Inserting piece feeding mechanism
By optimizing the insert feeding process through staggered material handling and staggered receiving mechanisms, the problems of high power requirements, large equipment size, and space limitations in high-efficiency insert assembly of existing equipment have been solved, achieving efficient and stable insert conveying and assembly.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Utility models(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- SUZHOU MEDICAL SUPPLY FACTORY CO LTD
- Filing Date
- 2025-05-26
- Publication Date
- 2026-05-01
AI Technical Summary
Existing insert assembly equipment faces challenges such as high power requirements, large equipment size, high cost, and space constraints when improving assembly efficiency. In particular, when multiple rows of inserts are transported synchronously, the power requirements of the vibrator and the straight vibrator increase significantly, leading to a decrease in equipment stability.
By adopting a staggered feeding method, the feeding heads are evenly distributed on the conveyor, the inserts are fixed at the staggered feeding ends, and the staggered receiving mechanism and insert installation mechanism are combined to optimize the insert feeding process, reduce the power requirements of the vibrator and the straight vibrator, reduce the number of conveying channels, and improve the insert feeding speed and stability.
While ensuring the speed and stability of chip insertion, the power requirements and space occupation of the equipment are reduced, the equipment cost is reduced, and the success rate of chip insertion assembly and the operational stability are improved.
Smart Images
Figure CN224185227U_ABST
Abstract
Description
A type of insert feeding mechanism Technical Field
[0001] This utility model relates to the field of feeding device technology, specifically to a blade feeding mechanism. Background Technology
[0002] In the assembly process of acupuncture needles, the insert, as a key component for fixing the acupuncture needles inside the plastic tube, requires high-precision equipment for orientation and transport due to its small size. Current technology typically uses a vibrator to initially prepare and feed the insert, and after entering the conveyor channel, a linear vibrator is used to transfer it to the next position.
[0003] However, with the increasing demands for assembly efficiency, multiple rows of inserts need to be processed simultaneously, which increases the number of discharge holes and conveying channels in the vibrator. In this case, both the vibrator and the linear vibrator need to drive a larger load mass, resulting in a significant increase in their power requirements. Studies show that, taking the vibrator as an example, the vibrator power is positively correlated with the number of discharge holes; when conveying more inserts simultaneously, the energy consumption and structural complexity of the vibrator increase simultaneously.
[0004] Existing insert assembly equipment has obvious defects: First, there is a contradiction between power and efficiency. In order to achieve synchronous conveying of multiple inserts, high-power vibrators and direct vibrators are required, which in turn requires high-power motors. However, high-power motors are not only large and expensive, but also prone to overheating during long-term operation, which seriously affects the stability of the equipment. Second, the structural space is limited. Synchronous conveying of multiple inserts requires the implementation of a multi-channel layout, which requires a lot of equipment space.
[0005] Therefore, how to overcome the shortcomings of the existing technology mentioned above has become the subject of this utility model. Summary of the Invention
[0006] The purpose of this invention is to provide a insert feeding mechanism.
[0007] To achieve the above objectives, the technical solution adopted by this utility model is as follows:
[0008] A chip feeding mechanism, comprising:
[0009] The conveying component includes a plurality of conveying channels arranged along the width direction of the conveying component;
[0010] The material handling mechanism includes a material handling component having multiple material handling heads, the material handling heads being used to fix the insert conveyed by the conveying channel;
[0011] The material taking heads are evenly distributed along the width direction of the conveying component; each material taking head can move at least along the width direction of the conveying component.
[0012] Each of the conveying channels has an inlet and an outlet, and each inlet and outlet is evenly spaced along the width direction of the conveying component.
[0013] The distance between two adjacent feed inlets is less than the distance between two adjacent discharge outlets;
[0014] The material receiving head has a material receiving end, and in the width direction of the conveying member, the size of the material receiving end is less than or equal to the distance between two adjacent material outlets.
[0015] It should be noted that since the inserts are relatively small, a vibrator (or vibratory feeder) or similar device is generally used for initial feeding and preparation. Subsequently, a linear vibrator (or linear transducer) or similar device is used to transfer the inserts into the conveyor channel. Here, we will use vibrators and linear transducers as examples; these, along with this application, can all be considered parts of the insert feeding conveyor line. The more discharge holes a vibrator has, the higher its power requirement needs to meet the insert feeding schedule. Similarly, the more conveyor channels there are, the higher the power requirement needs for the linear transducer, leading to higher costs and larger space requirements for the insert feeding conveyor line.
[0016] The following explanation regarding the power requirements is provided to aid understanding: For vibrators, an increase in the number of discharge holes means an increase in the number of plates being fed simultaneously. The vibrator needs to drive a larger load mass, and a higher load requires a greater driving force to maintain the vibration amplitude and frequency in order to ensure the feeding speed, thus leading to an increase in power demand.
[0017] The vibrator and the linear vibrator are existing devices, and their principles are based on existing technology. Here is a brief explanation: The vibrator uses the vibration generated by the vibrating motor to make the inserts arrange in an orderly manner along a specific track in the disc and transport them to the discharge hole; the linear vibrator is used to realize the linear conveying and directional arrangement of materials.
[0018] During the feeding process, the insert enters the conveying channel from the feed port and leaves the conveying channel from the discharge port, completing the first stage of insert feeding; in the second stage, the picking end fixes and transfers the insert conveyed by the conveying channel, and a single picking component fixes and transfers multiple inserts simultaneously through multiple picking ends of multiple picking heads.
[0019] During the transfer of inserts, given the limited number of conveying channels, each pick-up head can fix one insert by staggering the pick-up times, thus ensuring the progress of insert feeding.
[0020] Each feeding head is evenly distributed along the width of the conveyor, and each discharge port is evenly spaced along the width of the conveyor. These settings provide a basis for staggered feeding by each feeding head, making it easy for each feeding head to align with one of the discharge ports in sequence.
[0021] The feed inlets are evenly spaced along the width of the conveyor, which reduces the difficulty of modifying the conveyor and facilitates precise docking between the conveyor and the vibrator.
