Smart feeding system
The smart feeding system addresses the challenge of supplying parts with varying specifications by using a movable conveyor belt and vibration applying unit, ensuring continuous, automated, and efficient part supply with ease of changeover and accurate adjustment.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- PCT/KR2024/021416
- Authority / Receiving Office
- WO · WO
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2024-01-02
- Filing Date
- 2024-12-30
- Publication Date
- 2025-07-10
AI Technical Summary
Existing smart factory systems face challenges in efficiently and automatically supplying parts with different specifications while minimizing device volume and reducing human intervention, particularly in environments where multiple products with varying configurations are manufactured sequentially.
A smart feeding system with a movable conveyor belt, partition walls, and a parts supply unit that includes a moving frame and vibration applying unit, allowing for continuous part supply, easy changeover, automated process, and accurate part adjustment.
Enables continuous and automated part supply with ease of changeover, preventing arbitrary detachment, and accurate part adjustment, optimizing space utilization and efficiency in smart factories.
Smart Images

Figure KR2024021416_10072025_PF_FP_ABST
Abstract
Description
Smart Feeding System
[0001] The present invention relates to a smart feeding system, and more particularly, to a smart feeding system capable of classifying and providing parts through an automated process in a rapid and accurate manner.
[0002] As mass production and automation of products became more common, it became more common for multiple products to be manufactured sequentially rather than a single product being manufactured during a process.
[0003] Smart factories are one approach to mass production and automation. Smart factories can be utilized to minimize human intervention in processes such as product design, development, and manufacturing, thereby improving speed and accuracy. In particular, smart factories can be utilized to manufacture industrial products with multiple components.
[0004] Meanwhile, as we move from mass production of a small variety to small-batch production of a large variety, the number of products manufactured serially with different specifications is increasing. In other words, products within the same product family are manufactured using different configurations and can be used in different environments.
[0005] To continuously produce products with different specifications, as described above, one approach might be to group multiple products by specification, produce a group of products with the same specifications, and then produce another group of products with different specifications. However, in a real-world manufacturing environment, grouping products with all identical specifications is extremely difficult.
[0006] Furthermore, even if similar products are successfully grouped together, it is not desirable in terms of production efficiency to start producing products with different specifications after producing all products with the same specifications.
[0007] Therefore, a method is needed to provide continuous, automatic provision of different parts or products while allowing for easy changeover. Furthermore, a method is needed to achieve this goal while reducing the size of the device itself, ultimately reducing the overall footprint of the smart factory.
[0008] Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2023-0058784 discloses an automotive smart factory system. Specifically, the system is based on autonomous robots and can receive individual components of the vehicle from the autonomous robots.
[0009] However, the smart automobile factory described in the aforementioned prior art document consists of large-volume automobiles as final finished products. Consequently, the production lines through which these products are supplied inevitably become larger. Therefore, autonomous robots capable of moving are essential to supply parts to automobiles moving along the production lines.
[0010] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2023-029563 discloses a tray parts supply device. Specifically, the device discloses a tray parts supply device capable of automatically exchanging a magazine that accommodates multiple trays.
[0011] However, the tray parts supply device disclosed in the above-mentioned prior art document requires a separate shuttle mechanism for removing the trays. Furthermore, the above-mentioned prior art document also requires a separate structure for raising and lowering the shuttle mechanism. In other words, the above-mentioned prior art document fails to provide a simple method for forming a structure for automatically exchanging magazines.
[0012] Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2023-0058784 (May 3, 2023)
[0013] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2023-029563 (March 3, 2023)
[0014] The present invention is intended to solve the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a smart feeding system having a structure capable of continuously supplying parts.
[0015] Another object of the present invention is to provide a smart feeding system having a structure in which the supplied parts can be easily changed.
[0016] Another object of the present invention is to provide a smart feeding system having a structure capable of preventing a situation in which a provided part is randomly detached.
[0017] Another object of the present invention is to provide a smart feeding system having a structure in which the parts supply process can be automated.
[0018] Another object of the present invention is to provide a smart feeding system having a structure capable of easily and accurately adjusting the amount of supplied parts.
[0019] The tasks of the present invention are not limited to the tasks mentioned above, and other tasks not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains from the description below.
[0020] According to one aspect of the present invention, a smart feeding system is provided, comprising: a main frame; and a parts supply unit coupled to the main frame and communicating with the outside to receive parts and provide the received parts to the main frame, wherein the main frame includes a conveyor belt movable in one direction; a partition wall portion surrounding each side of the conveyor belt in the width direction; and a parts receiving space surrounded by the conveyor belt and the partition wall portion, one side in the height direction being communicated with the outside, wherein the parts supply unit includes a coupling frame fixedly coupled to the main frame; and a moving frame coupled to the coupling frame so as to be movable in one direction or in the other direction opposite to the one direction, and having a parts delivery space formed therein to receive the parts in communication with the outside, wherein when the moving frame is moved in either the one direction or the other direction, the parts delivery space communicates with the parts receiving space, so that the parts are moved to the parts receiving space.
[0021] At this time, a smart feeding system can be provided in which the coupling frame includes a component support plate that supports the moving frame from the lower side, and the component transfer space is formed such that each side in the height direction is open, but the lower side thereof is closed by the component support plate when the moving frame is moved in the other direction among the one direction and the other direction.
[0022] In addition, a smart feeding system may be provided in which the component supply unit includes a moving member that is connected to the coupling frame and the moving frame, respectively, and is configured to move the moving frame in one of the one direction and the other direction.
[0023] At this time, a smart feeding system may be provided in which the movable member includes a movable body fixedly connected to the coupling frame; and a piston member connected to the movable body so as to be movable in one direction or the other direction and connected to the movable frame.
[0024] In addition, a smart feeding system may be provided in which the moving frame includes a pair of first moving walls that surround the part transfer space in the longitudinal direction; a pair of second moving walls that are each continuous with the pair of first moving walls and surround the part transfer space in the width direction, and the piston member is coupled with either one of the pair of first moving walls and the pair of second moving walls.
[0025] At this time, a smart feeding system may be provided in which the parts supply unit is coupled to the coupling frame, extends obliquely in a direction toward the conveyor belt, and is positioned on the lower side of the moving frame moved in one of the directions, and includes a slope member on which the parts fall.
[0026] Additionally, a smart feeding system can be provided, which includes a vibration applying unit positioned inside the main frame and configured to apply vibration to the conveyor belt.
[0027] At this time, a smart feeding system may be provided in which the vibration applying unit includes a vibration generating unit that generates vibration in the height direction; and a vibration transmitting plate that is positioned between the vibration generating unit and the conveyor belt, is coupled to the vibration generating unit, is in contact with the conveyor belt, and transmits the vibration to the conveyor belt.
[0028] In addition, according to one aspect of the present invention, a smart feeding system is provided, including a main frame; a parts supply unit coupled to the main frame, communicating with the outside to receive parts, and providing the received parts to the main frame; and a vibration applying unit located inside the main frame and configured to apply vibration to the provided parts, wherein the main frame includes a conveyor belt movable in one direction and an opposite direction to the one direction; and a parts receiving space having a lower side surrounded by the conveyor belt and an upper side communicated with the outside, wherein the parts supply unit includes a joining frame fixedly coupled to the main frame; a parts moving space which is a space surrounded by the joining frame and the conveyor belt; and a blocking plate coupled to the joining frame so as to be movable, wherein when the blocking plate is lowered by a predetermined distance toward the conveyor belt, communication between the parts receiving space and the parts moving space is blocked.
[0029] At this time, a smart feeding system may be provided in which the component supply unit includes a moving member that is respectively connected to the coupling frame and the blocking plate and is configured to elevate the blocking plate in a direction toward and opposite to the conveyor belt.
[0030] In addition, a smart feeding system can be provided in which the movable member includes a movable body fixedly connected to the coupling frame; and a piston member movably connected to the movable body and connected to the blocking plate.
[0031] At this time, a smart feeding system may be provided in which the movable member includes a movable guide member that is fixedly connected to the movable body and supports the blocking plate so that it can be lifted.
[0032] In addition, a smart feeding system can be provided in which the vibration applying unit includes: a vibration generating unit that generates the vibration; a vibration transmitting plate that is coupled to the vibration generating unit and transmits the generated vibration to the conveyor belt; and an elevation guide member that is coupled to the vibration transmitting plate and is configured to guide the oscillation of the vibration transmitting plate.
[0033] At this time, a smart feeding system may be provided in which the lifting guide member is equipped with an LM guide (Linear Motion guide).
[0034] According to the above configuration, the smart feeding system according to an embodiment of the present invention can continuously supply parts.
[0035] In addition, according to the above configuration, the smart feeding system according to the embodiment of the present invention can easily change the parts to be supplied.
[0036] In addition, according to the above configuration, the smart feeding system according to the embodiment of the present invention can prevent a situation in which the provided part is randomly detached.
[0037] In addition, according to the above configuration, the smart feeding system according to the embodiment of the present invention can automate the parts supply process.
[0038] Additionally, the smart feeding system according to an embodiment of the present invention can easily and accurately adjust the amount of supplied parts.
[0039] The effects of the present invention are not limited to the effects described above, and should be understood to include all effects that can be inferred from the detailed description of the present invention or the composition of the invention described in the claims.
[0040] FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating a smart feeding system according to one embodiment of the present invention.
[0041] Figure 2 is a plan view illustrating the smart feeding system of Figure 1.
[0042] Figure 3 is a rear view illustrating the smart feeding system of Figure 1.
[0043] Figure 4 is an exploded perspective view showing the configuration of the smart feeding system of Figure 1.
[0044] Figure 5 is a perspective view showing a main frame provided in the smart feeding system of Figure 1.
[0045] Figure 6 is a plan view showing the main frame of Figure 5.
[0046] Fig. 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line AA of the main frame of Fig. 5.
[0047] Fig. 8 is a BB cross-sectional view showing the main frame of Fig. 5.
[0048] Fig. 9 is a perspective view showing a vibration applying unit provided in the smart feeding system of Fig. 1.
[0049] Fig. 10 is an exploded perspective view showing the vibration application unit of Fig. 9.
[0050] Fig. 11 is an exploded perspective view showing a vibration generating unit provided in the vibration applying unit of Fig. 9.
[0051] Fig. 12 is a perspective view showing a parts supply unit provided in the smart feeding system of Fig. 1.
[0052] Fig. 13 is a plan view showing the parts supply section of Fig. 12.
[0053] Figures 14 and 15 are CC cross-sectional views showing the component supply section of Figure 12.
