Smart feeding system and control method thereof

Abstract

A smart feeding system according to one aspect of the present invention includes a component supply unit to which components are supplied from an external source; a component receiving unit located below a portion of the component supply unit to receive components from the component supply unit and provide the received components to an external source, the component receiving unit including a storage conveyor extending in a longitudinal direction and supporting the components transferred from the component supply unit; and a stopper member dividing an internal space of the storage conveyor into a plurality of spaces along the longitudinal direction, wherein the components transferred from the component supply unit are positioned in one of the spaces and the components moved to another of the spaces along the longitudinal direction are provided to the external source, and the stopper member may be coupled to the storage conveyor to be movable up and down so as to fluidly connect or block one of the spaces and the other space.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a smart feeding system and a control method thereof, and more particularly to a smart feeding system and a control method thereof that can quickly and accurately sort and provide a plurality of different parts in an automated process. [Background technology]

[0002] As mass production and automation of products have become common, a method of continuously manufacturing a plurality of products rather than a single product has become common during the course of a process.

[0003]

[0003] Smart factories are one method for mass production and automation of products. Smart factories can be used to minimize human intervention and improve work speed and accuracy in processes such as product design, development, and manufacturing. In particular, smart factories can be used to manufacture industrial products with various configurations.

[0004]

[0004] Meanwhile, as we move away from the era of mass production of a small variety of products and into the era of small-lot production of a wide variety of products, there are an increasing number of cases in which multiple products manufactured in series have different specifications from each other. That is, products belonging to the same product group are manufactured using configurations with different specifications from each other and may be used in different environments from each other.

[0005] In order to continuously manufacture products with different specifications as described above, it may be possible to group a plurality of products by specification, manufacture a group of products with the same specification, and then manufacture another group of products with different specifications. However, in an actual manufacturing environment, it is very difficult to group products that all have the same specifications.

[0006]

[0006] Furthermore, even if similar products are grouped successfully, it is not desirable from the viewpoint of production efficiency to start producing products with different specifications after producing all products with the same specifications.

[0007]

[0007] Therefore, there is a need for a method for continuously and automatically providing products with different specifications.

[0008] Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2023-0058784 discloses an automobile smart factory system. Specifically, the automobile smart factory system is moved by an autonomous robot and can receive various components of the automobile from the autonomous robot.

[0009] However, the automobile smart factory disclosed in the above-mentioned prior art document is constructed with large-volume automobiles as final finished products. Therefore, the line along which the products must be supplied must also be huge. Therefore, a mobile autonomous robot is required to supply parts to the automobiles moving along the line.

[0010]

[0010] Japanese Patent Laid-Open Publication No. 2023-029563 discloses a tray component supplying device, specifically a tray component supplying device that can automatically replace a magazine that accommodates a plurality of trays.

[0011] However, the tray component supply device disclosed in the prior art document requires a separate shuttle mechanism for removing the tray. The prior art document also requires a separate structure for raising and lowering the shuttle mechanism. In other words, the prior art document does not provide a simple method for forming a structure for automatically replacing the magazine.

[0012]

[0012] Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2023-0058784 (May 3, 2023)

[0013] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2023-029563 (March 3, 2023) Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0013]

[0014] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made to solve the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a smart feeding system capable of continuously feeding parts and a control method thereof.

[0014]

[0015] Another object of the present invention is to provide a smart feeding system and a control method thereof that can easily change the parts to be fed.

[0015]

[0016] It is still another object of the present invention to provide a smart feeding system and a control method thereof that can simultaneously feed parts with different specifications.

[0016]

[0017] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a smart feeding system and a control method thereof that can accurately separate a plurality of parts.

[0017]

[0018] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a smart feeding system and a control method thereof that can easily and accurately adjust the amount of parts being fed.

[0018]

[0019] The objects of the present invention are not limited to those mentioned above, and other objects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains from the following description. [Means for solving the problem]

[0019]

[0020] According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a smart feeding system including: a component supply unit to which components are supplied from an external source; a component storage unit located below a portion of the component supply unit, to which components are transferred from the component supply unit and which is configured to provide the transferred components to an external source, the component storage unit including a storage conveyor extending in a longitudinal direction and supporting the components transferred from the component supply unit; and a stopper member dividing an internal space of the storage conveyor into a plurality of spaces along the longitudinal direction, wherein the components transferred from the component supply unit are located in one of the plurality of spaces, and the components moved to another of the plurality of spaces along the longitudinal direction are provided to the external source, and the stopper member is coupled to the storage conveyor in a vertically movably manner so as to fluidly connect or block one of the spaces and the other space.

[0020]

[0021] In this case, a smart feeding system can be provided in which the storage conveyor is configured to be movable to one side and the other side in the longitudinal direction, supports the parts, and includes a vibrating belt member that surrounds the internal space from below; and a partition conveyor partition that extends in the longitudinal direction and divides the internal space into a plurality of spaces along the width direction of the vibrating belt member.

[0021]

[0022] In addition, a smart feeding system may be provided in which a plurality of component supply units are provided, and the components supplied from some of the component supply units are transferred to one of the spaces partitioned by the partition conveyor partitions, and the components supplied from other of the component supply units are transferred to another of the spaces partitioned by the partition conveyor.

[0022]

[0023] In this case, a smart feeding system can be provided in which the storage conveyor includes a vibrating belt member configured to be movable to one side and the other side in the longitudinal direction, supporting the parts, and surrounding the internal space on the underside; and a conveyor partition wall extending in the longitudinal direction and surrounding the internal space in the width direction, and the stopper member is connected to the conveyor partition wall.

[0023]

[0024] In addition, a smart feeding system may be provided in which the stopper member includes a blocking frame fixedly connected to the conveyor partition and extending in the width direction; a blocking power unit connected to the blocking frame; and a blocking plate connected to the blocking power unit and dividing the internal space into a plurality of spaces, and the blocking power unit supports the blocking plate so that it can be raised and lowered.

[0024]

[0025] In this case, the breaking power device may be provided as a pneumatic cylinder including one part and another part movably connected to the one part, and the one part of the breaking power device may be connected to the breaking plate and the other part of the breaking power device may be connected to the breaking frame, thereby providing a smart feeding system.

[0025]

[0026] In addition, a smart feeding system may be provided in which a plurality of stopper members are provided, the stopper members are spaced apart from each other along the longitudinal direction, and the stopper members are configured to be able to move up and down independently of each other.

[0026]

[0027] In this case, a smart feeding system may be provided in which the stopper member includes a first stopper member located on one side in the longitudinal direction; and a second stopper member located on the other side in the longitudinal direction.

[0027]

[0028] In addition, a smart feeding system may be provided in which the storage conveyor includes: a blocking partition arranged along the longitudinal direction to face the second stopper member across the first stopper member; a collection space formed between the blocking partition and the first stopper member and having one side open in the height direction to store the parts; and a discharge space formed between the first stopper member and the second stopper member to store the parts to be discharged to the outside and removed.

[0028]

[0029] In this case, a smart feeding system can be provided in which the storage conveyor extends in the longitudinal direction from the inside of the conveyor partition, with a portion of it located in the collection space and the remainder located in the discharge space, and includes a guide member configured to guide the parts being moved from the discharge space to the collection space toward the inside of the width direction of the vibrating belt member.

[0029]

[0030] Also, a smart feeding system may be provided that includes a vibration transmission member positioned adjacent to the other space and configured to apply vibration to the component positioned in the other space so that the component is repositioned.

[0030]

[0031] In this case, a smart feeding system may be provided in which the storage conveyor is configured to be movable to one side and the other side in the longitudinal direction, supports the parts, and includes a vibrating belt member surrounding the internal space from below, and the vibration transmission member includes a vibration generating device that applies the vibration to the vibrating belt member; a support plate that is positioned opposite the vibrating belt member and supports the vibration generating device; and an amplifier plate that is positioned facing the support plate across the vibration generating device and contacts the vibrating belt member to transmit the vibration to the vibrating belt member.

[0031]

[0032] Also, a smart feeding system may be provided, in which the vibration transmission member includes elastic members coupled to the support plate and the amplifying plate, respectively, to elastically support the amplifying plate.

[0032]

[0033] In this case, a smart feeding system can be provided in which the vibration generating device is a voice coil motor.

[0033]

[0034] Also, a smart feeding system may be provided, further including a transport power device coupled to the vibrating belt member and configured to rotate the vibrating belt member to the one side and the other side.

[0034]

[0035] In this case, the transport power device may be provided with a servo motor, providing a smart feeding system.

[0035]

[0036] Also, a smart feeding system may be provided that includes an input adjustment unit located between the component supply unit and the component storage unit along the height direction and configured to receive the components from the component supply unit and transfer them to the component storage unit, the input adjustment unit including: a tray member located below the component supply unit and receiving the components from the component supply unit; and an input power device coupled to the tray member and movably supporting a portion of the tray member.

[0036]

[0037] In this case, a smart feeding system may be provided in which the tray member includes a first tray surface positioned adjacent to the component supply unit; a second tray surface disposed facing the component supply unit across the first tray surface and coupled to the input power unit; and a tray space defined by the first tray surface and the second tray surface and positioned below the component supply unit, and the input power unit supports the second tray surface movably in a direction toward the first tray surface and in a direction opposite to the first tray surface.

[0037]

[0038] Further, a smart feeding system may be provided which includes a component transfer section located between the input adjustment section and the component storage section along the height direction and configured to transfer the product from the input adjustment section to the component storage section, the component transfer section including a belt member that supports the product dropped from the tray space; and a transfer power device configured to move the belt member in a direction toward the component storage section and in a direction away from the component storage section.

[0038]

[0039] According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for controlling a smart feeding system, including: (a) a step in which a control unit calculates part information for provided parts; (b) a step in which the control unit controls a part supply unit so that the parts are supplied to a part collection unit based on the calculated part information; (c) a step in which the control unit controls one or more of the part supply unit, input adjustment unit, part transport unit, and part collection unit based on the quantity of the supplied parts; and (d) a step in which the control unit controls the part collection unit so that the state of the parts transmitted to the part collection unit is changed.

[0039]

[0040] In this case, step (a) may include: (a1) an information calculation unit receiving input of product information for a product manufactured using the parts; and (a2) the information calculation unit calculating the part information using the input product information, and the product information includes product specification information for the product specifications and product quantity information for the product quantity, thereby providing a method for controlling a smart feeding system.

[0040]

[0041] In addition, the step (a2) may include: (a21) a step in which a part information calculation module calculates part specification information for the supplied part specifications using the input product specification information; and (a22) a step in which the part information calculation module calculates part quantity information for the supplied part quantity using the input product quantity information, and the part information includes the part specification information and the part quantity information.

[0041]

[0042] In this case, step (b) may include a step of (b1) an information calculation unit calculating supply information using the calculated part information; and (b2) a power unit control unit controlling a supply power application device based on the calculated supply information.

[0042]

[0043] In addition, the step (b1) may include: (b11) a step in which a supply information calculation module calculates supply specification information for the specifications of the parts to be supplied using the calculated part specification information; and (b12) a step in which the supply information calculation module calculates supply quantity information for the quantity of the parts to be supplied using the calculated part quantity information, wherein the part information includes the part specification information and the part quantity information, and the supply information includes the supply specification information and the supply quantity information, and a control method for a smart feeding system may be provided.

[0043]

[0044] In this case, a plurality of the component supply units may be provided, and the plurality of component supply units may be configured to supply the components having different specifications, and the step (b2) may include: (b21) a step in which a supply power device control module selects one or more of the component supply units according to the calculated supply specification information; (b22) a step in which the supply power device control module calculates control information for controlling a supply power application device provided in one or more of the component supply units using the calculated supply quantity information; and (b23) a step in which the supply power device control module controls the supply power application device provided in one or more of the component supply units according to the calculated control information.

[0044]

[0045] In addition, step (b) may include, before step (b1), (b0) the information calculation unit calculates discharge information using sensing information for the specifications of the parts collected in the part collection unit, and step (b0) may further include: (b01) a step in which a collected part detection device generates sensing information for the parts located in the collection space; (b02) a collected information calculation module calculates collected specification information for the specifications of the parts located in the collection space using the generated sensing information; (b03) a step in which a discharge information calculation module calculates discharge information using the calculated collected specification information and the part information; (b04) a step in which a cut-off power unit control module controls a cut-off power unit based on the calculated discharge information; and (b05) a step in which a collected power unit control module controls a collected power unit based on the calculated discharge information.

[0045]

[0046] In this case, step (b03) may include (b031) a step in which, when the calculated collection specification information and the part information differ, the discharge information calculation module calculates the discharge information so that the parts collected in the collection space are discharged, step (b04) may include (b041) a step in which a first breaking power unit control module controls the breaking power unit so that a first stopper member connects the collection space and the discharge space; and (b042) a step in which a second breaking power unit control module controls the breaking power unit so that a second stopper member connects the discharge space and the outside, and step (b05) may include (b051) a step in which the collection power unit control module controls the collection power unit so that the parts located in the collection space are discharged to the outside.

[0046]

[0047] In addition, step (c) may include: (c1) a remaining component detection device generating detection information regarding the quantity of the components accommodated in the tray member; (c2) an information calculation unit calculating remaining information regarding the quantity of the components remaining in the tray member using the generated detection information; and (c3) a power unit control unit controlling one or more of a supply power application device, an input power unit, and a transport power unit based on the calculated remaining information.

[0047]

[0048] In this case, step (c3) may include a control method for a smart feeding system including: (c31) a supply power unit control module controlling the supply power application device based on the calculated residual information; (c32) an input power unit control module controlling the input power unit based on the calculated residual information; and (c33) a transfer power unit control module controlling the transfer power unit based on the calculated residual information.

[0048]

[0049] In addition, the step (c31) may include the steps of: (c311) when the calculated residual information is equal to or greater than a predetermined reference residual information, the supply power device control module controlling the supply power application device to stop; and (c312) when the calculated residual information is less than the reference residual information, the supply power device control module controlling the supply power application device to operate.

[0049]

[0050] In this case, step (c32) may include the steps of: (c321) when the calculated residual information is less than a predetermined reference residual information, the input power unit control module controls the input power unit so that the parts accommodated in the tray member are not transferred to the part transfer unit; and (c322) when the calculated residual information is equal to or greater than the reference residual information, the input power unit control module controls the input power unit so that the parts accommodated in the tray member are transferred to the part transfer unit.

[0050]

[0051] In addition, the step (c33) may include the steps of: (c331) when the calculated residual information is equal to or greater than a predetermined reference residual information, the transport power unit control module controls the transport power unit so that the parts are transmitted to the part collection unit; and (c332) when the calculated residual information is less than the reference residual information, the transport power unit control module controls the transport power unit to stop.

[0051]

[0052] In this case, step (c) may include: (c4) a step in which the collected part detection device generates detection information regarding the number of parts accommodated in the collection space; (c5) a step in which the information calculation unit calculates collection information regarding the parts accommodated in the collection space using the generated detection information; and (c6) a step in which the power unit control unit controls one or more of the cut-off power unit and the collection power unit based on the calculated collection information.

[0052]

[0053] In addition, step (c6) may include: (c61) when the calculated collected quantity information is equal to or greater than a predetermined reference quantity information, the power unit control unit controls one or more of the cut-off power unit and the collection power unit so that the parts located in the discharge space are not moved to the collection space; and (c62) when the calculated collected quantity information is less than the reference quantity information, the power unit control unit controls one or more of the cut-off power unit and the collection power unit so that the parts located in the discharge space are moved to the collection space, and the collected quantity information is information regarding the number of parts accommodated in the collection space.

[0053]

[0054] In this case, the step (c61) may include a step (c611) of a first breaking power unit control module controlling the first breaking power unit so that a first stopper member separates the collection space and the discharge space; and a step (c612) of a collection power unit control module controlling the collection power unit so that the part located in the discharge space is not moved to the collection space.

[0054]

[0055] Furthermore, a method for controlling a smart feeding system may be provided in which step (c62) includes steps of: (c621) a first breaking power unit control module controlling the first breaking power unit so that a first stopper member connects the collection space and the discharge space; and (c622) a collection power unit control module controlling the collection power unit so that the part located in the discharge space is moved to the collection space.

[0055]

[0056] In this case, step (d) may include: (d1) a step in which a collected part detection device generates detection information regarding the state of the parts located in the collection space; (d2) a step in which an information calculation unit calculates collected information regarding the state of the parts located in the collection space using the generated detection information; and (d3) a step in which a power unit control unit controls one or more of an isolation power unit and a vibration power unit based on the calculated collected information, thereby changing one or more of the position and direction of the parts located in the collection space.

[0056]

[0057] Furthermore, step (d2) may include (d21) a step in which a collection status information calculation unit calculates collection status information for the position and orientation of the component using the generated sensing information, and step (d3) may include (d31) a step in which, if the calculated collection status information differs from preset reference status information, a first cutoff power unit control module controls the first cutoff power unit so that a first stopper member connects the collection space and the discharge space; and (d32) a step in which a vibration power unit control module controls the vibration power unit so that an external force is applied to the component positioned in the collection space, thereby changing one or more of the position and orientation of the component positioned in the collection space. [Effects of the Invention]

[0057]

[0058] With the above configuration, the smart feeding system and control method according to the embodiment of the present invention can continuously feed parts.

[0058]

[0059] Furthermore, the smart feeding system and its control method according to the embodiment of the present invention can easily change the parts to be fed.

[0059]

[0060] Furthermore, the smart feeding system and control method thereof according to the embodiment of the present invention can simultaneously feed parts with different specifications.

[0060]

[0061] Furthermore, the smart feeding system and control method according to the embodiment of the present invention can accurately separate multiple parts.

[0061]

[0062] Furthermore, the smart feeding system and control method according to the embodiment of the present invention can easily and accurately adjust the amount of parts being fed.

