategy achieves a smooth transition of material from centralized conveying to feeding through multiple second feeding channels, improving the flexibility and scalability of the feeding system. It meets the needs of modern automated production for high-cycle, multi-channel, and compact feeding systems, and has significant industrial application value.

[0007] In an optional embodiment, the feeding device includes a conveying mechanism and a blocking mechanism; The conveying mechanism is provided with K first material channels; The material blocking mechanism is disposed at the discharge end of each of the first material channels and switches between the first material blocking position and the second material blocking position. The material blocking mechanism is configured to block the material at the end of each of the first material channels at the first material blocking position and to block the material at the secondary end of each of the first material channels at the second material blocking position.

[0008] In the above embodiments, the material blocking mechanism not only achieves dynamic locking and releasing of the material conveying endpoint, but also avoids problems such as material accumulation, misalignment, or interference by ensuring high-frequency continuous material supply through the alternating working mode of the dual material blocking positions. Especially in application scenarios where it is used in conjunction with the first sliding mechanism with n1K picking claws for batch centralized material picking, this material blocking mechanism effectively ensures that the material faced by each picking action is accurately stopped on a uniform and stable picking plane, significantly improving the material picking success rate and the overall machine operation reliability.

[0009] In an optional embodiment, each of the first material channels includes a pitch-changing section, and the distance between the pitch-changing sections of adjacent first material channels gradually increases along the direction from the feed end to the discharge end of the first material channel.

[0010] By introducing the aforementioned variable-pitch section, the distance between adjacent first material channels gradually increases along the conveying direction, thereby reserving sufficient lateral spacing between each material channel. When the blocking mechanism switches between the first blocking position and the second blocking position, the structural components that are not currently performing the blocking function can be aligned with the spacing area, effectively avoiding accidental collisions or obstructions to materials in adjacent first material channels during the movement of the blocking mechanism, thus improving the stability and reliability of equipment operation.

[0011] In an optional embodiment, the material blocking mechanism includes a fixed frame, a first driver, a first movable frame, a first baffle, and a second baffle; The fixed frame is provided with fixed material channels that correspond one-to-one with the first material channel, and each fixed material channel is used to accommodate n1 materials; The first driver is mounted on the fixed frame and connected to the first movable frame. The first driver is configured to drive the first movable frame to switch between the first stop position and the second stop position. Both the first baffle and the second baffle are installed on the first movable frame. The first baffle is configured to block the material at the end of each of the first material channels, and the second baffle is configured to block the material at the secondary end of each of the first material channels.

[0012] In the above embodiments, the first and second baffles work together to achieve precise indexing control of the material conveying process, effectively avoiding problems such as material stacking, material snatching, or empty grabbing that may occur during continuous feeding, thus improving the reliability and cycle consistency of the feeding system. Furthermore, since the first and second baffles are integrated on the same movable first frame and driven by a single first driver for unified switching, the structure is compact, responsive, and easy to control, which helps reduce equipment complexity and maintenance costs.

[0013] In an optional embodiment, the material handling device further includes a support frame, a second drive, a second moving frame, and a third drive; The second movable frame is slidably engaged with the support frame; The second driver is mounted on the support frame and connected to the second movable frame, and the second driver is used to drive the second movable frame to slide relative to the support frame; The third driver is mounted on the second movable frame. The third driver is connected to the first sliding mechanism and drives the first sliding mechanism to slide relative to the second movable frame along the arrangement direction of the first material channel. The sliding direction of the first sliding mechanism is perpendicular to the sliding direction of the second movable frame.

[0014] The above-described embodiment introduces a composite motion platform consisting of a support frame, a second driver, a second moving frame, and a third driver, enabling the material handling device to move flexibly within a two-dimensional plane. This not only improves the accuracy and adaptability of the material handling action but also provides a reliable mechanical foundation for achieving high-speed, high-density, multi-channel material feeding, further optimizing the automation level and production cycle of the entire material feeding equipment. The above-described embodiment not only achieves the integration and compactness of multi-layer material handling functions but also reduces the driving stroke of the third driver 25 through the alternating spatial arrangement of the material handling claws, making the equipment structure more compact.

[0015] In an optional embodiment, the first sliding mechanism includes n1 material picking components stacked in a vertical direction, each material picking component including a fourth driver and a moving plate group; The movable plate assembly is connected to K of the material-grabbing claws, and the fourth driver is connected to the movable plate assembly and drives the movable plate assembly to move so that the K of the material-grabbing claws can pick up and put down the material. The picking claws in each of the picking components are arranged alternately in the direction of the first material channel.

[0016] The above-described implementation not only achieves the integration and compactness of the multi-layer material handling function, but also reduces the driving stroke of the third driver by alternating the spatial arrangement of the material handling claws, making the equipment structure more compact.

[0017] In an optional embodiment, the feeding device includes a mounting frame, a fifth driver, and a feeding base; The feeding seat has n1K feeding cavities. The fifth driver is mounted on the mounting frame. The fifth driver is connected to the feeding seat and drives the feeding seat to reciprocate relative to the mounting frame in the horizontal direction.

[0018] The above implementation method enables the material to fully enter the discharge chamber, avoiding inaccurate material placement and affecting the subsequent gripping by the first transfer claw.

[0019] In an optional embodiment, the discharge chamber is provided with a guide surface assembly and a slot located below the guide surface assembly, the slot being configured to define the orientation of the material relative to the discharge chamber.