[0054] Fig. 16 is a perspective view showing the smart feeding system of Fig. 1 adjusted to the first state.
[0055] Fig. 17 is a DD cross-sectional view showing the interior of the smart feeding system of Fig. 16.
[0056] Fig. 18 is a perspective view showing a state in which the smart feeding system of Fig. 1 is adjusted to a second state.
[0057] Fig. 19 is an EE cross-sectional view showing the interior of the smart feeding system of Fig. 18.
[0058] FIG. 20 is a perspective view illustrating a smart feeding system according to another embodiment of the present invention.
[0059] Fig. 21 is a plan view illustrating the smart feeding system of Fig. 20.
[0060] Fig. 22 is a rear view illustrating the smart feeding system of Fig. 20.
[0061] Figure 23 is an exploded perspective view showing the configuration of the smart feeding system of Figure 20.
[0062] Fig. 24 is a perspective view showing a parts supply unit provided in the smart feeding system of Fig. 20.
[0063] Fig. 25 is a plan view showing the parts supply section of Fig. 24.
[0064] Fig. 26 is a perspective view showing the parts supply section of Fig. 24.
[0065] Fig. 27 is a perspective view showing the smart feeding system of Fig. 20 adjusted to the first state.
[0066] Fig. 28 is a FF cross-sectional view showing the interior of the smart feeding system of Fig. 27.
[0067] Fig. 29 is a perspective view showing the smart feeding system of Fig. 20 adjusted to the second state.
[0068] Fig. 30 is a FF cross-sectional view showing the interior of the smart feeding system of Fig. 29.
[0069] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings so that those skilled in the art can easily practice the present invention. The present invention may be implemented in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. To clearly explain the present invention, parts irrelevant to the description are omitted in the drawings, and the same reference numerals designate identical or similar components throughout the specification.
[0070] The words and terms used in this specification and claims should not be construed as limited to their ordinary or dictionary meanings, but should be interpreted in a way that is consistent with the technical idea of the present invention, in accordance with the principles by which the inventor can define terms and concepts in order to best explain his or her invention.
[0071] 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 all of the technical ideas of the present invention, so there may be various equivalents and modified examples that can replace the configuration at the time of filing of the present invention.
[0072] In the following description, descriptions of some components may be omitted to clarify the features of the present invention.
[0073]
[0074] The term "fluid communication" as used herein refers to one or more elements being fluidly connected to one another. In one embodiment, the fluid communication may be formed by elements such as conduits, pipes, or piping. In the following description, the fluid communication may be used in the same sense as one or more elements being "fluidly connected" to one another.
[0075] The term "conduction" as used herein refers to the connection of one or more elements to enable the transmission of current or electrical signals. In one embodiment, the conduction may be formed in a wired form, such as by a conductor element, or in a wireless form, such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or RFID. In one embodiment, the conduction may also include the meaning of "communication."
[0076] The term "fluid" used in the following description refers to any form of material that can flow and change shape or volume, etc., due to an external force. In one embodiment, the fluid may be a liquid such as water or a gas such as air.
[0077] The term "component" used in the following description refers to any configuration utilized to manufacture a product. In embodiments where the product comprises a circuit breaker or relay, the component may be provided as a contact.
[0078] The term "product" used in the following description refers to any object manufactured including the above-described component. In embodiments where the above-described component is provided as a contact, the product may be provided as a circuit breaker or relay, as described above.
[0079] The terms “upper side,” “lower side,” “left side,” “right side,” “front side,” and “rear side” used in the following description are to be understood with reference to the coordinate system depicted throughout the attached drawings.
[0080]
[0081] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 4, a smart feeding system (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention is illustrated.
[0082] A smart feeding system (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention is configured to provide externally supplied components back to the outside. In other words, the components can be provided to the smart feeding system (10) randomly without any limitation on the number. The smart feeding system (10) can be configured to provide a preset number of the provided components to the outside.
[0083] The smart feeding system (10) may be positioned adjacent to a parts supply device (not shown) and a parts identification device (not shown). The smart feeding system (10) may be connected to the parts supply device (not shown) to receive the parts. Parts provided to the smart feeding system (10) may be identified by the parts identification device (not shown) and re-provided to the outside.
[0084] To this end, the smart feeding system (10) includes one component (i.e., a main frame (100) to be described later) for moving the provided component to a position where it can be identified by a component identification device (not shown), another component (i.e., a vibration applying unit (200) to be described later) for applying vibration to the moved component so that the moved component can be easily identified and gripped, and another component (i.e., a component supply unit (300) to be described later) for providing a component provided from the outside to the one component.
[0085] In the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 4, the smart feeding system (10) includes a main frame (100), a vibration applying unit (200), and a parts supply unit (300).
[0086] The main frame (100) constitutes a portion of the exterior of the smart feeding system (10). The main frame (100) accommodates and supports other components of the smart feeding system (10). In the illustrated embodiment, the main frame (100) accommodates a vibration inducing unit (200) and is coupled to and supports a parts supply unit (300).
[0087] The main frame (100) is electrically connected to an external power source (not shown) and a control unit (not shown). The power and control signals required for the operation of the main frame (100) can be transmitted from an external power source (not shown) and a control unit (not shown).
[0088] The main frame (100) may be positioned adjacent to an external component identification device (not shown) and a component pickup device (not shown). Components supplied to the main frame (100) may be identified by the component identification device (not shown) and picked up by the component pickup device (not shown) and provided to the outside.
[0089] The main frame (100) may be of any shape that is coupled to the vibration application unit (200) and the component supply unit (300) to support them and provide components to the outside. In the illustrated embodiment, the main frame (100) is a polygonal pillar shape having a length in the front-back direction, a width in the left-right direction, and a height in the up-down direction.
[0090] In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 5 to 8, the main frame (100) includes a cover portion (110), a conveyor belt (120), a bulkhead portion (130), a component receiving space (140), a guide member (150), a vibration plate (160), a power application portion (170), and a power transmission portion (180).
[0091] The cover part (110) constitutes the outer shape of the main frame (100). The cover part (110) is combined with other components of the main frame (100) to support them. A space is formed inside the cover part (110), so that some components of the main frame (100) and a vibration applying part (200) can be accommodated. A component supply part (300) can be combined on one side of the cover part (110) in the height direction.
[0092] The cover portion (110) may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the main frame (100). In the illustrated embodiment, the cover portion (110) has a polygonal prism shape having a length in the front-back direction, a height in the up-down direction, and a width in the left-right direction.
[0093] The cover part (110) is connected to the conveyor belt (120). The cover part (110) movably supports the conveyor belt (120). The cover part (110) is connected to the partition wall part (130) to support them. In the illustrated embodiment, the upper side of the cover part (110) is connected to the partition wall part (130).
[0094] The cover portion (110) partially surrounds the component receiving space (140). In the illustrated embodiment, the cover portion (110) surrounds one side, i.e., the lower side, in the height direction of the component receiving space (140).
[0095] The cover part (110) is coupled to the guide member (150). Specifically, the cover part (110) is positioned facing the guide member (150) with the first bulkhead (131) interposed therebetween.
[0096] The cover part (110) is coupled with a vibration plate (160). The vibration plate (160) may be positioned on one side of the height direction of the cover part (110), in the illustrated embodiment, on one part of the upper surface.
[0097] The cover part (110) is coupled to a power application part (170). In the illustrated embodiment, the power application part (170) is positioned on the rear side of the cover part (110). In one embodiment, the power application part (170) may be positioned to be exposed to the outside of the cover part (110).
[0098] The cover part (110) is coupled to the power transmission part (180). The cover part (110) accommodates the power transmission part (180) and rotatably supports the power transmission part (180).
[0099] A conveyor belt (120) moves parts delivered to the main frame (100). The conveyor belt (120) can move in the longitudinal direction of the main frame (100), or in the forward and backward direction in the illustrated embodiment.
[0100] The conveyor belt (120) is movably connected to the cover portion (110). The conveyor belt (120) is movably supported by a power transmission portion (180) movably accommodated within the cover portion (110).
[0101] A portion of the conveyor belt (120) is exposed to the outside of the cover portion (110). This portion partially surrounds the component receiving space (140). In the illustrated embodiment, the conveyor belt (120) surrounds the component receiving space (140) from the lower side. Components placed on the conveyor belt (120) can be moved to the component receiving space (140) by the conveyor belt (120).
[0102] Another part of the conveyor belt (120) is movably accommodated inside the cover part (110). The other part is movably supported by the power transmission part (180).
[0103] The conveyor belt (120) may be provided in any form capable of supporting and moving components supplied from the component supply unit (300). In the illustrated embodiment, the portion of the conveyor belt (120) is formed to have a width in the left-right direction and a length in the front-back direction. In addition, the other portion of the conveyor belt (120) is extended by forming at least one bend portion by the power transmission unit (180).
[0104] The conveyor belt (120) may be formed of a material having a predetermined frictional force. It is movably supported on the power transmission unit (180) and is intended to prevent arbitrary movement of the installed components. In one embodiment, the conveyor belt (120) may be formed of a rubber or silicone material.
[0105] The conveyor belt (120) is arranged to at least partially cover the vibration plate (160). The vibration applied to the vibration plate (160) can be transmitted to the parts mounted on the conveyor belt (120). Accordingly, the parts are vibrated and their placement is adjusted, so that a parts identification device (not shown) can accurately identify the parts.
[0106] For this purpose, the conveyor belt (120) can be arranged so that it is at least partially in contact with the vibration plate (160).
[0107] The conveyor belt (120) can be movably supported by a power transmission unit (180). When a portion of the power transmission unit (180) is rotated by the power application unit (170), the conveyor belt (120) can be moved by the rotational force. In the illustrated embodiment, the conveyor belt (120) is movably supported at a plurality of points by a plurality of transmission roller members (181).
[0108] The bulkhead (130) partially surrounds the component receiving space (140). Components received in the component receiving space (140) by the bulkhead (130) may not be arbitrarily released to the outside.
[0109] The bulkhead (130) is coupled with the cover (110). The bulkhead (130) can be supported by the cover (110). In the illustrated embodiment, the bulkhead (130) is coupled with the cover (110) in the width direction, i.e., on the left and right sides and the front side.
[0110] The partition wall (130) is positioned adjacent to the conveyor belt (120). The partition wall (130) can surround each side of the conveyor belt (120) in the width direction, the left and right sides in the illustrated embodiment. In addition, the partition wall (130) can surround one side of the conveyor belt (120) in the extension direction, the front side in the illustrated embodiment.
