Reaction cup fishing mechanism and reaction cup automatic continuous loading device

Abstract

The utility model relates to the technical field of medical instruments, and discloses a reaction cup fishing mechanism and an automatic continuous reaction cup loading device, which comprise a first driving piece, a chain and a plurality of substrates arranged on the chain at intervals along the length direction of the chain, each base plate is provided with a picking block, and every two adjacent picking blocks and the corresponding base plate form a set of picking pieces. Or each substrate is provided with two pickup blocks, and the two pickup blocks and the corresponding substrate form a group of pickup pieces; the pick-up pieces comprise multiple groups of first pick-up pieces and multiple groups of second pick-up pieces, at least one group of second pick-up pieces is arranged between every two adjacent groups of first pick-up pieces, and the distance between two pick-up blocks of each first pick-up piece is larger than the flange diameter of one reaction cup and smaller than the sum of the cup body diameters of two reaction cups; and the distance between the two picking blocks of the second picking piece is smaller than the diameter of the cup body of one reaction cup. According to the utility model, only one reaction cup can be discharged to the conveying mechanism each time, so that the phenomenon of cup clamping is avoided.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of medical device technology, and in particular to a reaction cup retrieval mechanism and an automatic continuous loading device for reaction cups. Background Technology

[0002] In the field of medical devices, such as chemiluminescence automated instrumentation, a large number of reaction containers are required. Generally, a tilting loading method for these reaction containers significantly improves the user experience and reduces consumable costs. In related technologies, the loading device typically includes a hopper, a cup-scooping mechanism, a conveyor chute, and a buffer mechanism. The hopper holds a large number of reaction containers, which are then fed to the conveyor mechanism via the cup-scooping mechanism and output to the buffer mechanism. The buffer mechanism orderly buffers the reaction containers, which are then removed by the unloading mechanism.

[0003] In existing cup retrieval mechanisms, the gaps between the picking blocks are kept consistent. When the gaps between the picking blocks are large, two reaction containers may be accommodated between two picking blocks during the cup retrieval process. Alternatively, when the gaps between the picking blocks are small, one reaction container may be stored in each of the two accommodating gaps formed between three adjacent picking blocks. When the cup retrieval mechanism discharges materials, two reaction containers may fall into the conveying mechanism simultaneously or with a very short interval between them, which can easily lead to material jamming problems. This requires maintenance by staff and reduces work efficiency. Utility Model Content

[0004] One of the objectives of this utility model embodiment is to provide a reaction cup retrieval mechanism that can realize the feeding of only one reaction cup to the conveying mechanism at a time.

[0005] The second objective of this utility model embodiment is to provide an automatic continuous loading device for reaction cups, which can avoid the phenomenon of cup jamming.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention adopts the following technical solution:

[0007] A reaction cup retrieval mechanism is provided, comprising a first driving member, a chain, and a plurality of substrates spaced apart on the chain along the length direction of the chain;

[0008] Each of the substrates is equipped with a pickup block, and every two adjacent pickup blocks and the corresponding substrates form a pickup group; or, each of the substrates is equipped with two pickup blocks, and the two pickup blocks and the corresponding substrates form a pickup group.

[0009] The multiple sets of pickups are divided into several sets of first pickups and several sets of second pickups. At least one set of second pickups is provided between each two adjacent sets of first pickups. The distance between the two pickup blocks of the first pickup is greater than the flange diameter of one reaction cup and less than the sum of the cup diameters of the two reaction cups. The distance between the two pickup blocks of the second pickup is less than the cup diameter of one reaction cup.

[0010] As a further embodiment of the reaction cup retrieval mechanism, a set of second pick-up members is provided between every two adjacent sets of the first pick-up members.

[0011] As a further embodiment of the reaction cup retrieval mechanism, a gap is provided between two adjacent substrates, and a blocking mechanism is provided between the two adjacent substrates to prevent the reaction cup from getting stuck in the gap.

[0012] As a further embodiment of the reaction cup retrieval mechanism, along the chain conveying direction, two adjacent substrates are respectively a first substrate and a second substrate. The first substrate has a first protrusion on one side along the chain conveying direction and a first clearance notch on the other side. The second substrate has a second clearance notch on the side facing the first protrusion and a second protrusion on the other side. The first clearance notch and the second clearance notch are open on the side away from the chain. The first protrusion and the second clearance notch cooperate to form the blocking mechanism. The second protrusion cooperates with the first clearance notch of the other first substrate facing the second protrusion to form the blocking mechanism.

[0013] As a further embodiment of the reaction cup retrieval mechanism, each of the substrates is equipped with a pickup block. Two adjacent pickup blocks are respectively a first pickup block mounted on the first substrate and a second pickup block mounted on the second substrate. The first pickup block is perpendicular to the first substrate, and the second pickup block is perpendicular to the second substrate. The two ends of the second pickup block along its length direction are respectively adjacent to two opposite corners of the second substrate. When the first driving member drives the chain to move the pickup block through the corner of the chain, the center of gravity of the reaction cup is located on the second pickup block.

[0014] As a further embodiment of the reaction cup retrieval mechanism, the first driving component includes a first motor and a first output shaft that is drivenly connected to the first motor. The reaction cup retrieval mechanism also includes end plates, which are fixed on the frame. One end plate is installed at each end of the chain along the first output shaft. The length of the end plate extends along the conveying direction of the chain. The first motor is installed on one of the end plates on the side opposite to the chain. The first output shaft passes through one end plate, the chain, and the other end plate in sequence. The first output shaft is drivenly connected to the chain. The end plate is not lower than the picking member located on the upper side of the chain.

[0015] As a further embodiment of the reaction cup retrieval mechanism, the reaction cup retrieval mechanism has a correction position along the conveying direction of the chain, the correction position being located below and adjacent to the upper corner of the chain;

[0016] The reaction cup retrieval mechanism further includes a posture adjustment unit. The posture adjustment unit is located on the side of the first pick-up member in the correction position that is away from the chain in the horizontal direction and is spaced apart from the first pick-up member. The posture adjustment unit has a first limiting edge that is closest to the first pick-up member in the correction position, and the first pick-up member in the correction position has a second limiting edge that is closest to the first limiting edge. The distance between the first limiting edge and the second limiting edge is greater than the diameter of the reaction cup body and less than the diameter of the reaction cup flange. When the first pick-up member moves to the correction position and pauses, the flange of the reaction cup with abnormal posture is mounted on the first limiting edge and the second limiting edge and flips over to the cup mouth facing upward by its own gravity.

[0017] As a further embodiment of the reaction cup retrieval mechanism, the first limiting edge is directly opposite the second limiting edge in the horizontal direction, and the first limiting edge and the second limiting edge are inclined relative to the horizontal plane.

[0018] On the other hand, an automatic continuous loading device for reaction cups is provided, including a frame and a storage mechanism, a cup-retrieving mechanism, a conveying mechanism, and a buffer mechanism arranged sequentially on the frame along the conveying direction of the reaction cups; the cup-retrieving mechanism is the reaction cup retrieval mechanism, used to transfer the reaction cups in the storage mechanism to the picking member of the cup-retrieving mechanism, the cup-retrieving mechanism is used to convey the reaction cups to the conveying mechanism, and the buffer mechanism is connected to the discharge port of the conveying mechanism.

[0019] As a further embodiment of the automatic continuous loading device for reaction cups, the conveying mechanism includes a slide, a fixing component, and a correction component. The slide includes two spaced-apart and inclined limiting support plates. The inlet end of the slide is located directly below the picking member of the cup retrieval mechanism. The distance between the two limiting support plates is greater than the diameter of the reaction cup body and less than the diameter of the reaction cup flange. The outlet end of the slide is connected to the buffer mechanism. The correction component includes a second driving member and a correction part. The second driving member is mounted on the fixing component and is pulsatorically connected to the correction part. The correction part is located on the side of the fixing component facing the slide. The correction part is clearance-fitted with the reaction cup on the slide with its opening facing upward. When the reaction cup on the slide has its opening facing downward, the second driving member can drive the correction part to rotate, causing the reaction cup to rotate with its opening facing upward.