[0062]

[0063] The effects of the present invention are not limited to the effects described above, but should be understood to include all effects that can be inferred from the configuration of the invention described in the detailed description of the present invention or the claims. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0063] [Figure 1]

[0064] 1 is a perspective view illustrating a smart feeding system according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 2]

[0065] FIG. 2 is a plan view illustrating the smart feeding system of FIG. 1. [Figure 3]

[0066] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view illustrating the configuration of the smart feeding system of FIG. 1. [Figure 4]

[0067] 2 is a perspective view illustrating a component supply unit provided in the smart feeding system of FIG. 1. FIG. [Figure 5]

[0068] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the component supply unit of FIG. 4. [Figure 6]

[0069] 2 is a perspective view illustrating a feed adjustment unit and a part transfer unit provided in the smart feeding system of FIG. 1. FIG. [Figure 7]

[0070] FIG. 7 is an enlarged perspective view of part A of FIG. 6 illustrating the input adjustment unit. [Figure 8]

[0071] 1. FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the feeding adjustment unit and the part transfer unit provided in the smart feeding system of FIG. 1 from another angle. [Figure 9]

[0072] 9 is an enlarged perspective view of part B of FIG. 8 illustrating the input adjustment unit. [Figure 10]

[0073] 10 and 12 are plan views (FIGS. 10 and 12) and perspective views (FIGS. 11 and 13) illustrating a state in which the component housing member of the input adjustment unit of FIG. 6 and FIG. 8 has been moved. [Figure 11] 10 and 12 are plan views (FIGS. 10 and 12) and perspective views (FIGS. 11 and 13) illustrating a state in which the component housing member of the input adjustment unit of FIG. 6 and FIG. 8 has been moved. [Figure 12] 10 and 12 are plan views (FIGS. 10 and 12) and perspective views (FIGS. 11 and 13) illustrating a state in which the component housing member of the input adjustment unit of FIG. 6 and FIG. 8 has been moved. [Figure 13] 10 and 12 are plan views (FIGS. 10 and 12) and perspective views (FIGS. 11 and 13) illustrating a state in which the component housing member of the input adjustment unit of FIG. 6 and FIG. 8 has been moved. [Figure 14]

[0074] 2 is a perspective view illustrating a part storage section provided in the smart feeding system of FIG. 1. FIG. [Figure 15]

[0075] FIG. 15 is an exploded perspective view illustrating the configuration of the component housing portion of FIG. 14. [Figure 16]

[0076] 15 is a plan view illustrating a receiving conveyor provided in the component receiving section of FIG. 14. [Figure 17]

[0077] 15 is a perspective view illustrating a stopper member provided in the component storage unit of FIG. 14. FIG. [Figure 18]

[0078] 10 is a perspective view illustrating a state in which the stopper member moves up and down relative to the receiving conveyor. FIG. [Figure 19] 10 is a perspective view illustrating a state in which the stopper member moves up and down relative to the receiving conveyor. FIG. [Figure 20] 10 is a perspective view illustrating a state in which the stopper member moves up and down relative to the receiving conveyor. FIG. [Figure 21] 10 is a perspective view illustrating a state in which the stopper member moves up and down relative to the receiving conveyor. FIG. [Figure 22]

[0079] 15 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a vibration transmission member provided in the component housing portion of FIG. 14. FIG. [Figure 23]

[0080] 10A to 10C are side cross-sectional views illustrating a process in which vibration is applied to a component accommodated in a component accommodating section; [Figure 24] 10A to 10C are side cross-sectional views illustrating a process in which vibration is applied to a component accommodated in a component accommodating section; [Figure 25] 10A to 10C are side cross-sectional views illustrating a process in which vibration is applied to a component accommodated in a component accommodating section; [Figure 26]

[0081] 2 is a perspective view illustrating a process in which parts are transferred by the smart feeding system of FIG. 1. FIG. [Figure 27] 2 is a perspective view illustrating a process in which parts are transferred by the smart feeding system of FIG. 1. FIG. [Figure 28] 2 is a perspective view illustrating a process in which parts are transferred by the smart feeding system of FIG. 1. FIG. [Figure 29]

[0082] 2 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration for implementing a control method for the smart feeding system of FIG. 1. [Figure 30]

[0083] 1 is a flowchart illustrating the flow of a control method for a smart feeding system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 31]

[0084] 31 is a flowchart illustrating a detailed flow of step S100 of the control method of the smart feeding system of FIG. 30. [Figure 32]

[0085] 31 is a flowchart illustrating a detailed flow of step S200 of the control method of the smart feeding system of FIG. 30. [Figure 33] 31 is a flowchart illustrating a detailed flow of step S200 of the control method of the smart feeding system of FIG. 30. [Figure 34]31 is a flowchart illustrating a detailed flow of step S200 of the control method of the smart feeding system of FIG. 30. [Figure 35]

[0086] 31 is a flowchart illustrating a detailed flow of step S300 of the control method of the smart feeding system of FIG. 30. [Figure 36] 31 is a flowchart illustrating a detailed flow of step S300 of the control method of the smart feeding system of FIG. 30. [Figure 37] 31 is a flowchart illustrating a detailed flow of step S300 of the control method of the smart feeding system of FIG. 30. [Figure 38]

[0087] 31 is a flowchart illustrating a detailed flow of step S400 of the control method of the smart feeding system of FIG. 30. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0064]

[0088] Hereinafter, with reference to the accompanying drawings, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail so that those skilled in the art can easily carry out the present invention. The present invention may be embodied in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. In order to clearly explain the present invention, parts not related to the description will be omitted in the drawings, and the same reference numerals will be used throughout the specification to refer to the same or similar components.

[0065]

[0089] The words and terms used in this specification and claims should not be interpreted in a limited manner based on their ordinary or dictionary meanings, but should be interpreted in a manner that is consistent with the technical idea of ​​the present invention, in accordance with the principle that the inventor can define the terms and concepts in order to best describe his or her invention.

[0066]

[0090] Therefore, the embodiments described in this specification and the configurations illustrated in the drawings correspond to a preferred embodiment of the present invention and do not represent the entire technical idea of ​​the present invention, and therefore, there may be various equivalents and modifications that replace the configurations at the time of filing of the present invention.

[0067]

[0091] In the following description, in order to clarify the features of the present invention, the description of some components may be omitted.

[0068]

[0092]

[0093] The term "communication" as used in the following description means that one or more components are fluidly connected to one another. In one embodiment, the communication may be formed by components such as conduits, pipes, and tubing. In the following description, communication may be used interchangeably with one or more components being "fluidly connected" to one another.

[0069]

[0094] In the following description, the term "communication" may be used to mean that different components are not physically connected to each other, but that "a plurality of spaces formed in the different components are fluidically connected to each other."

[0070]

[0095] The term "electrical conduction" used in the following description means that one or more components are connected to each other so as to be able to transmit an electric current or an electrical signal. In one embodiment, electrical conduction may be achieved in a wired manner using a conductive member or in a wireless manner using Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, RFID, etc. In one embodiment, electrical conduction may include the meaning of "communication."

[0071]

[0096] The term "fluid" as used in the following description refers to any form of material that can flow and change shape or volume due to an external force. In one embodiment, the fluid may be a liquid such as water or a gas such as air.

[0072]

[0097] The term "component" as used in the following description refers to any component utilized to manufacture a product. In embodiments where the product comprises a circuit breaker or relay, the component may comprise a contact.

[0073]

[0098] The term "product" used in the following description refers to any object manufactured that includes the component. In an embodiment in which the component is a contact, the product may be a circuit breaker, a relay, or the like, as described above.

[0074]

[0099] The terms "upper", "lower", "left", "right", "front" and "rear" used in the following description will be understood with reference to the coordinate system illustrated throughout the accompanying drawings.

[0075]

[0100]

[0101] 1 to 3 and 29, the configuration of a smart feeding system 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention is illustrated.

[0076]

[0102] The smart feeding system 1 is configured to select different types of parts delivered from the outside and deliver them to the outside again. In other words, the smart feeding system 1 can select different parts to meet external needs and provide them to the outside.

[0077]

[0103] In embodiments where the components are provided with contacts, the contacts are fabricated to a small size and are configured to be similar in general shape to one another, although some contacts may vary depending on the specification.

[0078]

[0104] Therefore, in the smart feeding system 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention, multiple parts can be moved along different paths, and then sorted by a sensing device (i.e., the collected part sensing device 490 described below) and provided to the outside.

[0079]

[0105] Furthermore, the smart feeding system 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention is configured so that each component operates organically with each other. That is, whether each component in the smart feeding system 1 operates or not can be determined depending on the operating state of other components.

[0080]

[0106] Furthermore, the smart feeding system 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention can prevent a decrease in the discrimination ability of the sensing device (i.e., the collected component sensing device 490 described below). To this end, the smart feeding system 1 applies vibration to the stored components, allowing the sensing device to easily distinguish between different components.

[0081]

[0107] In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 and 29, the smart feeding system 1 includes a component supply unit 10, a feed adjustment unit 20, a component transfer unit 30, and a component collection unit 40.

[0082]

[0108] In one embodiment, the component supply unit 10 may be configured to directly transfer components to the component collection unit 40. In this embodiment, the input adjustment unit 20 and the component transfer unit 30 do not need to be provided separately.

[0083]

[0109] The parts supply unit 10 is provided with parts from the outside. The parts supply unit 10 is connected to the outside and can receive parts. The parts supply unit 10 can also transfer the supplied parts to the input adjustment unit 20. The parts supply unit 10 is connected to and connected to the input adjustment unit 20.

[0084]

[0110] At this time, the component supply unit 10 can be selectively connected to the input adjustment unit 20. That is, the components provided to the component supply unit 10 can be transferred or blocked to the input adjustment unit 20 depending on the operating state of the input adjustment unit 20. Accordingly, the amount of components supplied to the input adjustment unit 20 and the component transfer unit 30 and the component collection unit 40 connected thereto can be adjusted.

[0085]

[0111] A plurality of component supply units 10 may be provided. The component supply units 10 may be configured to supply different components from each other. Also, the component supply units 10 may be connected to a plurality of input adjustment units 20, respectively.

[0086]

[0112] In the illustrated embodiment, the component supply unit 10 includes a first component supply unit 11, a second component supply unit 12, a third component supply unit 13, and a fourth component supply unit 14, which are spaced apart from one another in a direction from left to right.

[0087]

[0113] In the above embodiment, the first component supply unit 11 is connected to and communicates with the first input adjustment unit 21. The second component supply unit 12 is connected to and communicates with the second input adjustment unit 22. The third component supply unit 13 is connected to and communicates with the third input adjustment unit 23, and the fourth component supply unit 14 is connected to and communicates with the fourth input adjustment unit 24.

[0088]

[0114] In the above embodiment, components of different specifications may be supplied to the first to fourth component supply units 11, 12, 13, and 14. In other embodiments, components of the same first specification may be supplied to the first and second component supply units 11 and 12. In the above embodiment, components of the same second specification may be supplied to the third and fourth component supply units 13 and 14.

[0089]

[0115] The first to fourth component supply units 11, 12, 13, and 14 can be operated independently of each other. That is, one or more of the components stored in each of the first to fourth component supply units 11, 12, 13, and 14 can be provided to the component collection unit 40 through the input adjustment unit 20 and the component transfer unit 30.

[0090]

[0116] Although the first to fourth component supply units 11, 12, 13, and 14 differ in the input adjustment unit 20 to which they are coupled and in the specifications of the components they provide, they have the same structure. Therefore, in the following overlapping explanations, the first to fourth component supply units 11, 12, 13, and 14 will be referred to as component supply unit 10.

[0091]

[0117] 4 to 5 and 29, the component supply unit 10 according to the illustrated embodiment includes a first supply frame 110, a second supply frame 120, a third supply frame 130, a discharge frame 140, a supply door member 150, a supply power application device 160, and a supply component detection device 170.

[0092]

[0118] The first supply frame 110 constitutes part of the outer shape of the component supply unit 10. In the illustrated embodiment, the first supply frame 110 constitutes one side in the height direction of the component supply unit 10, i.e., the upper side. A portion of the first supply frame 110 is open and communicates with the outside. Components can be transferred to other components of the component supply unit 10 through the first supply frame 110.

[0093]

[0119] In an embodiment in which the first supply frame 110 constitutes the upper side of the component supply unit 10, components supplied to the first supply frame 110 can be easily moved by falling due to gravity.

[0094]

[0120] The first feeding frame 110 is continuous with the second feeding frame 120. Components transferred to the first feeding frame 110 can be transferred to the second feeding frame 120.

[0095]

[0121] The first supply frame 110 can be of any shape that can receive components from an external source and can be coupled with the second supply frame 120. In the illustrated embodiment, the first supply frame 110 is a polygonal pillar having a rectangular cross section and a certain height in the vertical direction.

[0096]

[0122] A supply door member 150 is coupled to one surface of the first supply frame 110 facing the input adjustment unit 20. In one embodiment, the first supply frame 110 can support the supply door member 150 so that it can slide in its height direction, i.e., up and down.

[0097]

[0123] Although not shown, the first supply frame 110 may support the supply door member 150 so that it can rotate clockwise or counterclockwise. In the above embodiment, one of the ends of the supply door member 150, for example, the upper end, may be hinged to the first supply frame 110.

[0098]

[0124] In the above embodiment, the supply door member 150 can be opened by the weight of the parts being discharged to the outside through the discharge frame 140 .

[0099]

[0125] A first supply space 111 is formed inside the first supply frame 110. The first supply space 111 accommodates components transferred from the outside. The first supply space 111 may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the first supply frame 110. In the illustrated embodiment, the first supply space 111 is formed as a polygonal pillar-shaped space.

[0100]

[0126] In the illustrated embodiment, the first supply space 111 has an open top and bottom in the height direction. The top of the first supply space 111 is connected to the outside to receive components, and the bottom of the first supply space 111 is connected to the second supply space 121 to supply components.

[0101]

[0127] The second supply frame 120 constitutes another part of the outer shape of the component supply unit 10. In the illustrated embodiment, the second supply frame 120 is located between the first supply frame 110 and the third supply frame 130 in the height direction, i.e., the up-down direction.

[0102]

[0128] The second supply frame 120 is coupled to the first and third supply frames 110 and 130, respectively. The second supply frame 120 is also coupled to the discharge frame 140. In this case, the second supply frame 120 communicates with the first supply frame 110 and the discharge frame 140, but may be disconnected from the third supply frame 130.

[0103]

[0129] Therefore, the components supplied to the first supply frame 110 are transported to the discharge frame 140 via the second supply frame 120, but are not transferred to the third supply frame .

[0104]

[0130] The second supply frame 120 may be formed to have different cross-sectional areas along its height. In the illustrated embodiment, the second supply frame 120 may be formed to have a cross-sectional area that decreases in the opposite direction to the first supply frame 110, i.e., in the downward direction. In other words, the second supply frame 120 may be formed in the shape of an inverted truncated pyramid.

[0105]

[0131] Therefore, the surface of the second supply frame 120 is formed to slope inward, so that components supplied to the second supply frame 120 can be easily moved along the surface in the direction toward the third supply frame 130, i.e., downward.

[0106]

[0132] A second supply space 121 is formed inside the second supply frame 120. The second supply space 121 receives the components supplied to the first supply space 111. The second supply space 121 may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the second supply frame 120. In the illustrated embodiment, the second supply space 121 is formed in the shape of an inverted polygonal truncated pyramid.

[0107]

[0133] One side in the height direction of the second supply space 121, which is the upper side in the illustrated embodiment, is open. The second supply space 121 is in communication with the first supply space 111 through this side. The other side of the second supply space 121 facing the input adjustment unit 20 is open. The second supply space 121 is in communication with the discharge space 141 through this other side. Components flowing into the second supply space 121 can flow out to the discharge space 141 through this other side.

[0108]

[0134] The third supply frame 130 constitutes yet another part of the outer shape of the component supply unit 10. In the illustrated embodiment, the third supply frame 130 is disposed vertically, i.e., facing the second supply frame 120, with the ejection frame 140 sandwiched between them. In other words, the third supply frame 130 constitutes the lower side of the component supply unit 10.

[0109]

[0135] The third supply frame 130 is coupled to the discharge frame 140. The discharge frame 140 can block any communication between the second supply space 121 and a space (not shown) formed inside the third supply frame 130.

[0110]

[0136] Although not shown, any component capable of applying vibration to the component supply unit 10 may be accommodated inside the third supply frame 130. The component may be operated by the control unit 50 (described later) to provide a transport force for moving components accommodated in the first supply space 111 or the second supply space 121 to the discharge space 141.

[0111]

[0137] The third supply frame 130 may have any shape capable of supporting the first supply frame 110, the second supply frame 120, and the discharge frame 140. In the illustrated embodiment, the third supply frame 130 is a polygonal pillar having a rectangular cross section and a certain height in the vertical direction. In this case, the cross-sectional shape of the third supply frame 130 may be formed to correspond to the shape of the lower cross section of the second supply frame 120.

[0112]

[0138] The discharge frame 140 forms a path through which components supplied from the outside are supplied to the outside. The discharge frame 140 is connected to the second supply space 121 and can form a path through which the components accommodated in the second supply space 121 are moved to the input adjustment unit 20.

[0113]

[0139] The discharge frame 140 is coupled to the second supply frame 120 and the third supply frame 130. The discharge frame 140 is positioned between the second supply frame 120 and the third supply frame 130 in the height direction, i.e., the vertical direction.

[0114]

[0140] The discharge frame 140 extends in a direction toward the input adjustment unit 20. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 5, the discharge frame 140 of the first component supply unit 11 extends toward the right side. The discharge frame 140 may be at least partially located above the input adjustment unit 20.

[0115]

[0141] The discharge frame 140 may extend in a downward inclined manner in a direction toward the input adjustment unit 20. That is, the height of the portion of the discharge frame 140 that is coupled to the second supply frame 120 is higher than the height of the portion of the discharge frame 140 that is positioned above the input adjustment unit 20. Therefore, parts may be easily moved along the inclined extending discharge frame 140.

[0116]

[0142] The ejection frame 140 may include a plurality of guides (not shown) that can prevent any parts moving along the ejection frame 140 from falling off. In the illustrated embodiment, the ejection frame 140 includes a pair of guides located in its width direction, i.e., on the front and rear sides.

[0117]

[0143] A discharge space 141 is formed inside the discharge frame 140. The discharge space 141 may be defined as a space at least partially surrounded by the discharge frame 140. The discharge space 141 extends in the extension direction of the discharge frame 140, i.e., in the left-right direction in the illustrated embodiment.

[0118]

[0144] The discharge space 141 is connected to the second supply space 121. The components accommodated in the second supply space 121 can be transferred to the input adjusting unit 20 through the discharge space 141.

[0119]

[0145] A supply door member 150 may be at least partially accommodated in the discharge space 141. In this case, the supply door member 150 may be disposed to be spaced apart from the surface of the discharge frame 140 that surrounds the discharge space 141 from below. Therefore, parts can only be delivered to the input adjustment unit 20 by passing through the space formed between the lower end of the supply door member 150 and the lower surface of the discharge frame 140. Accordingly, the amount of parts delivered to the input adjustment unit 20 can be adjusted.

[0120]

[0146] The discharge space 141 may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the discharge frame 140. In the illustrated embodiment, the discharge space 141 has a rectangular cross section and is formed as a polygonal columnar space having a length in the left-right direction, but may be extended to incline downward in the direction toward the input adjustment unit 20.

[0121]

[0147] The feed door member 150 is configured to adjust the amount of parts moving along the discharge space 141. The feed door member 150 can at least partially close the discharge space 141 to adjust the size of the discharge space 141.

[0122]

[0148] The supply door member 150 is coupled to the first supply frame 110. In one embodiment, the supply door member 150 may be coupled to the first supply frame 110 so as to be able to move up and down. In this embodiment, the size of the discharge space 141 may be adjusted by moving the supply door member 150 up and down, and the amount of parts supplied to the input adjustment unit 20 may be adjusted.

[0123]

[0149] The supply door member 150 extends in the height direction of the first supply frame 110, i.e., in the vertical direction in the illustrated embodiment. Among the height direction ends of the supply door member 150, the end toward the discharge frame 140, i.e., the lower end, may be disposed so as to be spaced apart from the lower surface of the discharge frame 140.

[0124]

[0150] The supply door member 150 may be of any shape that can be coupled to the first supply frame 110 and at least partially accommodated in the discharge space 141 to adjust the amount of components being supplied. In the illustrated embodiment, the supply door member 150 is in the form of a polygonal plate having a vertical length. A handle (not shown) is formed on the heightwise end of the supply door member 150, the end opposite the discharge frame 140, i.e., the upper end, so that it can be gripped by an operator. The operator can raise or lower the supply door member 150 by applying pressure to the handle.

[0125]

[0151] The supply power application device 160 applies vibration to the first and second supply frames 110 and 120. Due to the vibration, the components accommodated in the first and second supply spaces 111 and 121 may be vibrated and moved to the discharge frame 140. In the above embodiment, the component supply unit 10 may be provided in the form of a hopper feeder.

[0126]

[0152] The supply power application device 160 may be provided in any form capable of applying vibration for moving the components housed in the first and second supply spaces 111 and 121. In one embodiment, the supply power application device 160 may be configured to include a motor and an asymmetric mass body.