[0111] In the illustrated embodiment, the bulkhead (130) includes a first bulkhead (131) and a second bulkhead (132).
[0112] The first bulkhead (131) constitutes a portion of the bulkhead section (130). The first bulkhead (131) is connected to the cover section (110) and surrounds the conveyor belt (120) and the component receiving space (140) in the width direction. A plurality of first bulkheads (131) may be provided.
[0113] In the illustrated embodiment, a pair of first bulkheads (131) are provided and are respectively arranged on the left inner surface and the right inner surface of the cover portion (110). The pair of first bulkheads (131) are spaced apart from each other in the width direction of the main frame (100), i.e., in the left-right direction in the illustrated embodiment, and are arranged to face each other with the conveyor belt (120) and the parts receiving space (140) interposed therebetween.
[0114] The first bulkhead (131) extends in the direction of movement of the conveyor belt (120), in the forward and backward directions in the illustrated embodiment. One side of the extension direction of the first bulkhead (131), in the illustrated embodiment, a front end, is continuous with the second bulkhead (132). The other side of the extension direction of the first bulkhead (131), in the illustrated embodiment, a rear end, is continuous with the joining frame (310) of the component supply unit (300).
[0115] That is, the parts accommodated in the parts accommodation space (140) by the first bulkhead (131) are prevented from arbitrarily moving out in the width direction of the main frame (100), i.e., to the left or right.
[0116] The second bulkhead (132) constitutes another part of the bulkhead section (130). The second bulkhead (132) is connected to the cover section (110) and surrounds the conveyor belt (120) and the parts receiving space (140) in the longitudinal direction.
[0117] In the illustrated embodiment, the second bulkhead (132) extends between the left inner surface and the right inner surface of the cover portion (110). The second bulkhead (132) is positioned on one side of the extending direction of the conveyor belt (120), that is, on the front side in the illustrated embodiment. The second bulkhead (132) is continuous with each of the pair of first bulkheads (131), so that the front side of the component receiving space (140) can be closed.
[0118] The parts receiving space (140) receives parts provided from the parts supply unit (300). Parts received in the parts receiving space (140) can be identified by a parts identification device (not shown) and picked up by a parts pickup device (not shown) and provided to the outside.
[0119] The parts receiving space (140) can be defined as a space surrounded by the conveyor belt (120) and the partition wall (130). In the illustrated embodiment, each side in the width direction of the parts receiving space (140), i.e., the left and right sides, is surrounded by a first partition wall (131). One side in the length direction of the parts receiving space (140), the front side in the illustrated embodiment, is surrounded by a second partition wall (132). The other side in the length direction of the parts receiving space (140), the rear side in the illustrated embodiment, is surrounded by a joining frame (310) of the parts supply unit (300).
[0120] Additionally, one side in the height direction of the component receiving space (140), the lower side in the illustrated embodiment, is surrounded by a conveyor belt (120). The other side in the height direction of the component receiving space (140), the upper side in the illustrated embodiment, is formed open.
[0121] The guide member (150) guides the parts being moved by being placed on the conveyor belt (120) toward the inside in the width direction. With the guide member (150) provided, the parts can be concentrated toward the inside without being scattered on the outside in the width direction of the conveyor belt (120).
[0122] The guide member (150) is coupled with the cover part (110). Specifically, the guide member (150) is coupled with the cover part (110) by the first partition wall (131). The guide member (150) is positioned facing the cover part (110) with the first partition wall (131) interposed between the first partition wall (131) in the width direction of the main frame (100), i.e., in the left-right direction in the illustrated embodiment.
[0123] The guide member (150) may be positioned adjacent to the component supply section (300). In the illustrated embodiment, the guide member (150) is positioned to be biased toward one side opposite to the second bulkhead (132), i.e., toward the rear side.
[0124] The guide member (150) may have a shape corresponding to the first bulkhead (131). At this time, the cross-sectional area of the guide member (150) may be changed along its longitudinal direction. In other words, one surface of the guide member (150) facing the component receiving space (140) may extend obliquely along its longitudinal direction.
[0125] In the illustrated embodiment, the guide member (150) extends in the forward-rear direction. At this time, the front side portion of the guide member (150) is formed so that its cross-sectional area increases as it moves toward the rear side. That is, the inner surface of the front side portion of the guide member (150) extends in a slanted manner toward the inner side in the width direction as it moves toward the rear side.
[0126] Accordingly, when the conveyor belt (120) moves toward the rear, parts arranged to be biased toward the outer side in the width direction of the conveyor belt (120) can be moved toward the inner side in the width direction by the guide member (150).
[0127] A plurality of guide members (150) may be provided. The plurality of guide members (150) may be spaced apart from each other to guide components moving rearward from different positions inwardly in the width direction. In the illustrated embodiment, the guide members (150) may be provided in pairs and spaced apart from each other in the width direction of the main frame (100), i.e., in the left-right direction. The pair of guide members (150) are arranged to face each other with a component receiving space (140) between them.
[0128] The vibration plate (160) is mounted on the conveyor belt (120) and transmits vibrations to components placed in the component receiving space (140). The vibrations transmitted by the vibration plate (160) can change the arrangement of components placed on the conveyor belt (120). Accordingly, as described above, the component identification device (not shown) can accurately identify components.
[0129] The vibration plate (160) is configured as a portion of the upper surface of the cover portion (110). In the illustrated embodiment, the vibration plate (160) is positioned between the second bulkhead (132) and the guide member (150) and is positioned so as to be biased toward the front side of the conveyor belt (120).
[0130] The vibration plate (160) may be positioned on the lower side of the conveyor belt (120). In other words, the vibration plate (160) may be positioned so as to be covered by the conveyor belt (120). Therefore, even when the vibration plate (160) is provided, the conveyor belt (120) and the components mounted thereon can move smoothly.
[0131] The vibration plate (160) may be formed in any shape that can transmit the vibration generated by the vibration applying unit (200) to the conveyor belt (120). In the illustrated embodiment, the vibration plate (160) has a rectangular cross-section and is formed to have a thickness in the vertical direction. One side of the vibration plate (160) in the thickness direction may be in contact with the lower side of the conveyor belt (120). The other side of the vibration plate (160) in the thickness direction may be in contact with the vibration transmitting plate (220) of the vibration applying unit (200).
[0132] The power application unit (170) provides power for the conveyor belt (120) to move. The power application unit (170) is electrically connected to an external power source (not shown) and a control unit (not shown) to receive power and control signals required for operation.
[0133] The power application unit (170) is coupled with the cover unit (110). In the illustrated embodiment, the power application unit (170) is coupled to the left side of the rear of the cover unit (110).
[0134] The power application unit (170) is coupled to the power transmission unit (180). Power applied to the power application unit (170) can be transmitted to the power transmission unit (180).
[0135] In the illustrated embodiment, the power application unit (170) includes a motor member (171) and a belt member (172).
[0136] The motor member (171) generates the above power. The motor member (171) is electrically connected to an external power source (not shown) and a control unit (not shown), so that it can receive power and control signals required for operation.
[0137] The motor member (171) is connected to the power transmission unit (180). Specifically, the motor member (171) is connected to one of a plurality of transmission roller members (181) by a belt member (172). The power generated by the motor member (171) can be transmitted to the transmission roller member (181) through the belt member (172). In one embodiment, the motor member (171) may be provided as a servo motor.
[0138] The belt member (172) connects the motor member (171) and the transmission roller member (181). The belt member (172) can be rotated in the same form as the motor member (171) and the transmission roller member (181).
[0139] The belt member (172) can connect one or more of a plurality of transfer roller members (181) to the motor member (171). In the illustrated embodiment, the belt member (172) connects the motor member (171) to one of the transfer roller members (181) located on the upper side of the rear. In the above embodiment, the belt member (172) extends in the vertical direction.
[0140] The belt member (172) may be formed of a material having a predetermined frictional force. This is to prevent any one or more of the belt member (172), the transmission roller member (181), and the motor member (171) from being misaligned. In one embodiment, the belt member (172) may be formed of rubber or silicone.
[0141] The power transmission unit (180) transmits the power generated by the power application unit (170) to the conveyor belt (120). In addition, the power transmission unit (180) movably supports the conveyor belt (120).
[0142] The power transmission unit (180) is coupled to the cover unit (110). Specifically, the power transmission unit (180) is rotatably coupled to the cover unit (110) and is accommodated in a space formed inside the cover unit (110). The power transmission unit (180) is not exposed to the outside of the cover unit (110).
[0143] The power transmission unit (180) is coupled to the conveyor belt (120). The power transmission unit (180) can movably support the conveyor belt (120) at multiple points.
[0144] In the illustrated embodiment, the power transmission unit (180) includes a transmission roller member (181) and a pressure roller member (182).
[0145] The transfer roller member (181) movably supports the conveyor belt (120). The transfer roller member (181) is rotatably coupled to the cover member (110).
[0146] A plurality of transfer roller members (181) may be provided. The plurality of transfer roller members (181) may be spaced apart from each other to support the conveyor belt (120) movably at different locations. At this time, at least one of the plurality of transfer roller members (181) may be coupled to a power application unit (170) to receive the generated power.
[0147] In the illustrated embodiment, a total of four transfer roller members (181) are provided. The four transfer roller members (181) are spaced apart along the longitudinal and height directions of the main frame (100), i.e., the front-back direction and the up-down direction. At this time, any one of the transfer roller members (181) located on the upper rear side is coupled to the motor member (171) by the belt member (172).
[0148] Any one of the above-mentioned transfer roller members (181) is rotated by the generated power. The conveyor belt (120) is moved by the rotation, and the remaining transfer roller members (181) are rotated by the movement of the conveyor belt (120) and can movably support the conveyor belt (120).
[0149] The pressure roller member (182) is configured to adjust the tension of the conveyor belt (120). The pressure roller member (182) is rotatably coupled to the cover member (110). At this time, the pressure roller member (182) can be coupled to the cover member (110) so as to be movable in the direction in which the conveyor belt (120) is pressed and in the opposite direction.
[0150] In the illustrated embodiment, the pressure roller member (182) is positioned rearward, but is positioned between a pair of transfer roller members (181) positioned rearward along the height direction. The pressure roller member (182) is positioned on the rear side of the conveyor belt (120) and is coupled to the cover member (110) so as to be movable in the forward-backward direction.
[0151] In the above embodiment, when the pressure roller member (182) is moved to the front side, the conveyor belt (120) is relatively more pressurized, so that the tension of the conveyor belt (120) can increase. In addition, when the pressure roller member (182) is moved to the rear side, the conveyor belt (120) is relatively less pressurized, so that the tension of the conveyor belt (120) can decrease.
