A general-purpose dowel feeding device and dowel feeding method

Abstract

The application relates to a universal nail column feeding device which comprises a base and a vibration feeding mechanism, a straight vibration mechanism and an extension mechanism arranged on the base; the vibration feeding mechanism is arranged on the base through a first adjusting module, the vibration feeding mechanism comprises a circular vibration disc, a circular vibration machine and a first mounting plate, the straight vibration mechanism is arranged on the base through a second adjusting module, the straight vibration mechanism comprises a straight vibration machine and a second mounting plate, and the extension mechanism comprises a third mounting plate and an extension driving unit. The first mounting plate, the second mounting plate and the third mounting plate are detachable, a modular feeding channel is constructed, when the specifications and models of the nail columns change, the first mounting plate, the second mounting plate and the third mounting plate of the corresponding specifications need to be replaced, and the whole vibration feeding mechanism or the straight vibration mechanism does not need to be replaced, so that the universality and the model changing efficiency of the equipment are greatly improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of automated feeding technology, and in particular to a universal nail-feeding device and method. Background Technology

[0002] In the field of automated mechanical assembly, vibratory feeders are a widely used automatic feeding device. They use vibration to automatically orient and arrange disordered parts, then output them in an orderly manner to the next process. However, for pin-like parts (such as pins, shafts, and small bolts with caps), traditional vibratory feeder feeding methods have the following inherent drawbacks:

[0003] First, they are highly specialized but lack flexibility. The core working components of existing vibratory feeders, such as the feeder track and the orientation rejection mechanism, are usually designed one-to-one for the geometry of a specific type of nail post. When different specifications of nail posts need to be processed, the machine must be stopped and the entire vibratory feeder or feeder assembly must be replaced. This results in long equipment commissioning cycles, high changeover costs, and insufficient production line flexibility, making it unable to adapt to the needs of modern intelligent manufacturing with multiple varieties and small batches.

[0004] Secondly, the track has limited adaptability. The working surface size of traditional vibratory feeder tracks is fixed. For nails with different diameters or lengths, they either cannot be transported properly, causing parts to jam or fall off, or they cannot be correctly screened, resulting in a sharp decline in feeding reliability.

[0005] Existing nail-feeding devices suffer from poor versatility, complex debugging, and low production efficiency. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Therefore, there is a need to provide a universal nail feeding device and nail feeding method to solve the technical problems of poor versatility, complex debugging, and low production efficiency of existing nail feeding devices.

[0007] To achieve the above objectives, in a first aspect, the present invention provides a universal nail feeding device, including a base and a vibratory feeding mechanism, a linear vibration mechanism and a telescopic mechanism disposed on the base;

[0008] The vibratory feeding mechanism is mounted on the base via a first adjustment module. The vibratory feeding mechanism includes a circular vibratory plate, a circular vibrator, and a first mounting plate. The circular vibratory plate is mounted on the circular vibrator and has a first channel. The first mounting plate is detachably mounted at the outlet of the first channel and has a second channel connected to the first channel.

[0009] The direct vibration mechanism is mounted on the base via a second adjustment module. The direct vibration mechanism includes a direct vibration machine and a second mounting plate. The second mounting plate is detachably mounted on the direct vibration machine. The second mounting plate is provided with a third channel, which is connected to the second channel.

[0010] The telescopic mechanism includes a third mounting plate and a telescopic drive unit. The third mounting plate is mounted on the base via a third adjustment module. The third mounting plate is detachably mounted on the third adjustment module. The third mounting plate has at least two nail mounting positions. The telescopic drive unit is used to drive the third mounting plate to move relative to each other along a first direction.

[0011] Unlike existing technologies, the above-mentioned technical solution constructs a modular feeding channel by setting up detachable first, second, and third mounting plates. When the specifications of the nail column change, only the corresponding first, second, and third mounting plates need to be replaced, without replacing the entire vibratory feeding mechanism or linear vibration mechanism, greatly improving the equipment's versatility and changeover efficiency. Simultaneously, the first, second, and third adjustment modules allow for adjustment of the position and height of the first, second, and third mounting plates, ensuring precise alignment of the feeding channel and guaranteeing the stability and reliability of the feeding process, thereby improving production efficiency.

[0012] In one embodiment of the present invention, a first fixing plate is provided at the bottom of the circular vibrating machine, and the first adjustment module includes at least three first adjustment components. The first fixing plate is disposed on the base by the at least three first adjustment components, and the three first adjustment components are used to adjust the position of the first mounting plate.

[0013] In one embodiment of the present invention, the direct vibration mechanism further includes a direct vibration fixing seat and a second fixing plate. The direct vibration fixing seat is disposed on the base. The second adjustment module includes at least three second adjustment members. The second fixing plate is disposed on the direct vibration fixing seat through at least three second adjustment members. The direct vibration machine is disposed on the second fixing plate. The three second adjustment members are used for the position of the second mounting plate.

[0014] In one embodiment of the present invention, the telescopic mechanism further includes a telescopic fixing seat, which is disposed on the base. The telescopic drive unit is disposed on the telescopic fixing seat. The third adjustment module includes a third adjustment plate, which is detachably disposed on the telescopic drive unit. The third mounting plate is detachably disposed on the third adjustment plate. The nail mounting position is disposed relative to the outlet of the third channel.

[0015] In one embodiment of the present invention, the first mounting plate is fixed to the outlet of the first channel by a first fastener, the second mounting plate is fixed to the linear vibrating machine by a second fastener, and the third mounting plate is fixed to the third adjusting plate by a third fastener.