[0022] In the width direction of the conveyor, the size of the picking end is less than or equal to the distance between two adjacent discharge ports. The explanation is as follows: When the size of the picking end is less than the distance between two adjacent discharge ports, more picking heads can be used for staggered picking. When the size of the picking end is not greater than the distance between two adjacent discharge ports, more picking methods can be adapted. Taking the adsorption picking method as an example, if the size of the picking end is greater than the distance between two adjacent discharge ports, it is difficult for the center of each picking end to be aligned with the center of the insert, and the stability of the insert during the adsorption process cannot be guaranteed.
[0023] In summary, adopting a staggered feeding method can ensure the insertion feeding speed with a limited number of conveyor channels, reduce the size of the conveyor components, and lower the power requirements of devices such as vibrators and direct vibrators. This reduces the cost and space required for the insertion feeding conveyor line. In addition, fewer conveyor channels can reduce the risk of accidents during the insertion feeding process, ultimately ensuring the operational stability of the insertion feeding conveyor line.
[0024] Taking the material handling mechanism as an example, after the material handling head fixes the insert, it is transferred to the final feeding position. Even if the relevant structure is not explicitly mentioned, those skilled in the art should know that the material handling head can be moved on the x-axis, y-axis and z-axis by means of existing electric slides and other devices.
[0025] A further technical solution is that each of the conveying channels forms a channel group, the channel group including a first conveying channel, at least one second conveying channel and at least one third conveying channel;
[0026] The length direction of the first conveying channel is parallel to the length direction of the conveying component;
[0027] The number of the second conveying channels is the same as the number of the third conveying channels;
[0028] Each of the second conveying channels forms a first channel group, and each of the third conveying channels forms a second channel group. The first channel group and the second channel group are symmetrically arranged with the axis of the first conveying channel as the line of symmetry.
[0029] The second conveying channel includes a first section and a second section that are smoothly connected. The length direction of the first section is parallel to the length direction of the conveying component, and a portion of the second section is an arc-shaped section.
[0030] The end of the second segment that is away from the first segment extends along the length of the conveyor.
[0031] In this embodiment, each conveying channel is divided into a first conveying channel, a second conveying channel, and a third conveying channel.
[0032] Here, we take the first, second, and third conveyor channels as a single example: in the width direction of the conveyed component, the second and third conveyor channels are symmetrically distributed on both sides of the first conveyor channel. This symmetrical layout facilitates the processing of the conveyed component.
[0033] The length direction of the first conveying channel is parallel to the length direction of the conveying component. In the second conveying channel, the length direction of the first segment and the end of the second segment away from the first segment (which can be summarized as the two ends of the second conveying channel) both extend along the length direction of the conveying component, facilitating the insertion piece to enter and exit the conveying channel in a predetermined posture. Here, the insertion piece is configured with a first end and a second end along its own length direction. When assembling the insertion piece with the plastic tube, the first end or the second end is inserted into the plastic tube. The insertion piece is configured to have a straight posture, that is, its length direction is parallel to a predetermined direction (such as the length direction of the plastic tube or the length direction of the conveying component). The insertion piece is in a straight posture when output from the vibrator. In this embodiment, the length direction of the first conveying channel is configured such that the insertion piece can enter and exit the conveying channel in a straight posture, thus eliminating the need for posture adjustment during subsequent transfer stages, reducing operational steps, and increasing the success rate of assembly between the insertion piece and the plastic tube. If the insertion piece is tilted close to the plastic tube, the assembly probability will decrease due to obstruction from the end of the plastic tube.
[0034] Generally, the conveying component is located between the vibrator and the plastic tube conveying device. The conveying component is described as having a square structure. Ideally, the vibrator outputs a straight-angled insert, which enters the conveying channel in a straight position and then assembles with the plastic tube in a straight position. Based on this ideal scenario, this embodiment restricts the structural direction of the first section, etc., to ensure the insert assembles with the plastic tube in a straight position. It also allows the distance between the inserts to gradually increase in the conveying channel to facilitate the staggered reception of the inserts by the receiving groove below, and to ensure the flow speed of the inserts in the conveying channel.
[0035] A further technical solution in this embodiment also includes a misaligned receiving mechanism, comprising:
[0036] The receiving component has multiple receiving slots evenly arranged along the width direction of the conveying component, the receiving slots being provided corresponding to the discharge port and the number being the same as the number of the receiving end;
[0037] A first driving member, connected to the receiving member, is used to drive the receiving member to move at least along the width direction of the conveying member.
[0038] The insert moves out of the discharge port from the conveyor channel and into the receiving trough. After entering the receiving trough, the insert is free from obstruction from the walls of the conveyor channel as the pick-up head moves it vertically. The shape of the receiving trough is shown in the attached drawing; it has two openings, one facing the conveyor channel and the other facing upwards.
[0039] To facilitate understanding, an example of a transfer process for inserts is provided below: There are two outlets and four receiving slots. Initially, the two outlets are aligned with two of the receiving slots. After the two inserts are inserted into these two receiving slots, the receiving component is driven by the first driving component, causing the two outlets to align with the other two receiving slots. When the other two inserts are inserted into the two receiving slots that take their place, the receiving component is driven by the first driving component again, causing the two outlets to not align with any of the receiving slots. Finally, the inserts are removed, and the previous process is repeated.
[0040] When directly picking up material from the outlet using the pick-up head, it is impossible to prevent the insert from separating from the conveying channel during the non-discharge stage; only the transport process of the insert in the conveying channel can be controlled. With the help of the staggered receiving mechanism, during the process of replacing the receiving trough with the receiving insert, and during the process of removing the insert from the receiving trough using the pick-up head, the partition between the receiving troughs (which are receiving components) can be used to prevent the insert from separating from the conveying channel.
[0041] With the help of the staggered feeding mechanism, the feeding frequency of the feeding head is reduced. Taking the fixing of ten inserts as an example, the feeding head used to need to feed twice, fixing five inserts each time. Now the feeding head can fix ten inserts at once, improving the overall transfer progress of inserts.
[0042] In a further technical solution, the receiving component and the adjacent surfaces of the conveying component are arranged parallel to each other, and the distance between the two adjacent surfaces is less than the dimension of the insert in the length direction of the conveying component.
[0043] The material receiving component and the conveying component are two parallel square structures. In this case, one surface of the material receiving component faces the conveying component, and this surface is the adjacent surface described in this embodiment.
