Dispenser

Abstract

A dispenser is disclosed. The dispenser of the present disclosure may comprise: a tower; and a feeder slidably coupled to the tower, the feeder being configured to slide forward so as to protrude outward from the tower or slide backward so as to be inserted into the tower, wherein: the feeder comprises a feeder housing having a hollow portion, and a discharge port formed in the lower portion of a side surface of the feeder housing; and when the feeder protrudes outward from the tower, the discharge port is exposed to the outside of the tower, or when the feeder is inserted into the tower, the discharge port is hidden inside the tower.

Description

dispenser

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a dispenser. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to a dispenser having a feeder that slides in a forward-backward direction.

[0002] As the market for pets, such as dogs and cats, continues to grow, research and development into pet supplies and products is actively underway. As the perception of pets as family members grows, the pet industry is expected to continue growing, achieving even higher added value.

[0003] Recently, amidst the growth of the pet industry, pet health management has emerged as a promising future industry. A significant amount of research is being conducted to monitor the health of pets and prevent or diagnose diseases.

[0004] Additionally, much research is being conducted on feeders for pets.

[0005] The present disclosure aims to solve the above-mentioned and other problems.

[0006] Another purpose may be to provide a feeding station for your pet.

[0007] Another purpose might be to provide a feeder that automatically dispenses food when certain conditions are met.

[0008] Another purpose might be to provide a feeder that automatically dispenses food at regular intervals.

[0009] Another purpose may be to provide a feeder with increased feed storage capacity.

[0010] Another goal may be to provide a feeder with a feed spout that is not visible to the pet.

[0011] Another goal may be to provide feeders with improved hygiene.

[0012] Another goal may be to provide a feeder that is safer to use for pets.

[0013] Another purpose may be to provide a feeder that allows the user to change the amount of feed dispensed.

[0014] Another purpose may be to provide a feeder that can sense the motion of the feeder.

[0015] Another purpose may be to provide a feeder with improved continuity of feeder operation.

[0016] Another purpose may be to provide a feeder that can be easily disassembled and reassembled by the user.

[0017] Another purpose may be to provide a disassembled conveyor structure.

[0018] Another purpose may be to provide a feeder with improved durability.

[0019] Another goal may be to provide a feeder with reduced noise.

[0020] Another purpose may be to provide a conveyor structure with improved operational stability.

[0021] Another purpose may be to provide various examples of the decomposition structure of the pad.

[0022] According to one aspect of the present disclosure for achieving the above or other purposes, a dispenser comprises: a tower; and a feeder slidably coupled to the tower, the feeder sliding forward to protrude outward from the tower or sliding backward to be inserted into the interior of the tower, the feeder comprising: a feeder housing having a hollow portion; and a discharge port formed in a lower portion of a side surface of the feeder housing, wherein when the feeder protrudes outward from the tower, the discharge port can be exposed to the exterior of the tower, or when the feeder is inserted into the interior of the tower, the discharge port can be hidden inside the tower.

[0023] The effects of the dispenser according to the present disclosure are described as follows.

[0024] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a feeder for a companion animal can be provided.

[0025] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the feeder can slide forward and backward, thereby reducing the space occupied by the feeder within the tower. This can increase the amount of feed stored in the tower. Furthermore, a compact tower can be provided.

[0026] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the feed outlet is formed on the lower side of the feeder housing, so that the outlet is not directly exposed to the outside of the feeder. In other words, the outlet may not be easily visible to the pet. Accordingly, the possibility of the pet licking the outlet and contaminating the feed may be reduced.

[0027] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the outlet is formed on the lower side of the side of the feeder housing so as to be out of the view of the pet, thereby reducing the risk of the pet getting caught in the outlet as the feeder slides and the outlet is exposed and hidden.

[0028] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the outlet may be opened downward, thereby reducing the possibility of external foreign matter entering the outlet.

[0029] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the discharge port is exposed only when feed is discharged, and the discharge port is hidden inside the tower during normal times, so that the possibility of external foreign substances entering the discharge port can be reduced.

[0030] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a cam blade protruding radially from a cam disk and a sensor detecting the cam blade enable the sensor to detect the rotational speed of the cam, the rotational angle of the cam, etc. through the movement of the cam blade. Through this, the discharge speed of the feeder, the discharge amount of the feeder, etc. can be detected.

[0031] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, a sensor can detect the operational status of a feeder by recognizing the presence or absence of a cam blade, due to a cam blade extending along the circumferential direction of the cam disc by about half the circumferential length of the cam disc. As a result, even if the movement of the feeder is stopped due to external pressure or a power cut, the sensor can recognize the presence or absence of a cam blade, and the feeder can continuously perform its previous operation.

[0032] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the operational stability of the screw conveyor can be improved due to a hook attached to the front end of the screw conveyor and providing a rotational axis. In addition, the phenomenon of the screw conveyor sagging forward can be reduced, and wear on the screw conveyor can be reduced, thereby improving durability.

[0033] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, a hook pivotally connected to the conveyor housing allows a user to easily lift the hook to disassemble the screw conveyor installed inside the conveyor housing. This improves the ease of disassembly and reassembly of the feeder. Furthermore, since the user can easily clean it, the hygiene of the feeder can be improved.

[0034] Further scope of the applicability of the present disclosure will become apparent from the detailed description below. However, since various modifications and variations within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure will become apparent to those skilled in the art, it should be understood that the detailed description and specific examples, such as preferred embodiments of the present disclosure, are given by way of example only.

[0035] Figures 1 to 26 are drawings illustrating examples of dispensers according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0036] Hereinafter, embodiments disclosed in this specification will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. Regardless of the drawing numbers, identical or similar components are given the same reference numbers and redundant descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0037] The suffixes "module" and "part" used for components in the following description are given or used interchangeably only for the convenience of writing specifications, and do not have distinct meanings or roles in themselves.

[0038] In addition, when describing the embodiments disclosed in this specification, if it is determined that a detailed description of a related known technology may obscure the gist of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, the detailed description thereof will be omitted. In addition, the attached drawings are only intended to facilitate easy understanding of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, and the technical ideas disclosed in this specification are not limited by the attached drawings, and should be understood to include all modifications, equivalents, and substitutes included in the spirit and technical scope of the present disclosure.

[0039] Terms that include ordinal numbers, such as first, second, etc., may be used to describe various components, but the components are not limited by these terms. These terms are used solely to distinguish one component from another.

[0040] When a component is referred to as being "connected" or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that it may be directly connected or connected to that other component, but that there may be other components intervening. Conversely, when a component is referred to as being "directly connected" or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that there are no other components intervening.

[0041] Singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0042] In this application, terms such as “include” or “have” are intended to specify the presence of a feature, number, step, operation, component, part or combination thereof described in the specification, but should be understood not to exclude in advance the possibility of the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts or combinations thereof.

[0043] The direction indications of up (U), down (D), left (Le), right (Ri), front (F), and back (R) shown in the drawings are only for convenience of explanation, and the technical ideas disclosed in this specification are not limited thereby.

[0044]

[0045] Referring to Figures 1 to 3, the structure of the dispenser (1) will be described.

[0046] A dispenser (1) may refer to a device that supplies a substance stored internally by discharging it to the outside. A user can store a desired substance in the dispenser (1), and the dispenser (1) can supply the stored substance to the user in portions at each time. The dispenser (1) can store and supply not only solid substances, but also liquid substances or gaseous substances.