[0152] Therefore, even if the smart feeding system (10) continues to operate, the conveyor belt (120) can be maintained at a preset tension.
[0153] At this time, so that the pressure roller member (182) can be easily manipulated, the pressure roller member (182) may be at least partially exposed to the outside of the cover part (110). In one embodiment, the pressure roller member (182) may be exposed on one side in the width direction of the main frame (100), the left side in the illustrated embodiment.
[0154] The vibration applying unit (200) applies vibration to the parts mounted on the conveyor belt (120). The arrangement of the parts mounted on the conveyor belt (120) can be changed by the vibration applied by the vibration applying unit (200). Accordingly, as described above, an external part identification device (not shown) can accurately identify the parts, and a part pickup device (not shown) can easily pick up the parts.
[0155] The vibration applying unit (200) is coupled to the main frame (100). Specifically, the vibration applying unit (200) is accommodated in a space formed inside the cover unit (110) and is not exposed to the outside. The vibration applying unit (200) is positioned adjacent to the vibration plate (160) located on the lower side of the conveyor belt (120).
[0156] In one embodiment, the vibration applying unit (200) can be in contact with the vibration plate (160) and transmit the generated vibration to the vibration plate (160) and a conveyor belt (120) positioned adjacent thereto.
[0157] The vibration application unit (200) is electrically connected to an external power source (not shown) and a control unit (not shown). The power and control signals required for the operation of the vibration application unit (200) can be transmitted from the external power source (not shown) and the control unit (not shown).
[0158] The vibration applying unit (200) can be positioned at a position corresponding to the position of the vibration plate (160). In the illustrated embodiment, the vibration applying unit (200) is positioned at the front side of the internal space of the cover unit (110), and is positioned below the vibration plate (160) which is also positioned at the front side.
[0159] In the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 9 to 11, the vibration applying unit (200) includes a base plate (210), a vibration transmitting plate (220), a cover plate (230), an elevation guide member (240), a side plate (250), and a vibration generating unit (260).
[0160] The base plate (210) constitutes a part of the vibration applying unit (200). The base plate (210) is a part where the vibration applying unit (200) is supported by the cover unit (110). The base plate (210) constitutes one side of the vibration applying unit (200) in the height direction, the lower side in the illustrated embodiment.
[0161] The base plate (210) is coupled with other components of the vibration applying unit (200) to support them. In the illustrated embodiment, the base plate (210) is coupled with the lifting guide member (240), the side plate (250), and the vibration generating unit (260) to support them from the lower side.
[0162] The base plate (210) is supported by the cover portion (110) and may have any shape that can support other configurations of the vibration applying portion (200). In the illustrated embodiment, the vibration applying portion (200) is formed in a polygonal plate shape with a rectangular cross-section and a thickness in the vertical direction.
[0163] A plurality of through holes may be formed inside the base plate (210). Other components of the vibration applying unit (200) may be coupled to some of the plurality of through holes. A fastening member (not shown) for coupling with the cover unit (110) may be coupled to other parts of the plurality of through holes.
[0164] The vibration transmission plate (220) transmits the generated vibration to the vibration plate (160) and the conveyor belt (120). The vibration transmission plate (220) is configured such that the vibration application unit (200) comes into contact with the vibration plate (160).
[0165] The vibration transmission plate (220) constitutes the other side in the height direction of the vibration application unit (200), the upper side in the illustrated embodiment. The vibration transmission plate (220) is arranged to face the base plate (210) with the other configuration of the vibration application unit (200) interposed therebetween in the vertical direction.
[0166] The vibration transmission plate (220) is coupled to the cover plate (230). The vibration transmission plate (220) covers the cover plate (230) and is coupled to the cover plate (230). In other words, the vibration transmission plate (220) is laminated to the cover plate (230).
[0167] The vibration transmission plate (220) is coupled to the vibration generating unit (260). The vibration transmission plate (220) can be moved a predetermined distance in the height direction of the vibration applying unit (200), or in the vertical direction in the illustrated embodiment, by the vibration applied by the vibration generating unit (260).
[0168] The vibration transmission plate (220) is coupled to the lifting guide member (240). The vibration transmission plate (220), which moves in the up-and-down direction, may not be moved arbitrarily in the horizontal direction by the lifting guide member (240).
[0169] The vibration transmission plate (220) may have any shape that can transmit the vibration generated by the vibration generating unit (260) to the vibration plate (160). In the illustrated embodiment, the vibration transmission plate (220) is provided in the shape of a square plate having a rectangular cross-section and a thickness in the vertical direction.
[0170] The cover plate (230) is coupled to the vibration transmission plate (220) and the lifting guide member (240). The cover plate (230) vibrates together with the vibration transmission plate (220), and the vertical swing can be guided by the lifting guide member (240). The cover plate (230) is positioned between the vibration transmission plate (220) and the vibration generating unit (260) along its height direction.
[0171] The cover plate (230) is coupled to the side plate (250). The vibration generated in the vibration generating unit (260) can be transmitted to the cover plate (230) through the side plate (250).
[0172] The cover plate (230) is coupled with a vibration generating unit (260). The vibration generated by the vibration generating unit (260) is transmitted to the cover plate (230), and the vibration transmitting plate (220) coupled thereto can also vibrate.
[0173] That is, the vibration generated in the vibration generating unit (260) can be directly transmitted to the cover plate (230) or indirectly transmitted through the side plate (250).
[0174] The cover plate (230) may have any shape that can be combined with the vibration transmission plate (220), the lifting guide member (240), the side plate (250), and the vibration generating unit (260). In the illustrated embodiment, the cover plate (230) is formed in a polygonal shape with a rectangular cross-section and a thickness in the vertical direction.
[0175] At this time, a groove (not given a drawing symbol) may be formed recessed on one side of the length direction of the cover plate (230), on the left side in the illustrated embodiment. The groove may be arranged to overlap the vibration generating unit (260) in the vertical direction.
[0176] The lifting guide member (240) is coupled with the base plate (210) and the cover plate (230) to guide the swing of the cover plate (230). Accordingly, the cover plate (230) and the vibration transmission plate (220) coupled thereto also swing up and down due to the transmitted vibration, but unnecessary swing in the horizontal direction can be prevented.
[0177] As a result, the vibration generated in the vibration generating unit (260) can be solely converted into the up-and-down movement of the cover plate (230) and the vibration transmitting plate (220).
[0178] The lifting guide member (240) is positioned between the base plate (210) and the cover plate (230). The lifting guide member (240) extends between the base plate (210) and the cover plate (230) and is connected to them, respectively.
[0179] The lifting guide member (240) may be provided in any form that can guide the swing of the vibration transmission plate (220) and the cover plate (230). In one embodiment, the lifting guide member (240) may be provided in the form of an LM guide (Linear Motion guide). In the above embodiment, the lifting guide member (240) may be configured to include a rail extending in the vertical direction.
[0180] The side plate (250) at least partially surrounds the vibration generating unit (260) and receives vibrations generated from the vibration generating unit (260) and transmits them to the cover plate (230). The side plate (250) is coupled to the cover plate (230) and the vibration generating unit (260).
[0181] In the illustrated embodiment, the side plate (250) covers the left side of the vibration generating unit (260) and is coupled to the left end of the cover plate (230).
[0182] The vibration generating unit (260) generates vibrations to be transmitted to the vibration plate (160). The vibration generating unit (260) is electrically connected to an external power source (not shown) and a control unit (not shown), so that it can receive power and control signals required for operation.
[0183] The vibration generating unit (260) is coupled to the base plate (210). The vibration generating unit (260) is supported by the base plate (210).
[0184] The vibration generating unit (260) is coupled to the cover plate (230). The vibration generated by the vibration generating unit (260) can be transmitted to the cover plate (230). The vibration generating unit (260) can be positioned between the base plate (210) and the cover plate (230) in the height direction, i.e., the up-down direction.
[0185] The vibration generating unit (260) is coupled to the side plate (250). One side of the vibration generating unit (260) may be covered by the side plate (250). In the illustrated embodiment, the left side of the vibration generating unit (260) is covered by the side plate (250).
[0186] In the illustrated embodiment, the vibration generating unit (260) includes a vibration generating member (261), a receiving housing (262), and a support frame (263).
[0187] The vibration generating member (261) is a component that generates vibration. The vibration generating member (261) is electrically connected to an external power source (not shown) and a control unit (not shown) to receive power and control signals. The vibration generating member (261) may be provided in any form capable of generating vibration by being operated by the provided power and control signals.
[0188] In one embodiment, the vibration generating member (261) may be provided as a voice coil motor. In the above embodiment, the vibration generating member (261) is configured to vibrate in its height direction, i.e., in the up-and-down direction, and the intensity or distance of the vibration can be easily adjusted by adjusting the vibration frequency.
[0189] The receiving housing (262) partially surrounds the vibration generating member (261). The receiving housing (262) at least partially accommodates the vibration generating member (261) to protect the vibration generating member (261). In the illustrated embodiment, the receiving housing (262) surrounds the upper, left, front, and rear sides of the vibration generating member (261).
[0190] The support frame (263) partially surrounds the vibration generating member (261). The support frame (263) is coupled to the base plate (210) and the receiving housing (262), respectively, to support the receiving housing (262) and the vibration generating member (261) accommodated therein. In the illustrated embodiment, the support frame (263) is positioned on the left side of the receiving housing (262) and surrounds the right side of the vibration generating member (261).
[0191] Accordingly, it will be understood that the lower part of the vibration generating member (261) is protected by the base plate (210), the right side by the support frame (263), and the remaining part by the receiving housing (262) and the side plate (250) coupled thereto.
[0192] The parts supply unit (300) is a portion of the smart feeding system (10) through which parts are supplied from the outside. The parts supply unit (300) is formed to be at least partially open, so that parts can be supplied from the outside.
[0193] At this time, a single component can be provided to the component supply unit (300). That is, the smart feeding system (10) according to the present embodiment can be utilized when the type of component provided is constant or the type of component to be provided does not change.
[0194] The parts supply unit (300) is coupled to the main frame (100). The parts supply unit (300) is located on one side of the length direction of the cover unit (110), that is, on the rear side in the illustrated embodiment. The parts supply unit (300) is located on the upper side of the cover unit (110). Parts provided to the parts supply unit (300) can be dropped onto the conveyor belt (120) through a process to be described below and moved to the parts receiving space (140) together with the conveyor belt (120).
[0195] In the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 12 to 15, the component supply unit (300) includes a joining frame (310), a moving member (320), a moving frame (330), and a slope member (340).