[0020] In the above embodiments, the guide surface assembly can guide the limiting piece when the material falls, so that the limiting piece is inserted into the slot formed by the guide surface assembly, thereby correcting the orientation of each material.

[0021] In an optional embodiment, the first transfer device includes a support, a sixth actuator, a third moving frame, a seventh actuator, and a first clamping assembly; The sixth actuator is mounted on the bracket, and the sixth actuator is connected to the third movable frame and drives the third movable frame to reciprocate relative to the bracket in the horizontal direction. The seventh driver is mounted on the third moving frame. The seventh driver is connected to the first clamping assembly and drives the first clamping assembly to reciprocate relative to the third moving frame in the vertical direction. The first clamping assembly is provided with n1K first transfer claws.

[0022] The first transfer device provided by the above embodiment achieves efficient and reliable transfer of n1K materials concentratedly grasped by the material picking device to the corresponding discharge chamber in the material discharging device through precise control of two degrees of freedom, namely horizontal and vertical. This completes the spatial reorganization and temporary storage preparation of the materials, providing a structural foundation and technical guarantee for subsequent distributed feeding to more second material channels.

[0023] In an optional embodiment, the second transfer device is connected to the third moving frame and moves synchronously with the third moving frame relative to the support.

[0024] The advantages of the above implementation are as follows: First, the second transfer device 5 and the first transfer device 4 share the same horizontal motion platform, avoiding the structural complexity and positional asynchrony risks associated with independently setting up horizontal drive mechanisms, thus improving the accuracy and reliability of material transfer between the two devices. Second, the integrated installation method helps to reduce the overall size of the equipment, which is in line with the design trend of highly integrated automated feeding systems.

[0025] In an optional embodiment, the second transfer device further includes a follower frame and an eighth driver, and the second sliding mechanism includes a fourth moving frame, a ninth driver, and a second clamping assembly; The follower frame is connected to the first transfer device and moves with the first transfer device; The eighth driver is mounted on the follower frame, and the eighth driver is connected to the fourth moving frame and drives the fourth moving frame to reciprocate relative to the follower frame along the arrangement direction of the second material channel; The ninth driver is mounted on the fourth moving frame. The ninth driver is connected to the second clamping assembly and drives the second clamping assembly to reciprocate relative to the fourth moving frame in the vertical direction. The second clamping assembly is provided with n1K second transfer claws.

[0026] The above implementation constructs a second sliding mechanism with two-dimensional motion capability through the lateral movement driven by the eighth driver and the vertical movement driven by the ninth driver. This not only improves the space utilization and mechanical coordination of the equipment, but also significantly enhances the controllability and automation of the material distribution process.

[0027] In an optional embodiment, the top of the common sidewall of two adjacent second material channels is provided with a limiting plate that defines the orientation of the material, and the limiting plate is provided on only one side of each second material channel.

[0028] In the above embodiment, when the material is fed into the second material channel, one side of the limiting block can abut against the limiting plate. During the material conveying process in the second material channel, under the obstruction of the limiting plate, the material can be conveyed downstream in a stable orientation, ensuring the consistency of the feeding posture. Attached Figure Description

[0029] To more clearly illustrate the specific embodiments of the present invention or the technical solutions in the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the specific embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained from these drawings without creative effort.

[0030] Figure 1 A three-dimensional structural diagram of the feeding device provided in an embodiment of the present invention from a first-view perspective; Figure 2 A three-dimensional structural diagram of the feeding device provided in an embodiment of the present invention from a second perspective; Figure 3 This is a three-dimensional structural schematic diagram of the feeding device provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 4 for Figure 3 Enlarged view of point A; Figure 5 for Figure 3 Enlarged view of point B; Figure 6 This is a three-dimensional structural schematic diagram of the material handling device provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 7 This is a three-dimensional structural schematic diagram of the first sliding mechanism provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 8 A three-dimensional structural schematic diagram of a material handling component provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 9 This is a three-dimensional structural schematic diagram of another material handling component provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 10 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the material handling device and the material discharging device provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 11 This is a three-dimensional structural schematic diagram of the feeding device provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 12 This is a top view of the feeding device and the material provided in the embodiment of the present invention. Figure 13 for Figure 12 CC section view; Figure 14A three-dimensional structural diagram of the first transfer device and the second transfer device when they cooperate, provided in an embodiment of the present invention, from a first perspective; Figure 15 A three-dimensional structural diagram of the first and second transfer devices in cooperation according to an embodiment of the present invention, viewed from a second perspective. Figure 16 This is a three-dimensional structural schematic diagram of the second transfer device provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 17 This is a three-dimensional structural schematic diagram of the feeding device provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 18 for Figure 17 A magnified view of part D.