[0016] In one embodiment of the present invention, the linear vibration mechanism further includes a fourth mounting plate. The bottom of the second mounting plate is provided with a limiting part, and the fourth mounting plate is provided with a mounting part that accommodates the limiting part. The second mounting plate is mounted on the fourth mounting plate through the cooperation of the limiting part and the mounting part. The fourth mounting plate is mounted on the linear vibration machine.

[0017] In one embodiment of the present invention, the fourth mounting plate is provided with two second mounting plates, which are detachably disposed on both sides of the fourth mounting plate, and are symmetrically arranged. Each of the two second mounting plates is provided with a third channel.

[0018] In one embodiment of the present invention, a first screening groove is provided at the outlet of the first channel, the first screening groove is provided on one side of the first mounting plate, one end of the fourth mounting plate is provided opposite to the outlet of the first channel, and a second screening groove is provided on the fourth mounting plate, the second screening groove being provided opposite to the first screening groove.

[0019] In one embodiment of the present invention, the universal nail feeding device further includes a first sensor, a second sensor, and a third sensor. The first sensor is disposed opposite to the second channel and is used to detect whether there is a nail in the second channel. The second sensor is disposed at the rear end of the first sensor and is disposed opposite to the third channel. The second sensor is used to detect whether there is a nail in the third channel. The third sensor is disposed at the rear end of the second sensor and is used to detect whether there is a nail at the nail mounting position of the third mounting plate.

[0020] To achieve the above objectives, in a second aspect, the inventors provide a method for feeding nails, comprising a universal nail feeding device as described in any of the preceding claims, including the following steps:

[0021] The nail is placed into the circular vibrating plate, and the circular vibrating machine vibrates to transport the nail to the first channel. The nail is initially positioned and screened through the first screening groove. The nails that are not sorted will fall back into the circular vibrating plate. The screened nails enter the second channel, and the vertical vibrating machine vibrates to send the initially positioned and screened nails to the third channel for secondary positioning.

[0022] The first sensor detects whether there are nails in the second channel. If there are no nails in the second channel, the circular vibrator is started to vibrate. The second sensor detects whether there are nails in the third channel. If there are no nails in the third channel, the vertical vibrator is started to vibrate. If it is determined that there are no nails in the second and third channels within a preset time, an alarm is triggered.

[0023] The vibrating machine delivers the nails to the nail mounting positions on the third mounting plate through vibration. The third sensor detects whether there are nails at the first nail mounting position on the third mounting plate. If there are nails at the first nail mounting position on the third mounting plate, the telescopic drive unit is activated to push the third mounting plate to move in the first direction, aligning the second nail mounting position on the third mounting plate with the outlet of the third channel, until the nail loading is completed and the third mounting plate is reset.

[0024] Unlike existing technologies, the above-mentioned solution first ensures the accuracy of the nailing posture through a two-stage screening mechanism. Secondly, real-time monitoring and feedback from three levels of sensors enable automated control of the material feeding process, preventing empty vibration or overfeeding, and providing timely alarms when material is insufficient, thus improving the equipment's intelligence level. Finally, the coordination between the telescopic mechanism and sensors enables automatic and precise material receiving at multiple workstations, providing efficient and reliable material support for subsequent automated assembly processes.

[0025] The above description of the invention is merely an overview of the technical solution of this application. In order to enable those skilled in the art to better understand the technical solution of this application and to implement it based on the description and drawings, and to make the above-mentioned objectives and other objectives, features and advantages of this application easier to understand, the following description is provided in conjunction with the specific embodiments and drawings of this application. Attached Figure Description

[0026] The accompanying drawings are only used to illustrate the principles, implementation methods, applications, features, and effects of specific embodiments of this application and other related content, and should not be considered as limitations on this application.

[0027] In the accompanying drawings of the instruction manual:

[0028] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a general-purpose nail feeding device according to an embodiment of this application;

[0029] Figure 2 This is a perspective view of a general-purpose nail feeding device according to an embodiment of this application from another angle;

[0030] Figure 3 This is a partially enlarged schematic diagram of a general-purpose nail feeding device according to an embodiment of this application;

[0031] Figure 4A perspective view rendered of a general-purpose nail feeding device according to an embodiment of this application;

[0032] Figure 5 A perspective view rendered from another angle of a general-purpose nail feeding device according to an embodiment of this application;

[0033] Figure 6 This is a partially enlarged rendered schematic diagram of a general-purpose nail feeding device according to an embodiment of this application.

[0034] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a first mounting plate according to an embodiment of this application;

[0035] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the second mounting plate according to one embodiment of this application;

[0036] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a third mounting plate according to an embodiment of this application;

[0037] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a nail post according to an embodiment of this application;

[0038] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of another nail post according to one embodiment of this application;

[0039] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of a general-purpose nail feeding device according to an embodiment of this application.

[0040] The reference numerals used in the above figures are explained as follows:

[0041] x, the first direction,

[0042] 1. Base

[0043] 2. Vibrating feeding mechanism; 21. First adjusting component; 22. Circular vibrating plate; 221. First channel; 222. First screening trough; 23. Circular vibrating machine; 24. First mounting plate; 241. Second channel; 25. First fixing plate; 26. First fastener.

[0044] 3. Vertical vibration mechanism; 31. Second adjusting component; 32. Vertical vibration machine; 33. Second mounting plate; 331. Third channel; 332. Limiting part; 34. Vertical vibration fixing seat; 35. Second fixing plate; 36. Second fastener; 37. Fourth mounting plate; 371. Second screening tank.

[0045] 4. Telescopic mechanism; 41. Third mounting plate; 411. Nail post mounting position; 42. Third adjusting plate; 43. Telescopic drive unit; 44. Telescopic fixing seat; 45. Third fastener.