[0047] The dispenser (1) can supply a specific amount of a stored substance to a user when a certain condition value is met. For example, the dispenser (1) can supply a set amount of the stored substance to a user when the user presses a button or when the user's body is detected by a sensor. Alternatively, the dispenser (1) can supply a set amount of the stored substance to the user at regular intervals.

[0048] In this disclosure, an embodiment of a dispenser (1) for supplying food to a pet is described, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and a user may supply other substances from the dispenser (1) depending on the intended use. Accordingly, the dispenser (1) may be referred to as a feeder, a dispenser, a distributor, a storage container, etc., depending on the intended use. For example, in this disclosure, a dispenser (1) for automatically supplying food to a pet may be referred to as a pet feeder or an automatic feeder.

[0049] The dispenser (1) may include a main body (30) that stores feed and distributes the stored feed.

[0050] The dispenser (1) may include a tower (31) for storing feed. The main body (30) may include the tower (31). A storage space (330, see FIG. 4) may be provided inside the tower (31). The tower (31) may extend high in the vertical direction. The vertical direction may be referred to as the height direction of the tower (31). The tower (31) may include an inlet (not shown) communicating with the storage space (330) inside. A user may replenish feed into the storage space (330) through the inlet. For example, the inlet may be an opening of the tower (31) that opens upward.

[0051] The tower (31) may include a storage (321) for storing feed. A storage space (330) may be formed inside the storage (321). The storage (321) may be opened upward. Through this, the storage space (330) inside the storage (321) may be communicated with the inlet.

[0052] The dispenser (1) may include a cap (32) that opens or closes the inlet. The body (30) may include the cap (32). The tower (31) may include the cap (32). The cap (32) may be a lid of the tower (31) that opens or closes the inlet. The cap (32) may be detachably coupled to the upper side of the tower (31). The cap (32) may be fastened to the tower (31).

[0053] The dispenser (1) may include a feeder (341) that discharges feed. The main body (30) may include the feeder (341). The feeder (341) may discharge feed stored in the tower (31) into an external space.

[0054] The feeder (341) can be movably coupled to the tower (31). The feeder (341) can be slidably coupled to the tower (31). The feeder (341) can slide to repeatedly operate in insertion mode and protrusion mode. The feeder (341) can slide in a direction intersecting the height direction of the tower (31). For example, the feeder (341) can slide in the forward and backward direction.

[0055] The feeder (341) can protrude from the tower (31) toward the ball (20) described later. The feeder (341) can slide forward and protrude from the tower (31). For example, the ball (20) can be placed in front of the tower (31), and the feeder (341) can slide forward toward the ball (20).

[0056] The feeder (341) may slide in a direction opposite to the protruding direction. The feeder (341) may slide backwards and be inserted into the interior of the tower (31). When the feeder (341) is fully inserted into the interior of the tower (31), the feeder (341) may not protrude from the tower (31).

[0057] The dispenser (1) may include a slide device (34) that moves a feeder (341). The main body (30) may include the slide device (34). The slide device (34) may be coupled to the feeder (341). The slide device (34) may include a slide motor (345) that provides power to the feeder (341).

[0058] The dispenser (1) may include a bowl (20) for containing feed. The bowl (20) may contain feed discharged from a feeder (341). The bowl (20) may include an upper surface that is concave downward. The bowl (20) may be spaced apart from the main body (30). For example, the bowl (20) may be spaced forward from the main body (30). A feeder (341) protruding from the tower (31) may be positioned over the bowl (20).

[0059] The dispenser (1) may include a base (10) that supports a main body (30). The dispenser (1) may include a base (10) that supports a ball (20). The base (10) may be coupled to the lower side of the main body (30) and / or the ball (20). The main body (30) and the ball (20) may be coupled via the base (10).

[0060]

[0061] Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, the internal structure of the tower (31) will be described.

[0062] The feeder (341) may include a feeder housing (3414) that can be protruded from the tower (31). The feeder housing (3414) may slide to protrude from the tower (31). The feeder housing (3414) may be inserted into the interior of the tower (31) by sliding. For example, the feeder housing (3414) may slide forward to protrude from the tower (31) or may slide backward to be inserted into the interior of the tower (31). The feeder housing (3414) may have a hollow portion formed therein.

[0063] The feeder (341) may include a discharge port (3410) formed in the feeder housing (3414). Feed may be discharged through the discharge port (3410). The discharge port (3410) may be formed on a side surface of the feeder housing (3414). For example, the discharge port (3410) may be formed on a lower portion of the side surface of the feeder housing (3414). The discharge port (3410) may be opened downward in the feeder housing (3414). Feed inside the feeder housing (3414) may fall through the discharge port (3410) by gravity.

[0064] The discharge port (3410) may be permanently open in the feeder housing (3414). The discharge port (3410) may be substantially opened or closed depending on the movement of the feeder housing (3414). For example, when the feeder housing (3414) slides forward, the discharge port (3410) may be exposed and open. Conversely, when the feeder housing (3414) slides backward, the discharge port (3410) may be hidden and closed inside the tower (31).

[0065] The feeder (341) may include a slide panel (3412) extending from the feeder housing (3414). The slide panel (3412) may be formed integrally with the feeder housing (3414). The slide panel (3412) may receive power from the slide device (34). The slide panel (3412) may be coupled to the slide device (34).

[0066] The slide panel (3412) may extend in the sliding direction of the feeder (341). For example, the slide panel (3412) may extend in the front-back direction. The slide panel (3412) may be a plate-shaped member extending rearward from the lower portion of the feeder housing (3414). A cam (344) described below may be coupled to the slide panel (3412). The slide panel (3412) may be located below the conveyor (36).

[0067] The feeder (341) may include a rail bracket (342) that guides the slide direction of the feeder housing (3414). The rail bracket (342) may extend in the slide direction of the feeder (341). For example, the rail bracket (342) may extend in the front-back direction. The rail bracket (342) may be coupled to the feeder housing (3414). The rail bracket (342) may be coupled to the slide panel (3412). The rail bracket (342) may be positioned below the conveyor (36). The rail bracket (342) may be positioned between the conveyor (36) and the slide panel (3412).

[0068] The storage (321) may have a storage space (330) formed therein. Feed may be filled in the storage space (330) formed therein. The storage (321) may supply feed to the conveyor (36). The storage (321) may be arranged above the conveyor (36). The storage (321) may be arranged above the feeder (341).

[0069] The storage (321) may include a supply port (3320) for supplying stored feed to the conveyor (36). The supply port (3320) may be opened downwardly in the storage (321). The supply port (3320) may be opened on the lower surface of the storage (321).

[0070] The storage (321) can be detachably placed inside the tower (31). For example, a user can withdraw the storage (321) upward through the inlet of the tower (31).

[0071] The dispenser (1) may include a conveyor (36) for transporting feed. The main body (30) may include the conveyor (36). The conveyor (36) may be disposed inside the tower (31). The conveyor (36) may be disposed on the lower side of the storage (321). For example, the conveyor (36) may be coupled to the lower side of the storage (321) inside the tower (31).

[0072] The conveyor (36) may include a rotating screw conveyor (362). The screw conveyor (362) may transport feed while rotating.