[0020] As a further embodiment of the automatic continuous loading device for reaction cups, the buffer mechanism has multiple buffer slots; the conveying mechanism includes a slide, a fixing assembly, a cover plate, and a return section. The slide includes two spaced and inclined limiting support plates. The fixing assembly includes two fixing plates, with one fixing plate fixed to the outer side of each of the two limiting support plates, and the upper end of the fixing plate being higher than the upper end of the limiting support plate. The cover plate is fixed to the upper end of the fixing plate. The return section has an inverted L-shaped structure, with one end connected to the side of the cover plate adjacent to the outlet end of the slide, and the other end extending vertically downward to the top of the side wall of the buffer slot opposite the slide.

[0021] Beneficial effects:

[0022] This invention, by rationally arranging the first and second pick-up components and adjusting the gap between the two pick-up blocks of the first and second pick-up components, increases the probability that the reaction cups from the storage mechanism will fall into the receiving gap between the two pick-up blocks of the first pick-up component. This increases the distance between two adjacent reaction cups on the cup-retrieval mechanism, preventing the reaction cups from falling onto two adjacent sets of pick-up components. When the second drive component drives the chain to move the first pick-up component and the reaction cups picked up by the first pick-up component to above the slide entrance of the conveying mechanism, only the reaction cups in the receiving gap of the first pick-up component fall into the slide of the conveying mechanism each time, avoiding the phenomenon of cup jamming at the slide entrance. Attached Figure Description

[0023] The present invention will now be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments.

[0024] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the reaction cup retrieval mechanism described in Embodiment 1 of this utility model;

[0025] Figure 2This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the automatic continuous loading device for reaction cups described in Embodiment 1 of this utility model. Figure 1 ;

[0026] Figure 3 for Figure 2 A magnified view of part A in the middle;

[0027] Figure 4 This is a partial structural diagram of the attitude adjustment mechanism described in Embodiment 1 of this utility model. Figure 1 ;

[0028] Figure 5 for Figure 4 Enlarged schematic diagram of part B in the middle;

[0029] Figure 6 This is a partial structural diagram of the attitude adjustment mechanism described in Embodiment 1 of this utility model. Figure 2 ;

[0030] Figure 7 for Figure 6 An enlarged schematic diagram of section C;

[0031] Figure 8 This is an exploded view of the structure of the automatic continuous loading device for reaction cups described in Embodiment 1 of this utility model;

[0032] Figure 9 for Figure 8 A magnified view of part D in the middle;

[0033] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the assembly structure of the conveying mechanism and the buffer mechanism described in Embodiment 1 of this utility model;

[0034] Figure 11 This is a top view schematic diagram of the automatic continuous loading device for reaction cups described in Embodiment 1 of this utility model;

[0035] Figure 12 for Figure 8 A magnified view of part E in the middle;

[0036] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the automatic continuous loading device for reaction cups described in Embodiment 1 of this utility model. Figure 2 ;

[0037] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of the assembly of the feeding pusher and the cup-scooping mechanism according to Embodiment 1 of this utility model. Figure 1 ;

[0038] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of the assembly of the feeding pusher and the cup-scooping mechanism according to Embodiment 1 of this utility model. Figure 2 ;

[0039] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the feeding pusher (excluding the second transmission assembly) according to Embodiment 1 of this utility model;

[0040] Figure 17 This is a side view of the feeding pusher (excluding the second transmission component) according to Embodiment 1 of this utility model.

[0041] In the picture:

[0042] 100. Rack;

[0043] 200. Storage mechanism; 210. Hopper; 211. Base plate; 2111. First base plate; 2112. Second base plate; 212. Side plate; 213. First sleeve; 214. Second sleeve; 220. Stirring plate; 221. Stirring plate body; 222. Protrusion; 230. Fourth driving component; 231. Mounting base; 232. Fourth motor; 233. Fourth optocoupler; 234. Sensing unit; 240. Fifth optocoupler; 250. Upper Material pushing component; 251, first push block; 2511, first inclined surface; 25111, first side; 25112, second side; 252, second push block; 2521, second inclined surface; 25211, third side; 25212, fourth side; 253, connecting block; 254, second transmission assembly; 2541, first transmission plate; 2542, second transmission plate; 25421, elongated hole; 2543, connecting shaft; 260, guide assembly;

[0044] 300. Cup retrieval mechanism; 310. First driving component; 320. Chain; 330. Picking component; 331. First picking block; 332. Second picking block; 3321. Second limiting edge; 333. First base plate; 334. Second base plate; 335. First protrusion; 336. First clearance notch; 337. Second clearance notch; 338. Second protrusion; 340. First drive shaft; 350. End plate; 360. Cup scraping assembly; 361. Fixing base; 362. Cup scraping ring; 370. Posture adjustment part; 3701. First limiting edge; 3702. Threaded connection hole; 380. First optocoupler; 390. First sensing disk; 3901. First sensing notch;

[0045] 400. Conveying mechanism; 410. Slide rail; 420. Fixing assembly; 430. Second driving component; 440. Correction unit; 450. Second optocoupler; 460. Cover plate; 470. Returning unit;

[0046] 500, Buffer mechanism; 510, Third driving component; 520, Fixed disk; 530, Turntable; 5301, Buffer slot; 540, First transmission assembly; 550, Second sensing disk; 5501, Second sensing notch; 560, Third optocoupler. Detailed Implementation

[0047] To make the technical problems solved by this utility model, the technical solutions adopted, and the technical effects achieved clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this utility model will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this utility model, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this utility model, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the protection scope of this utility model.

[0048] In the description of this utility model, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "connected," "linked," and "fixed" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this utility model based on the specific circumstances.

[0049] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can include direct contact between the first and second features, or contact between the first and second features through another feature between them. Furthermore, "above," "over," and "on top" of the second feature includes the first feature directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature includes the first feature directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0050] In the description of this embodiment, the terms "upper," "lower," "left," and "right," etc., refer to the orientation or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings. They are used solely for ease of description and simplification of operation, and do not indicate or imply that the device or component referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this utility model. Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," etc., are merely used for distinction in description and have no special meaning.

[0051] Example 1

[0052] like Figures 1 to 7As shown, the cup retrieval mechanism 300 includes a first driving member 310, a chain 320, and several base plates spaced apart along the length of the chain 320. Each base plate is equipped with a pickup block, and each pair of adjacent pickup blocks and the corresponding base plate constitute a pickup element 330. The multiple pickup elements 330 are divided into several groups of first pickup elements and several groups of second pickup elements. At least one group of second pickup elements is provided between each pair of adjacent groups of first pickup elements. The distance between the two pickup blocks of the first pickup element is greater than the flange diameter of one reaction cup and less than the sum of the cup diameters of the two reaction cups. The distance between the two pickup blocks of the second pickup element is less than the cup diameter of one reaction cup.

[0053] In this embodiment, each group of pickups 330 consists of two adjacent substrates and a pickup block mounted on the corresponding substrate, and two adjacent groups of pickups 330 consist of three substrates and three pickup blocks mounted on the corresponding substrate.

[0054] In this embodiment, the term "several groups" refers to at least two groups.