[0196] The joining frame (310) constitutes a portion of the outer shape of the parts supply unit (300). The joining frame (310) is the portion where the parts supply unit (300) is joined to the main frame (100). The joining frame (310) constitutes one side of the parts supply unit (300) in the height direction, the lower side in the illustrated embodiment.
[0197] The joining frame (310) is positioned adjacent to the conveyor belt (120). The joining frame (310) may be positioned on the upper side of the conveyor belt (120).
[0198] The joining frame (310) at least partially surrounds the component receiving space (140). In the illustrated embodiment, the joining frame (310) surrounds one longitudinal side of the component receiving space (140), in the illustrated embodiment, the rear side.
[0199] Accordingly, the component receiving space (140) is closed in the horizontal direction by the bulkhead (130) and the joining frame (310). Accordingly, the component received in the component receiving space (140) may not be arbitrarily dislodged in the horizontal direction.
[0200] The coupling frame (310) is coupled to the movable member (320). The coupling frame (310) supports the movable member (320) from the lower side. In the illustrated embodiment, the rear side portion of the coupling frame (310) supports the movable member (320) from the lower side.
[0201] The joining frame (310) supports the moving frame (330). At this time, the joining frame (310) can support the moving frame (330) so that it can move in the moving direction of the conveyor belt (120), i.e., in the forward and backward direction in the illustrated embodiment.
[0202] The joining frame (310) is joined to the slope member (340). The joining frame (310) supports the slope member (340) on one side in the height direction, in the illustrated embodiment, on the upper side. In the illustrated embodiment, the upper portion of the front of the joining frame (310) supports the slope member (340).
[0203] The joining frame (310) may have any shape that at least partially surrounds the component receiving space (140) and can be joined to or support the moving member (320), the moving frame (330), and the slope member (340), respectively. In the illustrated embodiment, it has a polygonal prism shape in which the length in the left-right direction is longer than the width in the front-back direction and the height in the up-down direction is greater.
[0204] In the illustrated embodiment, the joining frame (310) includes a component support plate (311).
[0205] The component support plate (311) is configured as one side in the height direction of the joining frame (310), the upper part in the illustrated embodiment. The component support plate (311) movably supports the moving frame (330).
[0206] Specifically, the component support plate (311) supports the first movable wall (331) and the second movable wall (332) so as to be movable in the forward and backward directions. At the same time, the component support plate (311) surrounds the component transfer space (333) from the lower side.
[0207] When the first moving wall (331), the second moving wall (332), and the component transfer space (333) surrounded by them are moved forward, the lower side of the component transfer space (333) is opened. Accordingly, the component received in the component transfer space (333) can be dropped onto the slope member (340) and transferred to the conveyor belt (120).
[0208] The component support plate (311) may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the moving frame (330), particularly the component transfer space (333). In the illustrated embodiment, the component support plate (311) is formed in a rectangular shape with a length in the left-right direction longer than the width in the front-back direction and a height in the up-down direction.
[0209] The moving member (320) moves the moving frame (330) in the direction of movement of the conveyor belt (120), i.e., in the forward and backward direction in the illustrated embodiment. The lower side of the parts transfer space (333) is opened or closed by the moving member (320), so that parts received in the parts transfer space (333) can be transferred to the conveyor belt (120) or the transfer can be blocked.
[0210] The movable member (320) is coupled to the coupling frame (310). The movable member (320) is supported by the coupling frame (310). In the illustrated embodiment, the movable member (320) is supported by the upper portion of the rear of the coupling frame (310).
[0211] The movable member (320) is coupled to the movable frame (330). The movable member (320) is positioned opposite the component receiving space (140) with respect to the movable frame (330). In the illustrated embodiment, the movable member (320) is positioned on the rear side of the movable frame (330) and coupled with one of the second movable walls (332) positioned on the rear side.
[0212] The movable member (320) may be configured such that some of the components are fixedly coupled to the coupling frame (310), and other components are movably coupled to the movable frame (330) and some of the components. In one embodiment, the movable member (320) may be provided in the form of a hydraulic cylinder.
[0213] In the above embodiment, the moving member (320) is electrically connected to an external power source (not shown) and a control unit (not shown), so as to receive power and control signals required for operation.
[0214] In the illustrated embodiment, the moving member (320) includes a moving body (321), a piston member (322), and a pressure plate (323).
[0215] The moving body (321) can be defined as the above-described part in which the moving member (320) is coupled to the coupling frame (310). The moving body (321) is coupled to and supported by the upper side of the rear of the coupling frame (310). The moving body (321) is fixedly coupled to the coupling frame (310) and does not move arbitrarily.
[0216] The moving body (321) is coupled with the piston member (322). The moving body (321) movably supports the piston member (322). In the illustrated embodiment, the moving body (321) movably supports the piston member (322) in the forward and backward directions. In the above embodiment, a space that at least partially accommodates the piston member (322) may be formed inside the moving body (321). At this time, the piston member (322) may be penetratively coupled along the longitudinal direction of the moving body (321).
[0217] The moving body (321) is coupled with the pressure plate (323). Specifically, the moving body (321) is coupled with the pressure plate (323) via the piston member (322).
[0218] The moving body (321) may have any shape capable of movably supporting the piston member (322). In the illustrated embodiment, the moving body (321) has a polygonal prism shape in which the length in the front-back direction is longer than the width in the left-right direction and the height in the up-down direction is greater.
[0219] The piston member (322) can be defined as another configuration that is coupled with the moving frame (330) and moves together. The piston member (322) moves the pressure plate (323) and the moving frame (330) coupled thereto.
[0220] The piston member (322) is coupled to the moving body (321) so as to be movable along its longitudinal direction. In the illustrated embodiment, the piston member (322) is coupled to the moving body (321) so as to be movable in the longitudinal direction of the conveyor belt (120), i.e., in the forward-backward direction. As described above, the piston member (322) can be penetrably coupled to the moving body (321) in its longitudinal direction, i.e., in the forward-backward direction in the illustrated embodiment.
[0221] The piston member (322) is coupled with the pressure plate (323). The piston member (322) can move together with the pressure plate (323). In the illustrated embodiment, the front end of the piston member (322) is coupled with the pressure plate (323).
[0222] The piston member (322) may be provided in any shape that can move in the forward and backward direction to move the pressure plate (323) and the moving frame (330) coupled thereto. In the illustrated embodiment, the piston member (322) has a cylindrical shape with a circular cross-section and a length in the forward and backward direction.
[0223] A plurality of piston members (322) may be provided. The plurality of piston members (322) may be respectively coupled to the moving body (321) and the pressure plate (323) at different positions. In the illustrated embodiment, a pair of piston members (322) are provided and spaced apart from each other in the width direction of the moving body (321), i.e., in the left-right direction.
[0224] The pressure plate (323) is configured such that the moving member (320) is coupled to the moving frame (330). The pressure plate (323) is coupled to the piston member (322) and can be moved together. The pressure plate (323) is coupled to the second moving wall (332) of the moving frame (330) and can be moved together.
[0225] The pressure plate (323) is coupled with the piston member (322). The pressure plate (323) is coupled with one longitudinal end of the piston member (322), in the illustrated embodiment, the front end. In an embodiment in which a plurality of piston members (322) are provided, the pressure plate (323) may be coupled with each of the plurality of piston members (322).
[0226] The pressure plate (323) may have any shape that can be moved together with the piston member (322) and the moving frame (330), respectively. In the illustrated embodiment, the pressure plate (323) is formed in a square shape with a length in the left-right direction longer than the height in the up-down direction and a thickness in the front-back direction.
[0227] The movable frame (330) accommodates components provided from the outside. One side of the movable frame (330) in the height direction, the upper side in the illustrated embodiment, is formed open to receive components from the outside. The other side of the movable frame (330) in the height direction, the lower side in the illustrated embodiment, can be selectively opened by the movable member (320). Components provided to the movable frame (330) can be provided to the conveyor belt (120) when the other side is opened.
[0228] The moving frame (330) is supported by the joining frame (310). Specifically, the moving frame (330) is movably supported by the component support plate (311).
[0229] The moving frame (330) is coupled with the moving member (320). Specifically, the moving frame (330) is coupled with the pressure plate (323) and can move in the moving direction of the conveyor belt (120), i.e., in the forward and backward direction in the illustrated embodiment.
[0230] The moving frame (330) is positioned adjacent to the slope member (340). Specifically, the moving frame (330) moved by the moving member (320) so that the other side is opened can be positioned above the slope member (340). A component provided to the moving frame (330) can be dropped onto the slope member (340) through the other side.
[0231] In the illustrated embodiment, the moving frame (330) includes a first moving wall (331), a second moving wall (332), and a parts transfer space (333).
[0232] The first moving wall (331) constitutes a part of the moving frame (330). The first moving wall (331) surrounds the component transfer space (333) in the horizontal direction. A plurality of first moving walls (331) may be provided, and the component transfer space (333) may be surrounded at a plurality of locations.
[0233] In the illustrated embodiment, a pair of first moving walls (331) are provided to surround the component transfer space (333) in the longitudinal direction of the moving frame (330), i.e., on the left and right sides.
[0234] The first moving wall (331) may have any shape that can form the longitudinal direction of the moving frame (330). In the illustrated embodiment, the first moving wall (331) is formed in a polygonal plate shape having a length in the front-back direction, a height in the up-down direction, and a thickness in the left-right direction.
[0235] The first movable wall (331) is continuous with the second movable wall (332). Each longitudinal side of the first movable wall (331), in the illustrated embodiment, the front side and the rear side, is continuous with the second movable wall (332). The first movable wall (331) is movably supported by a component support plate (311).
[0236] The second moving wall (332) constitutes another part of the moving frame (330). The second moving wall (332) surrounds the component transfer space (333) in the horizontal direction. A plurality of second moving walls (332) may be provided, and may surround the component transfer space (333) at a plurality of locations.
[0237] In the illustrated embodiment, a pair of second moving walls (332) are provided to surround the parts transfer space (333) in the width direction of the moving frame (330), i.e., on the front side and the rear side.
[0238] The second moving wall (332) may have any shape that can configure the width direction of the moving frame (330). In the illustrated embodiment, the second moving wall (332) is formed in a polygonal plate shape having a length in the left-right direction, a height in the up-down direction, and a thickness in the front-back direction.
[0239] The second movable wall (332) is continuous with the first movable wall (331). Each longitudinal side of the second movable wall (332), the left and right sides in the illustrated embodiment, is continuous with the first movable wall (331). The second movable wall (332) is movably supported by a component support plate (311).