[0046] 5. First sensor, 6. Second sensor, 7. Third sensor, 8. Nail post. Detailed Implementation

[0047] To illustrate the possible application scenarios, technical principles, implementable specific solutions, and achievable objectives and effects of this application in detail, the following description, in conjunction with the listed specific embodiments and accompanying drawings, provides a detailed explanation. The embodiments described herein are merely illustrative of the technical solutions of this application and are therefore intended to limit the scope of protection of this application.

[0048] In this document, the term "embodiment" means that a specific feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment may be included in at least one embodiment of this application. The term "embodiment" appearing in various places throughout the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor does it specifically limit its independence or connection with other embodiments. In principle, in this application, as long as there are no technical contradictions or conflicts, the technical features mentioned in each embodiment can be combined in any way to form corresponding implementable technical solutions.

[0049] Unless otherwise defined, the technical terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application pertains; the use of related terms herein is merely for the purpose of describing particular embodiments and is not intended to limit this application.

[0050] In the description of this application, the term "and / or" is used to describe the logical relationship between objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, "general-purpose nail feeder and / or B" means: the existence of a general-purpose nail feeder, the existence of B, and the simultaneous existence of a general-purpose nail feeder and B. Additionally, the character " / " in this document generally indicates that the preceding and following objects have an "or" logical relationship.

[0051] In this application, terms such as “first” and “second” are used only to distinguish one entity or operation from another, and do not necessarily require or imply any actual quantity, hierarchy or order relationship between these entities or operations.

[0052] Without further limitations, the use of terms such as “comprising,” “including,” “having,” or other similar open-ended expressions in this application is intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, which does not exclude the presence of additional elements in a process, method, or product that includes the stated elements, such that a process, method, or product that includes a list of elements may include not only those defined elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, or product.

[0053] As understood in the Examination Guidelines, in this application, expressions such as "greater than," "less than," and "exceeding" are understood to exclude the stated number; expressions such as "above," "below," and "within" are understood to include the stated number. Furthermore, in the description of the embodiments in this application, "multiple" means two or more (including two), and similar expressions related to "multiple" are also understood in this way, such as "multiple groups" and "multiple times," unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0054] In the description of the embodiments of this application, the space-related expressions used, such as "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "length," "width," "thickness," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "vertical," "top," "bottom," "inner," "outer," "clockwise," "counterclockwise," "axial," "radial," and "circumferential," indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the specific embodiments or drawings. They are only for the purpose of describing the specific embodiments of this application or for the reader's understanding, and do not indicate or imply that the device or component referred to must have a specific position, a specific orientation, or be constructed or operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the embodiments of this application.

[0055] Unless otherwise expressly specified or limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," "fixing," and "setting," as used in the description of the embodiments of this application, should be interpreted broadly. For example, "connection" can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral arrangement; it can be a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; it can be a relationship of two components combined together, an interaction relationship between two components, or a connection within two structures. Those skilled in the art to which this application pertains can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in the embodiments of this application according to the specific circumstances.

[0056] Existing nail-feeding devices suffer from poor versatility, complex debugging, and low production efficiency.

[0057] In view of this, this application provides a universal nail feeding device and nail feeding method. A vibratory feeding mechanism 2 is mounted on a base 1 via a first adjustment module. The vibratory feeding mechanism 2 includes a circular vibratory plate 22, a circular vibrator 23, and a first mounting plate 24. The circular vibratory plate 22 is mounted on the circular vibrator 23 and has a first channel 221. The first mounting plate 24 is detachably mounted at the outlet of the first channel 221 and has a second channel 241 connected to the first channel 221. A linear vibration mechanism 3 is mounted on the base 1 via a second adjustment module. The linear vibration mechanism 3 includes... The system includes a linear vibratory feeder 32 and a second mounting plate 33, which is detachably mounted on the linear vibratory feeder 32. The second mounting plate 33 has a third channel 331, which is connected to the second channel 241. The telescopic mechanism 4 includes a third mounting plate 41 and a telescopic drive unit 43. The third mounting plate 41 is mounted on the base 1 via a third adjustment module and is detachably mounted on the third adjustment module. The third mounting plate 41 has at least two nail mounting positions 411. The telescopic drive unit 43 is used to drive the third mounting plate 41 to move relative to the base 1 along a first direction (indicated by arrow x in the figure). Thus, when the specifications of the nails 8 change, only the corresponding first mounting plate 24, second mounting plate 33, and third mounting plate 41 need to be replaced, without replacing the entire vibratory feeding mechanism 2 or the linear vibratory feeder 3, greatly improving the equipment's versatility and changeover efficiency. Meanwhile, the positions and heights of the first mounting plate 24, the second mounting plate 33, and the third mounting plate 41 can be adjusted through the first adjustment module, the second adjustment module, and the third adjustment module to ensure the precise connection of the material supply channel, guarantee the stability and reliability of the material supply, and thus improve production efficiency.

[0058] Please see Figures 1 to 12As shown, this embodiment relates to a universal nail feeding device, including a base 1 and a vibratory feeding mechanism 2, a linear vibration mechanism 3, and a telescopic mechanism 4 disposed on the base 1. The vibratory feeding mechanism 2 is disposed on the base 1 via a first adjustment module. The vibratory feeding mechanism 2 includes a circular vibratory plate 22, a circular vibrator 23, and a first mounting plate 24. The circular vibratory plate 22 is disposed on the circular vibrator 23 and has a first channel 221. The first mounting plate 24 is detachably disposed at the outlet of the first channel 221 and has a second channel 241 connected to the first channel 221. The linear vibration mechanism 3 is disposed on the base 1 via a second adjustment module. The vertical vibration mechanism 3, placed on the base 1, includes a vertical vibration machine 32 and a second mounting plate 33. The second mounting plate 33 is detachably mounted on the vertical vibration machine 32 and has a third channel 331 connected to the second channel 241. The telescopic mechanism 4 includes a third mounting plate 41 and a telescopic drive unit 43. The third mounting plate 41 is mounted on the base 1 via a third adjustment module and is detachably mounted on the third adjustment module. The third mounting plate 41 has at least two nail mounting positions 411. The telescopic drive unit 43 is used to drive the third mounting plate 41 to move relative to each other along a first direction (the direction indicated by arrow x in the figure).