[0055] In a conventional cup retrieval mechanism, the distance between the two pick-up blocks of each set of pick-up components is equal. A reaction cup may fall into the accommodating gap of each set of pick-up components. When the pick-up component moves the reaction cup to the top of the slide entrance of the conveying mechanism, two reaction cups may fall into the slide of the conveying mechanism simultaneously or at short intervals, resulting in the accumulation of reaction cups and the phenomenon of cup jamming. Therefore, this embodiment adjusts the gap between the picking blocks of two adjacent sets of picking members 330 to reduce the probability of the reaction cup falling onto two adjacent sets of picking members 330 at the same time, ensuring that at least one set of picking members 330 picks up one reaction cup every interval. This increases the distance between two adjacent reaction cups on the cup retrieval mechanism 300. When the first driving member 310 drives the chain 320 to move a certain set of picking members 330 and the reaction cup picked up by that set of picking members 330 to above the entrance end of the slide 410 of the conveying mechanism 400, only the reaction cup in the receiving gap of that set of picking members 330, i.e. the first picking member, falls into the slide 410 of the conveying mechanism 400 each time, avoiding the phenomenon of cup jamming at the entrance of the slide 410.

[0056] Furthermore, a second pickup is provided between every two adjacent sets of first pickups. That is, the first and second pickups are arranged sequentially along the conveying direction of the chain 320. The reaction cup will only fall into the first pickup with the relatively larger receiving gap, while the second pickup is used to control the distance between the two sets of first pickups. This structural design ensures that the reaction cup only falls into the receiving gap of the first pickup, avoiding cup jamming at the inlet of the slide 410, while also improving cup loading efficiency.

[0057] Furthermore, a gap is provided between two adjacent substrates, and a blocking mechanism is provided between the two adjacent substrates to prevent the reaction cup from getting stuck in the gap. By providing a blocking mechanism between two adjacent substrates, the probability of the reaction cup getting stuck in the gap between the two substrates can be reduced.

[0058] For example, along the conveying direction of chain 320, two adjacent substrates are respectively a first substrate 333 and a second substrate 334, such as Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the first substrate 333 has a first protrusion 335 on one side of the conveyor along the chain 320 and a first clearance notch 336 on the other side. The second substrate 334 has a second clearance notch 337 corresponding to the first protrusion 335 on the side facing the first protrusion 335, and a second protrusion 338 on the other side of the second substrate 334. The first clearance notch 336 and the second clearance notch 337 are open on the side away from the chain 320. The first protrusion 335 and the second clearance notch 337 cooperate to form a blocking mechanism. The second protrusion 338 cooperates with the first clearance notch 336 of another first substrate 333 facing the second protrusion 338 to form a blocking mechanism.

[0059] During the movement of the first drive member 310 and the drive chain 320 to move the pickup member 330, the first protrusion 335 of the first substrate 333 along the conveying direction of its chain 320 extends at least partially into the second clearance notch 337 of the second substrate 334, while the second protrusion 338 of the second substrate 334 along its width direction extends at least partially into the first clearance notch 336 of the other first substrate 333 opposite the second protrusion 338. This makes the gap between the first substrate 333 and the second substrate 334 present a non-linear structure, reducing the probability of the reaction cup getting stuck in the gap between the first substrate 333 and the second substrate 334 and reducing reaction cup contamination.

[0060] Of course, the gap between the first substrate 333 and the second substrate 334 in this embodiment is not limited to a zigzag (similar to a lightning bolt) structure, but can also be a curved structure, for example, a blocking mechanism formed by the cooperation of a recessed arc-shaped notch and a protruding arc-shaped protrusion. The specific details will not be elaborated further.

[0061] Furthermore, a pickup block is installed on each substrate. Two adjacent pickup blocks are a first pickup block 331 installed on the first substrate 333 and a second pickup block 332 installed on the second substrate 334. The first pickup block 331 is perpendicular to the first substrate 333, and the second pickup block 332 is perpendicular to the second substrate 334. The two ends of the second pickup block 332 along its length direction are respectively adjacent to the two opposite corners of the second substrate 334. When the first driving member 310 drives the chain 320 to drive the pickup member 330 through the corner of the chain 320, the center of gravity of the reaction cup is located on the second pickup block 332.

[0062] In this embodiment, the two ends of the second pickup block 332 along its length direction are respectively adjacent to the two opposite corners of the second substrate 334, that is, the second pickup block 332 is inclined, so that the reaction cup with normal posture can fall into the slide 410 of the conveying mechanism 400 along the second pickup block 332.

[0063] Furthermore, the first driving component 310 includes a first motor and a first output shaft that is drivenly connected to the first motor. The cup retrieval mechanism 300 also includes end plates 350. Two end plates 350 are fixed on the frame 100. An end plate 350 is installed on each end of the chain 320 along the two ends of the first output shaft. The length of the end plate 350 extends along the conveying direction of the chain 320. The end plate 350 is fixed on the frame 100. The first motor is installed on one of the end plates 350 on the side away from the chain 320. The first output shaft passes through one end plate 350, the chain 320 and the other end plate 350 in sequence. The first output shaft is drivenly connected to the chain 320. The end plate 350 is not lower than the picking component 330 located on the upper side of the chain 320.

[0064] In this embodiment, by designing the height of the end plate 350 to be no lower than the pickup 330 located on the upper side of the chain 320, the reaction cup can be prevented from sliding off one end of the pickup 330 along its length direction during the movement of the first motor-driven chain 320 and the pickup 330.

[0065] Furthermore, such as Figure 1 As shown, the cup retrieval mechanism 300 of this embodiment also includes a cup scraping assembly 360, a chain 320 and an end plate 350 arranged at an angle. At least one end plate 350 is equipped with a cup scraping assembly 360 on its inner side. The cup scraping assembly 360 is at least partially suspended above the pickup member 330. There is a gap between the cup scraping assembly 360 and the upper end of the pickup member 330, and the gap is smaller than the diameter of a reaction cup.

[0066] In the storage mechanism 200, when the feeding pusher 250 pushes the reaction cup onto the pick-up member 330 located at the discharge port of the hopper 210 on the chain 320, some reaction cups can fall accurately into the receiving gap between the first pick-up block 331 and the second pick-up block 332 of the first pick-up member. Some reaction cups may be tilted on the upper end of the pick-up member 330 and cannot fall into the receiving gap between the first pick-up block 331 and the second pick-up block 332 of the first pick-up member. In view of this situation, this embodiment adds a scraper cup assembly 360, and makes the scraper cup assembly 360 at least partially suspended above the pick-up member 330 and gap-fitted with the upper end of the pick-up member 330, so as to prevent the scraper cup assembly 360 from hindering the chain 320 from driving the pick-up member 330 to move smoothly. When a reaction cup in a normal posture passes the scraper assembly 360, there is no contact between the reaction cup and the scraper assembly 360. When a reaction cup in an abnormal posture passes the scraper assembly 360, the scraper assembly 360 contacts the reaction cup, causing the reaction cup to roll back onto the pick-up piece 330 located at the loading position or into the hopper 210. This structural design can prevent reaction cups in abnormal posture from entering the conveyor mechanism 400 and hindering its normal operation.

[0067] For example, in this embodiment, there are three sets of scraper cup assemblies 360. The three sets of scraper cup assemblies 360 are arranged alternately and can push the abnormally oriented reaction cups from both sides onto the pick-up component 330 located at the loading position or into the hopper 210.

[0068] Furthermore, the scraper cup assembly 360 includes a fixing base 361 and a scraper cup ring 362. The scraper cup ring 362 is connected to the fixing base 361, which is fixed to the end plate 350. The opening of the scraper cup ring 362 faces the pickup member 330. In this embodiment, the scraper cup ring 362 is a circular ring structure, but it is not limited to this. In other embodiments, it can also be an elliptical ring or a rectangular ring structure. By designing it as a ring structure, it can flexibly scrape the reaction cup with an incorrect orientation back into the hopper 210.