[0044] The adjacent surfaces of the receiving component and the conveying component are arranged in parallel, so that the inserts leaving the conveying channel from any outlet are arranged in parallel with each other after entering the receiving component, which facilitates the subsequent transfer process of the inserts.
[0045] When there is a gap between the adjacent surfaces of the receiving component and the conveying component, there is no friction when they move relative to each other, thus avoiding affecting the relative movement process and preventing wear on both. The gap between the two adjacent surfaces is smaller than the dimension of the insert in the length direction of the conveying component, which can prevent the insert from getting stuck between the two adjacent surfaces or falling to the ground after it moves out of the conveying channel. Of course, the insert generally has inertia after it moves out of the conveying channel and can continue to move. In some embodiments, the gap between the two adjacent surfaces can be set to be equal to or greater than the dimension of the insert in the length direction of the conveying component within a certain range. The specific references to adjacent surfaces in this section are given in this embodiment, and those skilled in the art should understand them even if they are not explicitly specified.
[0046] A further technical solution in this embodiment includes a insert mounting mechanism, disposed on one side of the material handling mechanism, the insert mounting mechanism comprising:
[0047] Support base;
[0048] A receiving seat, fixedly disposed on the support base, has multiple receiving grooves, the receiving grooves being used to receive the inserts transferred by the picking head, the number of the receiving grooves being the same as the number of the picking head;
[0049] The press-in component, configured in multiple parts and the number being the same as the number of receiving grooves, includes a pusher, a force adjustment spring, and a force sensor connected in sequence, wherein the pusher corresponds to the receiving groove;
[0050] A sliding base is connected to each of the force sensors and slidably connected to the support base;
[0051] The second driving component is connected to the support base and the sliding base.
[0052] In the insert mounting mechanism, the driving source is the second driving component, but the actual contact structure with the insert is the pusher. Under the indirect action of the second driving component, the pusher pushes the insert that has been turned into the receiving groove to assemble with the plastic tube.
[0053] When inserting the acupuncture needle, the pusher pushes it forward. This process can lead to problems such as excessive force damaging the plastic tube and the needle being inserted too deeply, hindering its removal. To address these issues, a force-adjusting spring is used for regulation. Normally, the spring does not deform. However, when the resistance experienced by the needle exceeds a set threshold, the spring deforms to prevent further insertion into the plastic tube. A force sensor is used to detect the force applied to the spring.
[0054] Each force adjustment spring is independently controlled, ensuring that the insertion process of each insert is independent of the others.
[0055] In a further technical solution, in this embodiment, the insert mounting mechanism further includes:
[0056] A movable base is connected to each of the force sensors and slidably connected to the sliding base;
[0057] A third driving component is connected to the movable base;
[0058] A collection component, connected to the receiving seat, is used to collect unassembled inserts.
[0059] This embodiment uses a movable base as an intermediate structure between the force sensor and the sliding base, allowing the force sensor to move relative to the sliding base.
[0060] Considering the difficulty of inserting the inserts into the plastic tube, there may be cases where some inserts are not inserted into the plastic tube. These inserts will affect the continuous assembly process of subsequent inserts. Therefore, these inserts need to be transferred to the collection unit in a timely manner. This process is called the insert re-pushing process.
[0061] During the secondary push-out of the insert, the third driving component replaces the second driving component. The third driving component drives each force sensor through the moving base, and the subsequent process is the same as described above.
[0062] It should be noted that, in order to avoid damage to the plastic tube during the insertion of the insert, the driving distance of the second driving component is limited. If the second driving component is used to complete the second push-back process of the insert, it is difficult to ensure that each uninstalled insert enters the collecting component. By using the third driving component, the driving distance of the third driving component can be flexibly adjusted to ensure that each uninstalled insert enters the collecting component, thereby ensuring the continuous assembly of subsequent inserts.
[0063] A further technical solution in this embodiment also includes a receiving mechanism, which includes:
[0064] Fourth driving component;
[0065] The material handling component, connected to the fourth driving component, includes at least two sets of material handling parts distributed along the width direction of the material handling component, and each set of material handling parts includes multiple material handling parts distributed in parallel along the length direction of the material handling component.
[0066] In the width direction of the material taking part, the projected portions of any two material taking parts are arranged to overlap or separate.
[0067] There are no specific restrictions on the material handling method. Electric or pneumatic grippers can be used to clamp and handle the material, or existing adsorption devices can be used to perform vacuum adsorption and material handling.
[0068] Taking a material handling component consisting of two sets of material handling sections as an example: the material handling sections in the two sets of material handling sections are staggered in the width direction of the material handling component (the projections can partially overlap) to avoid the inability to achieve the predetermined material handling quantity due to the large size of the material handling section.
[0069] To further clarify, here is an additional explanation: If a material picking area is set up and there are ten qualified products spaced apart along the length of the material picking unit within the picking area, and if the material picking units are arranged in parallel along the length of the material picking unit, only five can be placed. By using a staggered placement method, the material picking work of ten qualified products can be completed simultaneously without expanding the material picking area.
[0070] The material handling component includes at least two sets of material handling parts distributed along the width direction of the material handling component. Each set of material handling parts includes multiple material handling parts distributed in parallel along the length direction of the material handling component. Here, the width direction and the length direction can be interchanged.
[0071] In a further technical solution, in this embodiment, the receiving mechanism further includes:
[0072] The support platform has a downward-sloping support surface;
[0073] A storage component is movably disposed on the support surface, and multiple storage components are configured such that each storage component is spaced apart along the length direction of the support surface.
[0074] A limiting member is movably disposed on the support platform, corresponding to the storage member.
[0075] To facilitate understanding, the working process of the structure involved in this embodiment is illustrated by an example: Three storage components are stably arranged at intervals on the support surface under the action of the limiting component. Initially, one storage component is in the storage area, and the other two storage components are located above the storage area. When the storage component in the storage area has finished storage, the limiting component moves downward to release the limitation on each storage component. After each storage component has moved a certain distance, the limiting component resets, so that the subsequent storage component stays in the storage area.
[0076] The support surface is tilted downwards, allowing the storage components to be inserted into the storage area under the influence of gravity to complete the storage of qualified products, reducing manual operation and improving the efficiency of the replacement of storage components.