[0059] In some embodiments, such as Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 As shown, base 1 is the mounting foundation of the entire device, providing stable support for all other mechanisms.

[0060] In some embodiments, the vibratory feeding mechanism 2 is responsible for initially organizing and orderly outputting the scattered nails 8. The vibratory feeding mechanism 2 includes a circular vibrator 23 that generates vibration, a circular vibratory disk 22 that accommodates the nails 8, and a first mounting plate 24 that serves as the output interface. The first mounting plate 24 is detachable, meaning that its internal second channel 241 can be designed with different sizes and shapes to accommodate nails 8 of different specifications, such as... Figure 10 and Figure 11 As shown, the second channel 241 is used to limit the bottom of the nail post 8. The shape and thickness of the second channel 241 are determined by the shape and thickness of the bottom of the nail post 8. The first adjustment module is used to fine-tune the overall position of the vibrating feeding mechanism 2 to ensure that the nail post 8 it outputs can accurately enter the next stage.

[0061] In other embodiments, the first adjustment module includes four lifting units, a position sensor, and a control unit. The four lifting units are located at the four bottom corners of the circular vibrating machine 23. The position sensor is used to detect the position of the second channel 241. The position sensor is connected to the controller, and the controller is connected to and controls the four lifting units. The position and tilt angle of the second channel 241 are controlled by the four lifting units, which are all within the protection scope of this embodiment.

[0062] In some embodiments, the function of the linear vibrating mechanism 3 is to receive the nails 8 from the vibrating feeding mechanism 2 and smoothly convey them forward, including the linear vibrator 32 and the second mounting plate 33. Similarly, the second mounting plate 33 is removable, and its internal third channel 331 can be replaced according to the size of the nails 8, such as... Figure 10 and Figure 11 As shown, the third channel 331 is used to limit the bottom of the nail post 8. The shape and thickness of the third channel 331 are determined by the shape and thickness of the bottom of the nail post 8. Under the same nail post 8 feeding device, the shape and size of the third channel 331 are adapted to the shape and size of the second channel 241. The second adjustment module is used to precisely adjust the position of the linear vibration mechanism 3 so that the third channel 331 and the second channel 241 are perfectly aligned.

[0063] like Figure 10 and Figure 11 As shown, the bottom thicknesses d1 and d2 of different models of nail posts 8 are not the same. Therefore, to supply nail posts 8 of different models, it is necessary to replace the first mounting plate 24, the second mounting plate 33, and the third mounting plate 41, thereby changing the dimensions of the second channel 241, the third channel 331, and the nail post mounting position 411.

[0064] In other embodiments, the second adjustment module includes four lifting units, a position sensor, and a control unit. The four lifting units are located at the four bottom corners of the vertical vibration machine 32. The position sensor is used to detect the position of the third channel 331. The position sensor is connected to the controller, and the controller is connected to and controls the four lifting units. The position and tilt angle of the third channel 331 are controlled by the four lifting units, which are all within the protection scope of this embodiment.

[0065] In some embodiments, the telescopic mechanism 4 is the end of the feeding process, responsible for distributing the nail posts 8 to designated workstations. The telescopic mechanism 4 includes a detachable third mounting plate 41 with multiple nail post mounting positions 411 for temporarily accommodating the nail posts 8. The telescopic drive unit 43 (such as a cylinder or electric cylinder) can drive the third mounting plate 41 to move, thereby sequentially aligning different mounting positions with the outlet of the upstream third channel 331 to achieve continuous feeding. The third adjustment module is used to adjust the position and angle of the third mounting plate 41 to ensure that it can accurately receive the nail posts 8.

[0066] In other embodiments, the third adjustment module includes four lifting units, a position sensor, and a control unit. The four lifting units are located at the four bottom corners of the third mounting plate 41. The position sensor is used to detect the position of the nail post mounting position 411 of the third mounting plate 41. The position sensor is connected to the controller, and the controller is connected to and controls the four lifting units. The position of the nail post mounting position 411 of the third mounting plate 41 is controlled by the four lifting units, all of which are within the protection scope of this embodiment.

[0067] Before use, the height and position of the second channel 241, the third channel 331, and the nail post mounting position 411 need to be adjusted by the first adjustment module, the second adjustment module, and the third adjustment module so that the second channel 241, the third channel 331, and the nail post mounting position 411 are in a straight line. The second channel 241 and the third channel 331 can be slightly tilted towards the nail post mounting position 411 to facilitate the feeding of the nail post 8.

[0068] During use, the nail posts 8 are first arranged along the first channel 221 within the circular vibrating plate 22 by vibration. After passing through the second channel 241 of the first mounting plate 24, the nail posts 8 enter the third channel 331 of the second mounting plate 33. The vertical vibrating machine 32 causes the nail posts 8 to continue moving forward within the third channel 331 by vibration until they reach the nail post mounting position 411 of the third mounting plate 41. When a mounting position is filled, the telescopic drive unit 43 pushes the third mounting plate 41 to move, aligning the next vacant mounting position with the outlet of the third channel 331, ready to receive the next nail post 8.