[0031] Icons: 1-Feeding device; 11-Conveying mechanism; 111-First material channel; 1111-Variable pitch section; 112-Vibrating plate; 12-Blocking mechanism; 121-Fixed frame; 1211-Fixed material channel; 122-First moving frame; 123-First baffle; 1231-Avoidance notch; 124-Second baffle; 2-Material handling device; 21-First sliding mechanism; 211-Material handling claw; 2111-First claw body; 2112-Second claw body; 212-Fourth driver; 213-Moving plate assembly; 2131-First moving plate; 2132-Second moving plate; 22-Support frame; 23-Second driver; 24-Second moving frame; 25-Third driver; 3-Discharging device; 31-Mounting frame ; 32-Fifth driver; 33-Discharge seat; 331-Discharge chamber; 332-First guide surface; 333-Second guide surface; 334-Slot; 34-Tenth driver; 4-First transfer device; 41-Bracket; 42-Sixth driver; 43-Third moving frame; 44-Seventh driver; 45-First clamping assembly; 451-First transfer claw; 5-Second transfer device; 51-Second sliding mechanism; 511-Fourth moving frame; 512-Ninth driver; 513-Second clamping assembly; 5131-Second transfer claw; 52-Follower frame; 53-Eighth driver; 6-Feeding device; 61-Second material channel; 62-Limiting plate; 7-Material; 71-Limiting piece; 72-Limiting block. Detailed Implementation

[0032] The technical solution of the present invention will now be clearly and completely described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some, not all, of the embodiments of the present invention. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0033] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that the terms "center," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are used only for the convenience of describing the invention and for 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 the invention. Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," and "third" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0034] In the description of this invention, 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 a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection of two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention according to the specific circumstances.

[0035] The specific embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are for illustration and explanation only and are not intended to limit the present invention.

[0036] This embodiment provides a feeding device, such as... Figures 1 to 17 As shown, it includes a feeding device 1, a picking device 2, a discharging device 3, a first conveying device 4, a second conveying device 5, and a loading device 6; The feeding device 1 is provided with K first material channels 111; The material handling device 2 is located downstream of the feeding device 1. The material handling device 2 includes a first sliding mechanism 21 that reciprocates along the arrangement direction of the first material channel 111. The first sliding mechanism 21 is provided with n1K material handling claws 211. The feeding device 3 is provided with n1K feeding chambers 331; The first transfer device 4 is provided with n1K first transfer claws 451, which are used to transfer the material 7 on the picking claw 211 to the discharge chamber 331; The feeding device 6 is provided with n2n1K second material channels 61, and the second transfer device 5 includes a second sliding mechanism 51 that reciprocates along the arrangement direction of the second material channels 61. The second sliding mechanism 51 is provided with n1K second transfer claws 5131, and the second transfer claws 5131 are configured to transfer the material 7 in the discharge chamber 331 to the second material channel 61.

[0037] When the feeding device provided in the above embodiment is working, the feeding device orderly conveys the material 7 to the downstream through its K first material channels 111; the first sliding mechanism 21 in the picking device 2 moves back and forth along the arrangement direction of the first material channels 111, and uses its n1K picking claws 211 to simultaneously pick up the material 7 from the K first material channels 111, realizing the centralized extraction of material from each first material channel 111; after picking up n1K material 7, the first transfer device 4 uses its n1K first transfer claws 451 to move the picking claws 211... The materials 7 on the first device are transferred one by one to the n1K discharge chambers 331 in the discharge device 3, completing the temporary storage and position change of the materials 7. Then, the n1K second transfer claws 5131 on the second transfer device 5 take out the materials 7 from the discharge chambers 331, and transfer the n1K materials 7 at one time by moving along the arrangement direction of the second material channel 61 through the second sliding mechanism 51. The materials 7 are transferred into the n2n1K second material channels 61 in the feeding device 6 in n2 times, realizing the distributed supply of materials 7 among more material channels.

[0038] The feeding equipment provided in the above embodiments realizes parallel feeding to n2n1K second material channels 61 through mechanical transfer. Compared with using multiple independent vibrating plates to increase the number of material channels, it can effectively reduce the equipment footprint. At the same time, the graded transfer strategy realizes the smooth transition of material 7 from centralized conveying to feeding multiple second material channels 61, which improves the flexibility and scalability of the feeding system and meets the needs of modern automated production for high-speed, multi-channel, and compact feeding systems.

[0039] In alternative implementations, such as Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the feeding device 1 includes a conveying mechanism 11 and a blocking mechanism 12, which are used to realize the orderly and controllable conveying of the material 7, so as to meet the rhythm requirements of the subsequent material picking operation and improve the stability and synchronization of the feeding process.

[0040] The conveying mechanism 11 has K first material channels 111, where K is a positive integer greater than 1, for example, K can be 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10. The first material channels 111 are arranged in parallel, forming a multi-channel structure that provides an independent conveying path for the material 7. Each first material channel 111 is configured to convey the material 7 to be processed sequentially along its extension direction. It can be in the form of a vibratory feeder discharge track, a linear motor driven track, or a belt drive track, etc., with no specific limitation, as long as it can achieve continuous directional conveying of the material 7.

[0041] The material blocking mechanism 12 is installed at the unloading end of each first material channel 111. The material blocking mechanism 12 can switch between the first material blocking position and the second material blocking position. By changing the position, the blocking point of the material 7 is adjusted, thereby controlling the residence position and release timing of the material 7 in the first material channel 111.

[0042] Specifically, when the material blocking mechanism 12 is in the first blocking position, it extends at least partially into the end area of ​​each first material channel 111 to block the material 7 at the very end from being output forward. When the system needs to prepare for the next round of feeding, the material blocking mechanism 12 switches to the second blocking position, allowing the target material 7 that was originally blocked at the end to be released and grasped by the material grabbing device 2. At the same time, the material blocking mechanism 12 blocks the next material 7 that has moved to the next end position at the second blocking position to prevent it from entering the end area too early, ensuring that the material 7 is advanced step by step and released in an orderly manner.