[0127]

[0153] The supply power application device 160 is electrically connected to a supply power device control module 910 of the control unit 50. The operation of the supply power application device 160 can be controlled according to control information calculated by the supply power device control module 910.

[0128]

[0154] The supply component detection device 170 is configured to generate detection information regarding the number of components transferred to the input adjustment unit 20 through the discharge frame 140. The detection information generated by the supply component detection device 170 is transmitted to the information calculation unit 800 and can be used to calculate information regarding the number of components previously supplied. In this embodiment, the number of components transferred from the component supply unit 10 to the component collection unit 40 can be more accurately adjusted.

[0129]

[0155] The parts provided to the parts supply unit 10 are transmitted to the input adjustment unit 20 .

[0130]

[0156] The input adjusting unit 20 receives the components supplied by the component supply unit 10 and transmits them to the component transfer unit 30. At this time, the input adjusting unit 20 may be configured to control the amount of components supplied by the component supply unit 10 or whether or not the components are supplied.

[0131]

[0157] The input adjusting unit 20 is coupled to the component supply unit 10. The input adjusting unit 20 is in communication with the discharge space 141 of the component supply unit 10 to receive the components. At this time, the input adjusting unit 20 can be selectively in communication with the discharge space 141. This is achieved by the operation of a tray member 210, which will be described later.

[0132]

[0158] The input adjusting unit 20 is coupled to the component transferring unit 30. The input adjusting unit 20 is in communication with the component transferring unit 30 and can transfer the transferred components to the component transferring unit 30.

[0133]

[0159] The input adjusting unit 20 is electrically connected to the control unit 50. Sensing information generated in relation to the operating state of the input adjusting unit 20 can be transmitted to the control unit 50. In addition, the input adjusting unit 20 can be controlled and operated according to control information calculated by the control unit 50.

[0134]

[0160] A plurality of input adjusting units 20 may be provided. The plurality of input adjusting units 20 may be respectively coupled to and communicated with different component supply units 10. Also, the plurality of input adjusting units 20 may be respectively coupled to and communicated with different component transfer units 30.

[0135]

[0161] In the illustrated embodiment, the input adjustment unit 20 is composed of a first input adjustment unit 21, a second input adjustment unit 22, a third input adjustment unit 23 and a fourth input adjustment unit 24, which are arranged spaced apart from each other in a direction from left to right.

[0136]

[0162] In the above embodiment, the first input adjustment unit 21 is connected to and communicates with the first component supply unit 11 and the first component transfer unit 31. The second input adjustment unit 22 is connected to and communicates with the second component supply unit 12 and the first component transfer unit 31. The third input adjustment unit 23 is connected to and communicates with the third component supply unit 13 and the second component transfer unit 32, and the fourth input adjustment unit 34 is connected to and communicates with the fourth component supply unit 14 and the second component transfer unit 32.

[0137]

[0163] In the above embodiment, parts of different specifications may be supplied to the first to fourth input adjustment units 21, 22, 23, and 24. In another embodiment, parts of the same first specification may be supplied to the first and second input adjustment units 21 and 22, and parts of the same second specification may be supplied to the third and fourth input adjustment units 23 and 24. It will be understood that the specifications of the parts supplied to the first to fourth input adjustment units 21, 22, 23, and 24 may be changed depending on the specifications of the parts supplied to the first to fourth part supply units 11, 12, 13, and 14.

[0138]

[0164] The first to fourth input adjustment units 21, 22, 23, and 24 have the same structure, although there are differences in the component supply unit 10 and component transfer unit 30 that are connected to them. Therefore, in the following overlapping explanations, the first to fourth input adjustment units 21, 22, 23, and 24 will be referred to as input adjustment unit 20.

[0139]

[0165] 6 to 13, the input adjusting unit 20 according to the illustrated embodiment includes a tray member 210, an adjusting frame 220, a remaining part detecting device 230, a detecting frame 240, and an input power device 250.

[0140]

[0166] The tray member 210 primarily receives the components supplied from the component supply unit 10. A space (tray space 214, described below) is formed inside the tray member 210 to accommodate the components. One side of the space of the tray member 210 is always open, while the other side can be selectively opened or closed. Accordingly, the tray member 210 can accommodate the components received and eject the accommodated components to transfer them to the component transfer unit 30.

[0141]

[0167] The tray member 210 is positioned adjacent to the component supply unit 10. Specifically, the tray member 210 is positioned below one end of the ejection frame 140 in the longitudinal direction, and can receive components that have fallen off the ejection frame 140.

[0142]

[0168] The tray member 210 is positioned adjacent to the component transfer section 30. Specifically, the tray member 210 is positioned above the belt member 310 of the transfer conveyor 300, and can transfer the transferred components to the belt member 310.

[0143]

[0169] The tray member 210 is coupled to an adjustment frame 220. Specifically, the tray member 210 may be coupled to an input power unit 250 via the adjustment frame 220. The space of the tray member 210 may be opened or closed by the power applied by the input power unit 250.

[0144]

[0170] The tray member 210 is positioned adjacent to the remaining component sensing device 230. The remaining component sensing device 230 can generate sensing information regarding the amount of components accommodated in the space of the tray member 210.

[0145]

[0171] The tray member 210 is coupled to a dosing power device 250. The power applied by the dosing power device 250 can be transmitted to the tray member 210 through the adjustment frame 220.

[0146]

[0172] In the illustrated embodiment, the tray member 210 includes a first tray surface 211 , a second tray surface 212 , a third tray surface 213 and a tray space 214 .

[0147]

[0173] The first tray surface 211 constitutes one surface of the tray member 210. The first tray surface 211 is positioned so as to be biased toward the discharge frame 140 of the component supply unit 10. The first tray surface 211 is formed to be inclined with respect to the vertical direction. In the illustrated embodiment, the first tray surface 211 extends in a direction opposite to the discharge frame 140 and inclined downward.

[0148]

[0174] The first tray surface 211 is positioned adjacent to the second tray surface 212. At this time, the first tray surface 211 can contact or separate from the second tray surface 212. As will be described later, the second tray surface 212 is configured to be movable by the input power device 250, and it will be understood that the contact and separation are achieved by the movement of the second tray surface 212.

[0149]

[0175] That is, the first tray surface 211 is fixed at a preset position by the adjustable support angle 223 .

[0150]

[0176] The first tray surface 211 is joined to the third tray surface 213. In the illustrated embodiment, each widthwise side of the first tray surface 211 is joined to the third tray surface 213.

[0151]

[0177] The first tray surface 211 partially surrounds the tray space 214. In the illustrated embodiment, the first tray surface 211 surrounds the tray space 214 on one side facing the ejection frame 140.

[0152]

[0178] The second tray surface 212 constitutes the other surface of the tray member 210. The second tray surface 212 is positioned opposite the ejection frame 140. That is, the second tray surface 212 is positioned facing the ejection frame 140 with the first tray surface 211 in between.

[0153]

[0179] The second tray surface 212 is formed to be inclined with respect to the vertical direction. In the illustrated embodiment, the second tray surface 212 extends in a direction toward the discharge frame 140 and downward.

[0154]

[0180] The second tray surface 212 is positioned adjacent to the first tray surface 211. The second tray surface 212 may be in contact with or spaced apart from the first tray surface 211. In the illustrated embodiment, the lower end of the second tray surface 212 and the lower end of the first tray surface 211 may be in contact with or spaced apart from each other. Accordingly, the lower side of the tray space 214 may be closed or opened, and the components accommodated in the tray space 214 may be transferred to or blocked from being transferred to the component transfer unit 30.

[0155]

[0181] The second tray surface 212 partially surrounds the tray space 214. In the illustrated embodiment, the second tray surface 212 surrounds the tray space 214 on one side opposite the ejection frame 140.

[0156]

[0182] The second tray surface 212 is configured to be movable. Specifically, the second tray surface 212 is coupled to an adjustment bar 222 and can be moved toward and away from the first tray surface 211 by an input power device 250 coupled to the adjustment bar 222.

[0157]

[0183] The second tray surface 212 is coupled to an adjustment bar 222 of the adjustment frame 220. The adjustment bar 222 is coupled to the input power device 250 via an adjustment support block 221, and is capable of transmitting power to the second tray surface 212. In the illustrated embodiment, one side of the second tray surface 212 opposite to the first tray surface 211 or the tray space 214 is coupled to the adjustment bar 222.

[0158]

[0184] The third tray surface 213 constitutes the remaining surface of the tray member 210. The third tray surface 213 is located in the other direction from the first tray surface 211 and the second tray surface 212. In the illustrated embodiment, the third tray surface 213 is located in the width direction of the first tray surface 211 or the second tray surface 212.

[0159]

[0185] The third tray surface 213 is coupled to the first tray surface 211. The third tray surface 213 is fixedly coupled to the first tray surface 211. In one embodiment, the third tray surface 213 can come into contact with the second tray surface 212 when the second tray surface 212 is moved toward the discharge frame 140.

[0160]

[0186] A plurality of third tray surfaces 213 may be provided. The plurality of third tray surfaces 213 may be spaced apart in the width direction of the first tray surface 211 or the second tray surface 212, and each may be coupled to each end of the first tray surface 211 in the width direction. In the illustrated embodiment, a pair of third tray surfaces 213 are provided, and each is coupled to each end of the first tray surface 211 in the width direction. The pair of third tray surfaces 213 are arranged to face each other with the first tray surface 211 in between.

[0161]

[0187] The third tray surface 213 partially surrounds the tray space 214. In the illustrated embodiment, the third tray surface 213 surrounds the tray space 214 in the width direction of the first tray surface 211 or the third tray surface 213.

[0162]

[0188] The third tray surface 213 may have a shape corresponding to the first tray surface 211 and the second tray surface 212. In the illustrated embodiment, the third tray surface 213 has a triangular cross section with the apex located on the lower side, corresponding to the shapes of the first tray surface 211 and the second tray surface 212, and is formed in the shape of a polygonal plate having the same thickness in the width direction as the first tray surface 211 or the third tray surface 213.

[0163]

[0189] The tray space 214 is a space for accommodating the components provided by the discharge frame 140. The tray space 214 is partially surrounded by the first to third tray surfaces 211, 212, and 213, respectively.

[0164]

[0190] In the illustrated embodiment, one side of the tray space 214 facing the ejection frame 140 is surrounded by a first tray surface 211. The other side of the tray space 214 facing away from the ejection frame 140 is surrounded by a second tray surface 212. Furthermore, each side of the tray space 214 in the width direction is surrounded by a pair of third tray surfaces 213.

[0165]

[0191] One side in the height direction of the tray space 214, the upper side in the illustrated embodiment, is open. As described above, the tray space 214 is located below the end of the discharge frame 140, and the supplied components can be received into the tray space 214 through this one side.

[0166]

[0192] The tray space 214 can be opened or closed at the other side in the height direction, i.e., the lower side, depending on the movement of the second tray surface 212. That is, as shown in Figures 10 and 11, when the second tray surface 212 moves in the closing direction C, the lower side of the tray space 214 is closed, and components provided from the discharge frame 140 are no longer transferred to the component transfer unit 30.

[0167]

[0193] Also, as shown in Figures 12 and 13, when the second tray surface 212 is moved in the opening direction O, the lower side of the tray space 214 is opened and the components provided from the discharge frame 140 can be transferred to the component transfer unit 30.

[0168]

[0194] The tray space 214 may have a shape corresponding to the shapes of the first to third tray surfaces 211, 212, and 213. In the illustrated embodiment, the tray space 214 is formed as a triangular prism-shaped space with one corner located downward.

[0169]

[0195] The adjusting frame 220 supports the tray member 210. Some components of the adjusting frame 220 can fixedly support some components of the tray member 210, and other components of the adjusting frame 220 can movably support other components of the tray member 210. The adjusting frame 220 is coupled to the tray member 210.

[0170]

[0196] The adjustment frame 220 is coupled to the sensing frame 240. The adjustment frame 220 can fixedly support the sensing frame 240.

[0171]

[0197] The adjustment frame 220 is coupled to the input power device 250. When the input power device 250 is operated, some components of the adjustment frame 220 and the other components of the tray member 210 coupled to the adjustment frame 220 can be moved.

[0172]

[0198] In the illustrated embodiment, the adjustable frame 220 includes an adjustable support block 221 , an adjustable bar 222 , an adjustable support angle 223 , and a support bar 224 .

[0173]

[0199] The adjustment support block 221 is a portion where the adjustment frame 220 is connected to the input power unit 250. The adjustment support block 221 is configured to be movable by the operation of the input power unit 250.

[0174]

[0200] The adjustment support block 221 may be configured differently depending on the first to fourth input adjustment units 21, 22, 23, and 24. In the illustrated embodiment, the adjustment support block 221 provided in the first and fourth input adjustment units 21 and 24 is respectively coupled to the input power device 250 and the adjustment bar 222. In addition, the adjustment support block 221 provided in the second and third input adjustment units 22 and 23 may be directly coupled to the second tray surface 212.

[0175]

[0201] In either case, it is sufficient that the adjustment support block 221 is coupled to the input power device 250 so that the power generated by the input power device 250 can be transmitted to the second tray surface 212 .

[0176]

[0202] The adjusting bar 222 transmits the power generated by the input power device 250 to the second tray surface 212. The adjusting bar 222 is coupled to the adjusting support block 221 and the second tray surface 212, respectively. The adjusting bar 222 can move together with the adjusting support block 221 and the second tray surface 212.

[0177]

[0203] The adjusting bar 222 may be provided on some of the multiple input adjusting units 20. In the illustrated embodiment, the adjusting bar 222 is provided on the first and fourth input adjusting units 21 and 24. In this embodiment, the adjusting bar 222 can move the second tray surface 212 in accordance with the direction of the power applied by the input power device 250.

[0178]

[0204] That is, in the illustrated embodiment, the left-right force applied by the input power device 250 can be transmitted to the second tray surface 212 by the adjustment bar 222. Accordingly, the second tray surface 212 can be moved in a direction toward the component supply unit 10 or in a direction away from the component supply unit 10.

[0179]

[0205] The adjustment bar 222 extends in the movement direction of the second tray surface 212. In the illustrated embodiment, the adjustment bar 222 extends in the front-to-rear direction. One end of the extension direction of the adjustment bar 222, which is the front end in the illustrated embodiment, is connected to the adjustment support block 221. One side of the outer periphery of the adjustment bar 222 facing the discharge frame 140 is connected to the second tray surface 212.

[0180]

[0206] The adjustment bar 222 may be provided in any shape that can couple the movement of the adjustment support block 221 to the second tray surface 212. In the illustrated embodiment, the adjustment bar 222 may be provided in the shape of a cylinder having a circular cross section and a length in the front-to-rear direction.

[0181]

[0207] The adjustable support angle 223 fixedly supports the above-mentioned part of the tray member 210. The adjustable support angle 223 also fixedly supports the sensing frame 240.

[0182]

[0208] The adjustable support angle 223 is positioned in the width direction of the first tray surface 211. The adjustable support angle 223 is coupled to the third tray surface 213. Accordingly, the first tray surface 211 coupled to the third tray surface 213 can also be fixed and supported by the adjustable support angle 223.

[0183]

[0209] The adjustable support angle 223 is coupled to the throwing power unit 250. At this time, the adjustable support angle 223 is coupled to a fixed portion of the components of the throwing power unit 250. In the illustrated embodiment, the adjustable support angle 223 is fixedly coupled to a plate member (not shown) that supports the fixed portion of the components of the throwing power unit 250.

[0184]

[0210] The adjustable support angle 223 may have any shape that can fixedly support the configuration of the portion of the tray member 210 and the sensing frame 240. In the illustrated embodiment, the adjustable support angle 223 includes one portion that extends horizontally and is connected to the configuration of the portion of the tray member 210 and the sensing frame 240, and another portion that extends vertically continuous with the first portion and is connected to the input power device 250.

[0185]

[0211] The adjustable support angle 223 may be provided on some of the multiple input adjustment units 20. In the illustrated embodiment, the adjustable support angle 223 is provided on the second and third input adjustment units 22, 23. That is, it will be understood that the adjustable support angle 223 and the adjustment bar 222 may be provided selectively.

[0186]

[0212] The support bar 224 supports the first tray surface 211. The support bar 224 is located between the first tray surface 211 and the discharge frame 140. The support bar 224 is fixedly connected to the first tray surface 211. The support bar 224 is fixedly connected to the sensor support block 242.

[0187]

[0213] The support bar 224 may extend in the same direction as the adjustment bar 222. In the illustrated embodiment, the support bar 224 extends in the width direction of the first tray surface 211. One end of the support bar 224 in the extension direction is connected to the sensor support block 242. One side of the outer periphery of the support bar 224 facing the first tray surface 211 is connected to the first tray surface 211.

[0188]

[0214] The remaining part detector 230 generates detection information regarding the amount of parts accommodated in the tray space 214. The detection information generated by the remaining part detector 230 is transmitted to the controller 50 and used to calculate input amount information. The remaining part detector 230 is electrically connected to the controller 50.

[0189]

[0215] The remaining component sensing device 230 is positioned adjacent to the tray member 210. The remaining component sensing device 230 is at least partially housed in the tray space 214. In the illustrated embodiment, a lower end of the remaining component sensing device 230 is located in the tray space 214.

[0190]

[0216] The remaining component sensing device 230 may be implemented in any form capable of sensing the amount of components contained in the tray space 214. In one embodiment, the remaining component sensing device 230 may be implemented as a distance sensor that generates sensing information on the distance to the component. In such an embodiment, the remaining component sensing device 230 may be implemented as an IR sensor, a laser sensor, or the like.

[0191]

[0217] The remaining part sensing device 230 is coupled to the sensing frame 240. Specifically, the remaining part sensing device 230 is fixedly coupled to the sensing device coupling block 241. As described above, it can be understood that the sensing frame 240 is not moved regardless of the operation of the input power device 250, and the remaining part sensing device 230 is also not moved.

[0192]

[0218] The sensing frame 240 supports the remaining part sensing device 230. The sensing frame 240 is fixedly connected to a plate member (not shown) that supports the input power device 250, and is not movable.

[0193]

[0219] The sensing frame 240 is coupled to one of the plate member (not shown) and the adjustable support angle 223. Specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, the sensing frame 240 provided in the first and fourth input adjustment units 21 and 24 is coupled to the plate member (not shown), and the sensing frame 240 provided in the second and third input adjustment units 22 and 23 is coupled to the adjustable support angle 223.

[0194]

[0220] In the illustrated embodiment, the sensor frame 240 includes a sensor coupling block 241 , a sensor support block 242 and a sensor support bar 243 .

[0195]

[0221] The sensor connection block 241 is connected to and supports the remaining part sensor 230. The sensor connection block 241 is located on one side in the height direction of the tray space 214, or on the upper side in the illustrated embodiment. The sensor connection block 241 is connected to a sensor support block 242 by a sensor support bar 243.

[0196]

[0222] The sensing device support block 242 is a portion where the sensing frame 240 is connected to the plate member (not shown) or the adjustable support angle 223. The sensing device support block 242 is connected to a structure that does not move. Accordingly, it can be understood that the sensing frame 240 and the remaining part sensing device 230 connected thereto do not move.

[0197]

[0223] As described above, the sensor support blocks 242 provided on the first and fourth input adjustment units 21 and 24 are connected to the plate member (not shown). Also, the sensor support blocks 242 provided on the second and third input adjustment units 22 and 23 are connected to the adjustable support angle 223.