[0073] The conveyor (36) may include a conveyor motor (364) that rotates the screw conveyor (362). The conveyor motor (364) may be coupled to one end of the screw conveyor (362). For example, the conveyor motor (364) may be coupled to the rear end of the screw conveyor (362) and may rotate the screw conveyor (362).

[0074] The conveyor (36) may include a conveyor housing (361) having a screw conveyor (362) disposed therein. The screw conveyor (362) may rotate within the conveyor housing (361). The conveyor housing (361) may be coupled to storage (321).

[0075] The conveyor housing (361) may include an opening (not shown) through which the transported feed is discharged. The opening may be formed in a protruding direction of the feeder housing (3414). The opening may be formed on the front of the conveyor housing (361). The opening may be formed forward of the conveyor housing (361). The screw conveyor (362) may transport the supplied feed toward the opening.

[0076] The conveyor motor (364) can be coupled to the conveyor housing (361). The conveyor motor (364) can be positioned to face an opening formed in the conveyor housing (361). For example, the opening can be formed at the front of the conveyor housing (361), and the conveyor motor (364) can be coupled to the rear side of the conveyor housing (361). The conveyor motor (364) can rotate the screw conveyor (362). The rotating screw conveyor (362) can transport feed inside the conveyor housing (361).

[0077] The conveyor (36) may include a cover bracket (368) that covers the conveyor motor (364). The cover bracket (368) may surround the side of the conveyor motor (364). The cover bracket (368) may be coupled to the conveyor housing (361). The cover bracket (368) may be positioned at the rear of the conveyor housing (361).

[0078] The ball (20) may include a ball plate (22) that contains the discharged feed. The ball plate (22) may form the upper plate of the ball (20). The ball plate (22) may include the upper surface of the ball (20). The ball plate (22) may be formed in a shape that is concave in the downward direction. The ball plate (22) may be formed in a bowl shape.

[0079] The ball (20) may include a ball housing (24) to which a ball plate (22) is coupled. The ball housing (24) may form a peripheral wall of the ball (20). The ball housing (24) may be coupled on the base (10). The ball housing (24) may be coupled under the ball plate (22).

[0080] The ball (20) may include a load sensor (26) that detects the amount of feed contained in the ball plate (22). The load sensor (26) may be placed under the ball plate (22). For example, the load sensor (26) may be placed under the ball housing (24). The load sensor (26) may measure the vertical displacement of the ball housing (24) to detect the weight of the feed contained in the ball plate (22).

[0081] The feeder (341) protruding from the tower (31) can be positioned over the ball (20). When the feeder (341) protrudes from the tower (31), the discharge port (3410) can be positioned over the ball (20). Feed discharged through the discharge port (3410) falls downward and can be contained in the ball (20).

[0082]

[0083] Referring to FIGS. 6 to 8, the combined structure of the feeder (341), the conveyor (36), and the storage (321) will be described in detail.

[0084] The storage (321) may include a supplying spout (332) forming a supply port (3320). The supplying spout (332) may be a peripheral wall or a boundary wall forming the supply port (3320). The supplying spout (332) may be coupled to a conveyor (36). The storage (321) may supply stored feed to the conveyor (36) through the supply port (3320).

[0085] The conveyor (36) can be detachably coupled to the storage (321). For example, the supply spout (332) of the storage (321) can be detachably coupled to the conveyor housing (361).

[0086] The conveyor housing (361) may include a receiving spout (3611) to which a supply spout (332) is coupled. The receiving spout (3611) may protrude from the conveyor housing (361). The receiving spout (3611) may be a peripheral wall or a boundary wall forming a receiving opening (3610, see FIG. 14). The receiving spout (3611) may be engaged with the supply spout (332). Feed stored in the spout may be introduced into the interior of the conveyor housing (361) through the receiving spout (3611).

[0087] The conveyor (36) may include a conveyor cover (366) coupled to the other end of the screw conveyor (362). The conveyor cover (366) may be positioned opposite the conveyor motor (364) coupled to the screw conveyor (362). For example, the conveyor motor (364) may be coupled to the rear end of the screw conveyor (362), and the conveyor cover (366) may be coupled to the front end of the screw conveyor (362).

[0088] The conveyor (36) may be located in the hollow portion of the feeder housing (3414). The conveyor (36) may be fixed to the interior of the tower (31).

[0089] A slide panel (3412) extends from the feeder housing (3414) and can be coupled to a cam (344). The cam (344) can be rotated by being connected to a motor shaft (3452) of a slide motor (345). When the cam (344) rotates, the slide panel (3412) coupled to the cam (344) can operate.

[0090] A slide motor (345) can be connected to a cam (344). The slide motor (345) can rotate the cam (344). The slide motor (345) can be positioned below the cam (344). The cam (344) can be positioned between the slide motor (345) and the slide panel (3412).

[0091] The rail bracket (342) can be coupled to the upper side of the slide panel (3412). The rail bracket (342) can be engaged with the slide panel (3412). The rail bracket (342) can guide the sliding direction of the slide panel (3412).

[0092] The feeder (341) may include a lower bracket (347) disposed below the feeder housing (3414). The lower bracket (347) may be fixed to the interior of the tower (31). The lower bracket (347) may be coupled to the rail bracket (342). The slide panel (3412) may be movable between the lower bracket (347) and the rail bracket (342). The lower bracket (347) may support the feeder housing (3414) or the slide panel (3412). The lower bracket (347) may be positioned in front of the cam (344).

[0093] The feeder housing (3414) may include a guide slope (3411) located on the inner surface. The guide slope (3411) may extend from a discharge port (3410) formed in the feeder housing (3414). The guide slope (3411) may guide feed discharged from the conveyor (36) to the discharge port (3410). The guide slope (3411) may be located on the lower side of the conveyor (36). The guide slope (3411) may be located at the rear of the discharge port (3410).

[0094] The guide slope (3411) may be inclined toward the discharge port (3410). The guide slope (3411) may have a lower height toward the front. The guide slope (3411) may have a higher height toward the rear. Feed discharged from the conveyor (36) may move toward the discharge port (3410) along the incline direction of the guide slope (3411).

[0095]

[0096] Referring to Fig. 9, the structure of a screw conveyor (362) for transporting feed will be described. Fig. 9 is a drawing illustrating one embodiment of the screw conveyor (362), namely, a first screw conveyor (362a).

[0097] The first screw conveyor (362a) may include a conveyor shaft (3624a) that extends in the axial direction of the rotational axis. The conveyor shaft (3624a) may be positioned on the rotational axis of the first screw conveyor (362a). The conveyor shaft (3624a) may provide a shaft of the first screw conveyor (362a).

[0098] The first screw conveyor (362a) may include a blade (3626a) connected to a conveyor shaft (3624). The blade (3626a) may be elongated in a spiral shape along the longitudinal direction of the conveyor shaft (3624). The blade (3626a) may have an elongated spiral wing shape. That is, the blade (3626a) may be extended in the rotational direction of the first screw conveyor (362a) along the axial direction of the rotational axis. Alternatively, the blade (3626a) may be extended in the opposite direction of the rotational direction of the first screw conveyor (362a) along the axial direction of the rotational axis.

[0099] The first screw conveyor (362a) may include a conveyor hub (3622a) coupled to a conveyor motor (364). The conveyor hub (3622a) may receive power from the conveyor motor (364). The conveyor hub (3622a) may be indirectly connected to the conveyor motor (364).