[0240] The second moving wall (332) is coupled with the pressure plate (323). In the illustrated embodiment, one of the pair of second moving walls (332) located on the rear side is coupled with the pressure plate (323).
[0241] The space surrounded by the first moving wall (331) and the second moving wall (332) can be defined as a parts transfer space (333).
[0242] The parts delivery space (333) is a space where the smart feeding system (10) receives parts from the outside. The parts delivery space (333) is constantly connected to the outside, so that parts can be supplied at any time. The parts delivery space (333) can accommodate the supplied parts.
[0243] The parts delivery space (333) can be moved by the moving member (320) and can be selectively connected to the parts receiving space (140). When the parts delivery space (333) is moved and the lower side is opened, the received product can be moved to the parts receiving space (140).
[0244] The component transfer space (333) is defined by being surrounded by a first movable wall (331) and a second movable wall (332). In the illustrated embodiment, the longitudinal direction of the component transfer space (333), i.e., the left and right sides, is surrounded by a pair of first movable walls (331). The width direction of the component transfer space (333), i.e., the front side and the rear side, is surrounded by a pair of second movable walls (332).
[0245] One side in the height direction of the component transfer space (333), the upper side in the illustrated embodiment, is formed open. The other side in the height direction of the component transfer space (333), the lower side in the illustrated embodiment, is surrounded by a component support plate (311), but can be selectively opened by movement of the moving frame (330).
[0246] At this time, when the moving frame (330) is moved and the other side of the component transfer space (333) is opened, the component transfer space (333) can be located on the upper side of the slope member (340).
[0247] The component transfer space (333) may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the first moving wall (331), the second moving wall (332), or the component support plate (311). In the illustrated embodiment, the component transfer space (333) is formed as a polygonal prism-shaped space having a rectangular cross-section and a vertical height.
[0248] The slope member (340) guides a part dropped from the part transfer space (333) to the conveyor belt (120). With the slope member (340) provided, a part dropped from the part transfer space (333) may not fall directly onto the conveyor belt (120). Accordingly, a situation in which a part bounces after colliding with the conveyor belt (120) can be prevented.
[0249] The slope member (340) is coupled with the joining frame (310). Specifically, the slope member (340) is positioned on the upper side of the front of the joining frame (310). The slope member (340) is positioned on the lower side of the moving frame (330).
[0250] The slope member (340) may be formed to have a predetermined incline. In one embodiment, the slope member (340) may extend at an acute angle with respect to the conveyor belt (120). At this time, one end of the slope member (340) in the extension direction, the upper end at the rear in the illustrated embodiment, may be coupled to the coupling frame (310). The other end of the slope member (340) in the extension direction, the lower end at the front in the illustrated embodiment, may be positioned to be spaced apart from the conveyor belt (120) by a predetermined distance.
[0251] The slope member (340) may have any shape that can prevent a situation in which a part dropped from the part transfer space (333) directly collides with the conveyor belt (120). In the illustrated embodiment, the slope member (340) is formed in a plate shape and extends obliquely in the front-rear and up-down directions. A fence (not given a drawing symbol) may be formed on each side of the slope member (340) in the longitudinal direction, i.e., the left and right ends in the illustrated embodiment, to prevent the part from falling off.
[0252] Referring to FIGS. 14 and 15, a process in which a moving frame (330) is moved by a moving member (320) so that the other side, i.e., the lower side, of the part transfer space (333) is selectively connected to the part receiving space (140) is illustrated as an example.
[0253] Referring to Fig. 14, a state in which the moving frame (330) is secured to the component support plate (311) is illustrated. In this state, the lower side of the component transfer space (333) is closed by the component support plate (311), so that the received component does not leak out to the outside.
[0254] Referring to FIG. 15, the moving member (320) is operated to move the piston member (322) and the pressure plate (323) coupled thereto forward. Simultaneously, the moving frame (330) coupled with the pressure plate (323) also moves forward, thereby opening the lower side of the parts transfer space (333). Parts accommodated in the parts transfer space (333) can be dropped through the lower side to the slope member (340) and provided to the conveyor belt (120).
[0255] At this time, one of the second moving walls (332) coupled with the pressure plate (323) among the pair of second moving walls (332), i.e., the second moving wall (332) located on the rear side, can pressurize the part located in the part transfer space (333) and move it to the slope member (340).
[0256] Referring to FIGS. 16 to 19, a process in which a part provided to a part supply unit (300) is moved to a part receiving space (140) by the operation of a moving member (320) is illustrated as an example.
[0257] Referring to FIGS. 16 and 17, a smart feeding system (10) according to an embodiment of the present invention is adjusted to a first state (S1). The first state (S1) may be defined as a state in which parts are supplied from the outside to the parts supply unit (300), but the supplied parts are not provided to the parts receiving space (140).
[0258] In the first state (S1), the piston member (322) of the movable member (320) and the pressure plate (323) coupled thereto are moved rearward. Accordingly, the movable frame (330) coupled with the pressure plate (323) is also moved rearward, so that the lower side of the component transfer space (333) is closed by the component support plate (311).
[0259] In the first state (S1), the provision of additional parts to the part receiving space (140) is blocked. Accordingly, in the first state (S1), an external part identification device (not shown) and a part pickup device (not shown) can identify and pick up parts received in the part receiving space (140) and provide them back to the outside.
[0260] Referring to FIGS. 18 and 19, a smart feeding system (10) according to an embodiment of the present invention is adjusted to a second state (S2). The second state (S2) may be defined as a state in which a supplied part is provided to a part receiving space (140), regardless of whether the part is supplied to the part supply unit (300) from the outside.
[0261] In the second state (S2), the piston member (322) of the movable member (320) and the pressure plate (323) coupled thereto are moved forward. Accordingly, the movable frame (330) coupled with the pressure plate (323) is also moved forward, thereby opening the lower side of the component transfer space (333).
[0262] Accordingly, the parts received in the parts transfer space (333) are dropped onto the slope member (340) located at the lower side of the parts transfer space (333). Since the slope member (340) extends obliquely, the parts dropped onto the slope member (340) can be provided to the conveyor belt (120). The parts provided to the conveyor belt (120) can be moved forward together with the conveyor belt (120) and positioned on the vibration plate (160).
[0263] Accordingly, the smart feeding system (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention can be alternately adjusted to the first state (S1) and the second state (S2) so that provision of parts can be performed.
[0264]
[0265] Referring to FIGS. 20 to 23, a smart feeding system (20) according to another embodiment of the present invention is illustrated.
[0266] A smart feeding system (20) according to another embodiment of the present invention is configured to retransmit components delivered from the outside back to the outside. In other words, the components can be provided to the smart feeding system (10) randomly without any limitation on the number. The smart feeding system (10) can be configured to provide a preset number of the components received to the outside.
[0267] Additionally, the smart feeding system (20) can discharge the provided part if the type of the provided part needs to be replaced, i.e., if a part other than the provided part needs to be provided externally.
[0268] Accordingly, it will be understood that the smart feeding system (20) according to the present embodiment can provide at least two types of parts to the outside.
[0269] The smart feeding system (20) may be positioned adjacent to a parts supply device (not shown). The smart feeding system (20) may be connected to the parts supply device (not shown) to receive the parts. At this time, the number of parts supply devices (not shown) may be equal to the number of types of parts that the smart feeding system (20) is to provide to the outside.
[0270] The smart feeding system (20) may be positioned adjacent to a component identification device (not shown). Components provided to the smart feeding system (20) may be identified by the component identification device (not shown) and re-provided to the outside.
[0271] To this end, the smart feeding system (20) includes one component (i.e., a main frame (100)) for moving the provided component to a position where it can be identified by a component identification device (not shown), another component (i.e., a vibration applying unit (200)) for applying vibration to the moved component so that the moved component can be easily identified and gripped, and another component (i.e., a component supply unit (400) to be described later) for providing a component provided from the outside to the one component or for discharging a component provided to the one component.
[0272] The smart feeding system (20) according to the present embodiment differs from the feeding system (10) according to the above-described embodiment in that the type of parts to be provided is changed.
[0273] That is, the smart feeding system (20) according to the present embodiment can change the types of parts provided in real time. Therefore, the smart feeding system (20) according to the present embodiment is based on receiving parts from the outside and delivering the provided parts to the outside, but a configuration for replacing the provided parts is further required.
[0274] To this end, the smart feeding system (20) according to the present embodiment has a difference in the parts supply unit (400) compared to the smart feeding system (10) according to the above-described embodiment.
[0275] That is, in the illustrated embodiment, the smart feeding system (20) includes a main frame (100), a vibration applying unit (200), and a parts supply unit (400).
[0276] The main frame (100) and the vibration applying unit (200) are identical in structure and function to the main frame (100) and the vibration applying unit (200) provided in the smart feeding system (10) according to the above-described embodiment. Accordingly, the description of the main frame (100) and the vibration applying unit (200) according to the present embodiment will be replaced with the description of the main frame (100) and the vibration applying unit (200) of the smart feeding system (10) according to the above-described embodiment.
[0277] The parts supply section (400) is a section through which the smart feeding system (10) receives parts from the outside. The parts supply section (400) is formed to be at least partially open, so that parts can be supplied from the outside.
[0278] At this time, different types of parts can be provided to the parts supply unit (400). Specifically, the parts supply unit (400) provided in the smart feeding system (20) according to the present embodiment can provide parts provided from the outside to the parts receiving space (140). At the same time, the parts supply unit (400) can discharge the parts provided to the parts receiving space (140) to the outside. In other words, the parts supply unit (400) can form the movement direction of the provided parts into two different directions.
[0279] The parts supply unit (400) is coupled to the main frame (100). Specifically, the parts supply unit (400) is coupled to and supported by the cover unit (110). In addition, some components of the parts supply unit (400) are provided to be movable between one position adjacent to the conveyor belt (120) and another position spaced apart from the conveyor belt (120).
[0280] The component supply unit (400) is located on one side of the longitudinal direction of the component receiving space (140), the rear side in the illustrated embodiment. The component receiving space (140) can be connected to the longitudinal direction of the one side, the rear side in the illustrated embodiment.
[0281] In the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 24 to 26, the component supply unit (400) includes a joining frame (410), a moving member (420), a component moving space (430), and a blocking plate (440).
[0282] The joining frame (410) constitutes a portion of the outer shape of the parts supply unit (400). The joining frame (410) is the portion where the parts supply unit (400) is joined to the main frame (100). The joining frame (410) constitutes one side in the height direction and each side in the width direction of the parts supply unit (400), i.e., the upper side, the left side, and the right side in the illustrated embodiment.
