Temperature-controlled mixing and dispensing device

Abstract

A temperature-controlled mixing and dispensing device includes a container having a chamber, a mixing blade disposed within the chamber, a heater for heating the chamber, a nozzle, and a port in fluid communication with the chamber. The port is configured to be pneumatically coupled to the pump. The nozzle dispenses a mixture of the first material and the second material disposed within the container when the pump pumps air into the port.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure generally relates to the field of dispensers. More specifically, this disclosure relates to a dispenser for mixing two or more materials in a temperature-controlled environment and dispensing the mixture in a repeatable and precise amount. Background Technology

[0002] Gas turbine engines typically consist of a multi-stage compressor and a turbine connected axially. Their operation involves air compression, mixing with fuel in the combustion chamber, and turbine expansion to generate thrust or power. This structure requires precision engineering for components such as blades and guide vanes, incorporating complex internal cooling channels to withstand extreme conditions. These components are commonly manufactured using lost-wax casting—a mature technology. The process involves: creating a ceramic core, injecting wax to form a wax pattern, repeatedly dipping and drying the wax to form a ceramic mold, melting the lost wax pattern to form a cavity, pouring molten alloy, and finally removing the shell and filtering the core to obtain a hollow casting. The accuracy of the wax pattern is crucial for obtaining defect-free castings, typically requiring controlled heating to maintain the wax in a liquid state and continuous stirring to ensure homogeneity. In high-precision applications such as aerospace manufacturing, manual or semi-manual processes introduce variability, leading to low production efficiency. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The present invention will be summarized below to provide a basic understanding of certain aspects thereof. This summary is not a complete overview of the invention. It is not intended to identify key elements of the invention or to define its scope. Its sole purpose is to present some concepts of the invention in a simplified form as a prelude to a more detailed description that follows.

[0004] In one aspect, a temperature-controlled mixing and dispensing device includes: a container having a chamber, mixing blades disposed within the chamber, a heater for heating the chamber, a nozzle, and a port in fluid communication with the chamber. The port is configured to be pneumatically coupled to a pump. When the pump pumps air into the port, the nozzle dispenses a mixture of a first material and a second material disposed within the container.

[0005] In one aspect, according to any of the foregoing aspects, the temperature-controlled mixing and dispensing device further includes a lid.

[0006] In one aspect, according to any of the foregoing aspects, the port extends through an opening in the cover.

[0007] In one aspect, according to any of the foregoing aspects, the motor mount is coupled to the cover.

[0008] In one aspect, according to any of the foregoing aspects, the motor is fixed to the motor mount, and the motor is operatively coupled to the mixing blades.

[0009] In one aspect, according to any of the foregoing aspects, the heater surrounds at least a portion of the container.

[0010] In one aspect, according to any of the foregoing aspects, the temperature-controlled mixing and dispensing device is detachably coupled to an auxiliary device. The auxiliary device is configured to assist in the operation of the temperature-controlled mixing and dispensing device.

[0011] In one respect, according to any of the foregoing aspects, the auxiliary equipment is a multi-axis machine.

[0012] In one respect, according to any of the foregoing aspects, the second port is in fluid communication with the chamber.

[0013] In one aspect, according to any of the foregoing aspects, the second pump is pneumatically coupled to the second port and configured to generate negative pressure in the chamber.

[0014] In one respect, according to any of the foregoing aspects, the feed inlet extends from the container.

[0015] In one aspect, according to any of the foregoing aspects, a removable plug is included for closing the feed inlet.

[0016] In one aspect, according to any of the foregoing aspects, the container includes a nozzle receiver, the nozzle being detachably coupled to the nozzle receiver.

[0017] In one aspect, a method is disclosed for mixing a first material and a second material to form a mixture using a temperature-controlled mixing and dispensing device. The temperature-controlled mixing and dispensing device has a container including a chamber. The method includes placing the first material and the second material in the chamber. The method includes heating the chamber using a heater coupled to the container, and mixing the first material and the second material using a mixer while the chamber is being heated by the heater. The method includes activating a pump in fluid communication with the chamber to dispense the mixture from a nozzle of the temperature-controlled mixing and dispensing device.

[0018] In one respect, according to any of the foregoing aspects, the first material is wax.

[0019] In one aspect, according to any of the foregoing aspects, the second material comprises at least one ferromagnetic material and a synthetic material.

[0020] In one aspect, according to any of the foregoing aspects, the method includes detachably coupling the temperature-controlled mixing and dispensing device to an auxiliary device.

[0021] In one aspect, according to any of the foregoing aspects, the method includes pneumatically coupling a second pump to a second port of the temperature-controlled mixing and dispensing device, the second pump being configured to extract air from the chamber.

[0022] In one aspect, a temperature-controlled mixing and dispensing device includes a container having a chamber and a nozzle receiver. The temperature-controlled mixing and dispensing device includes a heater coupled to the container and a mixer disposed within the chamber. The temperature-controlled mixing and dispensing device includes a port in fluid communication with the chamber, the port being configured to be coupled to a pump.

[0023] In one aspect, according to any of the foregoing aspects, the auxiliary heater is disposed below the heater. Attached Figure Description

[0024] Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0025] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a gas turbine engine based on some aspects of this disclosure.

[0026] Figure 2A This is a perspective view of a temperature-controlled mixing and dispensing apparatus according to some aspects of this disclosure.

[0027] Figure 2B Based on some aspects of this disclosure Figure 2A Another perspective view of the temperature-controlled mixing and dispensing device shown.

[0028] Figure 2C Based on some aspects of this disclosure Figure 2A Another perspective view of the temperature-controlled mixing and dispensing device shown.

[0029] Figure 3 Based on some aspects of this disclosure Figure 2A An exploded view of the temperature-controlled mixing and dispensing device shown.

[0030] Figure 4 Based on some aspects of this disclosure Figure 2A A perspective view of the container of the temperature-controlled mixing and dispensing device shown.