[0077] The limiting component ensures that the storage unit remains stably in the storage area. Furthermore, during the replacement phase of the storage unit, the limiting component allows the storage unit to accurately stop in the storage area, further reducing manual operation and improving the efficiency of storage unit replacement.
[0078] The terms "first," "second," etc., used in this article do not specifically refer to order or sequence, nor are they intended to limit this case; they are merely used to distinguish components or operations described using the same technical terms.
[0079] The terms "connection" or "positioning" as used in this article can refer to two or more components or devices making direct physical contact with each other, or making indirect physical contact with each other, or to two or more components or devices operating or moving with each other.
[0080] The terms “include,” “including,” and “have” used in this article are all open-ended, meaning they include but are not limited to.
[0081] Unless otherwise specified, the terms used herein generally have their ordinary meaning in the context of the art, the subject matter, and the specific context. Certain terms used to describe this case will be discussed below or elsewhere in this specification to provide additional guidance to those skilled in the art in describing the case.
[0082] The terms “front,” “back,” “up,” “down,” “left,” and “right” used in this article are directional terms. In this case, they are only used to describe the positional relationship between the structures and are not intended to limit the specific direction of the protection scheme or its actual implementation.
[0083] The working principle and advantages of this utility model are as follows:
[0084] The insert enters the conveying channel from the feed port and leaves the conveying channel from the discharge port, completing the first stage of insert feeding; in the second stage, the picking end fixes and transfers the insert conveyed by the conveying channel, and a single picking component fixes and transfers multiple inserts simultaneously through multiple picking ends of multiple picking heads.
[0085] During the transfer of inserts, given the limited number of conveying channels, each pick-up head can fix one insert by staggering the pick-up times, thus ensuring the progress of insert feeding.
[0086] Each feeding head is evenly distributed along the width of the conveyor, and each discharge port is evenly spaced along the width of the conveyor. These settings provide a basis for staggered feeding by each feeding head, making it easy for each feeding head to align with one of the discharge ports in sequence.
[0087] The feed inlets are evenly spaced along the width of the conveyor, which reduces the difficulty of modifying the conveyor and facilitates precise docking between the conveyor and the vibrator.
[0088] In the width direction of the conveyor, the size of the picking end is less than or equal to the distance between two adjacent discharge ports. When the size of the picking end is less than the distance between two adjacent discharge ports, more picking heads can be used for staggered picking. When the size of the picking end is not greater than the distance between two adjacent discharge ports, more picking methods can be adapted.
[0089] In summary, adopting a staggered feeding method can ensure the insertion feeding speed with a limited number of conveyor channels, reduce the size of the conveyor components, and lower the power requirements of devices such as vibrators and direct vibrators. This reduces the cost and space required for the insertion feeding conveyor line. In addition, fewer conveyor channels can reduce the risk of accidents during the insertion feeding process, ultimately ensuring the operational stability of the insertion feeding conveyor line. Attached Figure Description
[0090] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of a insert feeding mechanism according to an embodiment of the present utility model;
[0091] Figure 2 is a partial structural schematic diagram of a insert feeding mechanism according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0092] Figure 3 is a top view of Figure 2;
[0093] Figure 4 is an enlarged view of point A in Figure 2;
[0094] Figure 5 is a partial structural schematic diagram of a blade feeding mechanism according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0095] Figure 6 is a structural schematic diagram from another perspective of Figure 5;
[0096] Figure 7 is a structural schematic diagram from another perspective of Figure 5;
[0097] Figure 8 is a partial structural schematic diagram of a blade feeding mechanism according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0098] Figure 9 is a structural schematic diagram from another perspective of Figure 8.
[0099] In the attached diagrams: 1. Conveying component; 11. Conveying channel; 111. Feed inlet; 12. First conveying channel; 13. Second conveying channel; 131. First section; 132. Second section; 14. Third conveying channel; 2. Material handling mechanism; 21. Material handling head; 211. Material handling end; 3. Vibrator; 4. Straight vibrator; 5. Offset receiving mechanism; 51. Receiving component; 511. Receiving trough; 52. First driving component; 6. Insertion plate mounting mechanism 61. Support base; 62. Receiving base; 621. Receiving groove; 63. Press-in component; 631. Push head; 632. Force adjustment spring; 633. Force sensor; 64. Sliding base; 65. Second driving component; 66. Moving base; 67. Third driving component; 68. Collecting component; 7. Material receiving mechanism; 71. Fourth driving component; 72. Material picking component; 721. Material picking section; 73. Support platform; 74. Storage component; 75. Limiting component. Detailed Implementation
[0100] The present invention will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments:
[0101] Example: The present invention will be clearly described below with illustrations and detailed description. Any person skilled in the art who understands the examples of the present invention can make changes and modifications based on the technology taught in the present invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.
[0102] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing specific embodiments only and is not intended to limit the scope of this work. Singular forms such as “a,” “this,” “this,” “the,” and “the” as used herein also include plural forms.
[0103] Referring to Figures 1-9, a insert feeding mechanism includes:
[0104] The conveying component 1 includes a plurality of conveying channels 11 arranged along the width direction of the conveying component 1;
[0105] The material handling mechanism 2 includes a material handling component (designated as the first material handling component) having multiple material handling heads 21, wherein the material handling heads 21 are used to fix the insert conveyed by the conveying channel 11;
[0106] The material taking heads 21 are evenly distributed in the width direction of the conveying member 1; the material taking heads 21 can move at least along the width direction of the conveying member 1.
[0107] Each of the conveying channels 11 has an inlet 111 and an outlet, and each of the inlets 111 and the outlets are evenly spaced along the width direction of the conveying member 1.
[0108] The distance between two adjacent feed inlets 111 is less than the distance between two adjacent discharge outlets;
[0109] The feeding head 21 has a feeding end 211, and in the width direction of the conveying member 1, the size of the feeding end 211 is less than or equal to the distance between two adjacent discharge ports.