[0100] The first screw conveyor (362a) may include a conveyor base (3628a) positioned between a blade (3626a) and a conveyor hub (3622a). The conveyor base (3628a) may partition the conveyor hub (3622a) and a conveyor shaft (3624a). The conveyor base (3628a) may extend radially from the conveyor shaft (3624a) about the axis of rotation. The conveyor base (3628a) may be formed in a disk shape. The blade (3626a) may be connected to the conveyor base (3628aa).

[0101]

[0102] Referring to FIGS. 8 and 10, a conveyor cover (366) coupled to the front end of a screw conveyor (362) will be described.

[0103] The conveyor cover (366) can cover the opening of the conveyor housing (361). For example, the conveyor cover (366) can be coupled to the front end of the conveyor housing (361) where the opening is formed. The conveyor cover (366) can provide a rotating shaft of the screw conveyor (362). The conveyor cover (366) can be coupled to the free end of the screw conveyor (362) to form a fixed end. The conveyor cover (366) can minimize the phenomenon of the free end of the screw conveyor (362) sagging. That is, the screw conveyor (362) is coupled to the cover shaft (3662) of the conveyor cover (366) coupled to the conveyor housing (361), so that the phenomenon of the front end of the screw conveyor (362) sagging downward can be minimized.

[0104] The conveyor cover (366) may include a cover shaft (3662) coupled to a free end of the screw conveyor (362). The cover shaft (3662) may provide a rotational shaft to the screw conveyor (362). The cover shaft (3662) may be inserted into the interior of the conveyor shaft (3624). The cover shaft (3662) may be positioned on the rotational axis of the conveyor shaft (3624). For example, the cover shaft (3662), the conveyor shaft (3624), and the motor shaft (3452) of the conveyor motor (364) may be aligned in the axial direction of the rotational axis of the screw conveyor (362).

[0105] The conveyor cover (366) may include a holder (3663) coupled to the conveyor shaft (3624). The holder (3663) may guide a position where the cover shaft (3662) is inserted. The holder (3663) may be fixed to the conveyor shaft (3624) so ​​that the cover shaft (3662) coupled to the conveyor shaft (3624) does not shake. Through this, the coupling stability between the cover shaft (3662) and the conveyor shaft (3624) may be improved.

[0106] The conveyor cover (366) may include a barrier (3664) that covers an opening of the conveyor housing (361). The barrier (3664) may include a plurality of barriers (3664) spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction of the conveyor cover (366). The plurality of barriers (3664) may be spaced apart from each other by cutouts formed in the radial direction of the conveyor cover (366).

[0107] The conveyor cover (366) can be formed of an elastic material.

[0108] Accordingly, the plurality of barriers (3664) can move independently of each other. The plurality of barriers (3664) can be aligned on one surface in normal times. When feed is discharged from the conveyor (36), at least one of the plurality of barriers (3664) can bend with respect to the aligned surface. As at least one of the plurality of barriers (3664) bends, the opening of the conveyor housing (361) can be opened. Through this, feed transported by the screw conveyor (362) can be discharged through the opening.

[0109]

[0110] Referring to FIGS. 11 and 12, the structure of a screw conveyor (362) for transporting feed will be described. FIG. 12 is a drawing illustrating another embodiment of the screw conveyor (362), namely, a second screw conveyor (362b).

[0111] The second screw conveyor (362b) may include a conveyor shaft (3624b) that extends in the axial direction of the rotational axis. The conveyor shaft (3624b) may be positioned on the rotational axis of the second screw conveyor (362b). The conveyor shaft (3624b) may provide a shaft of the second screw conveyor (362b).

[0112] The second screw conveyor (362b) may include a plurality of blades (3625b, 3626b) connected to a conveyor shaft (3624). The plurality of blades (3625b, 3626b) may be formed in a flat plate shape.

[0113] The plurality of blades (3625b, 3626b) may include a plurality of first blades (3626b) arranged spaced apart from each other. The plurality of first blades (3626b) may be arranged spaced apart from each other in the axial direction of the rotational axis of the second screw conveyor (362b). The plurality of first blades (3626b) may be arranged parallel to each other. The first blades (3626b) may be flat plates formed in a semicircular shape.

[0114] The first blade (3626b) may be arranged obliquely with respect to the conveyor shaft (3624). The first blade (3626b) may be arranged in a direction intersecting the axial direction of the rotational axis of the second screw conveyor (362b). The first blade (3626b) may be arranged in a direction intersecting the rotational direction of the rotational axis of the second screw conveyor (362b).

[0115] The plurality of blades (3625b, 3626b) may include a plurality of second blades (3625b) arranged spaced apart from each other. The plurality of second blades (3625b) may be arranged spaced apart from each other in the axial direction of the rotational axis of the second screw conveyor (362b). The plurality of second blades (3625b) may be arranged parallel to each other. The second blades (3625b) may be flat plates formed in a semicircular shape.

[0116] The second blade (3625b) may be arranged obliquely with respect to the conveyor shaft (3624). The first blade (3626b) may be arranged in a direction intersecting with the axial direction of the rotational axis of the second screw conveyor (362b). The second blade (3625b) may be arranged in a direction intersecting with the rotational direction of the rotational axis of the second screw conveyor (362b). A plurality of second blades (3625b) may be arranged to intersect with a plurality of first blades (3626b). The second blades (3625b) may be connected to the first blades (3626b). An intersection point may be formed between the first blades (3626b) and the second blades (3625b).

[0117] The second screw conveyor (362b) may include a plurality of auxiliary blades (3627b) connecting the first blade (3626b) and the second blade (3625b). The auxiliary blades (3627b) may be arranged parallel to the axial direction of the rotational axis of the second screw conveyor (362b). The auxiliary blades (3627b) may extend from the intersection of the first blade (3626b) and the second blade (3625b) toward the end of the first blade (3626b) and the end of the second blade (3625b). The auxiliary blades (3627b) may be formed in a triangular shape connecting the intersection of the first blade (3626b) and the second blade (3625b), the end of the first blade (3626b), and the end of the second blade (3625b).

[0118] The second screw conveyor (362b) may include a conveyor hub (3622b) coupled to a conveyor motor (364). The conveyor hub (3622b) may receive power from the conveyor motor (364). The conveyor hub (3622b) may be indirectly connected to the conveyor motor (364).

[0119] The second screw conveyor (362b) may include a conveyor base (3628b) positioned between blades (3625b, 3626b) and a conveyor hub (3622b). The conveyor base (3628b) may partition the conveyor hub (3622b) and a conveyor shaft (3624b). The conveyor base (3628b) may extend radially from the conveyor shaft (3624b) about the axis of rotation. The conveyor base (3628b) may be formed in a disk shape. The blades (3625b, 3626b) may be connected to the conveyor base (3628b).

[0120]

[0121] Referring to FIGS. 11 and 13, a hook (367) coupled to the front end of a screw conveyor (362) will be described.

[0122] The dispenser (1) may include a hook (367) that provides a rotating shaft of the screw conveyor (362). The hook (367) may be coupled to the other end of the screw conveyor (362). For example, the hook (367) may be coupled to the front end of the screw conveyor (362).

[0123] Accordingly, the hook (367) is connected to the other end of the screw conveyor (362), so that the phenomenon of the other end of the screw conveyor (362), which is a free end, being swayed downward can be minimized.