[0043] In the above embodiments, the material blocking mechanism 12 not only achieves dynamic locking and releasing of the material conveying endpoint position, but also avoids problems such as material accumulation, misalignment, or interference by ensuring high-frequency continuous material supply through the alternating working mode of the dual material blocking positions. Especially in application scenarios where it is used in conjunction with the first sliding mechanism 21 with n1K picking claws 211 for batch centralized material picking, this material blocking mechanism effectively ensures that the material faced by each picking action is accurately stopped on a uniform and stable picking plane, significantly improving the material picking success rate and the overall machine operation reliability.

[0044] In alternative implementations, such as Figure 4 As shown, each of the first material channels 111 in the feeding device 1 includes a pitch-changing section 1111, which is disposed on at least a section of the first material channel 111 along the material conveying direction (i.e., from the feed end to the discharge end). Along the direction from the feed end to the discharge end of the first material channel 111, the lateral spacing of the pitch-changing sections 1111 between two adjacent first material channels 111 gradually increases.

[0045] By introducing the aforementioned variable-pitch section 1111, the spacing between adjacent first material channels 111 gradually increases along the conveying direction, thereby reserving sufficient lateral spacing between each material channel. When the blocking mechanism 12 switches between the first blocking position and the second blocking position, the structural components that are not currently performing the blocking function can be aligned with the spacing area, effectively avoiding accidental collisions or obstructions to the material 7 in adjacent first material channels 111 during the movement of the blocking mechanism, thus improving the stability and reliability of equipment operation.

[0046] In alternative implementations, such as Figure 3 As shown, the conveying mechanism 11 also includes a vibratory feeder 112 for feeding the first material channel 111. The number of vibratory feeders 112 can be one, two, three, etc.

[0047] In a preferred embodiment, to avoid a large number of vibratory feeders 112 resulting in a large volume of equipment, two vibratory feeders 112 are preferably provided, each vibratory feeder 112 being connected to multiple first material channels 111. For example... Figure 3 As shown, one vibratory feeder 112 is connected to five first material channels 111, and the other vibratory feeder 112 is connected to four first material channels 111, for a total of nine first material channels 111.

[0048] In alternative implementations, such as Figure 5 As shown, the material blocking mechanism 12 includes a fixed frame 121, a first driver, a first movable frame 122, a first baffle 123, and a second baffle 124.

[0049] The fixed frame 121 is fixedly installed on the frame of the feeding device 1 to provide a stable mounting base for the material blocking mechanism 12. The fixed frame 121 has K fixed material channels 1211, each of which is connected to one of the K first material channels 111 along the arrangement direction of the first material channels 111, allowing material 7 from each first material channel 111 to smoothly enter the corresponding fixed material channel 1211. Each fixed material channel 1211 has a accommodating space along its extension direction, configured to accommodate n1 consecutively arranged materials 7, thereby achieving phased temporary storage and orderly control of the material 7 flow.

[0050] The first driver is mounted on the fixed frame 121. Specifically, it can be in the form of a cylinder, electric push rod, or servo motor in conjunction with a transmission mechanism (such as a lead screw, synchronous belt, etc.) to serve as a power source for achieving precise reciprocating motion. The output end of the first driver is connected to the first movable frame 122 and is configured to drive the first movable frame 122 to reciprocate in a lateral direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the first material channel 111, so that the first movable frame 122 can switch positions between the first material stop and the second material stop.

[0051] The first movable frame 122 can be slidably mounted on the fixed frame 121, and its smooth guiding motion is achieved through a guide rail-slider pair or guide groove structure. The first baffle 123 and the second baffle 124 are both fixedly mounted on the first movable frame 122, and they are spatially spaced apart, respectively corresponding to different blocking positions of the material 7 in the fixed material channel 1211.

[0052] In use, when the first driver drives the first moving frame 122 to the first stopping position, the first baffle 123 is located at the end outlet area of ​​each fixed material channel 1211 to block the material 7 at the end and prevent it from continuing to be output forward; at this time, the second baffle 124 does not interfere with the material channel. When the first driver drives the first moving frame 122 to switch to the second stopping position, the first moving frame 122 is displaced, causing the first baffle 123 to exit the end blocking position, while the second baffle 124 enters the secondary end area of ​​each fixed material channel 1211 to block the secondary end material 7. At this time, the end material 7 is unrestricted and can be taken out when the subsequent material picking action is triggered, while the secondary end material 7 is temporarily blocked by the second baffle 124 to avoid multiple materials rushing forward due to inertia or pushing force, ensuring the stability and accuracy of the feeding cycle.

[0053] In the above embodiments, the first baffle 123 and the second baffle 124 work together to achieve precise indexing control of the material conveying process, effectively avoiding problems such as material stacking, material snatching, or empty grabbing that may occur during continuous feeding, thus improving the reliability and cycle consistency of the feeding system. Furthermore, since the first baffle 123 and the second baffle 124 are integrated on the same movable first moving frame 122 and are uniformly driven and switched by a single first driver, the structure is compact, the response is rapid, and the control is simple, which helps to reduce equipment complexity and maintenance costs.

[0054] Preferably, the blocking ends of the first baffle 123 and the second baffle 124 can be configured as inclined surfaces or arc transition structures to reduce rigid collisions with materials, improve operational stability and reduce wear.