[0198]

[0224] The sensor support bar 243 connects the sensor connection block 241 and the sensor support block 242. The sensor support bar 243 extends in the width direction of the first and second tray surfaces 211 and 212. The sensor connection block 241 is connected to a portion of the outer periphery of the sensor support bar 243. One end of the sensor support bar 243 in the extension direction is connected to the sensor support block 242.

[0199]

[0225] The input power unit 250 provides power to move the second tray surface 212. The input power unit 250 is coupled to the second tray surface 212.

[0200]

[0226] The input power unit 250 may be provided in any form capable of generating power to move the second tray surface 212. In the illustrated embodiment, the input power unit 250 is provided in the form of a pneumatic cylinder including a movable portion and a fixed portion. Alternatively, the input power unit 250 may be provided as a hydraulic cylinder, a motor, or the like.

[0201]

[0227] The input power unit 250 is coupled to the adjustable frame 220. Specifically, the input power unit 250 is directly coupled to the adjustable support block 221. The portion of the input power unit 250 can be moved together with the adjustable support block 221.

[0202]

[0228] The input power unit 250 is coupled to the second tray surface 212. Specifically, the part of the input power unit 250 is coupled to the second tray surface 212 by an adjustable support block 221 or an adjustable support block 221 and an adjustable bar 222. The other part of the input power unit 250 may be fixedly coupled to a plate member (not shown).

[0203]

[0229] The input power unit 250 is electrically connected to the control unit 50. The operation of the input power unit 250 can be controlled by the control unit 50.

[0204]

[0230] The component transfer unit 30 receives the components transferred from the input adjustment unit 20. The component transfer unit 30 can transfer the provided components to the component collection unit 40. The component transfer unit 30 is coupled to and communicates with the input adjustment unit 20 and the component collection unit 40, respectively.

[0205]

[0231] The component transfer unit 30 is located on one side in the height direction of the input adjustment unit 20, i.e., on the lower side in the illustrated embodiment. Specifically, the component transfer unit 30 is located below the tray member 210, and when a component accommodated in the tray space 214 is dropped, it can be placed on the component transfer unit 30.

[0206]

[0232] The component transfer unit 30 is located on one side of the component collection unit 40 in the height direction, i.e., on the upper side in the illustrated embodiment. Specifically, the component transfer unit 30 is located above the discharge space 460 of the storage conveyor 400, and components transferred by the component transfer unit 30 can fall into the discharge space 460.

[0207]

[0233] The component transfer unit 30 is electrically connected to the control unit 50. The components provided in the component transfer unit 30 (i.e., a transfer power unit 320 described below) can be controlled by the control unit 50.

[0208]

[0234] The part transfer unit 30 may be provided in any form capable of transferring the parts placed thereon. In one embodiment, the part transfer unit 30 may be provided in the form of a conveyor belt.

[0209]

[0235] A plurality of component transfer units 30 may be provided. The plurality of component transfer units 30 may be respectively coupled to and communicated with a plurality of input adjustment units 20 and component collection units 40. In the illustrated embodiment, two component transfer units 30 are provided, including a first component transfer unit 31 located on the left side and a second component transfer unit 32 located on the right side.

[0210]

[0236] The first component transfer unit 31 is coupled to and communicates with the first and second input adjustment units 21, 22 and the component collection unit 40. The first component transfer unit 31 transfers the components transferred from the first and second input adjustment units 21, 22 to the component collection unit 40. At this time, the components transferred by the first component transfer unit 31 are transferred to the first storage conveyor 400a of the component collection unit 40.

[0211]

[0237] The second component transfer unit 32 is coupled to and communicates with the third and fourth input adjustment units 23, 24 and the component collection unit 40. The second component transfer unit 32 transfers the components transferred from the third and fourth input adjustment units 23, 24 to the component collection unit 40. At this time, the components transferred by the second component transfer unit 32 are transferred to the second storage conveyor 400b of the component collection unit 40.

[0212]

[0238] As will be described later, the first and second storage conveyors 400a, 400b are physically separated by a separating conveyor partition 422. Therefore, it will be understood that the components transported by the first component transport section 31 and the second component transport section 32 do not mix with each other in the component collection section 40.

[0213]

[0239] Although the first and second component transfer units 31, 32 are connected to different input adjustment units 21, 22, 23, 24 and different receiving conveyors 400a, 400b, they have the same structure and operating method. Therefore, in the following description, the first and second component transfer units 31, 32 will be referred to as component transfer unit 30.

[0214]

[0240] 6 to 13, the part transfer section 30 is composed of a transfer conveyor 300. In this embodiment, the transfer conveyor 300 includes a belt member 310, a transfer power device 320, and a filtering member 330.

[0215]

[0241] The belt member 310 supports the components supplied to the component conveying section 30. The belt member 310 is moved by the conveying power device 320 to convey the supplied components.

[0216]

[0242] The belt member 310 extends between the feed adjustment unit 20 and the component collection unit 40. In the illustrated embodiment, the belt member 310 extends in the left-right direction. One end of the belt member 310 in the extension direction is located below the feed adjustment unit 20 located at the leftmost or rightmost position. The other end of the belt member 310 in the extension direction is located above the component collection unit 40. The other portion of the belt member 310 is located below the remaining feed adjustment unit 20.

[0217]

[0243] Specifically, the left end of the first component transfer section 31 is located below the first input adjustment section 21, the right end of the first component transfer section 31 is located above the first storage conveyor 400a, and part of the remaining part is located below the second input adjustment section 22.

[0218]

[0244] In addition, the right end of the second component transfer section 32 is located below the fourth input adjustment section 24, the left end of the second component transfer section 32 is located above the second storage conveyor 400b, and part of the remaining part is located below the third input adjustment section 23.

[0219]

[0245] The belt member 310 may be made of a material having a predetermined frictional force so that the parts placed on the belt member 310 can be stably transported by the belt member 310 without slipping.

[0220]

[0246] The belt member 310 may be actuated by a transport power unit 320 .

[0221]

[0247] The transport power unit 320 provides power to operate the belt member 310. The transport power unit 320 is coupled to the belt member 310.

[0222]

[0248] The transport power unit 320 may be provided in any form capable of generating and providing power to operate the belt member 310. In the illustrated embodiment, the transport power unit 320 is provided in the form of a motor. In this embodiment, the transport power unit 320 can move the belt member 310 in its longitudinal direction, i.e., toward the left or right side.

[0223]

[0249] The transport power unit 320 is electrically connected to the control unit 50. The operation of the transport power unit 320 can be controlled by the control unit 50.

[0224]

[0250] The filtering member 330 is configured to adjust the amount of components transferred from the component transfer unit 30 to the component collection unit 40. The filtering member 330 is positioned adjacent to the belt member 310. At this time, the filtering member 330 is spaced apart from the belt member 310 in the height direction of the belt member 310. In the illustrated embodiment, the filtering member 330 is positioned above the belt member 310.

[0225]

[0251] Therefore, only the amount of components transported by the belt member 310 that can pass through the space formed between the belt member 310 and the filtering member 330 can be transferred to the component collecting unit 40 .

[0226]

[0252] The filtering member 330 is located adjacent to one end of the belt member 310 in the extension direction, which is adjacent to the component collecting unit 40. In the illustrated embodiment, the filtering member 330 provided in the first component conveying unit 31 is located adjacent to the right end of the belt member 310, and the filtering member 330 provided in the second component conveying unit 32 is located adjacent to the left end of the belt member 310.

[0227]

[0253] The component collecting unit 40 receives the components transferred by the component transferring unit 30. The component collecting unit 40 is coupled to and communicates with the component transferring unit 30. The component collecting unit 40 can also provide the received components to the outside. The component collecting unit 40 can also discharge the received components to the outside. The component collecting unit 40 is also connected to the outside.

[0228]

[0254] The component collection unit 40 according to an embodiment of the present invention may be configured to eject all stored components when the specifications of the components to be provided to the outside are changed. To this end, the component supply unit 10 may stop operating, the input adjustment unit 20 may stop inputting components, and after all the components placed on the component transfer unit 30 have been transferred to the component collection unit 40, the components transferred to the component collection unit 40 may be ejected to the outside. This will be described in detail later.

[0229]

[0255] In addition, the component collection unit 40 according to an embodiment of the present invention may be configured to adjust the alignment of the provided components. Specifically, as the provision of components progresses, the component storage state may be formed individually. In this case, the means for identifying the components (i.e., the collected component detection device 490 described below) may not be able to accurately identify the components.

[0230]

[0256] For this reason, the component collection unit 40 according to the embodiment of the present invention applies vibration (V) to the stored components to scatter them, so that the above means can accurately identify the components, which will be described in detail later.

[0231]

[0257] The component collecting unit 40 is coupled to and communicates with each of the component transfer units 31, 32. In the illustrated embodiment, the component collecting unit 40 is located between the first component transfer unit 31 located on the left side and the second component transfer unit 32 located on the right side. In other words, the first and second component transfer units 31, 32 are arranged facing each other with the component collecting unit 40 in between.

[0232]

[0258] The parts delivered to the parts collection unit 40 can be provided to the outside and used to manufacture products, or can be discharged to an external bucket B to start supplying other parts.

[0233]

[0259] The part collection unit 40 is electrically connected to the control unit 50. The sensing information generated by the above means can be transmitted to the control unit 50. In addition, the components provided in the part collection unit 40 can be controlled by the control unit 50.

[0234]

[0260] In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 14 to 25, the part collecting unit 40 includes a receiving conveyor 400, a stopper member 500, a collecting power device 600, and a vibration transmitting member 700.

[0235]

[0261] The receiving conveyor 400 serves to receive the parts delivered to the part collection unit 40. The receiving conveyor 400 can also provide the received parts to the outside (i.e., for the purpose of product manufacturing) or discharge the received parts into an external bucket B. The receiving conveyor 400 is connected to the outside.

[0236]

[0262] The receiving conveyor 400 may be provided in any form capable of moving or vibrating the parts placed thereon. In the illustrated embodiment, the receiving conveyor 400 is provided in the form of a conveyor.

[0237]

[0263] The receiving conveyor 400 is connected to the component transfer unit 30. At this time, the receiving conveyor 400 can receive the components transferred by the multiple component transfer units 31 and 32 without mixing them with each other. To this end, the receiving conveyor 400 includes a first receiving conveyor 400a that receives the components transferred from the first component transfer unit 31 and a second receiving conveyor 400b that receives the components transferred from the second component transfer unit 32.

[0238]

[0264] The first storage conveyor 400a and the second storage conveyor 400b are physically separated by a partition conveyor partition wall 422. As a result, the components stored on the first storage conveyor 400a and the second storage conveyor 400b do not mix with each other, and the stored components can be accurately delivered to the outside according to the required specifications.

[0239]

[0265] The first and second storage conveyors 400a, 400b have the same structure and function, although there is a difference in the component transfer unit 30 to which they are connected. Therefore, in the following description, the first and second storage conveyors 400a, 400b will be referred to as storage conveyor 400 in terms of the common parts.

[0240]

[0266] In the embodiment shown in Figures 14 to 21, the storage conveyor 400 includes a vibrating belt member 410, a conveyor partition 420, a bumper member 430, a guide member 440, a collection space 450, a discharge space 460, a discharge slope member 470, a blocking partition 480, and a collected part detection device 490.

[0241]

[0267] The vibrating belt member 410 supports the components supplied and collected in the component collection unit 40. The vibrating belt member 410 can be moved by the power provided by the collection power device 600. The vibrating belt member 410 can also be vibrated by the vibration v provided by the vibration transmission member 700.

[0242]

[0268] The vibrating belt member 410 extends in the longitudinal direction of the receiving conveyor 400, which in the illustrated embodiment is the front-to-rear direction. In the illustrated embodiment, the vibrating belt member 410 may extend in a direction perpendicular to the belt member 310.

[0243]

[0269] A blocking partition 480 is located adjacent to one end of the vibrating belt member 410 in the extension direction, which is the front end in the illustrated embodiment. The blocking partition 480 prevents components moving forward along the vibrating belt member 410 from falling out.

[0244]

[0270] A discharge slope member 470 and bucket B are located adjacent to the other end of the vibrating belt member 410 in the extension direction, which in the illustrated embodiment is the rear end. Parts moved rearward along the vibrating belt member 410 can be discharged into bucket B via the discharge slope member 470.

[0245]

[0271] That is, the parts placed on the vibrating belt member 410 move in the extension direction of the vibrating belt member 410, but the parts that need to be delivered to the outside are prevented from being discharged arbitrarily by the blocking partition 480. Furthermore, the parts that need to be delivered to the outside can be discharged into the bucket B via the discharge slope member 470 as the stopper member 500 is opened.

[0246]

[0272] The vibrating belt member 410 surrounds the collection space 450 and the discharge space 460 in the height direction, or from the bottom in the illustrated embodiment. At this time, it will be understood that when the stopper member 500 is raised, the components accommodated in the collection space 450 and the discharge space 460 can be moved by the vibrating belt member 410.

[0247]

[0273] The vibrating belt member 410 may be made of a material having a predetermined frictional force so that components placed on the vibrating belt member 410 can move and vibrate stably without slipping due to the vibrating belt member 410. In one embodiment, the vibrating belt member 410 may be made of a material including rubber.

[0248]

[0274] The vibrating belt member 410 is coupled to the collection power device 600. The vibrating belt member 410 can be operated by the collection power device 600. The vibrating belt member 410 can be moved by the collection power device 600 in its extension direction, i.e., forward or backward.

[0249]

[0275] The vibration belt member 410 is coupled to the vibration transmission member 700. Specifically, one side of the extension direction of the vibration belt member 410, the front side in the illustrated embodiment, is coupled to the vibration transmission member 700. Components located in this portion can vibrate and be relocated by the vibration v provided by the vibration transmission member 700.

[0250]

[0276] The conveyor partition 420 forms part of the outer shape of the receiving conveyor 400. The conveyor partition 420 partially encloses a space formed inside the receiving conveyor 400. The conveyor partition 420 may be extended a predetermined distance in the height direction, i.e., in the vertical direction in the illustrated embodiment.

[0251]

[0277] The conveyor partition 420, in conjunction with the vibrating belt member 410, can define a collection space 450 and a discharge space 460. In the illustrated embodiment, the conveyor partition 420 encloses the collection space 450 and the discharge space 460 in the width direction, i.e., the left-right direction.

[0252]

[0278] As a result, the parts placed on the vibration belt member 410 are no longer discharged arbitrarily in the width direction of the receiving conveyor 400.

[0253]

[0279] In the illustrated embodiment, conveyor bulkheads 420 include outer conveyor bulkheads 421 and compartment conveyor bulkheads 422 .

[0254]

[0280] The outer conveyor partition 421 surrounds the spaces formed inside the storage conveyor 400, namely the collection space 450 and the discharge space 460, on the outside in the width direction. The outer conveyor partition 421 forms the outside of the storage conveyor 400 in the width direction.

[0255]

[0281] The outer conveyor partition 421 extends in the longitudinal direction of the receiving conveyor 400, that is, in the front-to-rear direction in the illustrated embodiment. In this case, the extension length of the outer conveyor partition 421 may be the same as the extension length of the vibration belt member 410.

[0256]

[0282] A plurality of external conveyor partitions 421 may be provided. The plurality of external conveyor partitions 421 are spaced apart from one another in the width direction, and can define the outer shape of the storage conveyor 400 at different positions. In the illustrated embodiment, a pair of external conveyor partitions 421 are provided and spaced apart from one another in the left-right direction. The pair of external conveyor partitions 421 are arranged to face each other with the dividing conveyor partition 422, the collecting space 450, and the discharging space 460 in between.

[0257]

[0283] The dividing conveyor partition 422 divides the storage conveyor 400 into a first storage conveyor 400a and a second storage conveyor 400b. The dividing conveyor partition 422 prevents parts placed on the first storage conveyor 400a and the second storage conveyor 400b from being arbitrarily mixed together.

[0258]

[0284] The compartment conveyor partitions 422 extend longitudinally of the storage conveyor 400, in the front-to-rear direction in the illustrated embodiment. The compartment conveyor partitions 422 may extend a predetermined height. In one embodiment, the compartment conveyor partitions 422 may extend the same height as the outer conveyor partitions 421.

[0259]

[0285] The bumper member 430 is configured to prevent damage that may occur when components collide with the conveyor partition 420 due to vibrations applied to the collection space 450. The bumper member 430 may be formed of a material with a predetermined elasticity or cushioning force and configured to absorb the amount of impact applied from the vibrating components. In one embodiment, the bumper member 430 may be formed of a rubber or silicone material.

[0260]

[0286] The bumper member 430 may at least partially surround the conveyor partition 420. The bumper member 430 extends in the same direction as the conveyor partition 420, which is the front-to-rear direction in the illustrated embodiment. In the illustrated embodiment, the bumper member 430 may be formed with a length corresponding to the length of the collection space 450. In other words, the bumper member 430 is configured to surround the collection space 450 in the width direction.

[0261]

[0287] A plurality of bumper members 430 may be provided. The plurality of bumper members 430 may be respectively coupled to a plurality of conveyor partition walls 420. In the illustrated embodiment, a total of four bumper members 430 are provided. The four bumper members 430 may be arranged to surround a pair of outer conveyor partition walls 421 and a pair of compartment conveyor partition walls 422 (see FIG. 16).

[0262]

[0288] The guide member 440 serves to collect inward parts that are moved from one of the collection space 450 and the discharge space 460 to the other by the vibrating belt member 410. The guide member 440 allows parts positioned adjacent to the outer conveyor partition 421 to move inward in the direction toward the partition conveyor partition 422, i.e., inward in the width direction.

[0263]

[0289] Accordingly, excessive scattering of the components accommodated in the collection space 450 or the discharge space 460 can be prevented, and as a result, the process of providing or discharging the components can be smoothly performed.

[0264]

[0290] The guide member 440 may extend in the extension direction of the conveyor partition 420, i.e., in the front-to-rear direction in the illustrated embodiment. In this case, the guide member 440 may extend between the collection space 450 and the discharge space 460, with a portion of the guide member 440 located in the collection space 450 and the remaining portion in the discharge space 460. The guide member 440 may be configured to protrude inward in the width direction of the receiving conveyor 400, thereby reducing the width of the collection space 450 and the discharge space 460.

[0265]

[0291] The guide member 440 may be divided into a plurality of sections along its length. In the illustrated embodiment, the guide member 440 includes a first section extending inward in the width direction at an angle, a second section extending parallel to the conveyor partition wall 420 and continuing from the first section, and a third section extending outward in the width direction at an angle and continuing from the second section.

[0266]

[0292] The guide member 440 may be formed to have a height in the height direction of the conveyor partition wall 420, that is, in the vertical direction in the illustrated embodiment.

[0267]

[0293] The guide member 440 is coupled to the conveyor partition 420. The guide member 440 may be located on one side of the conveyor partition 420 in the width direction, facing the collection space 450 or the discharge space 460. A plurality of guide members 440 may be provided and coupled to a plurality of conveyor partitions 420, respectively.

[0268]

[0294] In the illustrated embodiment, a total of four guide members 440 are provided. The pair of guide members 440 provided on the first storage conveyor 400a are located on the right side of the outer conveyor partition 421 and the left side of the partition conveyor partition 422, respectively, and are arranged to face each other across the collection space 450 and the discharge space 460.

[0269]

[0295] In addition, another pair of guide members 440 provided on the second storage conveyor 400b are located on the left side of the outer conveyor partition 421 and the right side of the partition conveyor partition 422, respectively, and are arranged to face each other across the collection space 450 and the discharge space 460.