[0124] The hook (367) can be coupled to the conveyor housing (361). For example, the hook (367) can be coupled to the upper end of the conveyor housing (361). The hook (367) can be positioned in an opening of the conveyor housing (361). For example, the hook (367) can extend from the upper end of the opening of the conveyor housing (361) toward the other end of the screw conveyor (362) and cross the opening.

[0125] The hook (367) may include a hook supporter (3674) coupled to the conveyor housing (361). The hook supporter (3674) may be coupled to the upper side of the conveyor housing (361). The hook supporter (3674) may be formed in a plate shape that is convex in the upward direction.

[0126] The hook supporter (3674) may include a hook pin (3675) protruding from one end. The hook supporter (3674) may be coupled to the conveyor housing (361) via the hook pin (3675). The hook supporter (3674) may be pivotally coupled to the conveyor housing (361) via the hook pin (3675). The hook pin (3675) may be a coupling portion of the hook supporter (3674) coupled to the conveyor housing (361) and may also function as a pivot shaft of the hook (367).

[0127] The hook pin (3675) may be a pair of hook pins (3675) protruding in both lateral directions from one end of the hook supporter (3674).

[0128] The hook (367) may include a hook bar (3672) extending from the other end of the hook supporter (3674). The hook bar (3672) may extend from the hook supporter (3674) toward the center of the opening. The hook bar (3672) may extend from the hook supporter (3674) toward the other end of the screw conveyor (362). The hook bar (3672) may be coupled to the screw conveyor (362).

[0129] The hook bar (3672) can be bent from the hook supporter (3674). The direction in which the hook bar (3672) extends from the hook supporter (3674) can intersect with the direction in which the hook pin (3675) protrudes from the hook supporter (3674).

[0130] The hook (367) may include a hook shaft (3673) protruding from the hook bar (3672). The hook shaft (3673) may be coupled to the screw conveyor (362). For example, the hook shaft (3673) may be inserted into the other end of the screw conveyor (362) to provide a rotating shaft to the screw conveyor (362). The hook shaft (3673) may be a coupling portion of the hook bar (3672) coupled to the screw conveyor (362) and may also perform a shaft function of the screw conveyor (362).

[0131]

[0132] Referring to Fig. 14, the joint structure of the conveyor (36) and the hook (367) is described.

[0133] The hook (367) can be coupled to the screw conveyor (362). The hook (367) coupled to the conveyor housing (361) can be coupled to the screw conveyor (362). At this time, the hook shaft (3673) of the hook (367) can be inserted into the conveyor shaft (3624). The conveyor shaft (3624) can have a hollow portion formed therein. The conveyor shaft (3624) can be opened toward the other end from the hollow portion therein so that the hook shaft (3673) can be inserted therein.

[0134] When the hook (367) is coupled to the screw conveyor (362), the hook shaft (3673), the conveyor shaft (3624), and the rotation shaft (3642) can be aligned in the axial direction of the rotation axis of the screw conveyor (362).

[0135] The conveyor (36) may include a connector (363) connecting the conveyor motor (364) and the screw conveyor (362). The connector (363) may be coupled to a rotating shaft of the conveyor motor (364). The connector (363) may be coupled to a conveyor hub (3622) of the screw conveyor (362). The connector (363) may transmit the power of the conveyor motor (364) to the screw conveyor (362).

[0136] The conveyor housing (361) may include an edge slope (3613) formed under the opening. The edge slope (3613) may extend downward from the conveyor housing (361). The edge slope (3613) may extend downward from the conveyor housing (361) in a protruding direction of the feeder (341). For example, the edge slope (3613) may extend obliquely downward from the other end of the conveyor housing (361) forming the opening. The edge slope (3613) may extend in a curved manner.

[0137]

[0138] Referring to Fig. 15, the separation and combination structure of the conveyor (36) and the hook (367) is described.

[0139] The hook (367) can be detachably coupled to the screw conveyor (362). The hook (367) can be detached from the screw conveyor (362). The hook shaft (3673) can be detached from the conveyor shaft (3624).

[0140] The hook (367) can be pivoted from the conveyor housing (361). The hook (367) can be separated from the screw conveyor (362) while being pivotally coupled to the conveyor housing (361) and rotating upward. The hook (367) can pivot using the hook pin (3675) as a pivot shaft.

[0141] When the hook (367) pivots while rotating upward about the pivot axis, the hook (367) can be separated from the screw conveyor (362). When the hook (367) pivots while rotating downward about the pivot axis, the hook (367) can be re-attached to the screw conveyor (362).

[0142] This allows the user to separate the hook (367) from the conveyor shaft (3624) and withdraw the conveyor shaft (3624) from the conveyor housing (361). The user can then clean the separated conveyor shaft (3624) and conveyor housing (361).

[0143]

[0144] Referring to FIGS. 16 to 19, a slide device (34) that protrudes the feeder (341) forward will be described.

[0145] The slide device (34) may include a cam (344) coupled to a slide panel (3412). The cam (344) may be connected to a slide motor (345) and may rotate. The slide motor (345) may provide rotational power to the cam (344). The cam (344) may rotate while coupled to the slide panel (3412). When the cam (344) rotates, the slide panel (3412) may receive rotational power from the cam (344) and move.

[0146] The cam (344) may include a cam disk (3444) that receives power from a slide motor (345). The cam disk (3444) may include a cam hub (3442) that is connected to the slide motor (345). The cam hub (3442) may be coupled to a motor shaft (3452) of the slide motor (345).

[0147] The cam disc (3444) may be formed in a disc shape. The periphery of the cam disc (3444) may be spaced radially from the cam hub (3442) of the cam (344).

[0148] The cam (344) may include a cam protrusion (3446) protruding from the cam disk (3444). The cam protrusion (3446) may protrude from the cam disk (3444) axially about the axis of rotation of the cam (344). The cam protrusion (3446) may be radially spaced from the axis of rotation of the cam (344). The cam protrusion (3446) may be adjacent to an edge of the cam disk (3444).

[0149] The cam (344) may include cam blades (3448) protruding radially from the cam disk (3444).

[0150] The cam blade (3448a) may extend in the circumferential direction of the cam disc (3444). For example, the cam blade (3448a) may extend in the circumferential direction.

[0151] The cam blade (3448a) may be extended along the circumference of the cam disc (3444a). The extended length of the cam blade (3448a) may correspond to approximately half of the circumference of the cam disc (3444a). The angle at which the cam blade (3448a) is extended may correspond to approximately 180 degrees. For example, one end of the cam blade (3448a) may face the other end. That is, one end and the other end of the cam blade (3448a) may be positioned in a straight line with the center of the cam (344a).

[0152] The cam blades (3448b) may be a pair of cam blades (3448b) protruding radially from the cam disc (3444b). The pair of cam blades (3448b) may be a pair of plates connected to the periphery of the cam disc (3444b). The pair of cam blades (3448b) may be opposed to each other. For example, the pair of cam blades (3448b) may be positioned in a straight line with the center of the cam (344b).

[0153] The slide panel (3412) may be a panel extending from the feeder housing (3414). The slide panel (3412) may be coupled with the cam (344). The slide panel (3412) may include a recessed portion (3413) into which the cam protrusion (3446) is inserted. The recessed portion (3413) may be recessed from one surface of the slide panel (3412). For example, the recessed portion (3413) may be a groove that is recessed upward from the lower surface of the slide panel (3412).