[0055] In alternative implementations, such as Figure 5 As shown, the first baffle 123 has an avoidance notch 1231. The avoidance notch 1231 can play a role in avoiding the material 7 when the picking claw 211 grabs the end material 7. In this way, it is not necessary to design a large distance between the first baffle position and the second baffle position, making the structure of the baffle mechanism 12 more compact.

[0056] In alternative implementations, such as Figure 6 As shown, the material handling device 2 includes a support frame 22, a second driver 23, a second moving frame 24, and a third driver 25.

[0057] The support frame 22 serves as the basic load-bearing structure of the material handling device 2. The second movable frame 24 forms a sliding engagement with the support frame 22 through a guide rail slider assembly or a linear bearing structure, enabling it to move smoothly back and forth relative to the support frame 22 in a predetermined guiding direction. This sliding direction is preferably along the material conveying direction or a direction parallel to it, and the above-mentioned sliding direction is set as the first direction.

[0058] The second driver 23 is mounted on the support frame 22, and its output end is connected to the second movable frame 24, which is used to drive the second movable frame 24 to slide along the first direction on the support frame 22. The second driver 23 can be a cylinder, an electric push rod, a servo motor with a lead screw and nut mechanism, etc.

[0059] The third driver 25 is mounted on the second movable frame 24 and moves synchronously with it. The third driver 25 can be a cylinder, an electric push rod, a servo motor with a lead screw and nut mechanism, etc. The output end of the third driver 25 is connected to the first sliding mechanism 21, and is used to drive the first sliding mechanism 21 to slide relative to the second movable frame 24 along the arrangement direction of the first material channel 111. This sliding direction is perpendicular to the sliding direction of the second movable frame 24 relative to the support frame 22, and is defined as the second direction.

[0060] The first sliding mechanism 21 is equipped with n1K picking claws 211, and its entire structure can move independently along the second direction under the drive of the third driver 25. Through the coordinated control of the second driver 23 and the third driver 25, the picking claws 211 on the first sliding mechanism 21 can be precisely aligned with the discharge port of any of the first material channels 111 to complete the precise picking action.

[0061] Taking n1 as 2 as an example: During operation, when the feeding device 1 sequentially conveys the material 7 to the end of each first material channel 111, the position of the second moving frame 24 is adjusted by the second driver 23 so that the first sliding mechanism 21 is approximately located in the target material channel area; then, the third driver 25 drives the first sliding mechanism 21 to move in the second direction, so that the K picking claws 211 are accurately aligned with the K first material channels 111. After the picking claws 211 grab K material 7, the third driver 25 drives the first sliding mechanism 21 to move in the second direction, so that the remaining K picking claws 211 are accurately aligned with the K first material channels 111, and the picking claws 211 grab K material 7 again, thus completing the grabbing of 2K material 7 by the feeding device 2.

[0062] The above-described embodiment introduces a composite motion platform consisting of a support frame 22, a second driver 23, a second moving frame 24, and a third driver 25, enabling the material handling device 2 to move flexibly in a two-dimensional plane. This not only improves the accuracy and adaptability of the material handling action but also provides a reliable mechanical foundation for achieving high-speed, high-density, and multi-channel material feeding, further optimizing the automation level and production cycle of the entire material feeding equipment.

[0063] In alternative implementations, such as Figures 7 to 9As shown, the first sliding mechanism 21 includes n1 material-grabbing components stacked vertically, each of which performs a synchronous gripping action on material 7 at the same height level. Each material-grabbing component includes a fourth driver 212 and a moving plate assembly 213. The fourth driver 212 is connected to one side of the moving plate assembly 213, and can be configured, for example, using a cylinder, electric linear actuator, or servo motor in conjunction with a lead screw transmission mechanism, to drive the moving plate assembly 213 to reciprocate horizontally, thereby causing the K gripping claws 211 connected to it to perform gripping or releasing operations on material 7.

[0064] Specifically, the picking claws 211 in each picking component are arranged alternately in the direction of the first material channel 111. That is, in two adjacent picking claws 211, the two picking claws 211 belong to different picking components. The third driver 25 drives the first sliding mechanism 21 to move a small distance so that the different picking components are aligned with the material 7 in the first material channel 111, thereby reducing the driving stroke of the third driver 25.

[0065] The above-described implementation not only achieves the integration and compactness of the multi-layer material handling function, but also reduces the driving stroke of the third driver 25 by alternating the spatial arrangement of the material handling claws, making the equipment structure more compact.

[0066] like Figure 8 As shown, the movable plate assembly 213 includes a first movable plate 2131 and a second movable plate 2132, and the picking claw 211 includes a first claw body 2111 and a second claw body 2112; the first movable plate 2131 and the second movable plate 2132 are arranged in parallel and are both connected to the fourth driver 212, which is used to drive the first movable plate 2131 and the second movable plate 2132 to move relative to each other; the first claw body 2111 is connected to the first movable plate 2131, and the second claw body 2112 is connected to the second movable plate 2132.