[0069] In this embodiment, the cup retrieval mechanism 300 has a correction position along the conveying direction of the chain 320. The correction position is located below and adjacent to the upper corner of the chain 320. The cup retrieval mechanism 300 also includes a posture adjustment part 370, which is located on the side of the first pick-up member in the correction position that is horizontally away from the chain 320 and is spaced apart from the first pick-up member. The posture adjustment part 370 has a first limiting edge 3701 that is closest to the first pick-up member in the correction position, and the first pick-up member in the correction position has a second limiting edge 3321 that is closest to the first limiting edge 3701. The first limiting edge 3701 is parallel to the second limiting edge 3321, and the distance between the first limiting edge 3701 and the second limiting edge 3321 is greater than the diameter of the reaction cup body and less than the diameter of the reaction cup flange. When the first pickup moves to the correction position and pauses, the flange of the abnormally oriented reaction cup is mounted on the first limiting edge 3701 and the second limiting edge 3321 and flips over with its own gravity so that the cup mouth faces upward. When the first pickup continues to move, the distance between the first limiting edge 3701 and the second limiting edge 3321 is greater than the flange diameter of the reaction cup, and the reaction cup falls into the slide 410 with the cup mouth facing upward to achieve unloading.

[0070] For example, the attitude adjustment part 370 is mounted on the end plate 350.

[0071] In this embodiment, the cup retrieval mechanism 300 has a loading position and a correction position along its conveying direction. The loading position is not a specific position, but mainly refers to the position where the reaction cup falls into the first pick-up member 330, where the loading of the reaction cup is completed. The correction position refers to the position of the first pick-up member located below and near the corner of the chain 320. The attitude adjustment unit 370 is located on the side of the first pick-up member in the correction position that is away from the chain 320 in the horizontal direction. Specifically, for reaction cups with normal posture (mouth facing upwards), when the pick-up unit moves to the correction position and pauses, the reaction cup is positioned on the two limiting sides with its mouth facing upwards. For reaction cups with abnormal posture (mouth facing downwards), the posture adjustment unit 370 and the first pick-up unit at the corresponding correction position cooperate to adjust the posture of the reaction cup. When the first pick-up unit at the correction position continues to move, all reaction cups fall into the conveying mechanism 400 with their mouths facing upwards, so that the reaction cups in the conveying mechanism 400 slide into the next station with their mouths facing upwards, reducing the need for correction devices on the conveying mechanism 400.

[0072] For example, the second pickup block 332 of the first pickup has a second limiting edge 3321. When the first pickup moves to the correction position, the center of gravity of the reaction cup falls on the second pickup block 332 and slides off the edge of the second pickup block 332. The flange of the reaction cup is mounted on the first limiting edge 3701 and the second limiting edge 3321. The cup body of the reaction cup is located between the first limiting edge 3701 and the second limiting edge 3321. The reaction cup with abnormal posture will automatically flip to face upward by its own weight and the limiting effect of the first limiting edge 3701 and the second limiting edge 3321.

[0073] In existing technologies, the attitude adjustment of the reaction cup is usually achieved on a slide, for example, by extending the length of the slide itself. This method results in a long slide, affecting the overall footprint of the equipment. This solution, through the setting of the attitude adjustment unit 370, utilizes the cooperation between the first pickup and the attitude adjustment unit 370 to adjust the reaction cup, thereby reducing the length of the slide 410, thus reducing the instrument's footprint and improving space utilization.

[0074] Furthermore, the first limiting edge 3701 is directly opposite the second limiting edge 3321 in the horizontal direction, and the first limiting edge 3701 and the second limiting edge 3321 are inclined relative to the horizontal plane. By inclining the first limiting edge 3701 and the second limiting edge 3321 relative to the horizontal plane, when the pickup 330 is in the correction position, the reaction cup can better utilize gravity to slide down along the two inclined first limiting edges 3701 and second limiting edges 3321 to adjust its direction during the pause of the first drive member 310.

[0075] The first limiting edge 3701 is directly opposite the second limiting edge 3321 in the horizontal direction, which means that the first limiting edge 3701 and the second limiting edge 3321 are on the same plane. They can be set parallel or at an angle. As long as the distance between the first limiting edge 3701 and the second limiting edge 3321 (with the pickup 330 in the correction position) is greater than the diameter of the reaction cup body and less than the diameter of the reaction cup flange, the attitude adjustment of the reaction cup can be achieved.

[0076] Furthermore, such as Figures 2 to 7 As shown, the bottom end of the attitude adjustment part 370 has a first limiting edge 3701, and the top end of the attitude adjustment part 370 is inclined upward in a direction away from the pickup part 330.

[0077] In this embodiment, the attitude adjustment part 370 is tilted, that is, the lower end of the attitude adjustment part 370 is tilted downward toward the second pickup block 332 located in the correction position. When the first pickup enters the correction position, the flange of the reaction cup is locked above the two limiting edges, and the outer periphery of the flange contacts the upper surface of the attitude adjustment part 370 and the first pickup. While ensuring that the second pickup block 332 of the first pickup in the correction position remains parallel to the two limiting edges adjacent to the attitude adjustment part 370, controlling the pickup 330 and the attitude adjustment part 370 to maintain a suitable tilt angle can further improve the smoothness of the reaction cup attitude adjustment. Preferably, the second pickup block 332 of the first pickup in the correction position and the attitude adjustment part 370 are distributed at a V-shaped angle, and the angles between them and the horizontal plane directly below them are the same.

[0078] Furthermore, the attitude adjustment unit 370 is movable and adjustable and fixed by a locking member to adjust the distance between the first limiting edge 3701 and the second limiting edge 3321, thereby adapting to the attitude adjustment of reaction cups of different sizes.

[0079] like Figure 1 As shown, the cup-scooping mechanism 300 in this embodiment also includes bolts. The posture adjustment part 370 is provided with a threaded connection hole 3702 on the side facing the end plate 350. The end plate 350 is provided with an adjustment elongated hole on the side facing the posture adjustment part 370. The bolt passes through the adjustment elongated hole and screws into the threaded connection hole 3702. The length direction of the adjustment elongated hole is perpendicular to the tilt direction of the posture adjustment part 370.

[0080] Based on the tilt angle of the second pickup block 332 of the first pickup member in the correction position, the tilt angle of the posture adjustment part 370, and the size of the reaction cup, the distance between the two limiting edges adjacent to the posture adjustment part 370 and the second pickup block 332 can be adjusted so that the cup retrieval mechanism 300 of this embodiment can adapt to the posture adjustment of reaction cups of more sizes.

[0081] like Figure 8 and 9 As shown, the cup-scooping mechanism 300 of this embodiment also includes a first optocoupler 380 and a first sensing disk 390. A first drive shaft 340 is mounted on an end plate 350. The first sensing disk 390 and the first optocoupler 380 are fixed on the outside of one of the end plates 350. The first sensing disk 390 is fixedly connected to the first drive shaft 340. A plurality of first sensing notches 3901 are spaced apart on the outer periphery of the first sensing disk 390. The edge of the first sensing disk 390 extends to the sensing area of ​​the first optocoupler 380, and the first sensing disk 390 can be rotated so that one of the first sensing notches 3901 is located in the sensing area of ​​the first optocoupler 380.

[0082] When the first motor drive chain 320 drives the first transmission shaft 340 and the first induction disk 390 to rotate until one of the first induction notches 3901 of the first induction disk 390 is located in the induction area of ​​the first optocoupler 380, the pickup 330 carrying the reaction cup moves to the correction position. At this time, the first motor stops running. During this period, the reaction cup can be quickly adjusted to a state with the cup mouth facing upward by utilizing gravity and the blocking effect of the attitude adjustment part 370 and the second pickup block 332 of the first pickup. Then, the first motor starts again, driving the first pickup to continue moving. At this time, the distance between the second pickup block 332 of the first pickup and the two adjacent sides (first limiting side 3701 and second limiting side 3321) of the attitude adjustment part 370 gradually increases. When the distance increases to a value greater than the flange diameter of the reaction cup, the first motor stops running. At this time, the other first sensing notch 3901 of the first sensing disk 390 is located in the sensing area of ​​the first optocoupler 380, and the reaction cup falls into the slide 410 of the conveying mechanism 400 below it with the cup mouth facing upward. This cycle is repeated to correct and unload the reaction cups on each first pickup in turn.