[0270]

[0296] The collection space 450 is defined as a portion of the space surrounded by the vibrating belt member 410 and the conveyor partition wall 420. The collection space 450 is located on one side of the receiving conveyor 400 in the longitudinal direction, the front side in the illustrated embodiment. The parts received in the collection space 450 can be provided to the outside and used to manufacture products. That is, the collection space 450 receives parts that must be provided to the outside.

[0271]

[0297] One side in the height direction of the collection space 450, the upper side in the illustrated embodiment, is open, so that the parts accommodated in the collection space 450 can be grasped by a robot (not shown) or the like through the one side and provided to the outside.

[0272]

[0298] The other side of the collection space 450 in the height direction, the lower side in the illustrated embodiment, is surrounded by a vibrating belt member 410. The collection space 450 is surrounded on each side in the width direction, the left and right sides in the illustrated embodiment, by conveyor partitions 420.

[0273]

[0299] One longitudinal side of the collecting space 450, which is the front side in the illustrated embodiment, is enclosed and closed by a blocking partition 480. The blocking partition 480 prevents components accommodated in the collecting space 450 from moving forward.

[0274]

[0300] The other longitudinal side of the collection space 450, i.e., the rear side in the illustrated embodiment, can be opened or closed by a first stopper member 500a. As will be described later, the first stopper member 500a is provided to be movable up and down, and the collection space 450 can be connected or disconnected from the discharge space 460 by the first stopper member 500a.

[0275]

[0301] A vibration transmission member 700 is located on the other side in the height direction, i.e., the lower side, of the collection space 450. Vibrations v generated by the vibration transmission member 700 can be transmitted to the collection space 450. As a result, the components contained in the collection space 450 are rearranged by the vibrations v, allowing the collected component detection device 490 to more accurately identify the components.

[0276]

[0302] The discharge space 460 is defined as another portion of the space surrounded by the vibrating belt member 410 and the conveyor partition wall 420. The discharge space 460 is located on the other longitudinal side of the receiving conveyor 400, i.e., the rear side in the illustrated embodiment. Components transferred by the component transfer unit 30 can be transferred to the discharge space 460. In addition, the components received in the discharge space 460 can be discharged to an external bucket B. In other words, the discharge space 460 receives components transferred by the component transfer unit 30 and components that must be discharged to the outside.

[0277]

[0303] One side in the height direction of the discharge space 460, that is, the upper side in the illustrated embodiment, is open, so that the components transferred by the component transfer unit 30 can be delivered to the discharge space 460 through this one side.

[0278]

[0304] The other side in the height direction of the discharge space 460, which is the lower side in the illustrated embodiment, is surrounded by a vibrating belt member 410. Each side in the width direction of the discharge space 460, which is the left and right sides in the illustrated embodiment, is surrounded by conveyor partition walls 420.

[0279]

[0305] One longitudinal side of the discharge space 460, the front side in the illustrated embodiment, can be opened or closed by a first stopper member 500a. The discharge space 460 can be connected or disconnected from the collection space 450 by the first stopper member 500a.

[0280]

[0306] The other longitudinal side of the discharge space 460, i.e., the rear side in the illustrated embodiment, can be opened or closed by a second stopper member 500b. The discharge space 460 can be connected or blocked to the outside (or to a bucket B located outside) by the second stopper member 500b.

[0281]

[0307] The discharge slope member 470 forms a path for parts discharged from the discharge space 460 to the outside (i.e., bucket B). The discharge slope member 470 is located at the other end of the receiving conveyor 400 in the longitudinal direction, i.e., the rear end.

[0282]

[0308] The discharge slope member 470 may extend so as to slope toward one side in the height direction. In the illustrated embodiment, the discharge slope member 470 extends so as to slope downward toward the rear. In one embodiment, bucket B may be located on an imaginary line extending from the discharge slope member 470.

[0283]

[0309] There may be a plurality of discharge slope members 470. A plurality of discharge slope members 470 may be located on each of the first storage conveyor 400a and the second storage conveyor 400b. In the illustrated embodiment, a pair of discharge slope members 470 is provided, and is disposed on each of the first and second storage conveyors 400a, 400b.

[0284]

[0310] The isolation partition 480 surrounds one longitudinal side of the collecting space 450, which is the front side in the illustrated embodiment. Any discharge of air from the components housed in the collecting space 450 in the longitudinal direction is blocked by the isolation partition 480. That is, the isolation partition 480 is configured to block the collecting space 450 from communicating with the outside along the longitudinal direction.

[0285]

[0311] The blocking partition 480 extends in the width direction of the receiving conveyor 400, i.e., in the left-right direction in the illustrated embodiment. One end of the blocking partition 480 in the extension direction, i.e., the left end in the illustrated embodiment, can be connected to the external conveyor partition 421 located on the left side. The other end of the blocking partition 480 in the extension direction, i.e., the right end in the illustrated embodiment, can be connected to the external conveyor partition 421 located on the right side.

[0286]

[0312] The blocking partition 480 may be formed to have a predetermined height. In the illustrated embodiment, the blocking partition 480 is formed to have a height equal to or greater than the conveyor partition 420 in the vertical direction.

[0287]

[0313] The collected part sensing device 490 generates sensing information regarding the type of part stored in the collection space 450 (see FIG. 29). In other words, the collected part sensing device 490 generates sensing information for identifying the part stored in the collection space 450. The sensing information generated by the collected part sensing device 490 is transmitted to the control unit 50 and can be used to calculate information regarding parts to be selected by an external robot (not shown), etc.

[0288]

[0314] The collected part sensing device 490 may be provided in any form capable of identifying parts using the external shapes of parts accommodated in the collection space 450. In one embodiment, the collected part sensing device 490 may be provided as a vision camera sensor or the like capable of identifying parts using visual information.

[0289]

[0315] The stopper member 500 allows or blocks communication between the collection space 450 and the discharge space 460. The stopper member 500 also allows or blocks communication between the discharge space 460 and the outside. The stopper member 500 allows components housed in one of the collection space 450 and the discharge space 460 to be moved to the other, or allows components housed in the discharge space 460 to be discharged to the outside.

[0290]

[0316] The stopper member 500 is provided so as to be able to move up and down. In one embodiment, one portion of the stopper member 500 is fixedly coupled to the conveyor partition wall 420, and another portion is coupled to the other portion so as to be able to move up and down.

[0291]

[0317] A plurality of stopper members 500 may be provided. The stopper members 500 are spaced apart from one another along the longitudinal direction of the receiving conveyor 400, and can respectively allow or block communication between the collection space 450 and the discharge space 460, and allow or block communication between the discharge space 460 and the outside.

[0292]

[0318] In the illustrated embodiment, the stopper member 500 includes a first stopper member 500a located at the front side and a second stopper member 500b located at the rear side. The first stopper member 500a can allow or block communication between the collection space 450 and the discharge space 460. The second stopper member 500b can allow or block communication between the discharge space 460 and the outside.

[0293]

[0319] The first stopper member 500a and the second stopper member 500b may be operated independently of each other, or may be operated in conjunction with each other. Accordingly, the collection space 450, the discharge space 460, and the outside may be connected or disconnected from each other in various ways, which will be described in detail later.

[0294]

[0320] Although the first and second stopper members 500a, 500b differ in their positions and the objects they block communication with, they have the same structure and function. Therefore, in the following description, the first and second stopper members 500a, 500b will be referred to as stopper member 500 in terms of the common parts.

[0295]

[0321] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 17, the stopper member 500 includes a blocking plate 510 , a blocking power device 520 and a blocking frame 530 .

[0296]

[0322] The blocking plate 510 blocks communication between the collection space 450, the discharge space 460, and the outside. The blocking plate 510 is coupled to a blocking frame 530 so as to be movable up and down by a blocking power device 520.

[0297]

[0323] When the blocking plate 510 is lowered, communication between the collection space 450, the discharge space 460, and the outside can be blocked. When the blocking plate 510 is raised, communication between the collection space 450, the discharge space 460, and the outside can be allowed.

[0298]

[0324] A plurality of blocking plates 510 may be provided. The blocking plates 510 are spaced apart from one another in the width direction of the storage conveyor 400 and may be provided on the first storage conveyor 400a and the second storage conveyor 400b so as to be able to rise and fall. In the illustrated embodiment, a pair of blocking plates 510 are provided and are provided on the first and second storage conveyors 400a, 400b so as to be able to rise and fall.

[0299]

[0325] In this case, the blocking plate 510 provided on the first stopper member 500a may be disposed at a position where the guide member 440 is provided, i.e., between the collection space 450 and the discharge space 460. Also, the blocking plate 510 provided on the second stopper member 500b may be disposed at a position where the guide member 440 is not provided, i.e., in the discharge space 460.

[0300]

[0326] Therefore, as shown in FIG. 17, it can be understood that the width of the blocking plate 510 provided on the first stopper member 500a is formed to be equal to or less than the width of the blocking plate 510 provided on the second stopper member 500b.

[0301]

[0327] The shutoff power device 520 provides power for raising and lowering the shutoff plate 510. Some components of the shutoff power device 520 may be coupled to the shutoff plate 510, and other components may be coupled to the shutoff frame 530. The some components and the other components of the shutoff power device 520 may be coupled to each other so that they can be raised and lowered. Therefore, it can be said that the shutoff plate 510 is coupled to the shutoff frame 530 so that it can be raised and lowered by the shutoff power device 520.

[0302]

[0328] The cutoff power unit 520 may be provided in any form capable of connecting the cutoff plate 510 to the cutoff frame 530 so that the cutoff plate 510 can be raised and lowered. In one embodiment, the cutoff power unit 520 may be provided in the form of a pneumatic cylinder, similar to the closing power unit 250. In another embodiment, the cutoff power unit 520 may be provided in the form of a motor.

[0303]

[0329] A plurality of the cutoff power devices 520 may be provided. The plurality of cutoff power devices 520 can respectively support a plurality of cutoff plates 510 in a liftable manner. In the illustrated embodiment, a pair of the cutoff power devices 520 is provided, and each of the pair of the cutoff plates 510 and the single cutoff frame 530 is coupled to the pair of the cutoff plates 510 and the single cutoff frame 530.

[0304]

[0330] The blocking frame 530 is a portion where the stopper member 500 is fixedly connected to the receiving conveyor 400. The blocking frame 530 is fixedly connected to the conveyor partition 420, specifically, the outer conveyor partition 421.

[0305]

[0331] The isolation frame 530 is coupled to the isolation power device 520. The isolation frame 530 can support the isolation plate 510 via the isolation power device 520 so that the isolation plate 510 can be raised and lowered.

[0306]

[0332] The blocking frame 530 extends in the width direction of the receiving conveyor 400, or in the left-right direction in the illustrated embodiment. One end of the blocking frame 530 in the extension direction, the left end in the illustrated embodiment, is connected to the outer conveyor partition wall 421 provided on the first receiving conveyor 400a. The other end of the blocking frame 530 in the extension direction, the right end in the illustrated embodiment, is connected to the outer conveyor partition wall 421 provided on the second receiving conveyor 400b.

[0307]

[0333] The collecting power unit 600 provides power for moving the vibrating belt member 410 in its longitudinal direction. The collecting power unit 600 is connected to and supported by the storage conveyor 400. In the illustrated embodiment, the collecting power unit 600 is located on one side of the lengthwise direction of the storage conveyor 400, i.e., the front side. The collecting power unit 600 is connected to the vibrating belt member 410 and can move the vibrating belt member 410.

[0308]

[0334] The power harvesting device 600 is electrically connected to the control unit 50. The operation of the power harvesting device 600 can be controlled by the control unit 50.

[0309]

[0335] The power harvesting device 600 may be provided in any form capable of moving the vibrating belt member 410 in one or other direction along the longitudinal direction and maintaining the vibrating belt member 410 in a stationary state after it has been moved a predetermined distance. In one embodiment, the power harvesting device 600 may be provided in the form of a servo motor.

[0310]

[0336] In this embodiment, the direction, time, and distance that the power harvesting device 600 moves the vibrating belt member 410 can be precisely controlled.

[0311]

[0337] The vibration transmission member 700 applies vibration v to the components accommodated in the collection space 450. The components accommodated in the collection space 450 can be repositioned by the vibration v. Accordingly, the collected component sensing device 490 can more accurately identify the components.

[0312]

[0338] The vibration transmission member 700 is coupled to the storage conveyor 400. Specifically, the vibration transmission member 700 is disposed so as to be in contact with the vibrating belt member 410 that surrounds the collection space 450 from below. In other words, the vibration transmission member 700 is disposed so as to face the collection space 450 across the vibrating belt member 410.

[0313]

[0339] In one embodiment, the vibration transmission member 700 may be in contact with the vibrating belt member 410. In this embodiment, the vibration v generated by the vibration transmission member 700 may be more effectively transmitted to the components housed in the collection space 450.

[0314]

[0340] The vibration transmission member 700 is electrically connected to the control unit 50. The operation of the vibration transmission member 700 can be controlled by the control unit 50.

[0315]

[0341] In the illustrated embodiment, the vibration transmission member 700 includes a vibration power unit 710 and a vibration frame 720 .

[0316]

[0342] The vibration power device 710 is controlled by the control unit 50 to generate vibration v. The generated vibration v can be transmitted to the components accommodated in the collection space 450 through the vibration belt member 410.

[0317]

[0343] The vibration powered device 710 is electrically connected to the control unit 50. The control unit 50 can control whether or not the vibration powered device 710 is operating and how the vibration powered device 710 is operating.

[0318]

[0344] The vibration power device 710 is connected to the receiving conveyor 400 by a vibration frame 720. At this time, the vibration power device 710 can be arranged to contact the vibration belt member 410.

[0319]

[0345] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 22, the vibration power device 710 includes a support plate 711 , a vibration generating device 712 , a protection block 713 , a protection plate 714 , an amplifier plate 715 and an elastic member 716 .

[0320]

[0346] The support plate 711 supports the other components of the vibration powered device 710. The support plate 711 is fixedly coupled to the vibration frame 720. In the illustrated embodiment, the support plate 711 supports the vibration generating device 712 and the elastic member 716. The support plate 711 prevents the vibration powered device 710 from being arbitrarily separated or moved by the generated vibrations v.

[0321]

[0347] The support plate 711 may have any shape capable of supporting other components of the vibration power unit 710. In the illustrated embodiment, the support plate 711 is provided in the form of a plate having a length in the width direction of the receiving conveyor 400, i.e., a length in the left-right direction in the illustrated embodiment, and a thickness in the up-down direction.

[0322]

[0348] The vibration generating device 712 is operated by the control unit 50 to generate vibration v. The generated vibration can be transmitted to the vibrating belt member 410 via the protection plate 714 and the amplification plate 715.

[0323]

[0349] The vibration generating device 712 may be provided in any form capable of generating vibration v. In one embodiment, the vibration generating device 712 may be provided as a voice coil motor. In this embodiment, the vibration generating device 712 is configured to be able to vibrate in its height direction, i.e., up and down, and the strength or distance of the vibration can be easily adjusted by adjusting the vibration frequency.

[0324]

[0350] The protective block 713 is disposed to surround the vibration generating device 712. The protective block 713 is configured to protect the vibration generating device 712. In the illustrated embodiment, the protective block 713 surrounds the vibration generating device 712 in the thickness direction, i.e., in the front-to-back direction.

[0325]

[0351] A plurality of protective blocks 713 may be provided. The plurality of protective blocks 713 may surround the vibration generating device 712 at different positions. In the illustrated embodiment, a pair of protective blocks 713 may be provided, surrounding the vibration generating device 712 at the front and rear sides, respectively. That is, the pair of protective blocks 713 are arranged to face each other with the vibration generating device 712 in between.

[0326]

[0352] The protective plate 714 is configured to support the load of the vibrating belt member 410 or a component placed on the vibrating belt member 410 and to prevent the load from being directly transmitted to the vibration generating device 712. In other words, the protective plate 714 protects the vibration generating device 712.

[0327]

[0353] The protection plate 714 is coupled to the support plate 711. Specifically, the protection plate 714 is coupled to the support plate 711 by an elastic member 716. Therefore, it can be said that the protection plate 714 is elastically supported by the support plate 711.

[0328]

[0354] The protective plate 714 may have a shape corresponding to that of the support plate 711. In the illustrated embodiment, the protective plate 714 is a plate-like plate that extends in the width direction of the support plate 711, i.e., in the left-right direction, and has a thickness in the up-down direction.

[0329]

[0355] At this time, the protection plate 714 is coupled to one of the plurality of protection blocks 713, and can receive the vibrations generated by the vibration generating device 712 coupled to the protection block 713. In the illustrated embodiment, the protection plate 714 is coupled to the upper side of one of the protection blocks 713 located at the rear side, and can receive the generated vibrations.

[0330]

[0356] The vibration transmitted by the protection block 713 can be transmitted to the amplifier plate 715 via the protection plate 714 .

[0331]

[0357] Therefore, damage to the vibration generating device 712 due to an external force is prevented, and the vibration v generated by the vibration generating device 712 can be transmitted to the vibration belt member 410 with minimal loss.

[0332]

[0358] The protection plate 714 is coupled to the amplification plate 715 .

[0333]

[0359] The amplifying plate 715 transmits the vibration v generated by the vibration generating device 712 to the vibrating belt member 410. The amplifying plate 715 is coupled to the protective plate 714, but only over an area that is smaller than the area of ​​the protective plate 714. Therefore, when the vibration generating device 712 is activated, the vibration v of the amplifying plate 715 can be amplified and transmitted to the vibrating belt member 410.

[0334]

[0360] The amplifying plate 715 may be provided in any form capable of amplifying the vibration v and transmitting it to the vibrating belt member 410. In the illustrated embodiment, the amplifying plate 715 is provided in the form of a plate having a length in the left-right direction and a width in the up-down direction.

[0335]

[0361] A plurality of amplifying plates 715 may be provided. The plurality of amplifying plates 715 may be coupled to the protection plate 714 at different positions to come into contact with the vibrating belt member 410. In the illustrated embodiment, a pair of amplifying plates 715 are provided, spaced apart in the longitudinal direction of the protection plate 714, i.e., in the left-right direction.

[0336]

[0362] The elastic members 716 elastically connect the protection plate 714 and the amplifying plate 715 to the support plate 711. The elastic members 716 are connected to the support plate 711, the protection plate 714, and the amplifying plate 715, respectively.

[0337]

[0363] By providing the elastic member 716, the load of the vibration belt member 410 or the parts placed on the vibration belt member 410 can be buffered or offset by the elastic member 716. As a result, damage to the vibration generating device 712 due to the load can be prevented.

[0338]

[0364] The elastic member 716 extends in the height direction of the vibration transmission member 700, that is, in the vertical direction in the illustrated embodiment. One longitudinal end of the elastic member 716, that is, the lower end in the illustrated embodiment, is coupled to the support plate 711. The other longitudinal end of the elastic member 716, that is, the upper end in the illustrated embodiment, is coupled to the protection plate 714 and the amplification plate 715.

[0339]

[0365] The elastic member 716 may be provided in any form capable of cushioning the load, and in the illustrated embodiment, the elastic member 716 may be provided in the form of a coil spring.

[0340]

[0366] A plurality of elastic members 716 may be provided. The plurality of elastic members 716 may be spaced apart in the longitudinal direction of the support plate 711, or in the left-right direction in the illustrated embodiment. In the illustrated embodiment, a pair of elastic members 716 are provided and spaced apart in the left-right direction. The pair of elastic members 716 are arranged to face each other with the vibration generating device 712 in between.