[0067] In alternative implementations, such as Figure 10 and Figure 11As shown, the feeding device 3 in the feeding equipment includes a mounting frame 31, a fifth driver 32, and a feeding seat 33 movably mounted on the mounting frame 31. The feeding seat 33 receives the material 7 transferred from the first transfer device 4 and temporarily stores it in an orderly manner so that it can be subsequently retrieved in batches by the second transfer device 5 and fed into multiple second material channels 61 of the feeding device 6. The feeding seat 33 has n1K feeding cavities 331, the number of which matches the total number of picking claws 211 in the picking device 2, ensuring that the material 7 grasped by each picking claw 211 can be placed into an independent feeding cavity 331, achieving positional alignment and precise positioning of the material 7. The feeding cavities 331 are arranged linearly or in a matrix on the feeding seat 33 in a manner consistent with the arrangement direction of the first material channel 111, to adapt to the transfer trajectory and spatial layout of the first transfer claw 451, thereby ensuring the efficiency and reliability of the material transfer process.

[0068] Furthermore, the fifth driver 32 is fixedly mounted on the mounting frame 31, and its output end is connected to the feeding seat 33. It is configured to drive the feeding seat 33 to reciprocate linearly relative to the mounting frame 31 in the horizontal direction, so that after the material 7 enters the feeding chamber 331, the feeding seat 33 can be driven to swing in the above direction, and the material 7 can fully enter the feeding chamber 331, avoiding inaccurate positioning of the material 7 and affecting the subsequent gripping of the first transfer claw 451.

[0069] The movement direction of the aforementioned drive feeding seat 33 can be parallel to the second direction.

[0070] The fifth driver 32 can be a servo motor with a ball screw mechanism, a linear motor, or a pneumatic / electric actuator.

[0071] In alternative implementations, such as Figure 11 As shown, the feeding device 3 includes a tenth driver 34, which is mounted on the support frame 22. The tenth driver 34 is connected to the mounting frame 31 and drives the mounting frame 31 to move in the vertical direction.

[0072] The above configuration allows the feeding seat 33 to move upward under the drive of the tenth driver 34 before receiving the material 7, thereby improving the material receiving efficiency of the material 7.

[0073] To ensure the stability of the mounting bracket 31 during movement, the mounting bracket 31 and the support bracket 22 slide in a vertical direction.

[0074] like Figure 5As shown, a limiting piece 71 is provided at the bottom of the material 7. In order to ensure that the posture of each material 7 is consistent after it is placed in the discharge cavity 331, a guide surface assembly is provided in the discharge cavity 331. The guide surface assembly can guide the limiting piece 71 when the material 7 falls, so that the limiting piece 71 is inserted into the slot 334 formed by the guide surface assembly, thereby correcting the orientation of each material 7.

[0075] like Figure 12 and Figure 13 As shown, the guide surface assembly may include a first guide surface 332 and a second guide surface 333. Along the direction from the top to the bottom of the discharge cavity 331, the distance between the first guide surface 332 and the second guide surface 333 gradually decreases, and an insertion port for the limiting piece 71 to enter the slot 334 is formed between the bottom surface of the first guide surface 332 and the bottom surface of the second guide surface 333.

[0076] Of course, the number of guide surfaces can also be adjusted according to the different shapes of the limiting piece 71.

[0077] In alternative implementations, such as Figure 14 and Figure 15 As shown, the first transfer device 4 includes a support 41, a sixth driver 42, a third moving frame 43, a seventh driver 44, and a first clamping assembly 45.

[0078] The sixth driver 42 is mounted on the bracket 41 and connected to the third moving frame 43. The sixth driver 42 can be a servo motor with a high-precision linear drive mechanism such as a ball screw or linear motor, configured to drive the third moving frame 43 to reciprocate horizontally relative to the bracket 41.

[0079] Specifically, the third moving frame 43 forms a guiding engagement with the bracket 41 through the guide rail slider pair, so that it can stably reciprocate along the first direction under the drive of the sixth driver 42.

[0080] The seventh actuator 44 is mounted on the third moving frame 43 and connected to the first clamping assembly 45. The seventh actuator 44 is preferably a servo drive unit, such as a pneumatic cylinder, electric actuator, or linear module, configured to drive the first clamping assembly 45 to reciprocate vertically relative to the third moving frame 43. The first clamping assembly 45 is slidably connected to the third moving frame 43 via a vertical guide structure (such as a guide post and a linear bearing), thereby achieving smooth vertical movement and high repeatability.

[0081] The first clamping assembly 45 is provided with n1K first transfer claws 451. The first transfer claws 451 are arranged in an array along the direction of the first material channel 111, and their number and spacing are matched with the number and arrangement of the picking claws 211 in the picking device 2, so as to realize the function of one-to-one synchronous transfer of materials 7. Each first transfer claw 451 can be independently equipped with a clamping mechanism (such as pneumatic fingers, electromagnetic claws or elastic grippers), or it can be integrated into the same clamping module and controlled by a unified power source for opening and closing. When the first transfer claw 451 moves to the picking station, it descends to the height position of the picking claw 211 under the action of the seventh driver 44 and clamps the n1K materials 7 that have been grabbed; then it moves horizontally with the third moving frame 43 to the top of the unloading station, descends again and accurately places the materials 7 into the n1K unloading cavities 331 on the unloading seat 33.

[0082] The first transfer device 4 provided in the above embodiment achieves efficient and reliable transfer of n1K materials 7 centrally grasped by the material picking device 2 to the corresponding discharge chamber 331 in the discharge device 3 through precise control of two degrees of freedom, horizontal and vertical. This completes the spatial reorganization and temporary storage preparation of the materials 7, providing a structural foundation and technical guarantee for subsequent distributed feeding to more second material channels 61.