[0031] Figure 5 Based on some aspects of this disclosure Figure 2A A perspective view of the container and nozzle of the temperature-controlled mixing and dispensing device shown.

[0032] Figure 6 Based on some aspects of this disclosure Figure 2A A perspective view of the mixing blades of the temperature-controlled mixing and dispensing device shown.

[0033] Figure 7Based on some aspects of this disclosure Figure 2A A perspective view of the main body, cover, and motor mount of the temperature-controlled mixing and dispensing device shown.

[0034] Figure 8A According to some aspects of this disclosure are Figure 2A Side view of the temperature-controlled mixing and dispensing device shown.

[0035] Figure 8B Based on some aspects of this disclosure Figure 8A The cross-sectional view of the temperature-controlled mixing and dispensing device is shown.

[0036] Figure 9 The diagram schematically illustrates the coupling to some aspects of this disclosure. Figure 2A The temperature-controlled mixing and dispensing device shown includes the first and second pumps for fluid.

[0037] Figure 10A This is a perspective view of a multi-axis machine based on some aspects of this disclosure.

[0038] Figures 10B to 10C It is operatively coupled to some aspects of this disclosure. Figure 10A The multi-axis machine shown Figure 2A A perspective view of the temperature-controlled mixing and dispensing device shown.

[0039] Figure 11A This is a perspective view of a robot based on some aspects of this disclosure.

[0040] Figures 11B to 11C It is operatively coupled to some aspects of this disclosure. Figure 11A The robot shown Figure 2A A perspective view of the temperature-controlled mixing and dispensing device shown.

[0041] Figure 12 It is used in accordance with the description of some aspects of this disclosure. Figure 2A A flowchart of the method using the apparatus shown. Detailed Implementation

[0042] A gas turbine engine typically comprises a multi-stage compressor and a multi-stage turbine connected by an axial shaft. The multi-stage compressor may include a low-pressure compressor and a high-pressure compressor, and the multi-stage turbine may include a low-pressure turbine and a high-pressure turbine. Air enters the gas turbine engine through the low-pressure compressor, where its temperature and pressure gradually increase as it flows through subsequent stages of the compressor. The compressed air is then directed to one or more combustion chambers, where it mixes with a fuel source to form a combustible mixture. This mixture is ignited in the combustion chamber, producing a high-temperature combustion gas stream. These gases are then directed to the turbine, driving its rotation and thus the compressor. The output of the gas turbine engine can be the mechanical thrust generated by the turbine exhaust or the shaft power generated by the rotation of the axial shaft, which can drive a generator to produce electricity.

[0043] Compressors and turbines typically each contain multiple sets of blades and guide vanes, with their airfoil structures extending into the compressed airflow or high-temperature combustion gas flow. Each blade or guide vane must meet specific design standards to ensure that the necessary work is applied to the airflow passing through the compressor and turbine. However, due to the harsh operating environment, especially in the turbine section, these blades and guide vanes usually require cooling. Blades and guide vanes often employ complex internal cooling channels to maximize the efficiency of the cooling fluid flow.

[0044] Gas turbine engines typically also include a fan located at the front of the engine. The fan may comprise a disc with multiple fan blades. Fan rotation increases the amount of air flowing through the engine, thereby increasing engine thrust. The fan blades may be larger than the compressor blades and turbine blades.

[0045] Figure 1 A gas turbine engine 1 is schematically illustrated. The gas turbine engine 1 typically includes a generator 10, a low-pressure compressor 12, a low-pressure turbine 14, a high-pressure compressor 16, a combustion chamber 18, and a high-pressure turbine 20. Gas flows into the gas turbine engine 1 in a direction D, which may be parallel to the longitudinal axis 22 of the gas turbine engine 1. The low-pressure compressor 12 and the low-pressure turbine 14 are operatively connected via a low-pressure shaft 24 disposed around the longitudinal axis 22. Similarly, the high-pressure compressor 16 and the high-pressure turbine 20 are operatively connected via a high-pressure shaft 26 disposed around the longitudinal axis 22. The high-pressure shaft 26 may be sleeved around the low-pressure shaft 24. The gas turbine engine 1 may also include a fan 28 enclosed within a fan housing 30. The fan 28 may be disposed upstream of the low-pressure compressor 12 and includes a plurality of fan blades that rotate about the longitudinal axis 22. In some examples, the fan 28 may be movably connected to the low-pressure shaft 24 and driven by the low-pressure turbine 14.

[0046] Lost-wax (or investment) casting has been used for casting metal products for thousands of years. Today, the lost-wax process is widely used in many fields, including jewelry, dental crowns, sculptures, and other works of art. This process is particularly suitable for precision casting metal parts with complex shapes and high melting points, such as blades or guide vanes for gas turbine engines.

[0047] Turbine engine components, such as blades, can be cast using a lost-wax process as follows: First, a core representing the internal cavity of the turbine blade to be cast is made using ceramic or other suitable materials, and the core is placed in a metal mold. Wax is then injected into the mold and encases the core, forming a wax model representing the blade to be cast. The wax model accurately replicates the metal blade, but in wax form (i.e., the size, shape, and characteristics of the wax blade are substantially the same as the metal blade to be cast). A similar process can be used to create wax models for other gas turbine components such as turbine guide vanes, shrouds, or blade seals. Next, the wax model and its encased core are immersed in a ceramic slurry to form a mold into which metal can be poured. After removing and drying the mold, the immersion and drying steps can be repeated multiple times until a mold suitable for casting is formed. Subsequently, the wax can be melted from the mold to form the cavity for the metal. For example, the mold can be placed in a furnace, a steam dewaxing kettle, or otherwise heated to melt the wax from the mold. The melting and displacement of wax creates a space between the inner ceramic core and the outer ceramic shell, into which metal, such as a metal alloy, can be poured. The metal can be melted and poured into a mold, which can then be cooled in any of a variety of ways. Once the metal has cooled, the shell material can be removed from the metal (using a hammer, high-pressure water jet, vibratory table, etc.). Finally, the core inside the metal blade can be removed by immersing the metal blade in a corrosive solution to dissolve or leach the core from the casting. This forms a cast product, in this example, a (blank) blade or guide vane with a hollow interior. The cast part can then undergo further processing (e.g., machining, drilling, coating, etc.) to form the final blade suitable for use in a gas turbine.

