Article counting and propelling apparatus
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing article propelling apparatuses cannot accurately count the number of articles remaining, especially at the back end, making it difficult to determine when to replenish stock.
Innovation Solution
An article counting and propelling apparatus that includes a base, a propelling plate, and a counting structure. The counting structure features a shell, a cover body, a PCB board, a runner assembly, and counting sensing pieces, which allow the propelling plate to slide and push articles while accurately counting the remaining articles using grating or magnetic grating sensors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional article propelling apparatus is used without counting structure, then the device complexity is low, but the measurement precision of remaining articles is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The counting structure is divided into independent functional modules: runner assembly for mechanical motion, grating sensors for detection, PCB board for signal processing, and display module for output. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently while maintaining overall system manageability and reducing complexity through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual counting methods with automated optical detection using grating sensors. The runner assembly converts rotational motion into detectable signals through the grating sensor, which optically measures the number of articles pushed. This substitution of mechanical detection with optical sensing significantly improves measurement precision while keeping the system relatively simple.
2Loss of time
If manual article counting is used, then the device complexity is low, but the loss of time for restocking is high
Solution Approach 1:
The counting structure enables the system to automatically track and display the number of remaining articles without human intervention. The runner assembly continuously monitors article movement, the grating sensors automatically detect each pushed article, and the display module实时更新 the count. This self-service capability eliminates manual counting and provides real-time inventory information, significantly reducing restocking time.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements continuous feedback through the counting structure that monitors article depletion in real-time. The grating sensors detect each article movement and immediately update the display, providing ongoing feedback about inventory status. This real-time feedback mechanism allows timely restocking decisions without waiting for manual inventory checks.
3Loss of information
If no counting display is provided, then the ease of operation is high, but the loss of information about remaining articles is high
Solution Approach 1:
The display module serves as an intermediary between the counting sensors and the user. It translates the electrical signals from the grating sensors and PCB board into visible numerical displays showing the number of remaining articles. This intermediary function makes inventory information easily accessible without requiring complex interaction or interpretation, reducing information loss while maintaining simple operation.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The apparatus enables real-time counting and display of the remaining articles, allowing for timely restocking and improving inventory management by providing a simple and convenient operation and display system.
Implementation Method 1
the counting sensing pieces are grating sensors or magnetic grating sensors
Implementation Method 2
the counting sensing pieces are magnetic grating sensors
Data Source
AI summary
An article counting and propelling device, including a base, a propelling plate and a counting structure. The counting structure is located at one end of the base and controls the propelling plate to slide and push along the base. The counting structure includes a shell, a cover body, a PCB board, a runner assembly and counting sensing pieces. The runner assembly is connected to the propelling plate through a wire. The counting sensor (grating or magnetic grating sensor) is installed on the PCB board and located above or on both sides of the runner assembly. The cover body closes an accommodating groove and displays the number of the remaining articles on it.