[0283] The joining frame (410) is joined to the bulkhead (130). In the illustrated embodiment, each side of the width direction of the joining frame (410) is joined to a pair of first bulkheads (131).
[0284] The coupling frame (410) is coupled to a movable member (420). The coupling frame (410) supports the movable member (420) so that it can be lifted.
[0285] The joining frame (410) partially surrounds the component movement space (430). In the illustrated embodiment, the joining frame (410) surrounds each side in the width direction and one side in the height direction of the component movement space (430), in the illustrated embodiment, the left, right, and upper sides.
[0286] In the illustrated embodiment, the coupling frame (410) includes a first coupling frame (411), a second coupling frame (412), and a third coupling frame (413).
[0287] The first coupling frame (411) constitutes a part of the coupling frame (410). The first coupling frame (411) is a part where the coupling frame (410) is coupled to the first bulkhead (131) of the main frame (100). In the illustrated embodiment, the first coupling frame (411) constitutes one side, i.e., the lower side, in the height direction of the coupling frame (410).
[0288] The first coupling frame (411) may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the first bulkhead (131). In the illustrated embodiment, the first coupling frame (411) has a polygonal cross-section and a polygonal prism shape having a length in the front-back direction.
[0289] A plurality of first coupling frames (411) may be provided. The plurality of first coupling frames (411) may be spaced apart from each other and coupled to the plurality of first bulkheads (131) at different locations. In the illustrated embodiment, a pair of first coupling frames (411) are provided, spaced apart from each other in the left-right direction, and facing each other with a component movement space (430) between them.
[0290] The first coupling frame (411) is coupled with the second coupling frame (412).
[0291] The second coupling frame (412) constitutes another part of the coupling frame (410). The second coupling frame (412) connects the first coupling frame (411) and the third coupling frame (413). The second coupling frame (412) is coupled to the first coupling frame (411) and the third coupling frame (413), respectively.
[0292] The second coupling frame (412) may have any shape that can connect the first coupling frame (411) and the third coupling frame (413). In the illustrated embodiment, the second coupling frame (412) has a polygonal cross-section and a polygonal prism shape having a vertical length.
[0293] A plurality of second coupling frames (412) may be provided. The plurality of second coupling frames (412) may be spaced apart from each other and may be coupled to the first coupling frame (411) and the third coupling frame (413) at different positions. In the illustrated embodiment, a pair of second coupling frames (412) are provided, spaced apart from each other in the left-right direction, and coupled to a pair of the first coupling frames (411) and the third coupling frame (413), respectively.
[0294] The third coupling frame (413) constitutes another part of the coupling frame (410). The third coupling frame (413) is supported by being coupled to the second coupling frame (412). The third coupling frame (413) can be spaced apart from the conveyor belt (120) in the height direction, i.e., in the vertical direction.
[0295] The third coupling frame (413) is coupled to and supports the movable member (420). Specifically, the third coupling frame (413) is fixedly coupled to the movable body (421). Accordingly, the movable body (421) can be maintained in a position coupled to the third coupling frame (413) without being elevated.
[0296] The third coupling frame (413) may have any shape that can be coupled with the second coupling frame (412) and the moving member (420). In the illustrated embodiment, the third coupling frame (413) is formed in a polygonal plate shape with a length in the left-right direction longer than a height in the up-down direction and a thickness in the front-back direction.
[0297] In the above embodiment, each longitudinal end of the third coupling frame (413) is coupled with a pair of second coupling frames (412). On one side of each side of the third coupling frame (413) facing the component receiving space (140), in the illustrated embodiment, a moving body (421) of a moving member (420) is coupled.
[0298] The movable member (420) elevates the blocking plate (440) in the direction toward and opposite to the conveyor belt (120), in the illustrated embodiment in the vertical direction. One longitudinal side of the component receiving space (140) defined by being surrounded by the conveyor belt (120), in the illustrated embodiment at the rear, can be allowed to communicate with the outside or blocked by the movable member (420) and the blocking plate (440) coupled thereto.
[0299] When the moving member (420) is operated and the blocking plate (440) is raised, one side of the component receiving space (140), i.e., the rear side, is connected to the outside. In this state, when the conveyor belt (120) moves forward, components provided from the outside can be moved toward the vibration plate (160). In addition, when the conveyor belt (120) moves backward in this state, components located in the component receiving space (140) can be discharged to the outside.
[0300] By the above process, a part located in the part receiving space (140) can be replaced.
[0301] The movable member (420) is coupled to the coupling frame (310). The movable member (420) is supported by the coupling frame (410). In the illustrated embodiment, the movable member (420) is coupled to the front side of the third coupling frame (413), at the central portion in the longitudinal direction. Accordingly, the movable member (420) can be maintained in a floating state with respect to the conveyor belt (120).
[0302] The movable member (420) is coupled to the blocking plate (440). Some components of the movable member (420) can be elevated together with the blocking plate (440).
[0303] At this time, the lowering position of the moving member (420) may be a position where the blocking plate (440) can come into contact with the conveyor belt (120). In addition, the raising position of the moving member (420) may be determined so that the part moving space (430) formed between the blocking plate (440) and the conveyor belt (120) has a height sufficient for the part to pass through.
[0304] The movable member (420) may be provided in any form, such that some components are fixedly coupled with the coupling frame (410) and other components are movably coupled with the blocking plate (440). In one embodiment, the movable member (420) may be provided in the form of a hydraulic cylinder.
[0305] In the above embodiment, the moving member (420) is electrically connected to an external power source (not shown) and a control unit (not shown), so as to receive power and control signals required for operation.
[0306] In the illustrated embodiment, the moving member (420) includes a moving body (421), a piston member (422), a support plate (423), and a moving guide member (424).
[0307] The moving body (421) can be defined as the above-described part in which the moving member (420) is coupled to the coupling frame (410). The moving body (421) is coupled to and supported by the front side of the coupling frame (410). The moving body (421) is fixedly coupled to the coupling frame (410) and does not move arbitrarily. The moving body (421) is maintained in a floating state separated from the conveyor belt (120).
[0308] The moving body (421) is coupled with the piston member (422). The moving body (421) supports the piston member (422) so as to be movable. In the illustrated embodiment, the moving body (421) supports the piston member (422) so as to be able to move up and down. In the above embodiment, a space that at least partially accommodates the piston member (422) may be formed inside the moving body (421). At this time, the piston member (422) may be penetrably coupled along the height direction of the moving body (421).
[0309] The moving body (421) is coupled with the moving guide member (424). The moving body (421) can be fixedly coupled with the moving guide member (424).
[0310] The moving body (421) may have any shape that can be combined with the piston member (422) and the moving guide member (424). In the illustrated embodiment, the moving body (421) has a polygonal prism shape with a rectangular cross-section and a height in the vertical direction.
[0311] The piston member (422) can be defined as another configuration that is coupled with the support plate (423) and moves together. The piston member (422) elevates the support plate (423) and the blocking plate (440) coupled thereto.
[0312] The piston member (422) is coupled to the movable body (421) so as to be movable along its length direction. In the illustrated embodiment, the piston member (422) is coupled to the movable body (421) so as to be movable in the height direction of the second coupling frame (412), i.e., in the up-down direction. In one embodiment, the piston member (422) can be penetrably coupled to the movable body (421) in its length direction, i.e., in the up-down direction in the illustrated embodiment.
[0313] The piston member (422) is coupled with the support plate (423). The piston member (422) can be raised and lowered together with the support plate (423). In the illustrated embodiment, the front side of the piston member (422) is coupled with the support plate (423).
[0314] The piston member (422) may be provided in any shape that can be raised and lowered in the vertical direction to raise and lower the support plate (423) and the blocking plate (440) coupled thereto. In the illustrated embodiment, the piston member (422) has a cylindrical shape with a circular cross-section and a vertical length.
[0315] A plurality of piston members (422) may be provided. The plurality of piston members (422) may be coupled to the moving body (421) and the support plate (423) at different locations. In the illustrated embodiment, a pair of piston members (422) are provided and spaced apart from each other in the width direction of the moving body (421), i.e., in the left-right direction. The pair of piston members (422) are arranged to face each other with the moving guide member (424) interposed therebetween.
[0316] The support plate (423) is configured such that the moving member (420) is coupled with the blocking plate (440). The support plate (423) is coupled with the piston member (422) and can be raised and lowered together. The support plate (423) is coupled with the blocking plate (440) and can be moved together.
[0317] The support plate (423) is coupled to the piston member (422). The support plate (423) is coupled to one side of the outer circumference of the piston member (422), in the illustrated embodiment, the front side. In an embodiment in which a plurality of piston members (422) are provided, the support plate (423) may be coupled to each of the plurality of piston members (422).
[0318] The support plate (423) is coupled with the movable guide member (424). Specifically, the support plate (423) is coupled with the movable guide member (424) so as to be able to ascend and descend. In the illustrated embodiment, the rear side of the support plate (423) is movably coupled with the movable guide member (424).
[0319] The support plate (423) may have any shape that can be moved together with the piston member (422) and the blocking plate (440), respectively. In the illustrated embodiment, the support plate (423) is formed in a square shape with a square cross-section and a thickness in the front-back direction.
[0320] The moving guide member (424) guides the elevation of the support plate (423) coupled with the piston member (422). The moving guide member (424) is movably coupled with the support plate (423).
[0321] The moving guide member (424) is coupled with the moving body (421). At this time, the moving guide member (424) can be fixedly coupled to the moving body (421). Therefore, it will be understood that the lifting / lowering coupling of the moving guide member (424) and the support plate (423) can be achieved by the support plate (423) being lifted / lowered relative to the moving guide member (424).
[0322] In the illustrated embodiment, the moving guide member (424) is positioned at the center portion of the front side of the moving body (421). The moving guide member (424) is positioned between a pair of piston members (422).
[0323] The moving guide member (424) is fixedly connected to the moving body (421) and may be provided in any shape that can support the support plate (423) so as to be able to move up and down. In the illustrated embodiment, the moving guide member (424) extends in the height direction of the support plate (423), i.e., in the up-down direction. In one embodiment, the moving guide member (424) may be provided in the shape of an LM guide.
[0324] The parts movement space (430) is a space defined by being surrounded by a conveyor belt (120) and a joining frame (410). The parts movement space (430) provides a passage for parts provided from the outside to be moved to the parts receiving space (140). In addition, the parts movement space (430) provides a passage for parts received in the parts receiving space (140) to be discharged to the outside. In other words, the parts movement space (430) provides passages for the inflow and outflow of parts.