[0048] In some applications, it may be necessary to add one or more materials to the wax during one or more casting processes. For example, ferromagnetic materials (such as iron oxide, cobalt, magnetite, etc.) can be suspended in wax for casting. When the ferromagnetic material is suspended in wax, it can be heated by induction heating, microwaves, or other methods. Heating the ferromagnetic material in the wax helps the wax to liquefy uniformly and maintain its dimensional stability, thereby reducing the probability of defects in the blades after the wax melts. As another example, polystyrene or other synthetic materials can be dispersed in the wax to enhance the stability and uniformity of the casting wax.

[0049] It may be necessary to maintain the wax and other materials it is mixed with (such as ferromagnetic materials, synthetic materials, etc.) at specific temperatures. For example, keeping the wax above its melting point ensures that it remains liquid (rather than solid) and is easily mixed with other materials. Furthermore, continuous stirring of the molten wax and the mixed materials helps ensure that the mixture suspended in the wax is generally homogeneous. This homogeneity allows for precise and repeatable distribution of the wax and other materials.

[0050] In some examples, the mixing and dispensing of wax with other materials can be accomplished through manual or semi-manual processes. For instance, wax and other materials are placed on a hot plate, mixed by a manual or electric stirrer, and then the mixture is collected and dispensed using a dropper. If the mixture in the dropper cools, the wax may undesirably solidify—therefore, the dropper needs to be continuously heated to ensure that the wax mixture remains molten. Furthermore, if not dispensed in time, the wax mixture in the dropper may become ineffective because the wax and other materials may stop actively mixing within the dropper. In this case, the wax mixture in the dropper must be discarded, and additional wax mixture must be collected from the hot plate, a process that may be too time-consuming and laborious. Therefore, a dispensing device (e.g., a fully automatic or semi-automatic dispensing device) may be needed that can: (a) maintain the wax and other materials at a specific temperature above the wax's melting point, ensuring (or at least increasing) the probability that the wax remains liquid; (b) continuously stir the wax and other materials before dispensing, ensuring (or at least promoting) the homogeneity of the mixture; and / or (c) repeatedly and accurately dispense (or at least promote) the dispensing of the mixture.

[0051] Key references Figures 2A to 2C It shows different perspective views of the temperature-controlled mixing and dispensing device (hereinafter referred to as "device 200"), as well as references. Figure 3 It shows an exploded view of device 200. In an example embodiment, device 200 may include one or more of the following components: motor 202 (see...) Figure 2A and Figure 3 ), motor mount 204 (see) Figure 3 ), lid 206 (see) Figure 3 ), first port 208 (see Figure 2A ), second port 210 (see Figure 2A ), main heater 212 (see Figure 2B ), auxiliary heater 214 (see Figure 2B ), mixed blade 216 (see Figure 3 ), Container 218 (see Figure 2C ) and nozzle 220 (see Figure 3 In some examples, one or more of these components may be combined and / or omitted.

[0052] Motor 202 may be a DC motor (such as a brushless DC motor, brushed DC motor, permanent magnet DC motor, shunt DC motor, series DC motor, or other suitable DC motor), an AC motor (such as an induction motor, synchronous motor, or other suitable AC motor), a pneumatic motor, a hydraulic motor, or other suitable motor. In some examples, motor 202 may include an output shaft 222 (see...). Figure 3 The output shaft 222 extends from the rotatable rotor (not explicitly shown) of the motor 202 and is supported by the bearing 224. As previously described, the output shaft 222 of the motor 202 is operatively connected to the mixing blades 216.

[0053] In some examples, the motor mount 204 may include a central portion 225 (see...). Figure 3 The first wing 226 and the second wing 228 extend outward from the central portion 225 and are opposite to each other. In one example of the embodiment, the central portion 225 is generally cylindrical, and the first wing 226 and the second wing 228 are generally triangular. In other examples, each of the central portion 225, the first wing 226, and the second wing 228 may be spherical, conical, or formed in other symmetrical and / or asymmetrical shapes.

[0054] The first wing 226 has a first opening 226B, and the second wing 228 has a second opening 228B. Each of the first opening 226B and the second opening 228B can be configured to allow a fastener to pass through. For example, the first opening 226B can be threaded and can be configured to allow a first bolt 229B with a corresponding thread (see...). Figure 3 and Figure 7 Similarly, the second opening 228B may be threaded and can be configured to allow a second bolt 231B with corresponding threads to pass through. The central portion 225 of the motor housing 204 may include an internal opening 234 extending through the central portion 225. The internal opening 234 may be configured to allow the output shaft 222 and bearing 224 of the motor 202 to pass through.

[0055] In some examples, the lid 206 (see Figure 3The cover 206 is generally cylindrical. In other examples, the cover 206 may be conical, spherical, or formed in other symmetrical and / or asymmetrical shapes. The cover 206 has a first opening 236A, a second opening 238A, a first through hole 236B, and a second through hole 238B, each of which can penetrate the cover 206. The first opening 236A and the second opening 238A are arranged opposite each other. The first through hole 236B is adjacent to the first opening 236A, and the second through hole 238B is adjacent to the second opening 238A. In some examples, the first opening 236A and the second opening 238A are respectively used to pass through the first fastener 230A and the second fastener 232A. In addition, the first through hole 236B and the second through hole 238B are respectively used to pass through the first bolt 229B and the second bolt 231B. The cover 206 may include a central opening 240 for passing through the output shaft 222 of the motor 202.