[0341]

[0367] The vibration frame 720 connects the vibration power device 710 to the receiving conveyor 400. The vibration frame 720 is connected to the vibration power device 710 and the receiving conveyor 400, respectively.

[0342]

[0368] Although not shown, the vibration frame 720 may include a housing. A space is formed inside the housing to accommodate the vibration power unit 710. The housing may be fixedly connected to the receiving conveyor 400.

[0343]

[0369] 23 to 25, a process in which vibration v is applied to the components stored in the component collection unit 40, and the components are rearranged is illustrated.

[0344]

[0370] 23, the first stopper member 500a rises, connecting the collection space 450 and the discharge space 460. When the collection power device 600 is operated, the vibration belt member 410 moves in the first direction d1, and the parts accommodated in the discharge space 460 can be accommodated in the collection space 450.

[0345]

[0371] 24, the first stopper member 500a descends to block communication between the collection space 450 and the discharge space 460. When the vibration transmission member 700 is actuated to apply vibration v to the collection space 450, the vibrating belt member 410 and the components placed thereon vibrate, causing the components to be repositioned.

[0346]

[0372] 25, the first stopper member 500a is raised, connecting the collection space 450 and the discharge space 460. When the collection power device 600 is operated, the vibration belt member 410 is moved in the second direction d2, and the parts accommodated in the collection space 450 can be accommodated in the discharge space 460.

[0347]

[0373] The above process is based on the premise that the components accommodated in the discharge space 460 are accommodated in the collection space 450 and then rearranged by the vibration v. Alternatively, it will be understood that the communication between the collection space 450 and the discharge space 460 may be maintained in a blocked state (i.e., the first stopper member 500a is lowered), and the vibration v may be applied to the components previously accommodated in the collection space 450 to rearrange the components.

[0348]

[0374] It will be understood that during the above process, the second stopper member 500b descends to maintain a state in which communication between the discharge space 460 and the outside is blocked, thereby preventing the components from being accidentally discharged through the discharge space 460.

[0349]

[0375] Referring to FIG. 29, the smart feeding system 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention further includes a control unit 50.

[0350]

[0376] The control unit 50 is electrically connected to each of the component supply unit 10, the input adjustment unit 20, the component transfer unit 30, and the component collection unit 40. The control unit 50 receives sensing information generated by the component supply unit 10, the input adjustment unit 20, the component transfer unit 30, and the component collection unit 40 and can calculate information regarding the operating state of the smart feeding system 1.

[0351]

[0377] In addition, the control unit 50 calculates control information for controlling the component supply unit 10, input adjustment unit 20, component transport unit 30, and component collection unit 40 based on the calculated information, and can control each component based on the calculated control information.

[0352]

[0378] The control unit 50 may be implemented in any form capable of inputting, calculating, and outputting information. In one embodiment, the control unit 50 may be implemented as an electronic device including a microprocessor, a CPU, or the like.

[0353]

[0379] In the illustrated embodiment, the control unit 50 includes an information processing unit 800 and a power plant control unit 900 .

[0354]

[0380] The information calculation unit 800 receives the sensing information generated by each of the sensing devices 230 and 490 and calculates information regarding the operating state of the smart feeding system 1. The calculated information is transmitted to the power plant control unit 900 and can be used to control each of the power plants (160, 250, 600, and 710). The information calculation unit 800 is electrically connected to each of the sensing devices 230 and 490 and the power plant control unit 900.

[0355]

[0381] As described above, in one embodiment, the information calculation unit 800 can further use the sensing information generated by the supply component sensing device 170 to calculate information regarding the operating state of the smart feeding system 1 .

[0356]

[0382] In the illustrated embodiment, the information computing unit 800 includes a product information input module 810, a part information computing module 820, a supply information computing module 830, a residual information computing module 840, a collection information computing module 850, a vibration information computing module 860, a movement information computing module 870 and an emission information computing module 880.

[0357]

[0383] The product information input module 810 receives input of product information for a product for which parts should be provided. The product information input module 810 may be provided in the form of a terminal and input by an operator, or may receive input of product information in the form extracted from a preset process.

[0358]

[0384] The product information input by the product information input module 810 is transmitted to the part information calculation module 820 and is used to calculate part information for parts that the smart feeding system 1 must provide.

[0359]

[0385] The product information may include any information related to a product manufactured using the part. In one embodiment, the product information may include product specification information and product quantity information. The product specification information may be defined as information regarding the product specification. The product quantity information may be defined as information regarding the product quantity.

[0360]

[0386] That is, when product information is input, it can be determined whether a specific quantity of parts with a specific specification should be provided. Therefore, it can be understood that if product information is input continuously, the supply of parts by the smart feeding system 1 can also be performed continuously.

[0361]

[0387] To this end, in the illustrated embodiment, the product information input module 810 includes a product specification information input section 811 and a product quantity information input section 812 .

[0362]

[0388] The product specification information input unit 811 receives input of product specification information. The product specification information input unit 811 can transmit the input product specification information to the part information calculation module 820. The product specification information input unit 811 is electrically connected to the part information calculation module 820.

[0363]

[0389] The product quantity information input unit 812 receives input of product quantity information. The product quantity information input unit 812 can transmit the input product quantity information to the part information calculation module 820. The product quantity information input unit 812 is electrically connected to the part information calculation module 820.

[0364]

[0390] The component information calculation module 820 calculates component information, which is information on components that must be provided to the outside. The component information calculation module 820 can calculate component information using product information input through the product information input module 810. The component information calculation module 820 is electrically connected to the product information input module 810.

[0365]

[0391] The part information calculated by the part information calculation module 820 may include any information about parts that must be provided to the outside by the smart feeding system 1. In one embodiment, the part information may include part specification information and part quantity information.

[0366]

[0392] The part specification information may be defined as information on the specifications of the part that must be provided, and may be used to distinguish different parts from each other.

[0367]

[0393] The part quantity information may be defined as information on the quantity of parts that must be provided, and may be used to calculate the quantity of parts that must be provided for a specific product.

[0368]

[0394] Therefore, by calculating the part specification information and the part quantity information, it can be determined how many of a certain part should be provided.

[0369]

[0395] To this end, in the illustrated embodiment, the part information calculation module 820 includes a part specification information calculation unit 821 and a part quantity information calculation unit 822 .

[0370]

[0396] The part specification information calculation unit 821 calculates part specification information using the product specification information. The part specification information calculation unit 821 is electrically connected to the product specification information input unit 811.

[0371]

[0397] The part specification information calculated by the part specification information calculation unit 821 may include any information related to the specifications of the part that must be provided to the outside by the smart feeding system 1. In one embodiment, the part specification information may include information related to the material of the part, the size of the part, the weight of the part, the electrical conductivity of the part, etc.

[0372]

[0398] The part quantity information calculation unit 822 calculates part quantity information using the product quantity information. The part quantity information calculation unit 822 is electrically connected to the product quantity information input unit 812.

[0373]

[0399] The supply information calculation module 830 calculates supply information using the calculated component information. The supply information calculation module 830 is electrically connected to the component information calculation module 820.

[0374]

[0400] The supply information may be defined as information for identifying the parts that must be provided by the part supply unit 10. As described above, a plurality of part supply units 10 may be provided, including first to fourth part supply units 11, 12, 13, and 14. In this case, the first to fourth part supply units 11, 12, 13, and 14 may contain different parts.

[0375]

[0401] Therefore, the supply information calculated by the supply information calculation module 830 may be defined as information for determining which component supply units 11, 12, 13, and 14 should provide what quantity of components to the input adjustment unit 20.

[0376]

[0402] The supply information may identify one or more of the multiple component supply units 11, 12, 13, and 14 and may include any information regarding how many components are to be drawn from the identified component supply units 11, 12, 13, and 14. In one embodiment, the supply information may include supply specification information and supply quantity information.

[0377]

[0403] The supply specification information may be defined as information for identifying one or more of the plurality of component supply units 11, 12, 13, and 14. The supply quantity information may be defined as information regarding the quantity of components to be drawn from one or more of the component supply units.

[0378]

[0404] Therefore, once the supply information is calculated, the parts that must be drawn from the parts supply unit 10 can be identified.

[0379]

[0405] For this purpose, in the illustrated embodiment, the supply information calculation module 830 includes a supply specification information calculation unit 831 and a supply quantity information calculation unit 832 .

[0380]

[0406] The supply specification information calculation unit 831 calculates supply specification information using the part specification information. The supply specification information calculation unit 831 is electrically connected to the part specification information calculation unit 821.

[0381]

[0407] The supply specification information calculated by the supply specification information calculation unit 831 may be transmitted to the power plant control unit 900 and used to calculate control information for controlling the supply power application device 160. The supply specification information calculation unit 831 is electrically connected to the power plant control unit 900.

[0382]

[0408] The supply quantity information calculation unit 832 calculates supply quantity information using the component quantity information. The supply quantity information calculation unit 832 is electrically connected to the component quantity information calculation unit 822.

[0383]

[0409] The supply quantity information calculated by the supply quantity information calculation unit 832 may be transmitted to the power supply control unit 900 and used to calculate control information for controlling the supply power application device 160. The supply quantity information calculation unit 832 is electrically connected to the power unit control unit 900.

[0384]

[0410] The remaining information calculation module 840 calculates remaining information regarding the quantity of components accommodated in the tray space 214 of the tray member 210. The remaining information calculation module 840 can calculate remaining information using the sensing information generated by the remaining component sensing device 230. The remaining information calculation module 840 is electrically connected to the remaining component sensing device 230.

[0385]

[0411] The residual information calculated by the residual information calculation module 840 may be transmitted to the supply power unit control module 910 of the power unit control unit 900. The supply power unit control module 910 may use the calculated residual information to calculate control information for controlling the supply power application device 160. The residual information calculation module 840 is electrically connected to the supply power unit control module 910.

[0386]

[0412] In the above embodiment, if the calculated remaining information indicates that a sufficient or excessive amount of components remain on the tray member 210, the supply power device control module 910 can calculate control information to stop the supply of additional components from the component supplier 10. That is, the supply power device control module 910 controls the supply power application device 160 to stop its operation.

[0387]

[0413] In addition, the residual information calculated by the residual information calculation module 840 may be transmitted to the input power plant control module 920 of the power plant control unit 900. The input power plant control module 920 may use the calculated residual information to calculate control information for controlling the input power plant 250. The residual information calculation module 840 is electrically connected to the input power plant control module 920.

[0388]

[0414] In the above embodiment, if the calculated remaining information indicates that a sufficient or excessive amount of components remain in the tray member 210, the input power unit control module 920 can calculate control information to move the second tray surface 212 toward the component supply unit 10. In other words, the input power unit control module 920 can calculate control information to control the input power unit 250 so that the components accommodated in the tray member 210 are transferred to the component transfer unit 30.

[0389]

[0415] The collected information calculation module 850 calculates collected information related to the parts collected in the collection space 450. The collected information calculation module 850 can calculate the collected information using the sensing information generated by the collected part sensing device 490. The collected information calculation module 850 is electrically connected to the collected part sensing device 490.

[0390]

[0416] The collection information may include any information related to parts remaining in collection space 450. In one embodiment, the collection information may include collection specification information, collection quantity information, and collection status information.

[0391]

[0417] The collection specification information may be defined as information regarding the specifications of parts remaining in the collection space 450. The collection specification information may be transmitted to the discharge information calculation module 880 and used to calculate discharge information.

[0392]

[0418] The collected quantity information may be defined as information regarding the number of parts remaining in the collection space 450. The collected quantity information may be transmitted to the power plant control unit 900 and used to calculate control information for supplying additional parts from the parts supplier 10.

[0393]

[0419] The collection status information may be defined as information regarding the position, direction, or arrangement of the parts remaining in the collection space 450. The collection status information may be transmitted to the power plant control unit 900 and used to calculate control information for changing the arrangement of the parts collected in the collection space 450.

[0394]

[0420] To this end, in the illustrated embodiment, the collection information calculation module 850 includes a collection specification information calculation unit 851 , a collection quantity information calculation unit 852 and a collection status information calculation unit 853 .

[0395]

[0421] The collection specification information calculation unit 851 calculates collection specification information using the sensing information generated by the collected part sensing device 490. The collection specification information calculated by the collection specification information calculation unit 851 is transmitted to the discharge information calculation module 880 and is used to calculate discharge information regarding whether or not to discharge parts collected in the collection space 450. The collection specification information calculation unit 851 is electrically connected to the discharge information calculation module 880.

[0396]

[0422] The collected quantity information calculation unit 852 calculates collected quantity information using the sensing information generated by the collected part sensing device 490. The collected quantity information calculated by the collected quantity information calculation unit 852 is transmitted to the supply power unit control module 910, the input power unit control module 920, the transport power unit control module 930, the cut-off power unit control module 940, and the collection power unit control module 950 and is used to calculate control information for additionally supplying parts. The collected quantity information calculation unit 852 is electrically connected to each of the control modules 910, 920, 930, 940, and 950.

[0397]

[0423] In one embodiment, the collected quantity information calculation unit 852 may be electrically connected to a movement information calculation module 870. In this embodiment, the movement information calculation module 870 may calculate movement information for operating the collection power device 600 using the calculated collected quantity information.

[0398]

[0424] The collection status information calculation unit 853 calculates collection status information using the sensing information generated by the collected part sensing device 490. The collection status information calculated by the collection status information calculation unit 853 is transmitted to the vibration information calculation module 860 and is used to calculate vibration information regarding whether to apply vibration to the parts collected in the collection space 450. The collection status information calculation unit 853 is electrically connected to the vibration information calculation module 860.

[0399]

[0425] In one embodiment, the collected status information calculation unit 853 may be directly electrically connected to the vibration powered unit control module 960. In this embodiment, the vibration powered unit control module 960 may directly calculate control information for controlling the vibration powered unit 710 using the collected status information.

[0400]

[0426] The vibration information calculation module 860 calculates vibration information using the collection status information calculated by the collection status information calculation unit 853. The vibration information may be defined as information on whether to apply vibration to the parts collected in the collection space 450 and change the position, direction, and placement state of the parts. The vibration information calculation module 860 is electrically connected to the collection status information calculation unit 853.

[0401]

[0427] The vibration information calculated by the vibration information calculation module 860 may include any information related to the operation of the vibration power unit 710. For example, the vibration information may include information related to the intensity, duration, application period, etc. of the vibration that the vibration power unit 710 applies to the components collected in the collection space 450.

[0402]

[0428] The vibration information calculated by the vibration information calculation module 860 is transmitted to the vibration power plant control module 960. The vibration information calculation module 860 is electrically connected to the vibration power plant control module 960.

[0403]

[0429] The movement information calculation module 870 calculates movement information using the collected quantity information calculated by the collected quantity information calculation unit 852. In addition, the movement information calculation module 870 calculates movement information using the discharge information calculated by the discharge information calculation module 880. The movement information calculation module 870 is electrically connected to the collected quantity information calculation unit 852 and the discharge information calculation module 880, respectively.

[0404]

[0430] The movement information may be defined as information for moving the vibrating belt member 410 that surrounds the collection space 450 and the discharge space 460 from below, thereby moving components located in the collection space 450 or the discharge space 460. That is, the movement information may be defined as information related to the operation of the collection power device 600 that moves the vibrating belt member 410.

[0405]

[0431] The movement information may include any type of information related to the operation of the harvesting power device 600. In one embodiment, the movement information may include information related to the rotation direction and rotation angle of the harvesting power device 600. In an embodiment in which the harvesting power device 600 is equipped with a servo motor, the movement information may include information for the harvesting power device 600 to stop after rotating a preset angle in one direction and then stop after rotating a preset angle in the other direction.

[0406]

[0432] The movement information calculated by the movement information calculation module 870 is transmitted to the power collection device control module 950. The movement information calculation module 870 and the power collection device control module 950 are electrically connected to each other.

[0407]

[0433] The discharge information calculation module 880 calculates discharge information regarding whether or not to discharge parts positioned in the collection space 450 to the outside. The discharge information calculation module 880 can calculate discharge information using part specification information and collection specification information. The discharge information calculation module 880 is electrically connected to the part specification information calculation unit 821 and the collection specification information calculation unit 851.

[0408]

[0434] If the calculated part specification information and the collection specification information are the same, it may be determined that the parts collected in the collection space 450 may be continuously supplied to the outside. For this reason, the discharge information calculation module 880 calculates discharge information so that the parts collected in the collection space 450 are not discharged.

[0409]

[0435] On the other hand, if the calculated part specification information and the collection specification information differ, it may be determined that the parts collected in the collection space 450 need to be removed. For this reason, the discharge information calculation module 880 calculates discharge information so that the parts collected in the collection space 450 are discharged.

[0410]

[0436] The discharge information calculated by the discharge information calculation module 880 is transmitted to the power plant control unit 900 and then to each control module 910, 920, 930, 940, 950 that controls each component that must be controlled to discharge the parts collected in the collection space 450. The discharge information calculation module 880 is electrically connected to each of the control modules 910, 920, 930, 940, 950.

[0411]

[0437] The power plant control unit 900 uses the information calculated by the information calculation unit 800 to calculate control information for controlling the power plants 160, 250, 320, 490, 520, 600, and 700. The power plant control unit 900 can control the power plants 160, 250, 320, 490, 520, 600, and 700 based on the calculated control information. The power plant control unit 900 is electrically connected to the power plants 160, 250, 320, 490, 520, 600, and 700 and the information calculation unit 800, respectively.

[0412]

[0438] In the illustrated embodiment, power plant control unit 900 includes a supply power plant control module 910, an input power plant control module 920, a transfer power plant control module 930, an interrupt power plant control module 940, a collection power plant control module 950, and a vibration power plant control module 960.

[0413]

[0439] The supply power device control module 910 uses the calculated supply information to calculate control information for controlling the supply power application device 160. The supply power device control module 910 is electrically connected to the supply information calculation module 830.

[0414]

[0440] Specifically, the power supply device control module 910 can select one or more parts supply units 10 among the plurality of parts supply units 11, 12, 13, and 14 that correspond to the calculated supply specification information.

[0415]

[0441] In addition, the supply power device control module 910 can calculate control information for controlling the supply power application device 160 provided in any one or more of the component supply units 10 so that components corresponding to the calculated supply quantity information are supplied.

[0416]

[0442] In addition, the supply power device control module 910 uses the calculated residual information to control the supply power application device 160. The supply power device control module 910 is electrically connected to the residual information calculation module 840.

[0417]

[0443] Specifically, the supply power unit control module 910 can calculate control information by comparing the calculated residual information with preset reference residual information.

[0418]

[0444] If the calculated remaining information is equal to or greater than the reference remaining information, it can be understood that a sufficient number of parts are secured in the tray member 210. Therefore, the supply power device control module 910 calculates control information to stop the supply power application device 160 so as to stop the supply of additional parts.

[0419]

[0445] On the other hand, if the calculated residual information is less than the reference residual information, it can be understood that additional parts need to be supplied, and therefore the supply power device control module 910 calculates control information for operating the supply power application device 160 so that additional parts are supplied.

[0420]

[0446] In the above embodiment, the reference remaining information can be defined as information regarding the number of components when an arbitrary amount of components, neither surplus nor shortage, is accommodated in the tray member 210 .

[0421]

[0447] Furthermore, the supply power device control module 910 uses the calculated discharge information to control the supply power application device 160. The supply power device control module 910 is electrically connected to the discharge information calculation module 880.

[0422]

[0448] If the calculated ejection information indicates that the components collected in the collection space 450 need to be ejected, i.e., removed, the additional supply of components must be stopped. To this end, the supply power device control module 910 calculates control information to stop the supply power application device 160 so that the additional supply of components is stopped.