[0069] This embodiment constructs a modular feeding channel by setting up detachable first mounting plate 24, second mounting plate 33, and third mounting plate 41. When the specifications of the nail column 8 change, only the corresponding mounting plate needs to be replaced, without replacing the entire vibratory feeder or linear vibration mechanism 3, greatly improving the equipment's versatility and changeover efficiency. Simultaneously, the first, second, and third adjustment modules can fine-tune the positions of each mounting plate, ensuring precise alignment of the feeding channel and guaranteeing the stability and reliability of the feeding process.

[0070] According to some embodiments of this application, such as Figure 1 As shown, the bottom of the circular vibrating machine 23 is provided with a first fixing plate 25, and the first adjustment module includes at least three first adjustment components 21. The first fixing plate 25 is set on the base 1 through at least three first adjustment components 21, and the three first adjustment components 21 are used to adjust the height of the first mounting plate 24.

[0071] In this embodiment, four first adjusting members 21 are provided at the bottom of the first fixing plate 25;

[0072] In some embodiments, the first fixed plate 25 is connected to the bottom of the circular vibratory feeder 23, serving as an interface for connection with the base 1. The first adjusting member 21 can be a height-adjustable support member such as a threaded bolt or an adjustable screw. One end of it is connected to the base 1, and the other end supports the first fixed plate 25. By rotating or adjusting these three (or more) adjusting members, the height of each corner point of the first fixed plate 25 can be changed independently, thereby achieving fine adjustment of the height and level of the entire vibratory feeding mechanism 2. The core purpose of this is to ensure that the outlet centerline of the second channel 241 on the first mounting plate 24 is precisely aligned in the height direction with the inlet centerline of the third channel 331 on the subsequent linear vibration mechanism 3.

[0073] Thus, by supporting and adjusting the first fixed plate 25 with at least three first adjusting members 21, precise leveling of the height of the circular vibrator 23 and the first mounting plate 24 can be achieved. This three-point support adjustment method can effectively compensate for the flatness error of the base 1 or the equipment itself, ensuring that the first channel 221 and the subsequent second channel 241 can be precisely aligned, and avoiding jamming of the nail post 8 at the transmission interface.

[0074] According to some embodiments of this application, such as Figure 2 As shown, the direct vibration mechanism 3 also includes a direct vibration fixing seat 34 and a second fixing plate 35. The direct vibration fixing seat 34 is disposed on the base 1. The second adjustment module includes at least three second adjustment components 31. The second fixing plate 35 is disposed on the direct vibration fixing seat 34 through at least three second adjustment components 31. The direct vibration machine 32 is disposed on the second fixing plate 35. The three second adjustment components 31 are used to adjust the height of the second mounting plate 33 so that the third channel 331 and the second channel 241 are on the same plane.

[0075] In this embodiment, four second adjusting members 31 are provided at the bottom of the second fixing plate 35;

[0076] In some embodiments, the linear vibratory support 34 is a base platform mounted on the base 1. The second mounting plate 35 is used to support the linear vibratory machine 32. A second adjusting member 31 (which may also be an adjustable support member such as a bolt) is installed between the linear vibratory support 34 and the second mounting plate 35. By adjusting these second adjusting members 31, the height and tilt angle of the second mounting plate 35 relative to the linear vibratory support 34 can be changed. Since the linear vibratory machine 32, the fourth mounting plate 37, and the second mounting plate 33 are all mounted on it in sequence, the height of the third channel 331 on the second mounting plate 33 can be precisely adjusted so that it is kept on the same horizontal plane as the second channel 241 on the first mounting plate 24 from the vibratory feeding mechanism 2, forming a smooth transition.

[0077] Thus, similar to the first adjustment module, the height and level of the vertical vibratory machine 32 and its second mounting plate 33 are finely adjusted by at least three second adjustment components 31. This ensures that the nail column 8 delivered from the second channel 241 of the first mounting plate 24 can smoothly transition into the third channel 331 of the second mounting plate 33, further improving the continuity and reliability of the entire feeding path.

[0078] According to some embodiments of this application, the telescopic mechanism 4 further includes a telescopic fixing seat 44, which is disposed on the base 1. The telescopic drive unit 43 is disposed on the telescopic fixing seat 44. The third adjustment module includes a third adjustment plate 42, which is detachably disposed on the telescopic drive unit 43. The third mounting plate 41 is detachably disposed on the third adjustment plate 42. The nail mounting position 411 is disposed relative to the outlet of the third channel 331.

[0079] In this embodiment, two telescopic fixing seats 44 are provided on the base 1;

[0080] In some embodiments, the telescopic mounting base 44 provides a solid mounting foundation for the telescopic drive unit 43, ensuring its stability during frequent reciprocating motion. The third adjustment plate 42 serves as a bridge connecting the telescopic drive unit 43 and the third mounting plate 41. It is detachably mounted on the telescopic drive unit 43 (such as the slide of a slide cylinder). This detachable design allows for the replacement of different third adjustment plates 42 according to the interface size of different third mounting plates 41, or convenient replacement of the entire plate. The third mounting plate 41 is detachably fixed to the third adjustment plate 42 by simple mechanical means (such as pins or quick clamps). This layered, detachable structure allows for quick adjustment of the height and position of the third mounting plate 41.

[0081] Thus, the telescopic drive unit 43 is securely mounted on the base 1 via the telescopic fixing seat 44, providing a stable power foundation for driving the third mounting plate 41. The third adjustment plate 42, as an intermediate connecting component, can be easily adjusted or replaced according to different specifications of the third mounting plate 41, and also enables quick assembly and disassembly of the third mounting plate 41 and the telescopic drive unit 43, facilitating rapid adjustment of the height and position of the third mounting plate 41.