[0056] In some examples, the motor mount 204 may be mounted on top of the cover 206 such that: (a) the first opening 226B on the first flap 226 of the motor mount 204 corresponds to and is aligned with the first through hole 236B on the cover 206; (b) the second opening 228B on the second flap 228 of the motor mount 204 corresponds to and is aligned with the second through hole 238B on the cover 206; and (c) the internal opening 234 on the central portion 225 of the motor mount 204 corresponds to and is aligned with the central opening 240 on the cover 206.

[0057] In some examples, the first sealing device 242 (see Figure 3 The first sealing device 242 may be disposed within the central opening 240 of the cover 206. For example, the first sealing device 242 may be an O-ring or other radial seal. The first sealing device 242 provides a dynamic seal, meaning that the first sealing device 242 may not be fixedly connected to the cover 206 within the central opening 240. However, in other examples, the first sealing device 242 may be fixedly mounted (e.g., by adhesive bonding) within the central opening 240.

[0058] The cover 206 also includes a first through hole 244 and a second through hole 246. In some examples, the first through hole 244 may be configured to receive a first rod 248, and the second through hole 246 may be configured to receive a second rod 250. For example, the first through hole 244 may be threaded, and the first rod 248 may have a corresponding thread to allow the first rod 248 to be threadedly connected within the first through hole 244. Similarly, the second through hole 246 may be threaded, and the second rod 250 may have a corresponding thread to allow the second rod 250 to be threadedly connected within the second through hole 246.

[0059] In some examples of the embodiments, container 218 may include body 252 and flange 254 (see Figure 3 and Figure 4), first connector 256, second connector 258, feed inlet 260, nozzle receiver 262, and receiving area or chamber (hereinafter referred to as chamber 264) (see Figure 4 ).

[0060] Flange 254 includes an outer edge 266, the outer edge 266 having a first opening 268A extending through the outer edge 266 (see...). Figure 4 The first opening 268A is configured to receive a first fastener 230A, and the second opening 270A is configured to receive a second fastener 232A. Specifically, the cover 206 can be mounted on the top of the outer edge 266 such that the first opening 236A on the cover 206 and the first opening 268A on the outer edge 266 (see...) Figure 4 The second opening 238A on the lid 206 corresponds to and is aligned with the second opening 270A on the outer edge 266. Thus, the lid 206 can be positioned on top of the outer edge 266; a first fastener 230A can pass sequentially through the first opening 236A in the lid 206 and the first opening 268A in the outer edge 266 of the container 218, and a second fastener 232A can pass sequentially through the second opening 238A in the lid 206 and the second opening 270A in the outer edge 266 of the container 218. In this way, the lid 206 can be fastened to the container 218, more specifically, to its outer edge 266.

[0061] Flange 254 may include a recess 272 that abuts the outer edge 266 inwardly (see...) Figure 4 The second sealing device 274 may be disposed within the groove 272. In some examples, the second sealing device 274 may be an O-ring fixed within the groove 272 (i.e., the second sealing device 274 may be a static seal). In other examples, the second sealing device 274 may be another sealing device fixed or otherwise held within the groove 272.

[0062] In some examples of the embodiments, the body 252 may be generally cylindrical. In other examples, the body 252 may be formed in other symmetrical or asymmetrical shapes. A first connector 256 and a second connector 258 may extend outwardly from the body 252 opposite to each other. The first connector 256 may have one or more connection openings 256O (see...). Figure 3 The second connector 258 may have one or more connection openings 258O. The first connector 256 and the second connector 258 may allow the device 200 to be operatively coupled to another device, such as a device configured to automatically reposition the device 200 during use.

[0063] The body 252 of container 218 can define chamber 264 (see...) Figure 4 In some examples, chamber 264 may be configured to accommodate the mixing blade 216 and at least one first material 265M (see [reference needed]). Figure 12 The first material 265M can be wax and / or other materials, and the second material 265N can be a ferromagnetic material, a synthetic material, and / or one or more other materials. The feed inlet 260 may include a rod 276 (see [link to feed inlet]) attached to the outer surface of the body 252. Figure 3 The rod 276 of the feed inlet 260 may have an opening 278 through which chamber 264 can be accessed. The opening 278 may be selectively closureable, for example, using a plug 279 (see...). Figure 2A ).

[0064] Flange 254 may include a relief groove 281A (see Figure 4 In some examples, the relief groove 281A may be inwardly adjacent to the recess 272. A flow deflector 281B may be disposed within the relief groove 281A. In some examples, the flow deflector 281B may be configured to guide or redirect air from the first port 208 and / or the second port 210 into the chamber 264.

[0065] Nozzle receiver 262 (see) Figure 3 and Figure 5 The nozzle receiver 262 may extend from the body 252. In some examples, the nozzle receiver 262 may be threaded, and the nozzle 220 may include a corresponding thread 221 (see [link to documentation]). Figure 5 The thread 221 allows the nozzle 220 to be coupled to the nozzle receiver 262. The nozzle 220 can be interchanged with another nozzle 220. Each nozzle 220 can have a distribution tube 220A of a specific diameter. The nozzle receiver 262 can be configured to receive either the nozzle 220 with the distribution tube 220A or any other nozzle 220 with a distribution tube 220A of a different diameter. Increasing the diameter of the distribution tube 220A can allow for an increase in the volume of mixture dispensed from the chamber 264.

[0066] In some examples, the main heater 212 can be a cylindrical or strip heater. For example, the main heater 212 can have strip ends 212A and 212B (see...). Figure 3 The main heater 212 has an arcuate housing configured to surround or partially surround the outer surface of the body 252, for example, below the inlet 260. In other examples, the main heater 212 may be another type of heater (e.g., a blanket heater). The main heater 212 may be configured to selectively heat the body 252, thereby heating the material within the chamber 264. Temperature sensor 290 (see...) Figure 2BTemperature sensors, such as thermocouples, thermistors, or other temperature sensors, can be disposed on the body 252 between ends 212A and 212B of the main heater 212. Temperature sensor 290 can be used to monitor the temperature of the substance within chamber 264.