[0083] Specifically, the outer periphery of the first sensing disk 390 is provided with five first sensing notches 3901 at intervals. Each pair of adjacent first sensing notches 3901 are distributed at a 72° angle, that is, the second motor pauses once every 72° rotation. The specific pause time can be set according to the actual situation.

[0084] like Figure 2 and Figure 8 As shown, this embodiment also provides an automatic continuous loading device for reaction cups, including a frame 100 and a storage mechanism 200, a cup-retrieving mechanism 300, a conveying mechanism 400, and a buffer mechanism 500 sequentially installed on the frame 100 along the conveying direction of the reaction cups; the cup-retrieving mechanism 300 is the reaction cup retrieval mechanism of the above embodiment 1, used to transfer the reaction cups in the storage mechanism 200 to the picking member 330 of the cup-retrieving mechanism 300, the cup-retrieving mechanism 300 is used to convey the reaction cups to the conveying mechanism 400, and the buffer mechanism 500 is connected to the discharge port of the conveying mechanism 400.

[0085] The reaction cup is stored in the storage mechanism 200 and falls from the outlet of the storage mechanism 200 into the loading position of the cup retrieval mechanism 300. Then it is conveyed to the conveying mechanism 400 via the chain 320 and then to the buffer mechanism 500.

[0086] like Figure 10As shown, the conveying mechanism 400 includes a slide 410, a fixing component 420, and a correction component. The slide 410 includes two spaced and inclined limiting support plates. The inlet end of the slide 410 is located directly below the picking member 330 of the cup retrieval mechanism 300. The distance between the two limiting support plates is greater than the diameter of the reaction cup body and less than the diameter of the reaction cup flange. The outlet end of the slide 410 is connected to the buffer mechanism 500. The correction component includes a second driving member 430 and a correction part 440. The second driving member 430 is mounted on the fixing component 420 and is connected to the correction part 440 in a transmission manner. The correction part 440 is located on the side of the fixing component 420 facing the slide 410. The correction part 440 is clearance-fitted with the reaction cup on the slide 410 with its opening facing upward. When the opening of the reaction cup on the slide 410 is downward, the second driving member 430 can drive the correction part 440 to rotate, so that the reaction cup rotates to have its opening facing upward.

[0087] When the reaction cup falls into the slide 410 with its mouth facing upward, the cup body is located between the two limiting support plates, and the flange of the reaction cup is mounted on the upper end of the two limiting support plates. The reaction cup slides down the slide 410 by its own gravity.

[0088] Specifically, the straightening section 440 includes a connecting column and several straightening plates arranged around the outer periphery of the connecting column. The straightening plates are located directly above the slide rail 410, and there are four straightening plates, which are distributed at a 90° angle to each other. The second driving component 430 includes a second motor and a second output shaft. The second motor is mounted on the side of the fixing assembly 420 away from the slide rail 410, and the second output shaft passes through the fixing assembly 420 and is connected to the second motor and the connecting column.

[0089] Furthermore, the conveying mechanism 400 also includes a second optocoupler 450, which is installed on the side of the fixing assembly 420 facing the slide rail 410. The second optocoupler 450 is located diagonally below the correction section 440 and is used to detect whether a reaction cup is retained in the corresponding area of ​​the slide rail 410. When a reaction cup is retained in the detection area of ​​the slide rail 410 corresponding to the second optocoupler 450, the first motor stops running, that is, the cup retrieval mechanism 300 stops feeding.

[0090] In some other embodiments, the buffer mechanism 500 in this embodiment has multiple buffer slots 5301, and the conveying mechanism 400 includes a slide 410, a fixing component 420, a cover plate 460, and a return part 470. The slide 410 includes two spaced and inclined limiting support plates. The fixing component 420 includes two fixing plates. One fixing plate is fixed to the outer side of each of the two limiting support plates, and the upper end of the fixing plate is higher than the upper end of the limiting support plate. The cover plate 460 is fixed to the upper end of the fixing plate, and the area from the inlet end of the slide 410 to the area below the correction part 440 and the outlet end of the slide 410 are exposed outside the cover plate 460. The return part 470 has an inverted L-shaped structure. One end of it is connected to the side of the cover plate 460 adjacent to the outlet end of the slide 410, and the other end extends vertically downward to the top of the side wall of the buffer slot 5301 opposite to the slide 410, that is, the top of the side wall of the buffer slot 5301 adjacent to the axis of the turntable 530.

[0091] Because the slide 410 is inclined, the reaction cup is in an inclined state when it slides out of the slide 410 and enters the buffer tank 5301 through the reaction cup inlet. After the reaction cup enters the buffer tank 5301, the side of the reaction cup contacts the return part 470 to achieve centering. In this embodiment, by setting the return part 470 at the outlet end of the slide 410, the reaction cup can be stored in the buffer tank 5301 in a vertical position, avoiding the cup jamming phenomenon during the rotation of the turntable 530.

[0092] For example, the buffer mechanism 500 includes a third drive member 510 fixed on the frame 100, a fixed disk 520, a turntable 530 and a first transmission assembly 540. The turntable 530 has a plurality of buffer slots 5301 spaced around its outer periphery. The upper end of the buffer slot 5301 and the side facing the fixed disk 520 are open structures. The fixed disk 520 has a mounting slot and a reaction cup inlet communicating with the mounting slot. The reaction cup inlet is connected to the outlet end (lower end) of the slide 410. The turntable 530 is installed in the mounting slot.

[0093] The third driving component 510 includes a third motor and a third output shaft. The first transmission component 540 includes a driving wheel, a driven wheel, a transmission belt, and a second transmission shaft. The third motor is connected to the third output shaft. The driving wheel is fixed on the outer circumference of the third output shaft and is connected to the driven wheel via the transmission belt. The driven wheel is fixed on the outer circumference of the second transmission shaft. The second transmission shaft is fixedly connected to the turntable 530. The third motor can drive the turntable 530 to rotate intermittently. Even after the buffer slot 5301 is directly in front of the reaction cup inlet, it stops and waits for the reaction cup in the slide 410 to slide into the buffer slot 5301 that is connected to the reaction cup inlet before rotating a certain angle so that the next buffer slot 5301 is connected to the reaction cup inlet.

[0094] Furthermore, the buffer mechanism 500 also includes a second sensing disk 550 and a third optocoupler 560. The second sensing disk 550 is installed below the passive wheel and fixedly connected to the passive wheel. The passive wheel can drive the second sensing disk 550 to rotate synchronously. The third optocoupler 560 is installed on the frame 100 and adjacent to the second sensing disk 550. The edge of the second sensing disk 550 extends to the sensing area of ​​the third optocoupler 560. The outer periphery of the second sensing disk 550 is provided with multiple second sensing notches 5501 at intervals. The number of second sensing notches 5501 corresponds to the number of buffer slots 5301. The third motor pauses once each time it drives the active wheel to rotate the passive wheel and the second sensing disk 550 until a second sensing notch 5501 is located in the sensing area of ​​the third optocoupler 560. At this time, the reaction cup inlet is facing one of the buffer slots 5301. After the reaction cup enters the buffer slot 5301 through the slide 410, the third motor continues to start. This cycle continues until all the buffer slots 5301 contain reaction cups. The pause time of the third motor is set according to the time it takes for the reaction cup to enter the buffer tank 5301 from the reaction cup inlet.

[0095] like Figure 11 and Figure 12 As shown, the reaction cup storage mechanism 200 includes a hopper 210, a stirring plate 220, and a fourth driving component 230. The hopper 210 is mounted on the frame 100 and is used to store reaction cups. The stirring plate 220 is mounted inside the hopper 210. The fourth driving component 230 is mounted outside the hopper 210 and is connected to the stirring plate 220 for transmission. The fourth driving component 230 can drive the stirring plate 220 to rotate. The hopper 210 has an inlet and an outlet.