[0110] It should be noted that the inserts are relatively small, and a vibrator 3 (or vibratory feeder) or a similar device is generally used for initial feeding and preparation. Subsequently, a linear vibrator 4 (or linear vibrator 3) or a similar device is used to transfer the inserts into the conveyor channel 11. Here, we will use the vibrator 3 and the linear vibrator 4 as examples; both the vibrator 3 and the linear vibrator 4, as well as this application, can be considered parts of the insert feeding conveyor line. The more discharge holes the vibrator 3 has, the higher its power requirement to meet the insert feeding schedule. Similarly, the more conveyor channels 11 there are, the higher the power requirement for the linear vibrator 4, resulting in higher costs and larger space requirements for the insert feeding conveyor line.
[0111] The following explanation regarding the power requirements is provided to aid understanding: For vibrator 3, an increase in the number of discharge holes means an increase in the number of inserts being fed simultaneously. Vibrator 3 needs to drive a larger load mass, and a higher load requires a greater driving force to maintain the vibration amplitude and frequency in order to ensure the feeding speed, thus leading to an increase in power demand.
[0112] Vibrator 3 and linear vibrator 4 are existing devices, and their principles are based on existing technology. Here is a brief explanation: Vibrator 3 uses the vibration generated by the vibrating motor to make the inserts arranged in an orderly manner along a specific track in the disc and transported to the discharge hole; linear vibrator 4 is used to realize the linear conveying and directional arrangement of materials.
[0113] During the feeding process, the insert enters the conveying channel 11 from the feed port 111 and leaves the conveying channel 11 from the discharge port, completing the first stage of insert feeding; in the second stage, the picking end 211 fixes and transfers the insert conveyed by the conveying channel 11, and a single picking component fixes and transfers multiple inserts simultaneously through multiple picking ends 211 of multiple picking heads 21.
[0114] During the transfer of inserts, given the limited number of conveying channels 11, each picking head 21 can fix one insert by staggering the picking times, thus ensuring the progress of insert feeding.
[0115] Each feeding head 21 is evenly distributed in the width direction of the conveyor 1, and each discharge port is evenly spaced along the width direction of the conveyor 1. These settings provide a basis for staggered feeding of each feeding head 21, and facilitate each feeding head 21 to be aligned with one of the discharge ports in sequence.
[0116] Each feed port 111 is evenly spaced along the width of the conveyor 1. This reduces the difficulty of modifying the conveyor 1 and facilitates precise docking between the conveyor 1 and the vibrator 3.
[0117] In the width direction of the conveyor 1, the size of the picking end 211 is less than or equal to the distance between two adjacent discharge ports. This is explained as follows: When the size of the picking end 211 is less than the distance between two adjacent discharge ports, more picking heads 21 can be used for staggered picking. When the size of the picking end 211 is not greater than the distance between two adjacent discharge ports, more picking methods can be adapted. Taking the adsorption picking method as an example, if the size of the picking end 211 is greater than the distance between two adjacent discharge ports, it is difficult for the center of each picking end 211 to be aligned with the center of the insert, and the stability of the insert during the adsorption process cannot be guaranteed.
[0118] In summary, by adopting a staggered feeding method, the insertion feeding speed can be guaranteed even with a limited number of conveying channels 11. This reduces the size of the conveyor component 1, lowers the power requirements for devices such as the vibrator 3 and the direct vibrator 4, and reduces the cost and space required for the insertion feeding conveyor line. In addition, fewer conveying channels 11 can also reduce the risk of accidents during the insertion feeding process, ultimately ensuring the operational stability of the insertion feeding conveyor line.
[0119] Taking the material handling mechanism 2 as an example, after the material handling head 21 fixes the insert, it is transferred to the final feeding position. Even if the relevant structure is not explicitly mentioned, those skilled in the art should know that the material handling head 21 can be moved on the x-axis, y-axis and z-axis by means of existing electric slides and other devices.
[0120] The specific relative positions of the various structures in this application can be referred to in the accompanying drawings, but the positions in the drawings are only one possible implementation method.
[0121] Referring to Figure 4, in this embodiment, each of the conveying channels 11 forms a channel group, and the channel group includes a first conveying channel 12, at least one second conveying channel 13 and at least one third conveying channel 14;
[0122] The length direction of the first conveying channel 12 is parallel to the length direction of the conveying component 1;
[0123] The number of the second conveying channel 13 and the third conveying channel 14 are the same;
[0124] Each of the second conveying channels 13 forms a first channel group, and each of the third conveying channels 14 forms a second channel group. The first channel group and the second channel group are symmetrically arranged with the axis of the first conveying channel 12 as the line of symmetry.
[0125] The second conveying channel 13 includes a first section 131 and a second section 132 that are smoothly connected. The length direction of the first section 131 is parallel to the length direction of the conveying member 1, and a portion of the second section 132 is an arc-shaped section.
[0126] The end of the second segment 132 that is away from the first segment 131 extends along the length direction of the conveyor 1.
[0127] In this embodiment, each conveying channel 11 is divided into a first conveying channel 12, a second conveying channel 13 and a third conveying channel 14.
[0128] Here, we take the first conveying channel 12, the second conveying channel 13, and the third conveying channel 14 as a single example: In the width direction of the conveying component 1, the second conveying channel 13 and the third conveying channel 14 are symmetrically distributed on both sides of the first conveying channel 12. The symmetrical layout is beneficial for processing the conveying component 1.
[0129] The length direction of the first conveying channel 12 is parallel to the length direction of the conveying component 1. In the second conveying channel 13, the length direction of the first segment 131 and the end of the second segment 132 away from the first segment 131 (which can be summarized as the two ends of the second conveying channel 13) both extend along the length direction of the conveying component 1, facilitating the insertion piece to enter and exit the conveying channel 11 in a predetermined posture. Here, the insertion piece is configured to have a first end and a second end along its own length direction. When assembling the insertion piece with the plastic tube, the first end or the second end is inserted into the plastic tube. Here, the insertion piece is configured to have a straight posture, that is, its length direction is parallel to a predetermined direction (such as the length direction of the plastic tube or the length direction of the conveying component 1). The insertion piece is in a straight posture when it is output from the vibrator 3. In this embodiment, the length direction of the first conveying channel 12 is configured so that the insertion piece can enter the conveying channel 11 in a straight posture and exit the conveying channel 11 in a straight posture. Therefore, in the subsequent transfer stage, it is not necessary to adjust the posture of the insertion piece, reducing the operation steps and improving the assembly success rate of the insertion piece and the plastic tube. If the insert is tilted close to the plastic tube, the assembly probability will decrease due to factors such as obstruction at the end of the plastic tube.