[0067] In some examples, nozzle receiver 262 may include receiving groove 280 (see Figure 2B In some examples, the receiving slot 280 may be configured to receive the auxiliary heater 214. In one example of an embodiment, the auxiliary heater 214 may be a cylindrical heater—for example, a tubular heater having a resistance coil wound on a ceramic core, the ceramic core being surrounded by a dielectric material and encapsulated within a sheath. The auxiliary heater 214 may be positioned adjacent to the nozzle 220 relative to the main heater 212, and may heat any material within the distribution tube 220A more effectively than the main heater 212.

[0068] In some examples, the hybrid blade 216 (see Figure 3 and Figure 6 The impeller can be a helical impeller or a double-helical impeller. For example, the mixing blades 216 may include a helical belt 282 arranged around the shaft 284. The helical belt 282 can continuously lift and agitate the first material 265M and the second material 265N, so that the mixture in the chamber 264 is homogeneous or substantially homogeneous.

[0069] The shaft 284 of the mixing blade 216 may have a connecting portion 286 at its upper end. The connecting portion 286 may be configured to operably receive the output shaft 222 of the motor 202. Rotation of the output shaft 222 may cause the shaft 284 of the mixing blade 216 to rotate accordingly, which in turn may cause the spiral belt 282 to rotate and agitate the material within the chamber 264. The shaft 284 of the mixing blade 216 may also have a tip 288 at its lower end (see...). Figure 3 The tip 288 can be configured to be disposed within the nozzle receiver 262 (see...). Figure 8B ), to support the mixing blades 216 held within the chamber 264.

[0070] Figure 7 The device 200 without motor 202 installed is shown. Specifically, as... Figure 7 As shown, the main heater 212 can be wound around the body 252 such that it partially surrounds the body 252 (see Figure 212). Figure 2B Furthermore, nozzle 220 can be detachably coupled to nozzle receiver 262 (e.g., via thread 221, see...). Figure 5 The mixing blade 216 can be disposed within the chamber 264, such that the connecting portion 286 of the mixing blade 216 (see...) Figure 3) Opposite to nozzle 220. The cover 206 can be secured to the container 218, specifically to its flange 254. Specifically, the cover 206 can be arranged on the outer edge 266 of the flange 254 such that: (a) a first through-hole 244 in the cover 206 (see...) Figure 3 Both the second through-hole 246 and the flow guide 281B are located above the flow guide 281B (see...). Figure 4 (b) The first opening 236A in the cover 206 (see Figure 3 The first opening 268A in the outer edge 266 of the flange portion 254 (see) Figure 4 (c) The second opening 238A in the cover 206 corresponds to and is aligned with the second opening 270A in the outer edge 266 of the flange 254; and (d) the connecting portion 286 of the mixing blade 216 disposed in the chamber 264 passes through or otherwise aligns with the central opening 240 of the cover 206. The first fastener 230A can pass through the first opening 236A in the cover 206 and the first opening 268A in the outer edge 266 of the flange 254 of the container 218 in sequence, and the second fastener 232A can pass through the second opening 238A in the cover 206 and the second opening 270A in the outer edge 266 of the flange 254 of the container 218 in sequence, thereby fastening the cover 206 to the container 218.

[0071] First shot 248 (see) Figure 3 The first rod 248 can pass through the first through hole 244 in the cover 206 to form the first port 208, and the second rod 250 can pass through the second through hole 246 in the cover 206 to form the second port 210. The first rod 248 and the second rod 250 can each be located directly above the flow guide 281B.

[0072] Figure 7 The state of the motor mount 204 after coupling to the cover 206 is also shown. Specifically, the motor mount 204 can be arranged on top of the cover 206, such that the first opening 226B in the first flap 226 of the motor mount 204 (see...) Figure 3 The first through hole 236B in the cover 206 corresponds to and is aligned with the second opening 228B in the second wing 228 of the motor mount 204, and the second through hole 238B in the cover 206 corresponds to and is aligned with the second opening 228B. The first bolt 229B (see...) Figure 7The first opening 226B in the first wing 226 of the motor base 204 and the first through hole 236B in the cover 206 can pass sequentially, and the second bolt 231B can pass sequentially through the second opening 228B in the second wing 228 of the motor base 204 and the second through hole 238B in the cover 206. When the motor base 204 is fixed to the cover 206 in this manner, the internal opening 234 in the motor base 204 can correspond to and align with the central opening 240 in the cover 206. The connecting part 286 of the mixing blade 216 can be operated through the internal opening 234 in the motor base 204 and the central opening 240 in the cover 206.

[0073] Motor 202 can be mounted to motor mount 204, for example, via fastener 287 (see...). Figure 7 (or otherwise) such that the output shaft 222 and bearing 224 of motor 202 pass through or are otherwise aligned with the internal opening 234 in motor housing 204 and the central opening 240 in cover 206. The output shaft 222 of motor 202 may be operably coupled to the connection 286 of mixing blade 216 held within chamber 264, such that rotation of the output shaft 222 of motor 202 causes a corresponding rotation of the shaft 284 of mixing blade 216 and its helical ribbon 282 (see... Figures 8A to 8B ).

[0074] Each of the first port 208 and the second port 210 may be in selective fluid communication with chamber 264 (see...). Figure 2C and Figure 4 In some examples, both the first port 208 and the second port 210 can be pneumatically connected to the pump. For example, such as Figure 9 As shown, the first port 208 can be connected to the first pump 300V via the first conduit 302O, and the second port 210 can be connected to the second pump 300D via the second conduit 304I. The first pump 300V can be a vacuum pump or configured to draw gas from the chamber 264 through the first port 208. The second pump 300D is a gas distribution pump, i.e., configured to inject gas into the chamber 264 through the second port 210. In some examples, the functions of the first pump 300V and the second pump 300D can be integrated into a single device.