[0083] In an optional embodiment, the second transfer device 5 is fixedly installed on the third moving frame 43 of the first transfer device 4 via a mechanical connection structure. When the sixth driver 42 drives the third moving frame 43 to move, the second transfer device 5 also performs the same displacement action synchronously, realizing synchronous movement on the same driving path.

[0084] The advantages of the above implementation are as follows: First, the second transfer device 5 and the first transfer device 4 share the same horizontal motion platform, avoiding the structural complexity and positional asynchrony risks caused by independently setting up horizontal drive mechanisms, and improving the accuracy and reliability of material 7 transfer between the two devices. Second, the integrated installation method helps to reduce the overall size of the equipment, which is in line with the design trend of highly integrated automated feeding systems.

[0085] In alternative implementations, such as Figure 16 As shown, the second transfer device 5 further includes a follower frame 52 and an eighth driver 53, wherein the second sliding mechanism 51 specifically includes a fourth moving frame 511, a ninth driver 512, and a second clamping assembly 513. This structural design aims to achieve efficient, precise, and synchronous step-by-step transfer of material 7 from the discharge device 3 to multiple second material channels 61, thereby improving the overall coordination and operating cycle of the feeding system.

[0086] Specifically, the follower frame 52 is fixedly connected to the first transfer device 4 via a connecting plate and is configured to move synchronously with the overall horizontal movement of the first transfer device 4. That is, when the first transfer device 4 drives the third moving frame 43 to reciprocate horizontally on the support 41 via its sixth driver 42, the follower frame 52 moves in the same direction accordingly.

[0087] Based on this, the eighth drive 53 is mounted on the follower frame 52 and connected to the fourth moving frame 511, for driving the fourth moving frame 511 to reciprocate linearly relative to the follower frame 52 along the arrangement direction of the second feed channel 61. This motion path is perpendicular to the main movement direction of the first transfer device 4.

[0088] The eighth drive 53 can use a servo motor in conjunction with a lead screw and nut mechanism, a linear motor, or a pneumatic / hydraulic cylinder or other actuators to achieve high-precision position control and speed adjustment, so as to meet the needs of material feeding rhythm under different cycle times.

[0089] Furthermore, the ninth actuator 512 is mounted on the fourth moving frame 511 and connected to the second clamping assembly 513 to drive the second clamping assembly 513 to move vertically relative to the fourth moving frame 511. This vertical movement enables the second clamping assembly 513 to perform a gripping action (lowering clamping) on ​​the material 7 in the discharge chamber 331 and a release action to accurately deliver the material 7 into the target second material channel 61.

[0090] The ninth actuator 512 can also be equipped with a servo electric cylinder, a pneumatic gripper lifting mechanism or other precision actuation units to ensure gripping stability and repeatability.

[0091] The second clamping assembly 513 is provided with n1K second transfer claws 5131. These transfer claws are arranged in an array, and their number and spacing match the discharge chamber 331, so that all n1K materials to be transferred 7 can be gripped at the same time in one operation cycle.

[0092] The above implementation constructs a second sliding mechanism 51 with two-dimensional motion capability through the lateral movement driven by the eighth driver 53 and the vertical movement driven by the ninth driver 512. This not only improves the space utilization and mechanical coordination of the equipment, but also significantly enhances the controllability and automation of the material distribution process.

[0093] Where n1 is a positive integer greater than 1, for example, n1 can be 2, 3, 4, or 5; n2 is a positive integer greater than 1, for example, n2 can be 2, 3, 4, or 5.

[0094] In alternative implementations, such as Figure 17As shown, n1 is 2, n2 is 2, and the feeding device 6 is equipped with 4K second material channels 61, realizing a 4-fold increase in material channels, which meets the needs of modern automated production for high-speed, multi-channel, and compact feeding systems.

[0095] like Figure 18 As shown, to ensure the consistency of the orientation of each material 7 within the second material channel 61, as follows... Figure 18 As shown, in two adjacent second material channels 61, a limit plate 62 is provided at the top of the shared side wall, and each second material channel 61 is provided with a limit plate 62 on only one side.

[0096] like Figure 5 As shown, a limiting block 72 is provided at the top of the material 7. The cross-section of the limiting block 72 can be rectangular, triangular, or other irregular polygonal structures. When the material 7 is fed into the second material channel 61, one side of the limiting block 72 can abut against the limiting plate 62. During the conveying process of the material 7 in the second material channel 61, under the obstruction of the limiting plate 62, the material 7 can be conveyed downstream in a stable orientation, ensuring the consistency of the feeding posture.

[0097] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present invention, and not to limit them; although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some or all of the technical features; and these modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention.

Claims

1. A supply apparatus characterized by comprising: It includes a feeding device (1), a picking device (2), a discharging device (3), a first transfer device (4), a second transfer device (5), and a loading device (6); The feeding device (1) is provided with K first material channels (111); The material handling device (2) is located downstream of the feeding device (1). The material handling device (2) includes a first sliding mechanism (21) that reciprocates along the arrangement direction of the first material channel (111). The first sliding mechanism (21) has n1K material handling claws (211), where n1 is a positive integer greater than 1. The feeding device (3) is provided with n1K feeding chambers (331); The first transfer device (4) is provided with n1K first transfer claws (451), which are used to transfer the material (7) on the picking claw (211) to the discharge chamber (331). The feeding device (6) is provided with n2n1K second material channels (61), and the second transfer device (5) includes a second sliding mechanism (51) that reciprocates along the arrangement direction of the second material channels (61). The second sliding mechanism (51) is provided with n1K second transfer claws (5131). The second transfer claws (5131) are configured to transfer the material (7) in the discharge chamber (331) to the second material channel (61), where n2 is a positive integer greater than 1.