[0130] Generally, the conveyor 1 is located between the vibrator 3 and the plastic tube conveying device. The conveyor 1 is described as having a square structure. Ideally, the vibrator 3 outputs a straight-angled insert, which enters the conveying channel 11 in a straight position and then assembles with the plastic tube in a straight position. Based on this ideal situation, this embodiment restricts the structural direction of the first segment 131, etc., to ensure the insert assembles with the plastic tube in a straight position. It also allows the distance between the inserts to gradually increase in the conveying channel 11 so that the receiving groove 511 can receive the inserts in a staggered manner, and to ensure the flow speed of the inserts in the conveying channel 11.
[0131] In some embodiments, the number of the second conveying channel 13 and the third conveying channel 14 are different. Specifically, the second conveying channel 13 has one more channel than the third conveying channel 14. If this extra channel is ignored, the first channel group and the second channel group can be regarded as a symmetrical structure.
[0132] Referring to Figures 2-4, this embodiment also includes a misaligned receiving mechanism 5, comprising:
[0133] The receiving component 51 has a plurality of receiving grooves 511 evenly arranged along the width direction of the conveying component 1. The receiving grooves 511 are provided corresponding to the discharge port and the number is the same as the number of the receiving end 211.
[0134] The first driving member 52 is connected to the receiving member 51 and is used to drive the receiving member 51 to move at least along the width direction of the conveying member 1.
[0135] The insert moves out of the discharge port from the conveying channel 11 and into the receiving trough 511. After the insert enters the receiving trough 511, it is free from obstruction from the wall of the conveying channel 11 during the vertical movement of the pick-up head 21. The shape of the receiving trough 511 can be seen in the attached drawing, which has two openings, one of which faces the conveying channel 11 and the other faces upward.
[0136] To facilitate understanding, an example of a transfer process for inserts is provided below: There are two outlets and four receiving slots 511. Initially, the two outlets are aligned with two of the receiving slots 511. After the two inserts are transferred into these two receiving slots 511, the receiving component 51 is driven by the first driving component 52, so that the two outlets are aligned with the other two receiving slots 511. After the other two inserts are transferred into the two receiving slots 511 that take their place, the receiving component 51 is driven by the first driving component 52, so that the two outlets are not aligned with any of the receiving slots 511. Finally, the inserts are removed, and the previous process is repeated.
[0137] When the material is directly taken from the outlet using the material take-up head 21, it is impossible to prevent the insert from separating from the conveying channel 11 during the non-discharge stage; it can only control the transport process of the insert in the conveying channel 11. With the help of the staggered receiving mechanism 5, during the process of replacing the receiving insert in the receiving groove 511 and during the process of taking the insert out of the receiving groove 511 using the material take-up head 21, the separation of the insert from the conveying channel 11 can be prevented by the partition between the receiving grooves 511 (belonging to the receiving component 51).
[0138] With the help of the staggered receiving mechanism 5, the material picking frequency of the picking head 21 is reduced. Taking the fixing of ten inserts as an example, the picking head 21 used to pick up materials twice, fixing five inserts each time. Now the picking head 21 can fix ten inserts at once, improving the overall transfer progress of inserts.
[0139] The first driving member 52 can drive the receiving member 51 at least along the width direction of the conveyor 1, without limiting other driving directions. The first driving member 52 can be an existing driving device such as a cylinder.
[0140] In this embodiment, the receiving component 51 is arranged parallel to the adjacent surface of the conveying component 1, and the distance between the two adjacent surfaces is less than the size of the insert in the length direction of the conveying component 1.
[0141] The receiving component 51 and the conveying component 1 are described as two parallel square structures. At this time, one surface of the receiving component 51 faces the conveying component 1, and this surface is the adjacent surface described in this embodiment.
[0142] The receiving component 51 is arranged parallel to the adjacent surfaces of the conveying component 1, so that the inserts leaving the conveying channel 11 from any outlet are arranged parallel to each other after entering the receiving component 51, which can facilitate the subsequent transfer process of the inserts.
[0143] When there is a gap between the adjacent surfaces of the receiving component 51 and the conveying component 1, there is no friction when they move relative to each other, thus avoiding affecting the relative movement process and preventing wear. The gap between the two adjacent surfaces is smaller than the length of the insert in the conveying component 1, which prevents the insert from getting stuck between the two adjacent surfaces or falling to the ground after it leaves the conveying channel 11. Of course, the insert generally has inertia after leaving the conveying channel 11 and can continue to move. In some embodiments, the gap between the two adjacent surfaces can be set to be equal to or greater than the length of the insert in the conveying component 1 within a certain range. The specific references to adjacent surfaces in this section are given in this embodiment, and those skilled in the art should understand them even if they are not explicitly stated.
[0144] Referring to Figures 5-7, this embodiment also includes a insert mounting mechanism 6, which is disposed on one side of the material handling mechanism 2. The insert mounting mechanism 6 includes:
[0145] Support base 61;
[0146] The receiving seat 62 is fixedly disposed on the support seat 61 and has a plurality of receiving grooves 621. The receiving grooves 621 are used to receive the inserts transferred by the picking head 21. The number of receiving grooves 621 is the same as the number of picking heads 21.
[0147] The press-in component 63 is configured in multiples and the number is the same as the number of receiving grooves 621. It includes a push head 631, a force adjustment spring 632 and a force sensor 633 connected in sequence. The push head 631 corresponds to the receiving groove 621.
[0148] The sliding seat 64 is connected to each of the force sensors 633 and slidably connected to the support seat 61;
[0149] The second driving component 65 is connected to the support base 61 and the sliding base 64.
[0150] Taking the insert mounting mechanism 6 as an example, the position of the insert mounting mechanism 6 can be summarized as being located on the side of the material taking mechanism 2. The positions of other mechanisms can be referred to the description and the attached diagram.
[0151] The receiving groove 621 is set to correspond to the material taking head 21. Its position distribution can be seen from the position distribution of the material taking head 21. Even if it is not explicitly stated, those skilled in the art should understand it.