[0075] Chamber 264 can be configured as an airtight or substantially airtight accommodating space. More specifically, the openings in device 200 can be selectively closed to achieve a seal or substantially seal of chamber 264. For example, the feed port 260 can be closed by a plug 279. When the output shaft 222 and bearing 224 of motor 202 are positioned within the central opening 240 of cover 206, the first sealing device 242 prevents (or at least restricts) air from entering or exiting chamber 264 through the central opening 240. Furthermore, the second sealing device 274 prevents (or at least restricts) air from entering or exiting chamber 264 through the gap between the outer edge 266 of flange 254 of container 218 and cover 206. Figure 9 As shown, when the device 200 is assembled, air can only (or mainly) enter and exit the chamber 264 through the distribution pipe 220A of the first port 208, the second port 210 and / or the nozzle 220.

[0076] The first material to be mixed is 265M (see Figure 12 The first material 265M and the second material 265N can be placed into the chamber 264 of the container 218. As an example, the plug 279 can be removed from the inlet 260 (specifically from its stem 276) before the first material 265M and the second material 265N are injected into the chamber 264 through the inlet 260. After the first material 265M and the second material 265N have been injected into the chamber 264, the inlet 260 is closed with the plug 279 to achieve a seal or substantial seal of the chamber 264. As another example, the cap 206 can be removed from the outer edge 266 of the flange 254 of the container 218 (e.g., Figure 4 The container 218 is shown without the lid 206 installed. First material 265M and second material 265N are then injected into the chamber 264 through the top opening. After the first material 265M and second material 265N have been injected into the chamber 264, the lid 206 is reattached to the outer edge 266 of the container 218 as described above to achieve a seal or near-seal of the chamber 264.

[0077] A motor 202 can be activated to stir the first material 265M and the second material 265N within the mixing chamber 264. In some examples, the motor 202 can be activated before the first material 265M and the second material 265N are injected into the chamber 264. In other examples, the motor 202 can be activated after the first material 265M and the second material 265N are injected into the chamber 264 (e.g., shortly after injection) or approximately simultaneously with injection. Activation of the motor 202 drives the output shaft 222 to rotate, which in turn drives the helical belt 282 of the mixing blades 216 to rotate synchronously, thereby achieving the mixing of the first material 265M and the second material 265N.

[0078] A heater (e.g., main heater 212) can be activated to increase the temperature of the mixture of the first material 265M and the second material 265N. In some examples, the main heater 212 can be activated before the first material 265M and the second material 265N are injected into the chamber 264. In other examples, the main heater 212 can be activated after the first material 265M and the second material 265N are injected into the chamber 264 (e.g., immediately after injection) or synchronously with the injection operation. Activation of the main heater 212 ensures that the first material 265M and / or the second material 265N remain in a liquid state. In some examples, the main heater 212 and / or the auxiliary heater 214 can be activated or deactivated, or their operating temperatures can be adjusted, based on monitoring data from the temperature sensor 290. The stirring action of the mixing blades 216 on the first material 265M and the second material 265N within the chamber 264, combined with the heating by the main heater 212, ensures or at least significantly increases the likelihood of maintaining a uniform mixture of the first material 265M and the second material 265N within the chamber 264.

[0079] The suitable maintenance temperature for the mixture of the first material 265M and the second material 265N depends primarily on the properties of the first material 265M and the second material 265N themselves. Similarly, the suitable rotational speed of the motor 202 and the mixing blade 216 also depends at least in part on the properties of the first material 265M and the second material 265N, such as their viscosity. Taking a mixture of wax (first material 265M) and iron oxide (second material 265N) as an example, the temperature needs to be maintained at around 400K, while the mixing blade 216 is controlled to operate at a speed of approximately 30 revolutions per minute. This combination of parameters ensures that the wax-iron oxide mixture in the chamber 264 remains liquid and achieves a substantially uniform mixing state.

[0080] The distribution of the mixture from nozzle 220 (i.e., its distribution tube 220A) can be pneumatically controlled. For example, when it is necessary to distribute the mixture within chamber 264, the second pump 300D (see...) Figure 9The second pump 300D can be activated to distribute air to the second port 210 of the device 200. This air can push the mixture within the chamber 264 out through the distribution tube 220A. The volume of the mixture distributed through the distribution tube 220A can be controlled by the second pump 300D. For example, the pressure of the air pumped into the second port 210 can be increased to correspondingly increase the volume of the mixture distributed from the chamber 264 through the distribution tube 220A of the nozzle 220, and the pressure of the air pumped into the second port 210 can be decreased to correspondingly decrease the volume of the mixture distributed from the chamber 264 through the distribution tube 220A of the nozzle 220. In some examples, the volume of the mixture distributed through the distribution tube 220A of the nozzle 220 can be adjusted by controlling the duration of air distribution from the second pump 300D to the second port 210. For example, the pressure of the air pumped into the second port 210 by the second pump 300D can be kept constant, and the volume of the distributed mixture can be increased and decreased respectively by increasing and decreasing the duration of activation of the second pump 300D.

[0081] Once the second pump 300D is activated and the mixing process via the distribution pipe 220A begins, the mixture may continue to flow out of the distribution pipe 220A (albeit at a reduced rate) even if the second pump 300D is de-energized (e.g., due to gravity). The first pump 300V can be activated to stop the flow of the mixture out of the distribution pipe 220A. Specifically, the first pump 300V can extract air from the chamber 264 to create a negative pressure (e.g., a vacuum or near-vacuum) within the chamber 264, thereby preventing the mixture from flowing out through the distribution pipe 220A.