[0154] The recessed portion (3413) may be extended in a direction intersecting with the movement direction of the feeder (341). For example, the recessed portion (3413) may be extended in a left-right direction intersecting with the forward-backward direction, which is the sliding direction of the feeder (341).

[0155] The cam protrusion (3446) can move while inserted into the recessed portion (3413). For example, when the cam (344) rotates, the cam protrusion (3446) can reciprocate left and right while inserted into the recessed portion (3413). In this process, the cam protrusion (3446) can push or pull the slide panel (3412) forward or backward.

[0156]

[0157] Referring to FIGS. 20 to 22, the protrusion mechanism of the feeder (341) according to the driving of the cam (344) will be described.

[0158] Fig. 20 is a drawing showing a state in which a feeder (341) is inserted into the interior of a tower (31). The feeder (341) inserted into the interior of a tower (31) may not protrude from the tower (31). For example, the feeder (341) may slide backward and be completely inserted into the interior of the tower (31).

[0159] The cam protrusion (3446) can be inserted into the slide panel (3412). The cam protrusion (3446) can be located at the center of the recess (3413). The cam protrusion (3446) can be located at the rearmost position in the rotational radius of the cam protrusion (3446). When the cam protrusion (3446) is located at the rearmost position in the rotational radius of the cam protrusion (3446), the slide panel (3412) can also be located at the rearmost position in the movement radius.

[0160] The dispenser (1) may include a photo sensor (not shown) that detects the cam blade (3448). The photo sensor may detect any point within the operating radius of the cam blade (3448). For example, the photo sensor may detect the cam blade (3448) at a first sensing point (Sensing Point 1, SP1) located at the rearmost end within the operating radius of the cam blade (3448).

[0161] The photo sensor can detect the presence or absence of a cam blade (3448) at a sensing point. The control unit can determine the operating mode of the feeder (341) based on whether the photo sensor detects or not.

[0162] Fig. 21 is a drawing illustrating an intermediate process in which a feeder (341) protrudes from a tower (31). The feeder (341) inserted into the interior of the tower (31) may protrude from the tower (31). For example, the feeder (341) inserted into the interior of the tower (31) may protrude forward. At this time, the discharge port (3410) formed in the feeder housing (3414) may be exposed to the outside of the tower (31).

[0163] When the cam (344) rotates while the feeder (341) is fully inserted into the inside of the tower (31), the feeder housing (3414) can protrude from the tower (31). Referring to FIGS. 20 and 21, the cam (344) can rotate counterclockwise. When the cam (344) rotates counterclockwise, the cam protrusion (3446) can also rotate counterclockwise. The cam protrusion (3446) can move forward in the right direction while rotating counterclockwise. That is, the cam protrusion (3446) can push the slide panel (3412) forward while moving rightward inside the recessed portion (3413). Accordingly, the slide panel (3412) and the feeder housing (3414) can move forward.

[0164] However, unlike FIGS. 20 and 21, the cam (344) may also rotate clockwise. When the cam (344) rotates clockwise, the cam protrusion (3446) may rotate clockwise. Even when the cam (344) rotates clockwise, the cam protrusion (3446) may move leftward inside the recess (3413) to push the slide panel (3412) forward.

[0165] The cam (344) can be set to rotate in only one direction. The set direction of rotation can be referred to as the forward direction. The cam (344) can continuously rotate in the forward direction. When the cam (344) continuously rotates in the forward direction, the cam protrusion (3446) can reciprocate between the rearmost and the frontmost ends. Accordingly, the feeder housing (3414) can protrude from the tower (31) and then be inserted back into the interior of the tower (31) depending on the position of the cam protrusion (3446). For example, with reference to FIG. 20, when the cam protrusion (3446) is positioned at the rearmost end of the movement radius and the cam (3444) rotates in the forward direction, the cam protrusion (3446) can move forward while moving leftward or rightward within the recess (3413). At this time, the feeder housing (3414) can gradually protrude forward from the tower (31). When the cam (344) continues to rotate in the forward direction while the cam protrusion (3446) is positioned at the frontmost end of the movement radius, the cam protrusion (3446) can move rearward while moving to the right or left within the recess (3413). At this time, the feeder housing (3414) can be gradually inserted into the interior of the tower (31).

[0166] However, the cam (344) may rotate in the reverse direction in some cases. The reverse direction may refer to the direction opposite to the forward direction. For example, if the forward direction is clockwise, the reverse direction may be counterclockwise. The cam (344) that rotates in the forward direction may rotate in the reverse direction when an external force is applied. For example, the cam (344) that rotates in the forward direction may rotate in the reverse direction when a pet collides with the feeder housing (3414) from the outside.

[0167] With reference to FIG. 20, if the cam (344) rotates counterclockwise, the photo sensor may not recognize the cam blade (3448). That is, the photo sensor may recognize the absence of the cam blade (3448). If the photo sensor detects the absence of the cam blade (3448), the control unit may determine that the feeder housing (3414) is in the process of protruding from the tower (31). Conversely, if the photo sensor recognizes the presence of the cam blade (3448), the control unit may determine that the feeder housing (3414) is in the process of being inserted into the interior of the tower (31).

[0168] Through this, the control unit can detect the presence of the cam blade (3448) through the photo sensor and determine the operating mode of the feeder housing (3414).

[0169] Accordingly, even if the power supply is cut off during the operation of the feeder housing (3414), when the power is re-supplied, the control unit can control the feeder housing (3414) to perform continuous operation depending on the presence or absence of the cam blade (3448). For example, even if the power supply is cut off during the protrusion process of the feeder housing (3414), when the power is re-supplied, the control unit can recognize the absence of the cam blade (3448) through the photo sensor, determine that the feeder housing (3414) was in the protrusion process, and resume the protrusion operation of the cam (344) that was interrupted.

[0170] Fig. 22 is a drawing showing a state in which the feeder (341) protrudes to the maximum from the tower (31). With reference to Fig. 21, if the cam protrusion (3446) moves further forward, the feeder housing (3414) can protrude to the maximum from the tower (31). At this time, the discharge port (3410) formed in the feeder housing (3414) can be exposed to the maximum extent to the outside of the tower (31).

[0171] When the cam protrusion (3446) is located at the frontmost end of the rotation radius, the feeder housing (3414) can protrude to the maximum from the tower (31). The cam protrusion (3446) located at the frontmost end of the rotation radius can be located at the center of the recessed portion (3413).

[0172] When the cam protrusion (3446) is positioned at the frontmost end of the rotation radius, the photo sensor can detect the cam blade (3448) again. That is, during the process of protruding the feeder housing (3414), the photo sensor may not recognize the cam blade (3448). However, when the feeder housing (3414) protrudes to the maximum, the photo sensor can recognize the cam blade (3448). For example, when the feeder housing (3414) protrudes to the maximum, the photo sensor can recognize one end of the cam blade (3448).

[0173] With reference to FIG. 22, when the cam (344) further rotates counterclockwise, the feeder housing (3414) may begin to be inserted into the interior of the tower (31). At this time, the photo sensor may detect the cam blade (3448) until the feeder housing (3414) is completely inserted into the interior of the tower (31). Depending on whether the cam blade (3448) is positioned at the sensing point, the protruding mode or the insertion mode of the feeder housing (3414) may be determined. For example, if the cam blade (3448) is not positioned at the first sensing point (SP1), the feeder housing (3414) may correspond to the protruding mode, and if the cam blade (3448) is positioned at the first sensing point, the feeder housing (3414) may correspond to the insertion mode.