[0152] It should be noted that the support structure is a conventional setting. This embodiment directly points out the support base 61 as the support structure. The support base 61 can be a composite structure, that is, the support base 61 itself can include several support structures to support the receiving base 62, the second driving member 65 and other structures respectively. No specific limitations are made here.
[0153] The second driving component 65 can be any existing driving device such as a cylinder or electric slide to achieve the driving purpose. No specific restrictions are imposed here. The same applies to other driving devices in this application.
[0154] In the insert mounting mechanism 6, the driving source is the second driving component 65, but the actual contact structure with the insert is the pusher 631. Under the indirect action of the second driving component 65, the pusher 631 pushes the insert that has been transferred into the receiving groove 621 to assemble with the plastic tube.
[0155] When inserting the acupuncture needle, the pusher 631 pushes the needle. This process can lead to problems such as excessive force damaging the plastic tube and the needle being inserted too deeply, affecting its removal. Therefore, a force-adjusting spring 632 is used for regulation. Normally, the force-adjusting spring 632 does not deform. When the resistance experienced by the needle exceeds a set threshold, the force-adjusting spring 632 deforms to prevent the needle from penetrating further into the plastic tube. A force sensor 633 is used to detect the force applied to the force-adjusting spring 632.
[0156] Each force adjustment spring 632 is independently controlled, so that the insertion process of each insert is independent of each other.
[0157] The force adjustment spring 632 can be a compression spring or the like, as long as the above requirements are met. The force sensor 633 is an existing sensor and will not be described in detail here. In some embodiments, the force sensor 633 can be removed.
[0158] Referring to Figures 5-7, in this embodiment, the insert mounting mechanism 6 further includes:
[0159] The movable seat 66 is connected to each of the force sensors 633 and slidably connected to the sliding seat 64;
[0160] The third driving component 67 is connected to the movable base 66;
[0161] The collection component 68, connected to the receiving seat 62, is used to collect unassembled inserts.
[0162] The third driving component 67 can be an existing driving device, as long as it meets the requirement of moving the insert by driving the moving seat 66, and no specific restrictions are imposed here.
[0163] In this embodiment, a movable seat 66 is used as an intermediate structure between the force sensor 633 and the sliding seat 64, so that the force sensor 633 can move relative to the sliding seat 64. At this time, the sliding seat 64 is connected to each force sensor 633 through the movable seat 66.
[0164] Considering the difficulty of inserting the insert into the plastic tube, there may be some inserts that are not inserted into the plastic tube. These inserts will affect the continuous assembly process of the subsequent inserts. Therefore, these inserts need to be transferred to the collection component 68 in time. This process is called the second push process of the insert. During the initial push process of the insert, the third driving component 67 can cooperate with the second driving component 65 to drive it.
[0165] During the secondary push-out process of the insert, the third driving component 67 replaces the second driving component 65. The third driving component 67 drives each force sensor 633 through the moving base 66, and the subsequent process is the same as described above.
[0166] It should be noted that, in order to avoid damage to the plastic tube during the insertion of the insert, the driving distance of the second driving component 65 is limited. If the second driving component 65 is used to complete the second push-back process of the insert, it is difficult to ensure that each uninstalled insert enters the collecting component 68. By using the third driving component 67, the driving distance of the third driving component 67 can be flexibly adjusted to ensure that each uninstalled insert enters the collecting component 68, thereby ensuring the continuous assembly of subsequent inserts.
[0167] It should also be noted that the insert mounting mechanism 6 may include multiple electric slides and other driving devices to enable the receiving groove 621 to move on the x-axis, y-axis and z-axis. In addition, an adsorption device may be provided at the receiving groove 621 to increase the stability of the insert during the non-transfer stage.
[0168] In some embodiments, the collection component 68 is configured as a storage box.
[0169] Referring to Figures 8 and 9, this embodiment also includes a receiving mechanism 7, which comprises:
[0170] Fourth drive component 71;
[0171] The material handling component 72 (designated as the second material handling component) is connected to the fourth drive component 71 and includes at least two sets of material handling parts 721 distributed along the width direction of the material handling component 72. Each set of material handling parts 721 includes multiple material handling parts 721 distributed in parallel along the length direction of the material handling component 72.
[0172] In the width direction of the material taking member 72, the projected portions of any two material taking parts 721 are arranged to overlap or separate.
[0173] The fourth driving component 71 is a driving device, which can be a single or combined driving device such as an existing cylinder or electric slide. Its purpose is to transfer the qualified products after the material picker 72 has fixed them. As long as this requirement is met, no specific restrictions are made here. The position of the fourth driving component 71 is also not specifically restricted here.
[0174] The material handling method of the material handling unit 721 is not specifically limited here. It can use electric or pneumatic grippers to clamp and handle the material, or it can use existing adsorption devices to perform vacuum adsorption and material handling.
[0175] Taking the material picking component 72, which includes two sets of material picking parts 721, as an example: each material picking part 721 in the two sets of material picking parts 721 is staggered in the width direction of the material picking component 72 (the projections can partially overlap), so as to avoid the inability to achieve the predetermined material picking quantity due to the large size of the material picking part 721.
[0176] To further clarify, here is an additional explanation: If a material picking area is set up and there are ten qualified products spaced apart along the length of the material picking unit 72 within the material picking area, and if the material picking unit 721 is arranged in parallel along the length of the material picking unit 72, only five can be placed. By using a staggered placement method, the material picking work of ten qualified products can be completed simultaneously without expanding the material picking area.
[0177] The material handling component 72 includes at least two sets of material handling parts 721 distributed along the width direction of the material handling component 72. Each set of material handling parts 721 includes multiple material handling parts 721 distributed in parallel along the length direction of the material handling component 72. Here, the width direction and the length direction can be interchanged.
[0178] In some embodiments, each picking part 721 can move along the width and length directions of the picking member 72. On the one hand, this allows the picking part 721 to put qualified products into the storage member 74. On the other hand, it makes it easier to fill the storage member 74 with qualified products, thereby improving the utilization rate of the internal space of the storage member 74.
[0179] Referring to Figures 8 and 9, in this embodiment, the receiving mechanism 7 further includes:
[0180] The support platform 73 has a downwardly inclined support surface;
[0181] The storage component 74 is movably disposed on the support surface, and multiple storage components 74 are provided, with each storage component 74 being spaced apart along the length direction of the support surface.