[0082] In one aspect of the embodiments, device 200 may be fully automatic and / or semi-automatic (e.g., controlled by one or more microprocessors containing machine-readable instructions). For example, when the second pump 300D is actuated to dispense the first material 265M and the second material 265N into chamber 264, the main heater 212 and / or the auxiliary heater 214 may be automatically activated. Furthermore, the temperature of the main heater 212 and / or the auxiliary heater 214 may be set to a specific temperature and then automatically adjusted based on the temperature indicated by temperature sensor 290. Similarly, in some examples, the activation and deactivation of motor 202 may be automated (e.g., motor 202 may be automatically activated when the second pump 300D is actuated to dispense the first material 265M and the second material 265N into chamber 264; or, for example, a weight sensor (not shown) may be provided within chamber 264, and motor 202 may be automatically actuated based on indications from the weight sensor). In some examples, one or more features of device 200 can be controlled automatically and manually at the same time (e.g., the main heater 212 and / or mixing blades 216 can be automatically activated and deactivated, but these functions can be manually overridden).

[0083] In some examples, device 200 may be configured to be coupled to auxiliary device 350 (see Figure 12 As used herein, the term "auxiliary equipment" refers to any mechanized equipment to which device 200 is operatively coupled (a) and (b) which can be used to operate or assist in the operation of device 200. For example, auxiliary equipment 350 may be a second pump 300D capable of automatically controlling device 200, a main heater 212 automatically activating device 200, and / or an automatic adjustment device for the position of device 200, etc. Multi-axis machine 400 ( Figure 10A ) and Robot 500 ( Figure 11A All of these are non-limiting examples of auxiliary equipment 350.

[0084] Figure 10A A multi-axis machine 400 is shown. The multi-axis machine 400 may be electric and has a frame 401. The frame 401 may include a base 403 for placing the multi-axis machine 400 on a work surface (e.g., a desk, workbench, or other tabletop). The frame 401 may include one or more transverse members 404 to which an adapter 402 is translationally coupled. The adapter 402 may move in one or more directions. In some examples, the adapter 402 may move laterally and selectively along the transverse member 404 in direction A and may move in a direction A' opposite to direction A. In some examples, the adapter 402 may move vertically and selectively along direction B and may move in a direction B' opposite to direction B. In some examples, the frame 401 of the multi-axis machine 400 may also include a rotatable base or wheel (hereinafter referred to as "wheel 406"). The wheel 406 may rotate in direction C and may rotate in a direction C' opposite to direction C.

[0085] Adapter 402 can be configured as a coupled grounded receiver 200. That is, as... Figure 10B As shown, device 200 can be detachably attached to adapter 402. Although Figures 10A to 10C Not shown, but the first port 208 and the second port 210 of the device 200 can be fluidly coupled to the first pump 300V and the second pump 300D, respectively (see Figure 200). Figure 9 Furthermore, as described above, each of the first material 265M and the second material 265N within the chamber 264 of the device 200 coupled to the adapter 402 can be heated to a specific temperature by the main heater 212 and / or the auxiliary heater 214, and the first material 265M and the second material 265N can be continuously mixed using the mixing blades 216 of the device 200.

[0086] In use, multiple workpieces 408 (e.g., multiple workpieces made of wax, see...) Figure 10CThe mixture of the first material 265M and the second material 265N can be placed on a wheel 406, and the mixture will be dispensed to these workpieces. The wheel 406 can rotate so that each workpiece 408 is sequentially dispensed into the nozzle 220 of the device 200 (see [link]). Figure 3 Alignment. When nozzle 220 is directly above one of the plurality of workpieces 408, second pump 300D can be activated to distribute a predetermined volume of a homogeneous mixture of first material 265M and second material 265N onto that workpiece 408 through distribution pipe 220A. Once the distribution of the mixture onto that workpiece 408 is complete, second pump 300D can be deactivated and first pump 300V can be activated to prevent additional flow of the mixture from the distribution pipe 220A. Disk 406 can be rotated to move another workpiece 408 directly below the distribution pipe 220A. This process can be repeated to distribute a predetermined volume of the mixture onto another workpiece 408, and so on.

[0087] In some examples, when device 200 is fixed to adapter 402, cover 410 (see Figure 10C It can be installed on adapter 402. Cover 410 is provided with an inlet 260 (see...) Figure 2A The corresponding opening 412. That is, the feed port 260 of the device 200 can be operated through the opening 412. The cover 410 configured in this way can protect the device 200 while not affecting the function of adding the first material 265M and the second material 265N to the chamber 264 of the device 200 through the feed port 260.

[0088] Figure 11A A robot 500 configured for multi-axis motion is shown. The robot 500 may have a body 504, to which a robotic arm 502 is movably and pivotally connected. A rotatable component 505 is rotatably connected to the robotic arm 502, and an adapter 506 is movably connected to the rotatable component 505.

[0089] In some examples, adapter 506 may be configured as receiver 200 (see...) Figure 11B This allows the device 200 to move freely in three-dimensional space (e.g., with six degrees of freedom). Although Figures 11A to 11C Not shown, but the first port 208 and the second port 210 of the device 200 can be connected to the first pump 300V and the second pump 300D respectively via fluid lines (see Figure 9 The robot 500 can adjust the spatial position of the device 200 as needed to precisely dispense a homogeneous mixture of the first material 265M and the second material 265N. In some examples, such as Figure 11C As shown, a protective cover 508 can be installed on the adapter 506, which has an opening 510 corresponding to the feed port of the device 200.

[0090] Figure 12 A method 600 for using device 200 is illustrated. In step 601, device 200 can be operatively connected to auxiliary device 350. As previously described, auxiliary device 350 may be a multi-axis machine 400, robot 500, or other mechanized device for operating or assisting in the operation of device 200.