2. The feeding device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The feeding device (1) includes a conveying mechanism (11) and a blocking mechanism (12). The conveying mechanism (11) is provided with K first material channels (111); The material blocking mechanism (12) is disposed at the unloading end of each of the first material channels (111) and switches between the first material blocking position and the second material blocking position. The material blocking mechanism (12) is configured to block the material (7) at the end of each of the first material channels (111) at the first material blocking position and to block the material (7) at the second material blocking position of each of the first material channels (111).

3. The feeding device according to claim 2, characterized in that, Each of the first material channels (111) includes a pitch variable section (1111), which points from the feed end to the discharge end of the first material channel (111), and the spacing between the pitch variable sections (1111) of adjacent first material channels (111) gradually increases.

4. The feeding device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The material blocking mechanism (12) includes a fixed frame (121), a first driver, a first movable frame (122), a first baffle (123), and a second baffle (124). The fixed frame (121) is provided with fixed material channels (1211) that correspond one-to-one with the first material channel (111), and each fixed material channel (1211) is used to accommodate n1 materials (7). The first driver is mounted on the fixed frame (121) and connected to the first movable frame (122). The first driver is configured to drive the first movable frame (122) to switch between the first stop position and the second stop position. The first baffle (123) and the second baffle (124) are both installed on the first movable frame (122). The first baffle (123) is configured to block the material (7) at the end of each of the first material channels (111), and the second baffle (124) is configured to block the material (7) at the next end of each of the first material channels (111).

5. The feeding device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The material handling device (2) also includes a support frame (22), a second driver (23), a second moving frame (24), and a third driver (25). The second movable frame (24) is slidably engaged with the support frame (22); The second driver (23) is mounted on the support frame (22) and connected to the second movable frame (24). The second driver (23) is used to drive the second movable frame (24) to slide relative to the support frame (22). The third driver (25) is installed on the second movable frame (24). The third driver (25) is connected to the first sliding mechanism (21) and drives the first sliding mechanism (21) to slide relative to the second movable frame (24) along the arrangement direction of the first material channel (111). The sliding direction of the first sliding mechanism (21) is perpendicular to the sliding direction of the second movable frame (24).

6. The feeding device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first sliding mechanism (21) includes n1 material picking components stacked in the vertical direction, and the material picking components include a fourth driver (212) and a moving plate group (213). The movable plate assembly (213) is connected to K of the picking claws (211). The fourth driver (212) is connected to the movable plate assembly (213) and drives the movable plate assembly (213) to move so that the K of the picking claws (211) pick up and put down the material (7). The picking claws (211) in each of the picking components are arranged alternately in the direction of the first material channel (111).

7. The feeding device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The feeding device (3) includes a mounting frame (31), a fifth driver (32), and a feeding base (33); The feeding seat (33) is provided with n1K feeding cavities (331). The fifth driver (32) is mounted on the mounting frame (31). The fifth driver (32) is connected to the feeding seat (33) and drives the feeding seat (33) to reciprocate relative to the mounting frame (31) in the horizontal direction.

8. The feeding device according to claim 7, characterized in that, The discharge chamber (331) is provided with a guide surface assembly and a slot (334) located below the guide surface assembly. The slot (334) is configured to define the orientation of the material (7) relative to the discharge chamber (331).

9. The feeding device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first transfer device (4) includes a bracket (41), a sixth driver (42), a third moving frame (43), a seventh driver (44), and a first clamping assembly (45). The sixth actuator (42) is mounted on the bracket (41). The sixth actuator (42) is connected to the third movable frame (43) and drives the third movable frame (43) to reciprocate relative to the bracket (41) in the horizontal direction. The seventh driver (44) is mounted on the third moving frame (43). The seventh driver (44) is connected to the first clamping assembly (45) and drives the first clamping assembly (45) to reciprocate relative to the third moving frame (43) in the vertical direction. The first clamping assembly (45) is provided with n1K first transfer claws (451).

10. The feeding device according to claim 9, characterized in that, The second transfer device (5) is connected to the third moving frame (43) and moves synchronously with the third moving frame (43) relative to the support (41).

11. The feeding device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second transfer device (5) further includes a follower frame (52) and an eighth driver (53), and the second sliding mechanism (51) includes a fourth moving frame (511), a ninth driver (512), and a second clamping assembly (513). The follower frame (52) is connected to the first transfer device (4) and moves with the first transfer device (4); The eighth driver (53) is installed on the follower frame (52). The eighth driver (53) is connected to the fourth moving frame (511) and drives the fourth moving frame (511) to reciprocate relative to the follower frame (52) along the arrangement direction of the second material channel (61). The ninth driver (512) is mounted on the fourth moving frame (511). The ninth driver (512) is connected to the second clamping assembly (513) and drives the second clamping assembly (513) to reciprocate relative to the fourth moving frame (511) in the vertical direction. The second clamping assembly (513) is provided with n1K second transfer claws (5131).

12. The feeding device according to claim 1, characterized in that, In two adjacent second material channels (61), the top of the common sidewall is provided with a limiting plate (62) that limits the orientation of the material (7), and each second material channel (61) is provided with the limiting plate (62) on only one side.

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