[0082] According to some embodiments of this application, such as Figure 7 , Figure 8 , Figure 9 As shown, the first mounting plate 24 is fixed at the outlet of the first channel 221 by the first fastener 26, the second mounting plate 33 is fixed on the vertical vibrator 32 by the second fastener 36, and the third mounting plate 41 is fixed on the third adjusting plate 42 by the third fastener 45.

[0083] In some embodiments, the first fastener 26, the second fastener 36, and the third fastener 45 can be standard screws, bolts, screws, etc. For example, the first mounting plate 24 can be directly locked into the screw hole at the outlet of the first channel 221 of the circular vibratory plate 22 by screws passing through its mounting holes. The second mounting plate 33 is also locked onto the linear vibrator 32 (or the fourth mounting plate 37 connected to the linear vibrator 32) by screws. The third mounting plate 41 is fixed onto the third adjusting plate 42 by screws.

[0084] In this way, by using fasteners (such as screws and bolts) for fixing, the first mounting plate 24, the second mounting plate 33 and the third mounting plate 41 can be quickly disassembled and installed, which greatly shortens the equipment adjustment time when changing products and improves production efficiency.

[0085] According to some embodiments of this application, such as Figure 6 and Figure 8 As shown, the linear vibration mechanism 3 also includes a fourth mounting plate 37. The bottom of the second mounting plate 33 is provided with a limiting part 332. The fourth mounting plate 37 is provided with a mounting part that accommodates the limiting part 332. The second mounting plate 33 is mounted on the fourth mounting plate 37 through the cooperation of the limiting part 332 and the mounting part. The fourth mounting plate 37 is mounted on the linear vibration machine 32.

[0086] In some embodiments, the fourth mounting plate 37 serves as an intermediate carrier, fixed to the vertical vibration machine 32. A special protruding structure, namely a limiting part 332, such as a rectangular slider, is designed on the bottom of the second mounting plate 33. Correspondingly, a groove matching its shape and position, namely a mounting part, is formed on the fourth mounting plate 37. By sliding the limiting part 332 of the second mounting plate 33 into the mounting part of the fourth mounting plate 37, quick and precise installation and positioning can be achieved. This mating method serves both guiding and limiting functions.

[0087] Thus, through the cooperation of the limiting part 332 and the mounting part, the second mounting plate 33 is quickly positioned and installed on the fourth mounting plate 37. This plug-and-play installation method provides more precise positioning compared to simple fastener connections, and eliminates the need for complex alignment adjustments during replacement, further improving changeover efficiency and positioning accuracy.

[0088] According to some embodiments of this application, such as Figure 6 and Figure 8 As shown, the fourth mounting plate 37 is provided with two second mounting plates 33. The two second mounting plates 33 are detachably provided on both sides of the fourth mounting plate 37. The two second mounting plates 33 are symmetrically arranged, and each of the two second mounting plates 33 is provided with a third channel 331.

[0089] In some embodiments, the fourth mounting plate 37 is designed to simultaneously support two independent second mounting plates 33, and these two mounting plates are symmetrically mounted on the left and right sides of the fourth mounting plate 37. The second mounting plates 33 limit the movement of the nail post 8 on both sides, facilitating the passage of the nail post 8 through the third channel 331 of the two second mounting plates 33.

[0090] Thus, by symmetrically arranging two second mounting plates 33 on the fourth mounting plate 37, the stability of the nail post 8 passing through the third channel 331 of the second mounting plate 33 can be improved.

[0091] According to some embodiments of this application, such as Figure 7 As shown, a first screening groove 222 is provided at the outlet of the first channel 221. The first screening groove 222 is located on one side of the first mounting plate 24. One end of the fourth mounting plate 37 is located opposite the outlet of the first channel 221. A second screening groove 371 is provided on the fourth mounting plate 37. The second screening groove 371 is located opposite the first screening groove 222.

[0092] In some embodiments, the first screening groove 222 is a special structure located at the outlet of the first channel 221 of the circular vibrating plate 22. It can be a notch, a ramp, or a slot of a specific width. When the nail post 8 reaches this location with vibration, only the nail post 8 with the correct posture (e.g., cap up, post down) can pass through, while nail posts 8 with incorrect posture or stacked will fall back to the circular vibrating plate 22 due to instability or size mismatch. The second screening groove 371 is disposed on the fourth mounting plate 37, located behind the first screening groove 222. It is a second precise correction of the posture of the nail post 8, ensuring that the posture of the nail post 8 entering the third channel 331 of the second mounting plate 33 is completely in accordance with the requirements. The two-stage screening greatly improves the reliability of sorting.

[0093] Thus, the first screening groove 222 and the second screening groove 371 together constitute a two-stage screening system. When the nail post 8 comes out of the vibrating plate 22, it first passes through the first screening groove 222 for preliminary posture screening, such as rejecting nail posts 8 that are stacked or incorrectly oriented. Then, when it enters the fourth mounting plate 37 of the linear vibration mechanism 3, it passes through the second screening groove 371 for secondary precise positioning. This two-stage screening method greatly improves the success rate and accuracy of sorting, ensuring that only nail posts 8 that conform to the predetermined posture can enter the final feeding stage.

[0094] According to some embodiments of this application, such as Figure 2 and Figure 3As shown, the universal nail feeding device also includes a first sensor 5, a second sensor 6, and a third sensor 7. The first sensor 5 is positioned relative to the second channel 241 and is used to detect whether there is a nail 8 in the second channel 241. The second sensor 6 is positioned at the rear end of the first sensor 5 and is positioned relative to the third channel 331. The second sensor 6 is used to detect whether there is a nail 8 in the third channel 331. The third sensor 7 is positioned at the rear end of the second sensor 6 and is used to detect whether there is a nail 8 in the nail mounting position 411 of the third mounting plate 41.