[0091] In step 602, the first material 265M and the second material 265N are placed into the chamber 264 of the device 200. For example, as described above, the first material 265M and the second material 265N can be placed into the chamber 264 of the device 200 through the inlet 260, or the cover 206 can be opened to provide access to the chamber 264. The first material 265M and the second material 265N can be any material that: (a) needs to be mixed at a temperature above room temperature; (b) needs to be agitated to obtain a homogeneous or substantially homogeneous mixture; and / or (c) their mixture needs to be repeatedly dispensed in precise amounts. For example, the first material 265M can be a wax, and the second material 265N can be a ferromagnetic material. Alternatively, for example, the first material 265M can be a wax, and the second material can be a synthetic material. These examples are non-limiting, and each of the first material 265M and the second material 265N can be any one or more materials that can be properly mixed using the device 200.

[0092] In step 604, the main heater 212 and / or the auxiliary heater 214 may be activated to heat the mixture within the chamber 264 of the device 200. In step 606, the motor 202 of the device 200 may be activated to start the mixing blades 216 and mix the first material 265M and the second material 265N in the chamber 264. As previously mentioned, steps 602, 604, and 606 may be performed in different orders. For example, the mixing blades 216 may be activated in step 606 before the first material 265M and the second material 265N are placed into the chamber 264 in step 602. Alternatively or additionally, step 604 may be performed before step 602 to activate the main heater 212 and / or the auxiliary heater 214.

[0093] In step 608, the second pump 300D can inject air into the second port 210 to distribute a predetermined amount of the mixture of the first material 265M and the second material 265N through the distribution pipe 220A of the nozzle 220. As described above, the volume of the mixture of the first material 265M and the second material 265N distributed through the distribution pipe 220A can be controlled by the second pump 300D. For example, the air pressure can be controlled and / or the activation time of the second pump 300D can be adjusted to increase or decrease the volume of the mixture distributed from the distribution pipe 220A.

[0094] In step 610, once the required amount of the mixture of the first material 265M and the second material 265N has been dispensed through the dispensing pipe 220A, the second pump 300D can be deactivated and the first pump 300V can be activated to create a vacuum in chamber 264, thereby stopping the dispensing of the mixture through the dispensing pipe 220A. As described above, each of steps 602, 604, 606, 608, and 610 can be performed automatically and / or manually. For example, auxiliary device 350 can automatically activate the main heater 212, or the main heater 212 can be manually activated.

[0095] Device 200 can be manufactured using a variety of processes and materials (e.g., metals, polymers, etc.). In some examples of the embodiments, one or more components of device 200 can be manufactured and assembled using conventional machining and assembly techniques. In other examples of the embodiments, one or more components of device 200 can be produced using additive manufacturing. Currently known additive printing methods include, but are not limited to: material extrusion, material jetting, binder jetting, sheet lamination, tank photopolymerization, powder bed melting, directional energy deposition (DED), etc. Any one or more of these methods, or any other existing or future-developed additive manufacturing method, can be used to produce one or more components of device 200.

[0096] Therefore, as previously described, the device 200 can be used to heat and physically stir two or more materials, thereby enabling the selective dispensing of a predetermined amount of the mixture of materials.

[0097] The terms “first,” “second,” “third,” and “fourth” used herein are used interchangeably to distinguish different components and are not intended to indicate the location or importance of the components. The terms “coupled,” “fixed,” “connected to,” etc., refer to both direct coupling, fixing, or connection, and indirect coupling, fixing, or connection through one or more intermediate components or features, unless otherwise specified herein. The singular forms “an,” “a,” and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly specifies otherwise.

[0098] Various different arrangements can be made for the various components shown and those not shown without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure. The description of embodiments of this disclosure is intended to be illustrative and not limiting. Other alternative embodiments will become apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from its scope. Those skilled in the art can develop alternative methods for implementing the above improvements without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0099] It should be understood that certain features and sub-combinations are practical and can be used independently without involving other features and sub-combinations; these embodiments are all within the scope of the claims. All steps listed in the figures are not necessarily performed in the specific order described.

Claims

1. A temperature-controlled mixing and dispensing device (200), comprising: a container (218) having a chamber (264); a mixing blade (216) disposed within the chamber (264); a heater (212) for heating the chamber (264); a nozzle (220); and a port (210) in fluid communication with the chamber (264), the port (210) configured to be pneumatically coupled to a pump (300D); wherein, when the pump (300D) pumps air into the port (210), the nozzle (220) dispenses a mixture of a first material (265M) and a second material (265N) disposed within the container (218).

2. The temperature-controlled mixing and dispensing apparatus (200) of claim 1, wherein, The temperature-controlled mixing and dispensing device (200) further comprises a lid (206).

3. The temperature-controlled mixing and dispensing apparatus (200) of claim 2, wherein, The port (210) extends through an opening (246) in the lid (206).

4. The temperature-controlled mixing and dispensing device (200) of claim 3, further comprising a motor mount (204) coupled to the lid (206).

5. The temperature-controlled mixing and dispensing device (200) of claim 4, further comprising a motor (202) secured to the motor mount (204), the motor (202) operably coupled to the mixing blade (216).

6. The temperature-controlled mixing and dispensing apparatus (200) of claim 1, wherein, The heater (212) encircles at least a portion of the container (218).

7. The temperature-controlled mixing and dispensing device (200) of claim 1, detachably coupled to an auxiliary device (350), the auxiliary device (350) configured to assist operation of the temperature-controlled mixing and dispensing device (200).

8. The temperature-controlled mixing and dispensing apparatus (200) of claim 7, wherein, The auxiliary device (350) is a multi-axis machine (400).

9. The temperature-controlled mixing and dispensing device (200) of claim 1, further comprising a second port (208) in fluid communication with the chamber (264).

10. The temperature-controlled mixing and dispensing device (200) of claim 9, further comprising a second pump (300V) pneumatically coupled to the second port (208), the second pump (300V) configured to create a negative pressure within the chamber (264).

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