[0174]

[0175] Referring to FIGS. 23 and 24, a rail structure that guides the protrusion of the feeder (341) will be described.

[0176] The slide panel (3412) may include sliders (3416, 3417) coupled to the rail bracket (342). The sliders (3416, 3417) may protrude from the slide panel (3412). The sliders (3416, 3417) may protrude from the slide panel (3412) in a direction intersecting with the slide direction of the feeder (341). The sliders (3416, 3417) may extend long in the slide direction of the feeder (341). The sliders (3416, 3417) may slide while coupled to the rail bracket (342). The rail bracket (342) may guide the slide direction of the slide panel (3412).

[0177] The slider (3416, 3417) may include an upper slider (3417) that protrudes upward from the slide panel (3412). The upper slider (3417) may protrude from the upper surface of the slide panel (3412). For example, the upper slider (3417) may protrude upward from the upper surface of the slide panel (3412). The upper slider (3417) may extend in a long direction in the slide direction of the feeder (341). For example, the upper slider (3417) may extend in a long direction in the front-back direction.

[0178] The upper slider (3417) can be slidably connected to the rail bracket (342). The rail bracket (342) can include an upper rail (3424) to which the upper slider (3417) is connected. The upper rail (3424) can be recessed upward from the rail bracket (342). The upper rail (3424) can be extended in a sliding direction of the feeder (341). For example, the upper rail (3424) can be extended in a forward-backward direction. The upper slider (3417) can be arranged on the upper rail (3424) and can slide.

[0179] The slider (3416, 3417) may include a side slider (3416) that protrudes laterally from the slide panel (3412). The side slider (3416) may protrude from the side of the slide panel (3412). The side slider (3416) may extend in a longitudinal direction of the feeder (341). For example, the side slider (3416) may extend in a longitudinal direction.

[0180] The side slider (3416) can be coupled to the rail bracket (342). The side slider (3416) can be placed on the lower bracket (347). The lower bracket (347) can support the side slider (3416). The side slider (3416) can be placed between the lower bracket (347) and the rail bracket (342). The side slider (3416) can slide between the lower bracket (347) and the rail bracket (342).

[0181] The rail bracket (342) may include a first side rail (3422) coupled to the side slider (3416). The first side rail (3422) may be disposed on the side slider (3416). The first side rail (3422) may be disposed on the side of the side slider (3416). In this way, the first side rail (3422) may minimize lateral or upward play of the side slider (3416).

[0182] The lower bracket (347) may include a second side rail (3472) that supports a side slider (3416). The side slider (3416) may be positioned on the second side rail (3472). The side slider (3416) may slide on the second side rail (3472). The second side rail (3472) may support the side slider (3416) and may support the load of the feeder housing (3414).

[0183] The side slider (3416) is positioned between the first side rail (3422) and the second side rail (3472) and can slide.

[0184]

[0185] Referring to FIGS. 25 and 26, a slide device (34) that protrudes the feeder (341) forward will be described.

[0186] The slide device (34) may include a screw rail (347) that extends in the sliding direction of the feeder (341). The feeder (341) is coupled to the screw rail (347) and may slide along the longitudinal direction of the screw rail (347). The screw rail (347) may have threads formed on its surface. The threads may be ribs that protrude in a spiral shape along the longitudinal direction of the screw rail (347).

[0187] The screw rail (347) can be connected to a slide motor (345). The slide motor (345) can rotate the screw rail (347).

[0188] The feeder (341) may include a nut slider (3418) coupled to a screw rail (347). The nut slider (3418) may be fastened to the screw rail (347). The nut slider (3418) may extend from a slide panel (3412). For example, the nut slider (3418) may extend from the slide panel (3412) toward the screw rail (347) and be rotatably fastened to the screw rail (347). The nut slider (3418) may include a groove corresponding to the threads of the screw rail (347). The groove may be a groove formed in a spiral shape along the length of the screw rail (347).

[0189] Through this, when the slide motor (345) rotates the screw rail (347), the nut slider (3418) can move along the screw thread formed in the screw rail (347). For example, when the slide motor (345) rotates the screw rail (347) in the forward direction, the nut slider (3418) can move forward. Conversely, when the slide motor (345) rotates the screw rail (347) in the reverse direction, the nut slider (3418) can move backward. Through this, the feeder housing (3414) connected to the nut slider (3418) can slide in the forward and backward directions.

[0190] The photo sensor may include a pair of photo sensors (348a, 348b) that detect the nut slider (3418). The pair of photo sensors (348a, 348b) may be spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction of the screw rail (347).

[0191] A pair of photo sensors (348a, 348b) may include a first photo sensor (348a) arranged at one end of the longitudinal direction of the screw rail (347) and a second photo sensor (348b) arranged at the other end of the longitudinal direction of the screw rail (347). The first photo sensor (348a) may be spaced rearward from the second photo sensor (348b).

[0192] When the nut slider (3418) is located at the rearmost end of the movement radius, the feeder (341) can be fully inserted into the interior of the tower (31). At this time, the nut slider (3418) can be located at the rear end of the screw rail (347). The first photo sensor (348a) can detect the nut slider (3418) located at the rearmost end. When the nut slider (3418) is detected by the first photo sensor (348a), the control unit can determine that the feeder housing (3414) is fully inserted into the interior of the tower (31) and stop the operation of the slide motor (345).

[0193] When the nut slider (3418) is positioned at the frontmost end of the movement radius, the feeder (341) can protrude to the maximum from the tower (31). At this time, the nut slider (3418) can be positioned at the front end of the screw rail (347). The second photo sensor (348b) can detect the nut slider (3418) positioned at the frontmost end. When the nut slider (3418) is detected by the second photo sensor (348b), the control unit can determine that the feeder housing (3414) protrudes to the maximum from the tower (31) and stop the operation of the slide motor (345).

[0194] The control unit can rotate the slide motor (345) in the forward direction to protrude the feeder (341) from the tower (31). Conversely, the control unit can rotate the slide motor (345) in the reverse direction to insert the feeder (341) into the interior of the tower (31).

[0195]

[0196] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 26, the dispenser (1) may include: a tower (31); and a feeder (341) slidably coupled to the tower (31), wherein the feeder (341) slides forward to protrude outward from the tower (31) or slides backward to be inserted into the interior of the tower (31).

[0197] The above feeder (341) may include: a feeder housing (3414) having a hollow portion; and an outlet (3410) formed at the lower portion of the side of the feeder housing (3414).

[0198] When the feeder (341) protrudes outward from the tower (31), the discharge port (3410) may be exposed to the outside of the tower (31), or when the feeder (341) is inserted into the interior of the tower (31), the discharge port (3410) may be hidden inside the tower (31).

[0199] The feeder (341) may include: a slide panel (3412) extending rearward from the feeder housing (3414); and a slide motor (345) that moves the slide panel (3412).

[0200] The above feeder (341) may include a cam (344) that is connected to the slide motor (345) to rotate and is coupled to the slide panel (3412).

[0201] The cam (344) may include a cam protrusion (3446) radially spaced from the rotational axis of the cam (344) and protruding toward the slide panel (3412).

[0202] The above slide panel (3412) may include a recessed portion (3413) that is recessed so that the cam protrusion (3446) is inserted and extends in a direction crossing the front-rear direction.