[0423]

[0449] If the calculated ejection information indicates that the components collected in the collection space 450 do not need to be ejected, it can be understood that additional components need to be supplied. Therefore, the supply power device control module 910 calculates control information for operating the supply power application device 160 so that additional components are supplied.

[0424]

[0450] The supply power device control module 910 can control the supply power application device 160 according to the calculated control information. The supply power device control module 910 is electrically connected to the supply power application device 160.

[0425]

[0451] The input power unit control module 920 uses the calculated residual information to calculate control information for controlling the input power unit 250. The input power unit control module 920 is electrically connected to the residual information calculation module 840.

[0426]

[0452] Specifically, if the calculated residual information is equal to or greater than the reference residual information, it can be understood that the components accommodated in the tray member 210 should be transferred to the component transfer unit 30. To this end, the input power unit control module 920 calculates control information for controlling the input power unit 250 coupled to the second tray surface 212 so that the lower side of the tray space 214 is opened.

[0427]

[0453] On the other hand, if the calculated remaining information is less than the reference remaining information, it can be understood that more parts must be replenished in the tray member 210. To this end, the input power unit control module 920 calculates control information for controlling the input power unit 250 coupled to the second tray surface 212 so that the bottom of the tray space 214 is closed.

[0428]

[0454] In addition, the input power unit control module 920 uses the calculated collected information to calculate control information for controlling the input power unit 250. The input power unit control module 920 is electrically connected to the collected information calculation module 850.

[0429]

[0455] Specifically, if the calculated collection quantity information is equal to or greater than the preset reference quantity information, it can be understood that this is a situation in which the supply of additional parts to the collection space 450 must be stopped. To this end, the input power unit control module 920 calculates control information for controlling the input power unit 250 coupled to the second tray surface 212 so that the lower side of the tray space 214 is closed.

[0430]

[0456] Furthermore, if the calculated collection quantity information is less than the reference quantity information, it can be understood that additional parts need to be supplied to the collection space 450. Therefore, the input power unit control module 920 calculates control information for controlling the input power unit 250 coupled to the second tray surface 212 so that the lower side of the tray space 214 is opened.

[0431]

[0457] Furthermore, the input power unit control module 920 can use the calculated discharge information to calculate control information for controlling the input power unit 250. The input power unit control module 920 is electrically connected to the discharge information calculation module 880.

[0432]

[0458] Specifically, if the calculated discharge information indicates that the parts collected in the collection space 450 need to be removed, this can be understood as a situation in which the supply of additional parts to the collection space 450 must be stopped. To this end, the input power unit control module 920 calculates control information for controlling the input power unit 250 coupled to the second tray surface 212 so that the bottom of the tray space 214 is closed.

[0433]

[0459] Furthermore, if the calculated discharge information indicates that removal of the parts collected in the collection space 450 is not necessary, this may be interpreted as a situation in which additional parts need to be supplied to the collection space 450. To this end, the input power unit control module 920 calculates control information for controlling the input power unit 250 coupled to the second tray surface 212 so that the lower side of the tray space 214 is opened.

[0434]

[0460] The input power unit control module 920 can control the input power unit 250 according to the calculated control information. The input power unit control module 920 is electrically connected to the input power unit 250.

[0435]

[0461] The transport power unit control module 930 uses the calculated residual information to calculate control information for controlling the transport power unit 320. The transport power unit control module 930 is electrically connected to the residual information calculation module 840.

[0436]

[0462] Specifically, if the calculated residual information is equal to or greater than the reference residual information, it can be understood that the components accommodated in the tray member 210 should be transferred to the component collection unit 40 via the component transfer unit 30. To this end, the transfer power unit control module 930 calculates control information for controlling the transfer power unit 320 so that the components placed on the belt member 310 are transferred to the storage conveyor 400.

[0437]

[0463] Also, if the calculated residual information is less than the reference residual information, it can be understood that additional parts must first be provided to the tray member 210. Therefore, the transport power unit control module 930 calculates control information for controlling the transport power unit 320 so that parts placed on the belt member 310 are not transferred to the storage conveyor 400.

[0438]

[0464] The transport power unit control module 930 uses the calculated collected information to calculate control information for controlling the transport power unit 320. The transport power unit control module 930 is electrically connected to the collected information calculation module 850.

[0439]

[0465] Specifically, if the calculated collection quantity information is equal to or greater than the preset reference quantity information, it can be understood that this is a situation in which the supply of additional parts to the collection space 450 must be stopped. To this end, the transport power unit control module 930 calculates control information for controlling the transport power unit 320 so that the parts placed on the belt member 310 are transferred to the storage conveyor 400.

[0440]

[0466] Furthermore, if the calculated collection quantity information is less than the reference quantity information, it can be understood that additional parts need to be supplied to the collection space 450. Therefore, the transport power unit control module 930 calculates control information to control the transport power unit 320 so that the parts placed on the belt member 310 are not transferred to the storage conveyor 400.

[0441]

[0467] The transport power unit control module 930 uses the calculated emission information to calculate control information for controlling the transport power unit 320. The transport power unit control module 930 is electrically connected to the emission information calculation module 880.

[0442]

[0468] Specifically, if the calculated discharge information indicates that the parts collected in the collection space 450 need to be removed, this can be understood as a situation in which the supply of additional parts to the collection space 450 must be stopped. For this reason, the transport power unit control module 930 calculates control information for controlling the transport power unit 320 so that the parts placed on the belt member 310 are not transferred to the storage conveyor 400.

[0443]

[0469] Furthermore, if the calculated discharge information indicates that removal of the parts collected in the collection space 450 is not necessary, this can be understood as a situation in which additional parts need to be supplied to the collection space 450. For this reason, the transport power unit control module 930 calculates control information for controlling the transport power unit 320 so that the parts placed on the belt member 310 are transferred to the storage conveyor 400.

[0444]

[0470] The transport power unit control module 930 can control the transport power unit 320 according to the calculated control information. The transport power unit control module 930 is electrically connected to the transport power unit 320.

[0445]

[0471] The breaking power unit control module 940 calculates control information for controlling the breaking power unit 520. As described above, the breaking power unit 520 may be provided in each of the first stopper member 500a and the second stopper member 500b. Therefore, the breaking power unit control module 940 may include a first breaking power unit control module 941 for controlling the breaking power unit 520 of the first stopper member 500a and a second breaking power unit control module 942 for controlling the breaking power unit 520 of the second stopper member 500b.

[0446]

[0472] The breaker power unit control module 940 calculates control information for controlling the breaker power unit 520 based on the calculated collected information. The breaker power unit control module 940 is electrically connected to the collected information calculation module 850.

[0447]

[0473] If the calculated collection quantity information is equal to or greater than the reference quantity information, it can be understood that there is no need to supply additional parts to the collection space 450. Therefore, the first and second cutoff power device control modules 941 and 942 calculate control information so that the cutoff power devices 520 of the first and second stopper members 500a and 500b lower the cutoff plate 510 so that the collection space 450 and the discharge space 460 are separated.

[0448]

[0474] If the calculated collection quantity information is less than the reference quantity information, it can be understood that additional parts need to be supplied to the collection space 450. Therefore, the first interrupting power device control module 941 calculates control information so that the interrupting power device 520 of the first stopper member 500a raises the interrupting plate 510 so that the collection space 450 and the discharge space 460 communicate with each other. At this time, the second interrupting power device control module 942 calculates control information so that the interrupting power device 520 of the second stopper member 500b lowers the interrupting plate 510 so that the discharge space 460 is disconnected from the outside.

[0449]

[0475] The breaker power unit control module 940 calculates control information for controlling the breaker power unit 520 based on the calculated vibration information. The breaker power unit control module 940 is electrically connected to the vibration information calculation module 860.

[0450]

[0476] Specifically, if the calculated vibration information indicates that the parts collected in the collection space 450 need to be rearranged, it can be understood that the communication between the collection space 450 and the discharge space 460 must be blocked. For this reason, the first and second blocking power device control modules 941 and 942 calculate control information so that the blocking power devices 520 of the first and second stopper members 500a and 500b lower the blocking plates 510 so that the collection space 450 and the discharge space 460 are separated.

[0451]

[0477] Furthermore, if the calculated vibration information indicates that rearrangement of the components collected in the collection space 450 is unnecessary, it is preferable to prevent mixing of the components respectively arranged in the collection space 450 and the discharge space 460. To this end, the first and second breaking power device control modules 941 and 942 calculate control information to cause the respective breaking power devices 520 of the first and second stopper members 500a and 500b to lower the breaking plate 510 so that the collection space 450 and the discharge space 460 are separated.

[0452]

[0478] The breaker power unit control module 940 calculates control information for controlling the breaker power unit according to the calculated emission information. The breaker power unit control module 940 is electrically connected to the emission information calculation module 880.

[0453]

[0479] Specifically, if the calculated discharge information indicates that a part located in the collection space 450 or the discharge space 460 needs to be removed, the collection space 450 and the discharge space 460 must be connected to each other. To this end, the first and second shutoff power device control modules 941 and 942 calculate control information to cause the respective shutoff power devices 520 of the first and second stopper members 500a and 500b to lower the shutoff plate 510 so that the collection space 450 and the discharge space 460 are separated.

[0454]

[0480] For this reason, the first breaking power unit control module 941 calculates control information so that the breaking power unit 520 of the first stopper member 500a raises the breaking plate 510 so that the collection space 450 and the discharge space 460 communicate with each other. At this time, the second breaking power unit control module 942 calculates control information so that the breaking power unit 520 of the second stopper member 500b raises the breaking plate 510 so that the discharge space 460 communicates with the outside.

[0455]

[0481] Furthermore, if the calculated discharge information indicates that removal of parts located in the collection space 450 or the discharge space 460 is unnecessary, the collection space 450 and the discharge space 460 must be separated from each other. To this end, the first and second shutoff power device control modules 941 and 942 calculate control information so that the shutoff power devices 520 of the first and second stopper members 500a and 500b lower the shutoff plates 510 so that the collection space 450 and the discharge space 460 are separated from each other.

[0456]

[0482] The break power unit control module 940 can control the break power unit 520 according to the calculated control information. The break power unit control module 940 is electrically connected to the break power unit 520.

[0457]

[0483] The collection power plant control module 950 uses the calculated movement information to calculate control information for controlling the collection power plant 600. The collection power plant control module 950 is electrically connected to the movement information calculation module 870.

[0458]

[0484] If the calculated movement information is to move a part located in the discharge space 460 to the collection space 450, the collection power device control module 950 calculates control information so that the collection power device 600 moves a portion of the vibrating belt member 410 surrounding the discharge space 460 on the underside toward the collection space 450.

[0459]

[0485] In addition, if the calculated movement information is to discharge parts located in the collection space 450 to the discharge space 460 or to the outside, the collection power device control module 950 calculates control information so that the collection power device 600 moves a portion of the vibration belt member 410 surrounding the collection space 450 on the underside toward the discharge space 460.

[0460]

[0486] The power harvesting device control module 950 can control the power harvesting device 600 according to the calculated control information. The power harvesting device control module 950 is electrically connected to the power harvesting device 600.

[0461]

[0487] The vibration power unit control module 960 uses the calculated vibration information to calculate control information for controlling the vibration power unit 710. The vibration power unit control module 960 is electrically connected to the vibration information calculation module 860.

[0462]

[0488] Specifically, if the calculated vibration information indicates that the parts housed in the collection space 450 need to be rearranged, the vibration power unit control module 960 calculates control information so that the vibration power unit 710 applies an external force to the parts collected in the collection space 450.

[0463]

[0489] Also, if the calculated vibration information means that rearrangement of the parts collected in the collection space 450 is unnecessary, the vibration power unit control module 960 calculates control information so that the vibration power unit 710 does not operate.

[0464]

[0490] The vibration power unit control module 960 can control the vibration power unit 710 according to the calculated control information. The vibration power unit control module 960 is electrically connected to the vibration power unit 710.

[0465]

[0491] In one embodiment, the vibration powered device control module 960 can control the vibration powered device 710 to apply vibration at preset time intervals. In this embodiment, the components stored in the collection space 450 can be periodically rearranged, and the collected component sensing device 490 can accurately identify the components and supply them to the outside.

[0466]

[0492]

[0493] 26 to 28, an operation process of the smart feeding system 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention is illustrated as an example.

[0467]

[0494] Referring to FIG. 26, a state in which components are supplied from the component supply unit 10 to the discharge space 460 is shown.

[0468]

[0495] As described above, different components can be provided through the first to fourth component supply units 11, 12, 13, and 14. That is, from the different components accommodated in the first to fourth component supply units 11, 12, 13, and 14, only the components required for a process can be selectively provided.

[0469]

[0496] Therefore, although FIG. 26 illustrates the first to fourth component supply units 11, 12, 13, and 14 as supplying components simultaneously, this is for the sake of ease of understanding and explanation, and it will be understood that in practice the supply of components by the first to fourth component supply units 11, 12, 13, and 14 may proceed independently of each other.

[0470]

[0497] In this state, the component supply unit 10 is operated to supply components to the input adjustment unit 20. The second tray surface 212 of the input adjustment unit 20 is moved in the opening direction O to separate from the first tray surface 211, and the lower side of the tray space 214 is connected to the component transfer unit 30.

[0471]

[0498] Furthermore, the transfer power device 320 of the component transfer unit 30 is activated, and the components placed on the belt member 310 can be transferred to the discharge space 460 of the component collection unit 40 .

[0472]

[0499] At this time, the first stopper member 500a descends (a), blocking communication between the collection space 450 and the discharge space 460. Therefore, this state can be understood as a state immediately after the previously supplied parts are discharged in order to change the parts to be supplied to the outside.

[0473]

[0500] In addition, the second stopper member 500b also descends (a), blocking communication between the discharge space 460 and the outside. As a result, it can be understood that the parts transferred to the discharge space 460 are not discharged to the outside.

[0474]

[0501] 27 shows a state in which the collection space 450 and the discharge space 460 are in communication with each other when the additional supply of components is stopped. In this state, the operation of the component supply unit 10 is stopped and the supply of components from the input adjustment unit 20 is stopped. The second tray surface 212 of the input adjustment unit 20 is moved in the closing direction C to contact the first tray surface 211, thereby closing the lower side of the tray space 214.

[0475]

[0502] Furthermore, the transfer power device 320 of the component transfer section 30 is stopped, and the components placed on the belt member 310 are not transferred to the discharge space 460 of the component collection section 40.

[0476]

[0503] At this time, the first stopper member 500a rises (b) to connect the collection space 450 and the discharge space 460. Therefore, this state can be understood as a state in which a sufficient amount of parts have been supplied and replacement of parts is not necessary, so that the parts that have already been supplied are to be supplied to the outside.

[0477]

[0504] In addition, the second stopper member 500b descends (a) to block communication between the discharge space 460 and the outside, so that it can be understood that the parts transferred to the discharge space 460 are not discharged to the outside.

[0478]

[0505] Referring to FIG. 28, when the additional supply of components is stopped, the collection space 450 is disconnected from the discharge space 460, and the discharge space 460 is connected to the outside.

[0479]

[0506] In this state, the operation of the component supply unit 10 is stopped, and the supply of components to the input adjustment unit 20 is stopped. The second tray surface 212 of the input adjustment unit 20 is moved in the closing direction C so as to come into contact with the first tray surface 211, and the lower side of the tray space 214 is closed.

[0480]

[0507] Furthermore, the transfer power device 320 of the component transfer unit 30 is operated so that all of the components placed on the belt member 310 can be transferred to the discharge space 460 of the component collection unit 40. Therefore, components previously input from the input adjustment unit 20, i.e., components that need to be discharged, do not remain in the component transfer unit 30.

[0481]

[0508] At this time, the first stopper member 500a descends (a), blocking communication between the collection space 450 and the discharge space 460. Also, the second stopper member 500b ascends (b), connecting the discharge space 460 to the outside. Accordingly, the parts transferred to the discharge space 460 can be discharged into the external bucket B.

[0482]

[0509] That is, this state can be understood as a process for replacing previously supplied parts. Furthermore, it can be understood that before this state is established, the process in which the transport power device 320 is operated to transfer all parts placed on the belt member 310 to the discharge space 460 and the process in which the first stopper member 500a is raised (b) to move parts accommodated in the collection space 450 to the discharge space 460 can both be preceded.

[0483]

[0510]

[0511] 30 to 38, a control method of the smart feeding system 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. The control method of the smart feeding system 1 according to the illustrated embodiment can be performed by each component of the smart feeding system 1 described above.

[0484]

[0512] In the illustrated embodiment, the control method of the smart feeding system 1 includes a step (S100) in which the control unit 50 calculates component information for the provided components, a step (S200) in which the control unit 50 controls the component supply unit 10 so that the components are supplied to the component collection unit 40 based on the calculated component information, a step (S300) in which the control unit 50 controls one or more of the component supply unit 10, the input adjustment unit 20, the component transport unit 30, and the component collection unit 40 based on the quantity of the supplied components, and a step (S400) in which the control unit 50 controls the component collection unit 40 so that the status of the components transmitted to the component collection unit 40 is changed.

[0485]

[0513] 31, there is shown a detailed flow of step S100 in which the control unit 50 calculates part information for the provided parts. In this step S100, product information to be manufactured is input, and part information to be supplied is calculated accordingly.

[0486]

[0514] First, the product information input module 810 of the information calculation unit 800 receives input of product information for a product manufactured using parts (S110). At this time, the input product information may include product specification information and product quantity information.

[0487]

[0515] The part information calculation module 820 of the information calculation unit 800 calculates part information using the input product information (S120). This step (S120) may include a step (S121) in which the part specification information calculation unit 821 calculates part specification information for the specifications of the parts to be supplied using the input product specification information, and a step (S122) in which the part quantity information calculation unit 822 calculates part quantity information for the quantity of the parts to be supplied using the input product quantity information.

[0488]

[0516] 32 to 34, a detailed flow of step S200 in which the control unit 50 controls the component supply unit 10 to supply components to the component collection unit 40 based on the calculated component information is shown. In this step S200, components to be supplied based on the component information calculated in the previous step S100 are selected, and the selected components are transmitted from the component supply unit 10 to the input adjustment unit 20.

[0489]

[0517] This step (S200) can be performed in two cases: when it is necessary to remove the components located in the collection space 450, and when it is not necessary to remove the components located in the collection space 450. First, the case where it is not necessary to remove the components located in the collection space 450 will be described.

[0490]

[0518] The supply information calculation module 830 of the information calculation unit 800 calculates supply information using the calculated part information (S220).

[0491]

[0519] Specifically, the supply specification information calculation unit 831 of the supply information calculation module 830 calculates part specification information for the specifications of the parts to be supplied using the calculated part specification information (S221). Also, the supply quantity information calculation unit 832 of the supply information calculation module 830 calculates part quantity information (S222) for the quantity of parts to be supplied using the calculated part quantity information (S222).

[0492]

[0520] Next, the supply power device control module 910 of the power device control unit 900 controls the supply power application device 160 using the calculated supply information (S230).

[0493]

[0521] Specifically, the power supply device control module 910 selects one or more of the component supply units 10 based on the calculated supply specification information (S231). The power supply device control module 910 also calculates control information for controlling the power supply application device 160 provided in the selected one or more component supply units 10 (S232), and controls the power supply application device 160 provided in the one or more component supply units 10 based on the calculated control information (S233).

[0494]

[0522] Next, a case where it is necessary to remove a part located in the collection space 450 will be described.