[0095] In some embodiments, this series of sensors constitutes the equipment's material monitoring system. A first sensor 5 (such as a diffuse reflection photoelectric sensor) is installed near the second channel 241 of the first mounting plate 24 to detect whether there are sufficient nail posts 8 from the vibrating feeding mechanism 2. A second sensor 6 (such as a through-beam photoelectric switch) is installed on the third channel 331 of the second mounting plate 33 to monitor the conveying of nail posts 8 on the linear vibration mechanism 3. A third sensor 7 (such as a high-precision fiber optic sensor) is installed near the third mounting plate 41 to accurately detect whether each nail post mounting position 411 has a nail post 8 in place. The signals from these sensors can be transmitted to the equipment's controller (such as a PLC) to form a closed-loop control system.

[0096] like Figure 12 As shown, the first sensor 5 is connected to the controller, and the controller controls the circular vibrator 23 according to the detection of the first sensor 5. The second sensor 6 is connected to the controller, and the controller controls the linear vibrator 32 according to the detection of the second sensor 6. The third sensor 7 is connected to the controller, and the controller controls the telescopic drive unit 43 according to the detection of the third sensor 7.

[0097] The first sensor 5 and the second sensor 6 are mounted on the second mounting plate 33. The second mounting plate 33 has two second sensors 6 in the feeding direction to improve the detection accuracy of the second sensors 6. The third sensor 7 is mounted on the telescopic fixed base 44. The models and principles of the first sensor 5, the second sensor 6 and the third sensor 7 are conventional technical means, and will not be described in detail.

[0098] Thus, by setting up three levels of sensors along the feeding path, real-time monitoring of the material flow status is achieved. The first sensor 5 monitors the material discharge of the circular vibrating plate 22, the second sensor 6 monitors the material conveying of the linear vibrating track, and the third sensor 7 monitors the material arrival at the final station. This hierarchical monitoring mechanism can provide accurate feedback to the automated control system, realize on-demand feeding, and quickly locate the fault point when material blockage or shortage occurs, achieving intelligent management of the feeding process.

[0099] This embodiment also relates to a nail feeding method, including a universal nail feeding device as described above, comprising the following steps:

[0100] The nail post 8 is placed into the circular vibrating plate 22. The circular vibrating machine 23 vibrates and transports the nail post 8 to the first channel 221. The nail post 8 is initially positioned and screened through the first screening groove 222. The nail post 8 that is not sorted will fall back into the circular vibrating plate 22. The screened nail post 8 enters the second channel 241. The vertical vibrating machine 32 vibrates and sends the initially positioned and screened nail post 8 to the third channel 331 for secondary positioning.

[0101] The first sensor 5 detects whether there is a nail post 8 in the second channel 241. If there is no nail post 8 in the second channel 241, the circular vibrator 23 is started to vibrate. The second sensor 6 detects whether there is a nail post 8 in the third channel 331. If there is no nail post 8 in the third channel 331, the vertical vibrator 32 is started to vibrate. If it is determined that there is no nail post 8 in the second channel 241 and the third channel 331 within a preset time, an alarm is triggered.

[0102] The vibrating machine 32 delivers the nail post 8 to the nail post mounting position 411 of the third mounting plate 41 through vibration. The third sensor 7 detects whether there is a nail post 8 in the first nail post mounting position 411 of the third mounting plate 41. If there is a nail post 8 in the first nail post mounting position 411 of the third mounting plate 41, the telescopic drive unit 43 is activated to push the third mounting plate 41 to move along the first direction (the direction indicated by arrow x in the figure), aligning the second nail post mounting position 411 of the third mounting plate 41 with the outlet of the third channel 331, until the nail post 8 is loaded and the third mounting plate 41 is reset.

[0103] Before the above steps of the nail feeding method, the height and position of the second channel 241, the third channel 331, and the nail mounting position 411 are adjusted by the first adjustment module, the second adjustment module, and the third adjustment module to make the second channel 241, the third channel 331, and the nail mounting position 411 in a straight line. The first adjustment module, the second adjustment module, and the third adjustment module only need to adjust the height and position of the second channel 241, the third channel 331, and the nail mounting position 411 at the beginning. After the first mounting plate 24, the second mounting plate 33, and the third mounting plate 41 are replaced, the position of the second channel 241, the third channel 331, and the nail mounting position 411 is determined by the processing accuracy of the first mounting plate 24, the second mounting plate 33, and the third mounting plate 41 themselves, and only fine adjustments are needed.

[0104] Specifically, this method details the complete process of feeding material using the aforementioned device. Initially, the nail column 8 is poured into the circular vibratory plate 22, where it undergoes coarse selection through vibration and the first screening trough 222. The correctly positioned nail column 8 enters the second channel 241 and, under the action of the vertical vibrator 32, is repositioned through the second screening trough 371 before entering the third channel 331. During this process, the first sensor 5 and the second sensor 6 continuously monitor the material status of their respective channels. If a channel is short of material, the controller will activate the corresponding vibration mechanism to replenish the material; if there is a prolonged shortage, the system will alarm, prompting manual intervention. When the material reaches the end of the third channel 331, the continuous vibration of the vertical vibrator 32 will push the nail column 8 into the first nail column mounting position 411 on the third mounting plate 41. Once the third sensor 7 detects material at this mounting position, the controller will instruct the telescopic drive unit 43 to move the third mounting plate 41, aligning the second vacant mounting position with the discharge port. This process will continue until all mounting positions are filled with nail posts 8 or the preset feeding task is completed. Finally, the telescopic drive unit 43 will reset the third mounting plate 41 to its initial position.