[0325] The component movement space (430) is defined by being surrounded by each component of the joining frame (410). In the illustrated embodiment, each side, left and right, in the width direction of the component movement space (430) is surrounded by the first and second joining frames (411, 412), and one side in the height direction of the component movement space (430), i.e., the upper side, is surrounded by the third joining frame (413). The other side in the height direction of the component movement space (430), i.e., the lower side, is surrounded by the conveyor belt (120).
[0326] The part movement space (430) can be selectively connected to the part receiving space (140) by a blocking plate (440). That is, when the blocking plate (440) is lowered and positioned adjacent to the conveyor belt (120), the communication between the part movement space (430) and the part receiving space (140) is blocked. When the blocking plate (440) is raised and sufficiently spaced from the conveyor belt (120), the part movement space (430) and the part receiving space (140) are connected.
[0327] The component movement space (430) may have a shape corresponding to the movement direction of the conveyor belt (120). At this time, one side of each side of the component movement space (430) opposite to the component receiving space (140), the rear side in the illustrated embodiment, may be open and constantly connected to the outside.
[0328] Accordingly, it will be understood that the blocking plate (440) opens and closes the other side of the component movement space (430) facing the component receiving space (140), in the illustrated embodiment the front side.
[0329] The blocking plate (440) is combined with the moving member (420) and is raised and lowered together. The blocking plate (440) is configured to allow or block communication between the part moving space (430) and the part receiving space (140).
[0330] The blocking plate (440) is coupled with the moving member (420). Specifically, the blocking plate (440) is coupled with the support plate (423) and can be raised and lowered together.
[0331] The blocking plate (440) may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the component movement space (430) and the component receiving space (140). In the illustrated embodiment, the blocking plate (440) is a plate shape having a length in the left-right direction, a height in the up-down direction, and a thickness in the front-back direction.
[0332] At this time, the length of the blocking plate (440), i.e., the length in the left-right direction, may be the same as the length in the width direction of the component receiving space (140) or the component moving space (430), i.e., the length in the left-right direction. In the above embodiment, the length of the blocking plate (440) may be the same as the distance between a pair of first bulkheads (131) or the distance between a pair of first and second coupling frames (411, 412).
[0333] Additionally, the height of the blocking plate (440), i.e., the length in the vertical direction, may be equal to the height of the part movement space (430). In the above embodiment, the height of the blocking plate (440) may be equal to the distance between the conveyor belt (120) and the third coupling frame (413).
[0334]
[0335] Referring to FIGS. 27 to 30, a process in which a blocking plate (440) of a parts supply unit (400) is operated to allow or block communication between a parts movement space (430) and a parts receiving space (140) is illustrated as an example.
[0336] Referring to FIGS. 27 and 28, a smart feeding system (20) according to another embodiment of the present invention is adjusted to a first state (S1). The first state (S1) may be defined as a state in which the component movement space (430) and the component receiving space (140) are connected.
[0337] In the first state (S1), the blocking plate (440) is raised so that the component movement space (430) and the component receiving space (140) are connected. Accordingly, components provided from the outside to the rear side of the component movement space (430) are supported on the conveyor belt (120). Components placed on the conveyor belt (120) can be moved forward together with the conveyor belt (120) and moved to the component receiving space (140).
[0338] Additionally, in the first state (S1), the parts located in the parts receiving space (140) can be moved to the rear side together with the conveyor belt (120) and discharged to the outside through the parts moving space (430).
[0339] That is, in the first state (S1), a part may be provided from the outside or a previously provided part may be discharged to the outside to be replaced with another part.
[0340] Referring to FIGS. 29 and 30, a smart feeding system (20) according to another embodiment of the present invention is adjusted to a second state (S2). The second state (S2) may be defined as a state in which communication between the component movement space (430) and the component receiving space (140) is blocked.
[0341] In the second state (S2), the blocking plate (440) is lowered and positioned adjacent to the conveyor belt (120). In one embodiment, the blocking plate (440) may be lowered until it contacts the conveyor belt (120). Accordingly, the front side of the component movement space (430) is closed, thereby blocking communication between the component movement space (430) and the component receiving space (140).
[0342] In the second state (S2), the provision of additional parts to the part receiving space (140) or the discharge of parts from the part receiving space (140) to the outside is blocked. Accordingly, in the second state (S2), an external part identification device (not shown) and a part pickup device (not shown) can identify and pick up parts received in the part receiving space (140) and provide them back to the outside.
[0343]
[0344] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described, the spirit of the present invention is not limited to the embodiments presented in this specification, and those skilled in the art who understand the spirit of the present invention will be able to easily propose other embodiments by adding, changing, deleting, or adding components within the scope of the same spirit, but this will also be considered to fall within the spirit of the present invention.
[0345] 10: Smart Feeding System 20: Smart Feeding System
[0346] 100: Main frame 110: Cover
[0347] 120: Conveyor belt 130: Bulkhead
[0348] 131: First bulkhead 132: Second bulkhead
[0349] 140: Parts receiving space 150: Guide member
[0350] 160: Vibration plate 170: Power application unit
[0351] 171: Motor member 172: Belt member
[0352] 180: Power transmission part 181: Transmission roller member
[0353] 182: Pressure roller member 200: Vibration application unit
[0354] 210: Base plate 220: Vibration transmission plate
[0355] 230: Cover plate 240: Lifting guide member
[0356] 250: Side plate 260: Vibration generating unit
[0357] 261: Vibration generating member 262: Receiving housing
[0358] 263: Support frame 300: Parts supply section
[0359] 310: Joint frame 311: Component support plate
[0360] 320: Moving member 321: Moving body
[0361] 322: Piston member 323: Pressurized plate
[0362] 330: Moving Frame 331: First Moving Wall
[0363] 332: Second moving wall 333: Parts transfer space
[0364] 340: Slope member 400: Parts supply section
[0365] 410: Combination frame 411: First combination frame
[0366] 412: Second combination frame 413: Third combination frame
[0367] 420: Moving member 421: Moving body
[0368] 422: Piston member 423: Support plate
[0369] 424: Movement guide member 430: Part movement space
[0370] 440: Blocking plate
Claims
1. Main frame; and It includes a parts supply unit that is coupled to the main frame, communicates with the outside to receive parts, and provides the received parts to the main frame. The above main frame, A conveyor belt equipped to move in one direction; A baffle section surrounding each side of the width direction of the conveyor belt; and It includes a parts receiving space surrounded by the conveyor belt and the bulkhead, and one side in the height direction is connected to the outside, The above parts supply unit, a joining frame fixedly connected to the main frame; and Including a moving frame that is connected to the coupling frame so as to be movable in the above one direction or in a direction opposite to the above one direction, and has a parts transfer space formed inside it that is connected to the outside and accommodates the parts, When the above moving frame is moved in either of the above one direction and the other direction, the part transfer space is communicated with the part receiving space, so that the part is moved to the part receiving space. Smart feeding system.
2. In paragraph 1, The above combination frame is, Including a component support plate that supports the above moving frame from the lower side, The above parts delivery space is, Each side in the height direction is formed open, and the lower side is closed by the component support plate while the moving frame is moved in the other direction of the one direction and the other direction. Smart feeding system.
3. In paragraph 2, The above parts supply unit, A moving member is included, which is respectively connected to the above-mentioned coupling frame and the above-mentioned moving frame, and is configured to move the moving frame in one of the above-mentioned one direction and the above-mentioned other direction. Smart feeding system.
4. In paragraph 3, The above moving member is, A movable body fixedly connected to the above-mentioned joining frame; and A piston member coupled to the moving body so as to be movable in one direction or the other direction and coupled to the moving frame, Smart feeding system.
5. In paragraph 4, The above moving frame is, A pair of first movable walls enclosing the above component transfer space in the longitudinal direction; A pair of first moving walls and a pair of second moving walls each of which is continuous and surrounds the component transfer space in the width direction, The above piston member, coupled with either one of the pair of said first moving walls and one of the pair of said second moving walls; Smart feeding system.
6. In paragraph 1, The above parts supply unit, A slope member is coupled to the above-mentioned joining frame, extends in a direction inclined toward the conveyor belt, and is positioned on the lower side of the moving frame that moves in one of the directions, and includes a slope member on which the part falls. Smart feeding system.
7. In paragraph 1, A vibration applying unit positioned inside the main frame and configured to apply vibration to the conveyor belt, Smart feeding system.
8. In paragraph 7, The above vibration applying unit is, A vibration generating unit that generates vibration in the height direction; and A vibration transmission plate positioned between the vibration generating unit and the conveyor belt, coupled to the vibration generating unit, in contact with the conveyor belt, and transmitting the vibration to the conveyor belt. Smart feeding system.
9. Main Frame; A parts supply unit coupled to the main frame, communicating with the outside to receive parts, and providing the received parts to the main frame; and A vibration applying unit is located inside the main frame and configured to apply vibration to the provided component. The above main frame, A conveyor belt provided to be moved in one direction and in another direction opposite to said one direction; and Its lower side is surrounded by the conveyor belt and its upper side includes a parts receiving space that is connected to the outside, The above parts supply unit, A joining frame fixedly connected to the above main frame; A parts movement space surrounded by the above-mentioned joining frame and the above-mentioned conveyor belt; and Including a blocking plate that is movably connected to the above-mentioned joining frame, When the above blocking plate is lowered a predetermined distance toward the conveyor belt, the communication between the part receiving space and the part moving space is blocked. Smart feeding system.
10. In paragraph 9, The above parts supply unit, Including a moving member which is respectively connected to the above-mentioned joining frame and the above-mentioned blocking plate, and is configured to elevate the above-mentioned blocking plate in a direction toward the conveyor belt and in a direction opposite thereto. Smart feeding system.
11. In Article 11, The above moving member is, A movable body fixedly connected to the above-mentioned joining frame; and A piston member which is movably connected to the above moving body and is connected to the blocking plate, Smart feeding system.
12. In paragraph 11, The above moving member is, A moving guide member fixedly connected to the above moving body and supporting the blocking plate so that it can be lifted, Smart feeding system.
13. In paragraph 9, The above vibration applying unit is, A vibration generating unit for generating the above vibration; A vibration transmission plate coupled with the vibration generating unit and transmitting the generated vibration to the conveyor belt; and Including a lifting guide member coupled with the vibration transmission plate and configured to guide the swing of the vibration transmission plate, Smart feeding system.
14. In paragraph 13, The above-mentioned lifting guide member is equipped with an LM guide (Linear Motion guide). Smart feeding system.
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