[0182] The limiting member 75 is movably disposed on the support platform 73 and is provided corresponding to the storage member 74.
[0183] In some embodiments, the support platform 73 is arranged parallel to the conveyor 1 in the width direction.
[0184] To facilitate understanding, the working process of the structure involved in this embodiment is illustrated by an example: Three storage components 74 are stably arranged at intervals on the support surface under the action of the limiting component 75. Initially, one storage component 74 is in the storage area, and the other two storage components 74 are located above the storage area. After the storage component 74 in the storage area has finished storage, the limiting component 75 moves downward to release the limitation on each storage component 74. After each storage component 74 has moved a certain distance, the limiting component 75 resets, so that the subsequent replacement storage component 74 stays in the storage area.
[0185] The support surface is tilted downwards, so that the storage component 74 can take over the storage area under the action of gravity to complete the storage of qualified products, reducing manual operation and improving the efficiency of the storage component 74 in taking over the use.
[0186] The limiting component 75 ensures that the storage component 74 can be stably positioned in the storage area. Furthermore, during the replacement phase of the storage component 74, the limiting component 75 ensures that the storage component 74 can be precisely positioned in the storage area, further reducing manual operation and improving the efficiency of the replacement of the storage component 74.
[0187] In some embodiments, the limiting member 75 includes a cylinder and a plurality of limiting plates. The cylinder drives each limiting plate to move vertically. Each limiting plate passes through the support platform 73 and is provided corresponding to each storage member 74.
[0188] In some embodiments, the storage component 74 is configured as a storage box, and the storage component 74 and the support platform 73 can be detached.
[0189] The above embodiments are only for illustrating the technical concept and features of this utility model, and are intended to enable those skilled in the art to understand the content of this utility model and implement it accordingly. They should not be construed as limiting the scope of protection of this utility model. All equivalent changes or modifications made in accordance with the spirit and essence of this utility model should be included within the scope of protection of this utility model.
Claims
1. A insert feeding mechanism, characterized in that: include: The conveying component (1) includes multiple conveying channels (11) arranged along the width direction of the conveying component (1); the material handling mechanism (2) includes a material handling component having multiple material handling heads (21), the material handling heads (21) being used to fix the inserts conveyed by the conveying channels (11); wherein each of the material handling heads (21) is evenly distributed in the width direction of the conveying component (1); each of the conveying channels (11) has an inlet (111) and an outlet, each of the inlets (111) and each of the outlets are evenly spaced along the width direction of the conveying component (1); the distance between two adjacent inlets (111) is less than the distance between two adjacent outlets; the material handling head (21) has a material handling end (211), the size of the material handling end (211) in the width direction of the conveying component (1) is less than or equal to the distance between two adjacent outlets.
2. The insert feeding mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that: Each of the conveying channels (11) forms a channel group, which includes a first conveying channel (12), at least one second conveying channel (13) and at least one third conveying channel (14); the length direction of the first conveying channel (12) is parallel to the length direction of the conveying component (1); each of the second conveying channels (13) forms a first channel group, and each of the third conveying channels (14) forms a second channel group. The first channel group and the second channel group are symmetrically arranged with the axis of the first conveying channel (12) as the line of symmetry; the second conveying channel (13) includes a first segment (131) and a second segment (132) that are smoothly connected. The length direction of the first segment (131) is parallel to the length direction of the conveying component (1), and part of the second segment (132) is an arc segment; the end of the second segment (132) away from the first segment (131) extends along the length direction of the conveying component (1).
3. The insert feeding mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that: It also includes a staggered receiving mechanism (5), which includes: a receiving member (51) having a plurality of receiving grooves (511) evenly arranged along the width direction of the conveyor (1), the receiving grooves (511) being provided corresponding to the discharge port and having the same number as the receiving end (211); and a first driving member (52) connected to the receiving member (51) for driving the receiving member (51) to move at least along the width direction of the conveyor (1).
4. The insert feeding mechanism according to claim 3, characterized in that: The receiving component (51) is arranged parallel to the adjacent surface of the conveying component (1), and the distance between the two adjacent surfaces is less than the size of the insert in the length direction of the conveying component (1).
5. A insert feeding mechanism according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that: It also includes a insert mounting mechanism (6) located on one side of the material handling mechanism (2). The insert mounting mechanism (6) includes: a support base (61); a receiving base (62) fixedly located on the support base (61) and having multiple receiving grooves (621) for receiving inserts transferred by the material handling head (21). The number of receiving grooves (621) is the same as the number of material handling heads (21); a pressing member (63) consisting of multiple members, the number of which is the same as the number of receiving grooves (621), including a pusher (631), a force adjustment spring (632), and a force sensor (633) connected in sequence. The pusher (631) corresponds to the receiving groove (621); a sliding base (64) connected to each of the force sensors (633) and slidably connected to the support base (61); and a second driving member (65) connected to the support base (61) and the sliding base (64).
6. The insert feeding mechanism according to claim 5, characterized in that: The insert mounting mechanism (6) further includes: a movable seat (66); a third driving member (67) connected to the movable seat (66); and a collecting member (68) connected to the receiving seat (62) for collecting unassembled inserts; wherein the sliding seat (64) is connected to each of the force sensors (633) through the movable seat (66), and the movable seat (66) is slidably disposed on the sliding seat (64).
7. A insert feeding mechanism according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that: It also includes a receiving mechanism (7) located on one side of the material receiving mechanism (2). The receiving mechanism (7) includes: a fourth driving member (71); a material receiving member (72) connected to the fourth driving member (71), including at least two sets of material receiving parts (721) distributed along the width direction of the material receiving member (72). Each set of material receiving parts (721) includes multiple material receiving parts (721) distributed in parallel along the length direction of the material receiving member (72). In the width direction of the material receiving member (72), the projected portions of any two material receiving parts (721) are overlapped or separated.
8. The insert feeding mechanism according to claim 7, characterized in that: The receiving mechanism (7) further includes: a support platform (73) having a downwardly inclined support surface; a receiving component (74) movably disposed on the support surface, and multiple receiving components (74) are provided, with each receiving component (74) spaced apart along the length direction of the support surface; and a limiting component (75) movably disposed on the support platform (73) and provided corresponding to the receiving component (74).