[0096] In this embodiment, the hopper 210 is used to store reaction cups. The stirring plate 220 is installed inside the hopper 210 and is driven to rotate by the fourth driving component 230. This stirs the reaction cups stored in the hopper 210, keeping them in an active state and preventing them from accumulating and becoming "dead cups." When the reaction cups in the hopper 210 are in an active state, it is beneficial for better feeding of the reaction cups and improves feeding efficiency.

[0097] like Figure 11 As shown, the hopper 210 includes a bottom plate 211 and side plates 212 surrounding the outer periphery of the bottom plate 211. The agitator 220 includes an agitator body 221 and a plurality of protrusions 222. The protrusions 222 are located on the upper surface of the agitator body 221. The agitator body 221 is mounted on the bottom plate 211 and is connected to the fourth drive member 230 for transmission. The bottom plate 211 and / or the side plates 212 are provided with discharge ports.

[0098] In this embodiment, the stirring plate body 221 is mounted on the base plate 211, and multiple protrusions 222 are provided on the upper surface of the stirring plate body 221. During the rotation of the stirring plate 220 driven by the fourth driving member 230, the protrusions 222 directly or indirectly collide with the reaction cup, thereby stirring the reaction cup.

[0099] Furthermore, the stirring plate body 221 is circular, one end of the protrusion 222 extends along its length to the axis of the stirring plate body 221, and the other end of the protrusion 222 extends along its length to the edge of the stirring plate body 221, with adjacent protrusions 222 arranged at an angle.

[0100] It is understandable that the protrusion 222 extends from the edge of the circular stirring plate body 221 to its axis. During the rotation of the stirring plate 220, the protrusion 222 can stir the reaction cup above the stirring plate body 221 as much as possible, thereby improving the stirring effect of the reaction cup.

[0101] For example, the included angle between two adjacent protrusions 222 is equal, and the protrusions 222 adopt a trapezoidal structure design that is narrower at the top and wider at the bottom, which can improve the uniformity of stirring of the reaction cup in the hopper 210. For example, there are four protrusions 222, and the included angle between two adjacent protrusions 222 is 90°.

[0102] Of course, the protrusion 222 in this embodiment is not limited to a straight strip structure, but can also be a curved structure, which can also play a good stirring effect on the reaction cup. The specific details will not be elaborated further.

[0103] like Figure 12As shown, the fourth driving component 230 includes a mounting base 231, a fourth motor 232, a fourth output shaft, a fourth optocoupler 233, and a sensing unit 234. The base plate 211 has a mounting hole, and the stirring plate body 221 is located in the mounting hole. The mounting base 231 is fixed to the bottom of the base plate 211. The fourth motor 232 is mounted on the bottom of the mounting base 231 and is connected to the fourth output shaft. The fourth output shaft passes through the mounting base 231 and is fixedly connected to the bottom of the stirring plate body 221. The fourth motor 232 can drive the fourth output shaft to rotate the stirring plate body 221. The fourth optocoupler 233 is mounted on the side of the mounting base 231 facing the stirring plate body 221, and the sensing unit 234 is mounted on the side of the stirring plate body 221 facing the mounting base 231. The stirring plate body 221 can drive the sensing unit 234 to selectively rotate to the sensing area of ​​the fourth optocoupler 233. In this embodiment, the stirring plate body 221 is installed in the mounting hole, and the upper surface of the stirring plate body 221 is flush with the upper surface of the base plate 211. By installing the sensing part 234 on the back of the stirring plate body 221 and installing the fourth optocoupler 233 on the side of the mounting base 231 for installing the fourth motor 232 facing the stirring plate body 221, the sensing part 234 will block the signal reception of the fourth optocoupler 233 once for each rotation of the stirring plate body 221. By detecting the number of times the signal reception is blocked, the number of rotations of the stirring plate body 221 during intermittent rotation can be controlled.

[0104] Furthermore, the base plate 211 includes an inclined first base plate 2111 and an inclined second base plate 2112. The first base plate 2111 and the second base plate 2112 are connected at an angle of less than 180°. One side of the second base plate 2112 protrudes from the first base plate 2111, making the base plate 211 have an L-shaped structure. The side of the second base plate 2112 protruding from the first base plate 2111 has a discharge port. The stirring plate 220 is installed on the first base plate 2111 adjacent to the second base plate 2112. The fourth motor 232 is installed at the bottom of the first base plate 2111.

[0105] This embodiment features a special structural design for the base plate 211, which can accommodate more reaction cups compared to conventional silo structures. Furthermore, within the same volume, the silo 210 in this embodiment is lower in height, making it easier for operators to add reaction cups. By installing the stirring plate 220 on the first base plate 2111, the reaction cups agitated by the stirring plate 220 fall onto the second base plate 2112 and are discharged to the next workstation through the outlet on the second base plate 2112.

[0106] The term "the second base plate 2112 protruding from one side of the first base plate 2111" refers to the adjacent side of the first base plate 2111 and the second base plate 2112 that are connected.

[0107] like Figure 13As shown, the storage mechanism 200 also includes a fifth optocoupler 240, which is mounted on a side plate 212 corresponding to the second base plate 2112. When the fifth optocoupler 240 does not detect the reaction cup, it triggers the fourth motor 232 to drive the stirring plate 220 to work, stirring the reaction cup in the hopper 210, causing the reaction cup to move towards the discharge port under the action of the stirring plate 220.

[0108] Furthermore, the angle between the upper surface of the first base plate 2111 and the horizontal plane is ≥10°, and the angle between the upper surface of the second base plate 2112 and the horizontal plane is ≥10°. This angle design, combined with the function of the stirring plate 220, allows the reaction cup at the distal end to slide smoothly.

[0109] Furthermore, the area of ​​the first base plate 2111 is larger than the area of ​​the second base plate 2112, the height of the second base plate 2112 protruding from the first base plate 2111 is lower than the height of the lowest side of the first base plate 2111, and the lowest side of the second base plate 2112 is provided with a discharge port.

[0110] When the reaction cups accumulate at the junction of the first base plate 2111 and the second base plate 2112, the stirring action of the stirring plate 220 can cause the reaction cups to move toward the discharge port opened at the lowest point, namely the lowest side of the second base plate 2112.

[0111] Furthermore, the reaction cup storage mechanism 200 in this embodiment also includes a feeding pusher 250, such as... Figure 14 and Figure 15 As shown, the feeding pusher 250 includes a first pusher 251 and a second pusher 252. The first motor of the first drive member 310 can drive the first pusher 251 and the first pusher 252 to reciprocate within the hopper 210. The first pusher 251 is used to push the reaction cups adjacent to the first pusher 251 within the hopper 210 toward the second pusher 252. The second pusher 252 is used to push the reaction cups adjacent to the second pusher 252 within the hopper 210 toward the discharge port.

[0112] Compared to existing designs, the feeding pusher 250 in this embodiment has two push blocks. The first push block 251 not only pushes the reaction cup towards the second push block 252, but also agitates the reaction cup in the hopper 210, increasing the frequency of movement of the reaction cup within the hopper 210 and thus moving it to the discharge port more effectively. With the assistance of the first push block 251, the second push block 252 more easily pushes reaction cups at the far end or corner of the hopper 210 to the discharge port. Furthermore, both push blocks are controlled by a first motor, achieving higher cup feeding efficiency without increasing power costs.

[0113] In this embodiment, the reaction cups adjacent to the first pusher 251 include reaction cups located around the first pusher 251 and reaction cups located above the first pusher 251, encompassing the entire area accessible by the first pusher 251. The reaction cups adjacent to the second pusher 252 include reaction cups located around the second pusher 252 and reaction cups located above the second pusher 252, encompassing the entire area accessible by the second pusher 252.