[0495]

[0523] Before the step of calculating supply information (S220), the discharge information calculation module 880 of the information calculation unit 800 calculates discharge information using sensing information on product specifications collected in the collection space 450 of the part collection unit 40 (S210).

[0496]

[0524] Specifically, the collected part detection device 490 generates detection information for the part located in the collection space 450 (S211). The collected specification information calculation unit 851 of the collected information calculation module 850 calculates collected specification information for the specification of the part located in the collection space 450 using the generated detection information (S212).

[0497]

[0525] The discharge information calculation module 880 calculates discharge information using the calculated collection specification information and part specification information (S213). Specifically, if the calculated collection specification information and part specification information differ, the discharge information calculation module 880 calculates discharge information so that the parts collected in the collection space 450 are discharged (S213a).

[0498]

[0526] Also, the cutoff power unit control module 940 controls the cutoff power unit 520 according to the calculated discharge information (S214), and the collection power unit control module 950 controls the collection power unit 600 according to the calculated discharge information (S215).

[0499]

[0527] At this time, the first breaking power unit control module 941 controls the breaking power unit 520 so that the first stopper member 500a connects the collection space 450 and the discharge space 460 (S214a), and the second breaking power unit control module 942 controls the breaking power unit 520 so that the second stopper member 500b connects the discharge space 460 and the outside (S214b).

[0500]

[0528] In addition, the collection power device control module 950 controls the collection power device 600 to discharge the parts located in the collection space 450 to the outside (S215a). Accordingly, the parts previously stored in the collection space 450 are discharged to the outside, and new parts that match the part specification information can be provided to the collection space 450.

[0501]

[0529] 35 to 37, there is shown a detailed flow of step S300 in which the control unit 50 controls one or more of the component supply unit 10, input adjustment unit 20, component transfer unit 30, and component collection unit 40 according to the number of supplied components. This step S300 is a step S400 in which an appropriate number of components are transferred to the collection space 450 through the coordinated operation of the component supply unit 10, input adjustment unit 20, component transfer unit 30, and component collection unit 40.

[0502]

[0530] This step (S400) can be divided into steps (S310, S320, S330) of moving components located in the input adjustment unit 20 and the component transfer unit 30 from the component supply unit 10 based on the remaining information, and steps (S340, S350, S360) of moving components transmitted to the component collection unit 40 based on the collection information. The steps (S310 to S360) can be performed simultaneously or at different times.

[0503]

[0531] First, the remaining part detector 230 generates detection information on the number of parts accommodated in the tray member 210 (S310). The remaining information calculation module 840 of the information calculation unit 800 calculates remaining information on the number of parts remaining in the tray member 210 using the generated detection information (S320).

[0504]

[0532] The power unit control unit 900 controls one or more of the supply power application device 160, the input power device 250, and the transport power device 8320 based on the calculated residual information (S330). This step (S330) can be divided into a plurality of steps (S331, S332, S333) as follows.

[0505]

[0533] First, the power supply device control module 910 controls the power supply application device 160 according to the calculated residual information (S331).

[0506]

[0534] Specifically, if the calculated residual information is equal to or greater than the predetermined reference residual information, the supply power unit control module 910 controls the supply power application unit 160 to stop (S331a). If the calculated residual information is less than the reference residual information, the supply power unit control module 910 controls the supply power application unit 160 to operate (S331b).

[0507]

[0535] In addition, the input power unit control module 920 controls the input power unit 250 based on the calculated residual information (S332).

[0508]

[0536] Specifically, if the calculated residual information is less than the reference residual information, the input power unit control module 920 controls the input power unit 250 so that the components accommodated in the tray member 210 are not transferred to the component transfer unit 30 (S332a). If the calculated residual information is equal to or greater than the reference residual information, the input power unit control module 920 controls the input power unit 250 so that the components accommodated in the tray member 210 are transferred to the component transfer unit 30 (S332b).

[0509]

[0537] In addition, the transport power unit control module 930 controls the transport power unit 320 based on the calculated residual information (S333).

[0510]

[0538] Specifically, if the calculated residual information is equal to or greater than the reference residual information, the transport power unit control module 930 controls the transport power unit 320 so that the parts are transmitted to the part collection unit 40 (S333a). Also, if the calculated residual information is less than the reference residual information, the transport power unit control module 930 controls the transport power unit 320 so that the parts are not transmitted to the part collection unit 40 (S333b).

[0511]

[0539] Meanwhile, collected parts detection device 490 generates detection information regarding the quantity of parts accommodated in collection space 450 (S340). Collected quantity information calculation unit 852 of collected information calculation module 850 of information calculation unit 800 calculates collected quantity information regarding the parts accommodated in collection space 450 using the generated detection information (S350). Power plant control unit 900 controls one or more of shutoff power plant 520 and collecting power plant 600 based on the calculated collection information (i.e., collected quantity information) (S360).

[0512]

[0540] Specifically, if the calculated collection quantity information is equal to or greater than the preset reference quantity information, the power unit control unit 900 controls one or more of the cutoff power unit 520 and the collection power unit 600 so that the parts located in the discharge space 460 are not moved to the collection space 450 (S361).

[0513]

[0541] At this time, the first breaking power device control module 941 controls the breaking power device 520 provided on the first stopper member 500a so that the first stopper member 500a separates the collection space 450 and the discharge space 460 (S361a). In addition, the collection power device control module 950 controls the collection power device 600 to stop so that parts located in the discharge space 460 are not moved to the collection space 450 (S361b).

[0514]

[0542] Also, if the calculated collection quantity information is less than the reference quantity information, the power unit control unit 900 controls one or more of the cutoff power unit 520 and the collection power unit 600 so that the parts located in the discharge space 460 are moved to the collection space 450 (S362).

[0515]

[0543] At this time, the first breaking power device control module 941 controls the breaking power device 520 provided on the first stopper member 500a so that the first stopper member 500a communicates between the collection space 450 and the discharge space 460 (S362a). In addition, the collection power device control module 950 controls the collection power device 600 to stop so that the parts located in the discharge space 460 are moved to the collection space 450 (S362b).

[0516]

[0544] 38, there is shown a detailed flow of step S400 in which the control unit 50 controls the component collection unit 40 to change the state of the components transmitted to the component collection unit 40. In this step S400, an external force is applied to change one or more of the position, direction, and arrangement state of the components positioned in the collection space 450 so that the components can be easily identified and grasped.

[0517]

[0545] First, the collected part sensing device 490 generates sensing information on the state of the part located in the collection space 450 (S410). The collected information computing module 850 of the information computing unit 800 computes collected information on the state of the part located in the collection space 450 using the generated sensing information (S420).

[0518]

[0546] At this time, the collection status information calculation unit 853 can calculate collection status information for at least one of the position, direction, and placement status of the component using the generated sensing information (S421).

[0519]

[0547] Next, the power unit control unit 900 controls one or more of the isolation power unit 520 and the vibration power unit 710 based on the calculated collection status information, and one or more of the position, direction, and placement state of the components located in the collection space 450 are changed (S430).

[0520]

[0548] Specifically, if the calculated collection state information differs from the preset reference state information, the first breaking power unit control module 941 controls the breaking power unit 520 so that the first stopper member 500a connects the collection space 450 and the discharge space 460 (S431). In addition, the vibration power unit control module 960 controls the vibration power unit 710 so that an external force is applied to the component located in the collection space 450, and one or more of the position, direction, and arrangement state of the component located in the collection space 450 is changed (S432).

[0521]

[0549]

[0550] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described, the concept of the present invention is not limited to the embodiments presented in this specification, and a person skilled in the art who understands the concept of the present invention may easily propose other embodiments by adding, changing, deleting, or adding components within the scope of the same concept, which may also fall within the scope of the concept of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0522]

[0551] 1:Smart Feeding System 10: Parts Supply Department

[0552] 11: First Parts Supply Department 12: Second Parts Supply Department

[0553] 13: 3rd Parts Supply Department 14: 4th Parts Supply Department

[0554] 20: Feeding adjustment section 21: 1st input adjustment section

[0555] 22:Second input adjustment section 23: 3rd input adjustment section

[0556] 24: 4th input adjustment section 30: Parts transfer section

[0557] 31: First parts transfer section 32: Second part transfer section

[0558] 40: Parts Collection Department 50: Control unit

[0559] 100: Supply Frame 110: First supply frame

[0560] 111: 1st supply space 120: Second supply frame

[0561] 121:Second supply space 130: Third supply frame

[0562] 140: Ejection frame 141:Exhaust space

[0563] 150: Supply door member 160: Supply power application device

[0564] 170: Supply parts detection device 200: Parts housing member

[0565] 210: Tray member 211: First tray surface

[0566] 212: Second tray surface 213: Third tray surface

[0567] 214: Tray space 220: Adjustment frame

[0568] 221: Adjustment support block 222: Adjustment bar

[0569] 223: Adjustable support angle 224: Support bar

[0570] 230: Remaining parts detector 240: Sensing frame

[0571] 241: Sensor connection block 242: Sensor support block

[0572] 243: Sensor support bar 250: Input power unit

[0573] 300: Transfer conveyor 310: Belt member

[0574] 320: Transfer power unit 330: Filtering member

[0575] 400: Storage conveyor 400a: First storage conveyor

[0576] 400b: Second storage conveyor 410: Vibration belt member

[0577] 420: Conveyor bulkhead 421:External conveyor bulkhead

[0578] 422: Compartment conveyor bulkhead 430: Bumper parts

[0579] 440: Guide member 450: Collection Space

[0580] 460:Exhaust space 470: Discharge slope member

[0581] 480: Isolation bulkhead 490: Collected parts detector

[0582] 500: Stopper material 500a: First stopper member

[0583] 500b: second stopper member 510: Shielding plate

[0584] 520: Cut-off power unit 530: Blocking Frame

[0585] 600: Harvesting power unit 700: Vibration transmission member

[0586] 710: Vibration power device 711: Support plate

[0587] 712: Vibration generator 713: Protection Block

[0588] 714: Protective plate 715: Amplification plate

[0589] 716: Elastic member 720: Vibration frame

[0590] 800: Information processing unit 810: Product information input module

[0591] 811: Product specification information input section 812: Product quantity information input section

[0592] 820: Parts information calculation module 821: Part specification information calculation unit

[0593] 822: Parts quantity information calculation unit 830: Supply information calculation module

[0594] 831: Supply specification information calculation unit 832:Supply quantity information calculation unit

[0595] 840: Residual information calculation module 850: Collected information calculation module

[0596] 851: Collection specification information calculation unit 852: Collection quantity information calculation unit

[0597] 853: Collection status information calculation unit 860: Vibration information calculation module

[0598] 870:Movement information calculation module 880: Emission information calculation module

[0599] 900: Power Plant Control Unit 910: Power supply control module

[0600] 920: Injection power unit control module 930: Transport Power Plant Control Module

[0601] 940: Cutoff power unit control module 941: First interrupt power unit control module

[0602] 942: Secondary cutoff power unit control module

[0603] 950: Harvesting power unit control module 960: Vibration Power Unit Control Module

[0604] B: Bucket C: Closing direction

[0605] O: Opening direction a: Downward direction

[0606] b: Upward direction d1: 1st direction

[0607] d2:Second direction v: Vibration

Claims

1. a parts supply section to which parts are supplied from outside; a component storage section located below a part of the component supply section, configured to receive the component from the component supply section and to provide the component to an outside; The component storage section includes: a receiving conveyor extending longitudinally and supporting the components transferred from the component supply section; and a stopper member that divides the internal space of the storage conveyor into a plurality of spaces along the longitudinal direction; The component transferred from the component supply unit is positioned in one of the spaces, The part moved to another one of the spaces along the longitudinal direction is provided to the outside, The stopper member is coupled to the receiving conveyor so as to be able to move up and down so that the one space and the other space are fluidly connected or blocked.

2. The storage conveyor is a vibration belt member configured to be movable to one side and the other side in the longitudinal direction, supporting the component, and surrounding the internal space from below; and 2. The smart feeding system according to claim 1, further comprising a partition conveyor partition extending in the longitudinal direction and partitioning the interior space into a plurality of spaces along the width direction of the vibrating belt member.

3. The storage conveyor is a vibration belt member configured to be movable to one side and the other side in the longitudinal direction, supporting the component, and surrounding the internal space from below; and a conveyor partition extending in the longitudinal direction and enclosing the interior space in the width direction; the stopper member is coupled to the conveyor partition; The stopper member is an isolation frame fixedly coupled to the conveyor bulkhead and extending in the width direction; an interruption power device coupled to the interruption frame; and a blocking plate coupled to the blocking power device and dividing the internal space into a plurality of the spaces; The smart feeding system according to claim 1 , wherein the cutoff power device supports the cutoff plate so that the cutoff plate can be raised and lowered.

4. The stopper members are provided in a plurality, and the plurality of stopper members are spaced apart from each other along the longitudinal direction, 4. The smart feeding system according to claim 3, wherein the plurality of stopper members are configured to be able to move up and down independently of each other.

5. a vibration transmission member positioned adjacent to the other space and configured to apply vibration to the component positioned in the other space so that the component is rearranged; The storage conveyor is a vibration belt member configured to be movable to one side and the other side in the longitudinal direction, supporting the component, and surrounding the internal space from below; The vibration transmission member is a vibration generating device that applies the vibration to the vibrating belt member; a support plate positioned opposite the vibrating belt member and supporting the vibration generating device; and 2. The smart feeding system according to claim 1, further comprising an amplifier plate disposed opposite the support plate across the vibration generating device, in contact with the vibrating belt member to transmit the vibration to the vibrating belt member.

6. a feed adjustment unit located between the component supply unit and the component storage unit along the height direction, configured to transfer the components from the component supply unit to the component storage unit; The input adjustment unit is a tray member positioned below the component supply unit and receiving the components from the component supply unit; and 10. The smart feeding system of claim 1, further comprising a power input device coupled to said tray member for movably supporting a portion of said tray member.

7. (a) calculating part information for a provided part by a control unit; (b) controlling a part supply unit so that the part is supplied to a part collection unit according to the calculated part information by the control unit; (c) controlling at least one of the component supply unit, the input adjustment unit, the component transfer unit, and the component collection unit according to the quantity of the components supplied by the control unit; and (d) A method for controlling a smart feeding system, comprising the step of: controlling the component collection unit so that the control unit changes the state of the component transmitted to the component collection unit.

8. The step (a) comprises: (a1) receiving input of product information for a product manufactured by the parts by an information calculation unit; and (a2) the information calculation unit calculates the part information using the input product information; The method of claim 7 , wherein the product information includes product specification information regarding the product specifications and product quantity information regarding the product quantity.

9. The step (b) comprises: (b1) an information calculation unit calculating supply information using the calculated part information; and The method for controlling a smart feeding system according to claim 7, further comprising the step of: (b2) causing a power device control unit to control a supply power application device according to the calculated supply information.

10. a plurality of the component supply units are provided, and the plurality of component supply units are configured to supply the components having specifications different from each other, The step (b1) is (b11) calculating supply specification information for the specifications of the part to be supplied using the calculated part specification information by a supply information calculation module; and (b12) the supply information calculation module calculates supply quantity information for the quantity of the parts to be supplied using the calculated part quantity information; the part information includes the part specification information and the part quantity information, the supply information includes the supply specification information and the supply quantity information; The step (b2) (b21) a step of selecting one or more of the plurality of parts supply units according to the calculated supply specification information by a supply power device control module; (b22) calculating control information for controlling a supply power application device provided in any one or more of the component supply units by using the calculated supply quantity information by the supply power device control module; and (b23) A control method for a smart feeding system as described in claim 9, comprising a step in which the supply power device control module controls the supply power application device provided in any one or more of the component supply units based on the calculated control information.

11. The step (b) comprises: Before the step (b1), (b0) the information calculation unit calculates ejection information using sensing information on the specifications of the parts collected by the part collection unit; The step (b0) is (b01) generating sensing information for the part located in the collection space by a collection part sensing device; (b02) calculating collected specification information for the specifications of the part located in the collection space using the generated sensing information by a collection information calculation module; (b03) a step of calculating discharge information by a discharge information calculation module using the calculated collected specification information and the part information; (b04) controlling the cutoff power device by the cutoff power device control module according to the calculated discharge information; and The method for controlling a smart feeding system according to claim 9, further comprising (b05) a step in which a power harvesting device control module controls the power harvesting device according to the calculated discharge information.

12. The step (c) (c1) generating sensing information on the quantity of the components contained in the tray member by a remaining component sensing device; (c2) an information calculation unit calculating remaining information on the quantity of the components remaining on the tray member using the generated sensing information; and (c3) The method for controlling a smart feeding system according to claim 7, further comprising a step of: a power unit control unit controlling one or more of a supply power application device, an input power unit, and a transport power unit based on the calculated residual information.

13. The step (c3) is (c31) a supply power device control module controls the supply power application device according to the calculated residual information; (c32) controlling the input power unit by an input power unit control module according to the calculated residual information; and (c33) a transport power unit control module controls the transport power unit based on the calculated residual information; The step (c31) is (c311) when the calculated residual information is equal to or greater than a predetermined reference residual information, the supply power device control module controls the supply power application device to stop; and (c312) when the calculated residual information is less than the reference residual information, the supply power device control module controls the supply power application device to operate; The step (c32) (c321) when the calculated residual information is less than a predetermined reference residual information, the input power unit control module controls the input power unit so that the parts accommodated in the tray member are not transferred to the part transfer unit; and (c322) when the calculated residual information is equal to or greater than the reference residual information, the input power unit control module controls the input power unit so that the parts accommodated in the tray member are transferred to the part transfer unit; The step (c33) (c331) when the calculated residual information is equal to or greater than a predetermined reference residual information, the transport power unit control module controls the transport power unit so that the parts are transmitted to the parts collection unit; and (c332) The method for controlling a smart feeding system according to claim 12, further comprising the step of: if the calculated residual information is less than the reference residual information, the transport power unit control module controls the transport power unit to stop.

14. The step (c) (c4) generating sensing information on the number of parts accommodated in the collection space by the collection part sensing device; (c5) calculating collection information for the part accommodated in the collection space by using the generated sensing information by the information calculation unit; and (c6) controlling at least one of the power plant control unit and the power plant control unit according to the calculated collected information; The step (c6) is (c61) when the calculated collected quantity information is equal to or greater than a predetermined reference quantity information, the power unit control unit controls at least one of the cutoff power unit and the collecting power unit so that the part located in the discharge space is not moved to the collecting space; and (c62) when the calculated collected quantity information is less than the reference quantity information, the power unit control unit controls at least one of the cutoff power unit and the collecting power unit so that the parts located in the discharge space are moved to the collecting space, The method of claim 12, wherein the collection quantity information is information about the quantity of parts accommodated in the collection space.

15. The step (d) (d1) generating sensing information on the state of the component located in the collection space by a collection component sensing device; (d2) calculating collected information on the state of the component located in the collection space by using the generated sensing information by an information calculation unit; (d3) a power plant control unit controls at least one of an isolation power plant and a vibration power plant according to the calculated collected information, and at least one of a position and a direction of the component located in the collection space is changed; The step (d2) is (d21) a collection status information calculation unit calculates collection status information for the position and orientation of the part using the generated sensing information; The step (d3) is (d31) when the calculated collection state information is different from the preset reference state information, the first cutoff power device control module controls the first cutoff power device so that the first stopper member communicates with the collection space and the discharge space; and (d32) A method for controlling a smart feeding system as described in claim 7, including a step in which a vibration power unit control module controls a vibration power unit so that an external force is applied to the part positioned in the collection space, thereby changing at least one of the position and orientation of the part positioned in the collection space.

Images