[0203] The cam (344) may include: a cam disk (3444) connected to the slide motor (345); and a cam blade (3448) protruding radially from the cam disk (3444).

[0204] The above tower (31) may include a sensor that detects the cam blade (3448).

[0205] The cam blade (3448) extends along the circumferential direction of the cam disk (3444), and one end of the cam blade (3448) can face the other end of the cam blade (3448).

[0206] The above cam blade (3448) may be a pair of cam blades (3448) that protrude from the cam disk (3444) so ​​as to face each other.

[0207] The feeder (341) may include: a screw rail (347) that is connected to the slide motor (345) and rotates; and a nut slider (3418) that protrudes from the slide panel (3412) in a direction intersecting the forward and backward directions and is rotationally coupled to the screw rail (347).

[0208] The feeder (341) may include: a lower bracket (347) disposed inside the tower (31) and supporting the slide panel (3412); and a rail bracket (342) coupled to the lower bracket (347) and guiding the slide panel (3412).

[0209] The above slide panel (3412) may include a slider that protrudes and is slidably coupled to the rail bracket (342).

[0210] The above slider may include: a side slider (3416) protruding from the side of the slide panel (3412); and an upper slider (3417) protruding from the upper surface of the slide panel (3412).

[0211] The above tower (31) may include: a conveyor housing (361) that is disposed in the hollow portion of the feeder housing (3414) and is open to the front; a screw conveyor (362) that is rotatably disposed inside the conveyor housing (361); a conveyor motor (364) that is connected to the rear end of the screw conveyor (362) and rotates the screw conveyor (362); and a hook (367) that is coupled to the front end of the screw conveyor (362).

[0212] The screw conveyor (362) may include a conveyor shaft (3624) that is coupled to the conveyor motor (364) and rotates.

[0213] The above hook (367) may include a hook shaft (3673) inserted into the front end of the conveyor shaft (3624).

[0214] The rotation shaft of the conveyor motor (364), the conveyor shaft (3624), and the hook shaft (3673) can be aligned in the front-back direction.

[0215] The above hook (367) may include: a hook supporter (3674) pivotally coupled to the conveyor housing (361); and a hook bar (3672) extending from the hook supporter (3674) toward the conveyor shaft (3624) and having the hook shaft (3673) formed thereon.

[0216] The screw conveyor (362) may include: a conveyor shaft (3624) coupled to the conveyor motor (364) and rotating; a plurality of first blades (3626b) arranged obliquely so as to intersect the axial direction of the conveyor shaft (3624) and the rotational direction of the conveyor shaft (3624), and arranged in parallel and spaced apart from each other; a plurality of second blades (3625b) arranged obliquely so as to intersect the plurality of first blades (3626b), and arranged in parallel and spaced apart from each other; and an auxiliary blade (3627b) connecting the first blades (3626b) and the second blades (3625b).

[0217] The above feeder (341) may be disposed inside the feeder housing (3414) and include a guide slope (3411) that slopes upwards as it goes rearward from the discharge port (3410).

[0218]

[0219] Any or all of the embodiments of the present disclosure described above are not mutually exclusive or distinct. Any or all of the embodiments of the present disclosure described above may have their respective components or functions combined or used together.

[0220] For example, it means that a configuration A described in a particular embodiment and / or drawing can be combined with a configuration B described in another embodiment and / or drawing. That is, even if a combination between configurations is not directly described, it means that a combination is possible, except in cases where a combination is described as impossible.

[0221] The above detailed description should not be construed as limiting in any respect and should be considered illustrative only. The scope of the present invention should be determined by a reasonable interpretation of the appended claims, and all modifications within the equivalent scope of the present invention are intended to be included within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. Tower; and A feeder that is slide-coupled to the tower; comprising a feeder that slides forward to protrude outward from the tower or slides backward to be inserted into the interior of the tower; The above feeder: a feeder housing having a hollow portion; and Including a discharge port formed at the lower part of the side of the feeder housing, A dispenser in which the discharge port is exposed to the outside of the tower when the feeder protrudes outward from the tower, and the discharge port is hidden inside the tower when the feeder is inserted into the interior of the tower.

2. In paragraph 1, The above feeder: a slide panel extending rearward from the feeder housing; and A dispenser comprising a slide motor for moving the above slide panel.

3. In paragraph 2, The above feeder: A dispenser comprising a cam connected to the slide motor and rotating and coupled to the slide panel.

4. In paragraph 3, The above cam: A cam protrusion is radially spaced from the rotational axis of the cam and protrudes toward the slide panel, The above slide panel: A dispenser comprising a recessed portion that is recessed to allow the cam protrusion to be inserted and extends in a direction crossing the front-rear direction.

5. In paragraph 3, The above cam: a cam disc connected to the above slide motor; and comprising a cam blade protruding radially from the cam disc; The above tower: A dispenser comprising a sensor for detecting the cam blade.

6. In paragraph 5, The above cam blades: extending along the circumferential direction of the above cam disc, One end of the above cam blade, A dispenser facing the other end of the above cam blade.

7. In paragraph 5, The above cam blades: A dispenser having a pair of cam blades protruding from the cam disc so as to face each other.

8. In paragraph 3, The above feeder: A screw rail connected to the above slide motor and rotating; and A dispenser comprising a nut slider protruding from the slide panel in a direction intersecting the forward and backward directions and rotatably coupled to the screw rail.

9. In paragraph 2, The above feeder: A lower bracket positioned inside the tower and supporting the slide panel; and A rail bracket coupled to the lower bracket and guiding the slide panel, The above slide panel: A dispenser comprising a slider that protrudes and slides into the rail bracket.

10. In paragraph 9, The above slider: a side slider protruding from the side of the above slide panel; and A dispenser comprising an upper slider protruding from the upper surface of the above slide panel.

11. In paragraph 1, The above tower: A conveyor housing disposed in the hollow portion of the above feeder housing and open toward the front; A screw conveyor rotatably arranged inside the conveyor housing; A conveyor motor connected to the rear end of the screw conveyor and rotating the screw conveyor; and A dispenser comprising a hook coupled to the front end of the screw conveyor.

12. In paragraph 11, The above screw conveyor: A conveyor shaft coupled to the conveyor motor and configured to rotate, The above hooks are: Includes a hook shaft inserted into the front end of the conveyor shaft, A dispenser in which the rotating shaft of the conveyor motor, the conveyor shaft, and the hook shaft are aligned in the front-back direction.

13. In paragraph 12, The above hooks are: a hook support pivotally coupled to the conveyor housing; and A dispenser including a hook bar extending from the hook supporter toward the conveyor shaft and having the hook shaft formed therein.

14. In paragraph 11, The above screw conveyor: A conveyor shaft that rotates and is coupled to the above conveyor motor; A plurality of first blades arranged in a parallel manner, spaced apart from each other, intersecting the axial direction of the conveyor shaft and obliquely arranged intersecting the rotational direction of the conveyor shaft; A plurality of second blades arranged obliquely so as to intersect the plurality of first blades and arranged parallel to each other and spaced apart from each other; and A dispenser comprising an auxiliary blade connecting the first blade and the second blade.

15. In paragraph 1, The above feeder: A dispenser disposed inside the feeder housing and including a guide slope that slopes upwards as it goes rearward from the discharge port.

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