[0105] In this embodiment, a two-stage screening mechanism first ensures the accuracy of the nail column 8's posture. Secondly, real-time monitoring and feedback from three levels of sensors enable automated control of the material feeding process, preventing empty vibration or overfeeding, and providing timely alarms when material is insufficient, thus improving the equipment's intelligence level. Finally, the cooperation between the telescopic mechanism 4 and the sensors enables automatic and precise material receiving at multiple workstations, providing efficient and reliable material support for subsequent automated assembly processes.

[0106] It should be noted that although the above embodiments have been described herein, this does not limit the scope of patent protection of the present invention. Therefore, any changes and modifications made to the embodiments described herein based on the innovative concept of the present invention, or equivalent structural or procedural transformations made using the content of the present invention's specification and drawings, directly or indirectly applying the above technical solutions to other related technical fields, are all included within the scope of patent protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A universal nail feeding device, characterized in that, Includes a base and a vibratory feeding mechanism, a linear vibration mechanism, and a telescopic mechanism installed on the base; The vibratory feeding mechanism is mounted on the base via a first adjustment module. The vibratory feeding mechanism includes a circular vibratory plate, a circular vibrator, and a first mounting plate. The circular vibratory plate is mounted on the circular vibrator and has a first channel. The first mounting plate is detachably mounted at the outlet of the first channel and has a second channel connected to the first channel. The direct vibration mechanism is mounted on the base via a second adjustment module. The direct vibration mechanism includes a direct vibration machine and a second mounting plate. The second mounting plate is detachably mounted on the direct vibration machine. The second mounting plate is provided with a third channel, which is connected to the second channel. The telescopic mechanism includes a third mounting plate and a telescopic drive unit. The third mounting plate is mounted on the base via a third adjustment module. The third mounting plate is detachably mounted on the third adjustment module. The third mounting plate has at least two nail mounting positions. The telescopic drive unit is used to drive the third mounting plate to move relative to each other along a first direction.

2. The universal nail feeding device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The bottom of the circular vibrating machine is provided with a first fixing plate. The first adjustment module includes at least three first adjustment components. The first fixing plate is mounted on the base through the at least three first adjustment components. The three first adjustment components are used to adjust the position of the first mounting plate.

3. The universal nail feeding device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The linear vibration mechanism further includes a linear vibration fixing base and a second fixing plate. The linear vibration fixing base is disposed on the base. The second adjustment module includes at least three second adjustment components. The second fixing plate is disposed on the linear vibration fixing base through at least three second adjustment components. The linear vibration machine is disposed on the second fixing plate. The three second adjustment components are used for the position of the second mounting plate.

4. The universal nail feeding device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The telescopic mechanism also includes a telescopic fixing seat, which is disposed on the base. The telescopic drive unit is disposed on the telescopic fixing seat. The third adjustment module includes a third adjustment plate, which is detachably disposed on the telescopic drive unit. The third mounting plate is detachably disposed on the third adjustment plate. The nail post mounting position is disposed relative to the outlet of the third channel.

5. The universal nail feeding device according to claim 4, characterized in that, The first mounting plate is fixed to the outlet of the first channel by a first fastener, the second mounting plate is fixed to the vertical vibrating machine by a second fastener, and the third mounting plate is fixed to the third adjusting plate by a third fastener.

6. The universal nail feeding device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The linear vibration mechanism further includes a fourth mounting plate. The bottom of the second mounting plate is provided with a limiting part. The fourth mounting plate is provided with a mounting part that accommodates the limiting part. The second mounting plate is mounted on the fourth mounting plate through the cooperation of the limiting part and the mounting part. The fourth mounting plate is mounted on the linear vibration machine.

7. The universal nail feeding device according to claim 6, characterized in that, The fourth mounting plate is provided with two second mounting plates, which are detachably mounted on both sides of the fourth mounting plate. The two second mounting plates are symmetrically arranged, and each of the two second mounting plates is provided with a third channel.

8. The universal nail feeding device according to claim 6, characterized in that, A first screening groove is provided at the outlet of the first channel, and the first screening groove is located on one side of the first mounting plate. One end of the fourth mounting plate is located opposite the outlet of the first channel, and a second screening groove is provided on the fourth mounting plate, which is located opposite the first screening groove.

9. The universal nail feeding device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The universal nail feeding device further includes a first sensor, a second sensor, and a third sensor. The first sensor is disposed opposite to the second channel and is used to detect whether there is a nail in the second channel. The second sensor is disposed at the rear end of the first sensor and is disposed opposite to the third channel. The second sensor is used to detect whether there is a nail in the third channel. The third sensor is disposed at the rear end of the second sensor and is used to detect whether there is a nail at the nail mounting position of the third mounting plate.

10. A method for feeding nails into columns, characterized in that, The universal nail feeding device as described in any one of claims 1 to 9 includes the following steps: The nail is placed into the circular vibrating plate, and the circular vibrating machine vibrates to transport the nail to the first channel. The nail is initially positioned and screened through the first screening groove. The nails that are not sorted will fall back into the circular vibrating plate. The screened nails enter the second channel, and the vertical vibrating machine vibrates to send the initially positioned and screened nails to the third channel for secondary positioning. The first sensor detects whether there are nails in the second channel. If there are no nails in the second channel, the circular vibrator is started to vibrate. The second sensor detects whether there are nails in the third channel. If there are no nails in the third channel, the vertical vibrator is started to vibrate. If it is determined that there are no nails in the second and third channels within a preset time, an alarm is triggered. The vibrating machine delivers the nails to the nail mounting positions on the third mounting plate through vibration. The third sensor detects whether there are nails at the first nail mounting position on the third mounting plate. If there are nails at the first nail mounting position on the third mounting plate, the telescopic drive unit is activated to push the third mounting plate to move in the first direction, aligning the second nail mounting position on the third mounting plate with the outlet of the third channel, until the nail loading is completed and the third mounting plate is reset.

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