[0114] Furthermore, the fifth optocoupler 240 is mounted on the side plate 212 and adjacent to the first pusher block 251 to detect whether there are reaction cups near the first pusher block 251. When there are no reaction cups near the first pusher block 251, the first pusher block 251 is in a state of emptying. To avoid the first pusher block 251 doing useless work, when the fifth optocoupler 240 detects that there are no reaction cups near the first pusher block 251, it triggers the fourth motor 232 to drive the stirring plate 220 to rotate, so that at least some of the reaction cups in the hopper 210 move to the vicinity of the first pusher block 251, avoiding continuous operation of the fourth motor 232 and reducing energy consumption.

[0115] Next, taking the synchronous operation of the first push block 251 and the second push block 252 driven by the first motor as an example, the feeding pusher 250 of this embodiment will be described in detail.

[0116] Furthermore, the bottom plate 211 of the hopper 210 is provided with a first clearance hole and a second clearance hole spaced apart. The first pusher 251 passes through the first clearance hole, and the second pusher 252 passes through the second clearance hole. The first motor can drive the first pusher 251 and the second pusher 252 along their respective length directions (e.g., ...). Figure 16 The first push block 251 and the second push block 252 move back and forth in the direction indicated by the straight arrows. The upper surface of the first push block 251 is a first inclined surface 2511 that slopes downward toward the second push block 252, and the upper surface of the second push block 252 is a second inclined surface 2521 that slopes downward toward the discharge port.

[0117] When the first motor drives the first pusher block 251 to move upward along its length, the reaction cup falling above the first pusher block 251 slides to the second pusher block 252 under the guidance of the first inclined surface 2511. When the second pusher block 252 moves upward along its length, the reaction cup falling above it slides to the discharge port under the guidance of the second inclined surface 2521. By tilting the top surfaces of the two pushers and coordinating with the specific tilting direction of the two inclined surfaces, the reaction cup can slide onto the cup-collecting mechanism 300 faster and more accurately, achieving smooth discharge.

[0118] Optionally, such as Figure 16 and Figure 17As shown, the first inclined surface 2511 has two parallel first sides 25111 and two parallel second sides 25112, wherein one first side 25111 is adjacent to the second push block 252 and lower than the other first side 25111, and one second side 25112 is adjacent to the wall of the hopper 210 and lower than the other second side 25112; the second inclined surface 2521 has two parallel third sides 25211 and two parallel fourth sides 25212, wherein one third side 25211 is adjacent to the first push block 251 and lower than the other third side 25211, and one fourth side 25212 is adjacent to the discharge port and lower than the other fourth side 25212. In this embodiment, the cup-retrieving mechanism 300 includes a chain 320 and a plurality of picking elements 330 spaced apart along the length of the chain 320. After being pushed to the discharge port by the second pusher 252, the reaction cup slides onto the picking part 330 of the cup retrieval mechanism 300, thus successfully completing the feeding of the reaction cup.

[0119] By controlling the inclination of the first inclined plane 2511 and the second inclined plane 2521, the reaction cup located above the first inclined plane 2511 can quickly slide across the first inclined plane 2511 to the vicinity of the second inclined plane 2521. When the second pusher block 252 descends, the reaction cup between the first pusher block 251 and the second pusher block 252 slides onto the second inclined plane 2521. When the second pusher block 252 rises, the reaction cup above the second inclined plane 2521 quickly slides to the discharge port, further improving the loading efficiency of the reaction cup and preventing the reaction cup from accumulating at the discharge port. Since the fourth side 25212 of the second inclined plane 2521 is parallel to the length direction of the pickup member 330 on the chain 320, when the reaction cup slides down the second inclined plane 2521 to the discharge port, the probability of the reaction cup falling into the pickup gap of the pickup member 330 can be increased, thereby improving the loading efficiency of the reaction cup.

[0120] In this embodiment, the first push block 251 and the second push block 252 are inclined and parallel to each other. The first push block 251 and the second push block 252 are parallel to the chain 320 in the cup retrieval mechanism 300 along their length direction. The gap between the second push block 252 and a pickup 330 adjacent to the second push block 252 is smaller than the diameter of the reaction cup. When the second push block 252 moves into the hopper 210, it is parallel to the chain 320. The gap between the second push block 252 and the pickup 330 on the chain 320 is smaller than the diameter of the reaction cup, thereby preventing cup jamming.

[0121] The distance between the first pusher block 251 and the second pusher block 252 is less than the length of the reaction cup. By controlling the distance between the first pusher block 251 and the second pusher block 252 within this range, and in conjunction with the tilting setting of the two pushers, the reaction cup can be prevented from getting stuck between the first pusher block 251 and the second pusher block 252.

[0122] Furthermore, the discharge port is located on the bottom plate 211 and is connected to the second clearance hole. With this structural design, the reaction cup on the second inclined surface 2521 can slide directly into the discharge port from the second inclined surface 2521, further improving the feeding speed.

[0123] Furthermore, the feeding pusher 250 also includes a connecting block 253 and a second transmission assembly 254. The connecting block 253 is located below the base plate 211. The bottom of the first push block 251 is connected to the bottom of the second push block 252 through the connecting block 253. The connecting block 253 extends to the side of the second push block 252 that is away from the first push block 251. The first motor is fixed below the base plate 211 and connected to the connecting block 253 through the second transmission assembly 254.

[0124] Understandably, the bottoms of the first pusher block 251 and the second pusher block 252 are fixedly connected by a connecting block 253. The first motor is connected to the connecting block 253 via a second transmission assembly 254, thus enabling the first motor to drive the second transmission assembly 254 to move the first pusher block 251 and the second pusher block 252 synchronously up and down. When the first motor drives the first pusher block 251 and the second pusher block 252 to their lowest position, neither the first inclined surface 2511 nor the second inclined surface 2521 protrudes from the upper surface of the base plate 211. At this time, the reaction cup can move directly above the first inclined surface 2511, or even above the second inclined surface 2521. When the first motor drives the first pusher block 251 and the second pusher block 252 to their highest position, the reaction cup slides along the first inclined surface 2511 toward the second pusher block 252, and the reaction cup on the second inclined surface 2521 slides along the second inclined surface 2521 toward the discharge port.

[0125] Furthermore, such as Figure 13 and Figure 14 As shown, the second transmission assembly 254 includes a first transmission plate 2541, a second transmission plate 2542, and a connecting shaft 2543. The first motor is driven by the first output shaft, the first output shaft is fixedly connected to the first transmission plate 2541, the connecting shaft 2543 is parallel to the first output shaft and connected to the first transmission plate 2541, the second transmission plate 2542 has an elongated hole 25421, the length direction of the elongated hole 25421 is perpendicular to the axial direction of the second output shaft and the moving direction of the first push block 251, the connecting shaft 2543 passes through the elongated hole 25421, and the second transmission plate 2542 is fixedly connected to the connecting block 253.

[0126] When the first motor drives the first output shaft to rotate the first transmission plate 2541 around the axis of the first output shaft, the connecting shaft 2543 moves within the elongated hole 25421, simultaneously driving the second transmission plate 2542 to reciprocate. Figure 14 and Figure 15This enables the first pusher block 251 and the second pusher block 252 to reciprocate along their length.

[0127] The hopper 210 in this embodiment also includes a first sleeve 213 and a second sleeve 214 located at the bottom of the second base plate 2112. The first sleeve 213 is connected to the first clearance hole, and the second sleeve 214 is connected to the second clearance hole. The first push block 251 passes through the first sleeve 213, and the second push block 252 passes through the second sleeve 214. Through the limiting effect of the first sleeve 213 and the second sleeve 214, the reciprocating movement stability of the first push block 251 and the second push block 252 can be further improved.

[0128] Furthermore, the storage mechanism 200 also includes a guide assembly 260, which includes a slide rail and a slider. The slide rail extends along the length of the first push block 251, and the slider has a groove that slides in conjunction with the slide rail. The slide rail is mounted on the outside of the cup-scooping mechanism 300 or on another support, and the slider is fixed to the second transmission plate 2542. The first motor drives the feeding pusher 250 to move under the guidance of the guide assembly 260, which can further improve the movement stability of the first push block 251 and the second push block 252.

[0129] In this embodiment, the first push block 251, the second push block 252 and the connecting block 253 are integrally formed structures. Of course, they can also be assembled.

[0130] Example 2

[0131] The reaction cup retrieval mechanism and the automatic continuous loading device for reaction cups in this embodiment are basically the same as those in Embodiment 1 above. The difference lies in the structure of the picking member 330 of the reaction cup retrieval mechanism (not shown in the figure, but can be referred to in the figure of Embodiment 1, and the same component names are referred to by the same reference numerals).

[0132] In this embodiment, two pickup blocks are installed on each substrate. The two pickup blocks and the corresponding substrate constitute a pickup unit 330. That is, each substrate and the two pickup blocks installed on the substrate constitute a pickup unit 330.

[0133] Understandably, the multiple sets of pickups 330 are divided into several sets of first pickups and several sets of second pickups. At least one set of second pickups is provided between each pair of adjacent sets of first pickups. The distance between the two pickup blocks of a first pickup is greater than the flange diameter of one reaction cup but less than the sum of the cup diameters of two reaction cups. The distance between the two pickup blocks of a second pickup is less than the cup diameter of one reaction cup. The reaction cup can only fall onto the first pickup with a relatively large gap between the two pickup blocks. Because adjacent sets of first pickups are separated by at least one set of second pickups, the distance between the reaction cups on adjacent sets of first pickups can be increased, thereby increasing the interval time for the reaction cup to fall into the slide 410. Therefore, the structural design of the pickups 330 in this embodiment can also prevent cup jamming at the entrance of the slide 410.

[0134] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this application, and not to limit them. Although this application has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some or all of the technical features therein. These modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, and they should all be covered within the scope of the claims and specification of this application. In particular, as long as there is no structural conflict, the various technical features mentioned in the embodiments can be combined in any way. This application is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed herein, but includes all technical solutions falling within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A reaction cup retrieval mechanism, characterized in that, It includes a first drive unit, a chain, and a plurality of substrates spaced apart on the chain along the length direction of the chain; Each of the substrates is equipped with a pickup block, and every two adjacent pickup blocks and the corresponding substrates form a pickup group; or, each of the substrates is equipped with two pickup blocks, and the two pickup blocks and the corresponding substrates form a pickup group. The multiple sets of pickups are divided into several sets of first pickups and several sets of second pickups. At least one set of second pickups is provided between each two adjacent sets of first pickups. The distance between the two pickup blocks of the first pickup is greater than the flange diameter of one reaction cup and less than the sum of the cup diameters of the two reaction cups. The distance between the two pickup blocks of the second pickup is less than the cup diameter of one reaction cup.

2. The reaction cup retrieval mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that, A second pickup is provided between each pair of adjacent groups of the first pickup.

3. The reaction cup retrieval mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that, A gap exists between two adjacent substrates, and a blocking mechanism is provided between two adjacent substrates to prevent the reaction cup from getting stuck in the gap.

4. The reaction cup retrieval mechanism according to claim 3, characterized in that, Along the chain conveying direction, two adjacent substrates are a first substrate and a second substrate, respectively. The first substrate has a first protrusion on one side along the chain conveying direction and a first clearance notch on the other side. The second substrate has a second clearance notch on the side facing the first protrusion and a second protrusion on the other side. The first clearance notch and the second clearance notch are open on the side away from the chain. The first protrusion and the second clearance notch cooperate to form the blocking mechanism. The second protrusion cooperates with the first clearance notch of the other first substrate facing the second protrusion to form the blocking mechanism.

5. The reaction cup retrieval mechanism according to claim 4, characterized in that, Each of the substrates is equipped with a pickup block. Two adjacent pickup blocks are respectively a first pickup block mounted on the first substrate and a second pickup block mounted on the second substrate. The first pickup block is perpendicular to the first substrate, and the second pickup block is perpendicular to the second substrate. The two ends of the second pickup block along its length direction are respectively adjacent to two opposite corners of the second substrate. When the first drive unit drives the chain to move the pickup block through the corner of the chain, the center of gravity of the reaction cup is located on the second pickup block.

6. The reaction cup retrieval mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, The first driving component includes a first motor and a first output shaft that is drivenly connected to the first motor. The reaction cup retrieval mechanism also includes an end plate, which is fixed on the frame. The chain has an end plate installed at each end of the first output shaft. The length of the end plate extends along the conveying direction of the chain. The first motor is installed on one of the end plates on the side away from the chain. The first output shaft passes through one end plate, the chain, and the other end plate in sequence. The first output shaft is drivenly connected to the chain. The end plate is not lower than the pickup component located on the upper side of the chain.

7. The reaction cup retrieval mechanism according to claim 6, characterized in that, The reaction cup retrieval mechanism has a correction position along the conveying direction of the chain, and the correction position is located below and adjacent to the upper corner of the chain; The reaction cup retrieval mechanism further includes a posture adjustment unit. The posture adjustment unit is located on the side of the first pick-up member in the correction position that is away from the chain in the horizontal direction and is spaced apart from the first pick-up member. The posture adjustment unit has a first limiting edge that is closest to the first pick-up member in the correction position, and the first pick-up member in the correction position has a second limiting edge that is closest to the first limiting edge. The distance between the first limiting edge and the second limiting edge is greater than the diameter of the reaction cup body and less than the diameter of the reaction cup flange. When the first pick-up member moves to the correction position and pauses, the flange of the reaction cup with abnormal posture is mounted on the first limiting edge and the second limiting edge and flips over to the cup mouth facing upward by its own gravity.

8. The reaction cup retrieval mechanism according to claim 7, characterized in that, The first limiting edge is directly opposite the second limiting edge in the horizontal direction, and the first limiting edge and the second limiting edge are inclined relative to the horizontal plane.

9. An automatic continuous loading device for reaction cups, characterized in that, The device includes a frame and a storage mechanism, a cup-retrieving mechanism, a conveying mechanism, and a buffer mechanism arranged sequentially on the frame along the conveying direction of the reaction cups; the cup-retrieving mechanism is the reaction cup retrieval mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 8, used to transfer the reaction cups in the storage mechanism to the picking member of the cup-retrieving mechanism, the cup-retrieving mechanism is used to convey the reaction cups to the conveying mechanism, and the buffer mechanism is connected to the discharge port of the conveying mechanism.

10. The automatic continuous loading device for reaction cups according to claim 9, characterized in that, The conveying mechanism includes a slide, a fixing component, and a correction component. The slide includes two spaced-apart and inclined limiting support plates. The inlet end of the slide is located directly below the picking member of the cup-retrieval mechanism. The distance between the two limiting support plates is greater than the diameter of the reaction cup body and less than the flange diameter of the reaction cup. The outlet end of the slide is connected to the buffer mechanism. The correction component includes a second driving member and a correction part. The second driving member is mounted on the fixing component and is drivenly connected to the correction part. The correction part is located on the side of the fixing component facing the slide. The correction part is clearance-fitted with the reaction cup on the slide with its opening facing upward. When the reaction cup on the slide has its opening facing downward, the second driving member can drive the correction part to rotate, causing the reaction cup to rotate with its opening facing upward.

11. The automatic continuous loading device for reaction cups according to claim 9, characterized in that, The buffer mechanism has multiple buffer slots; the conveying mechanism includes a slide, a fixing component, a cover plate, and a return section. The slide includes two spaced and inclined limiting support plates. The fixing component includes two fixing plates, with one fixing plate fixed to the outer side of each of the two limiting support plates, and the upper end of the fixing plate being higher than the upper end of the limiting support plate. The cover plate is fixed to the upper end of the fixing plate. The return section has an inverted L-shaped structure, with one end connected to the side of the cover plate adjacent to the outlet end of the slide, and the other end extending vertically downward to the top of the side wall of the buffer slot opposite the slide.

Images