Method and apparatus for loading a clip with an item of laundry, in particular an item of laundry to be sorted
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for loading laundry onto clips in laundry sorting systems are unreliable and time-consuming, failing to efficiently automate the process.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus utilizing a transfer device with a double clip to grasp and transfer laundry, followed by a loading device that feeds the laundry into a clip mouth, allowing for synchronous movement and reorientation to ensure reliable and rapid loading, with the loading device not interfering with the conveyor's movement post-loading.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a known loading method is used to automate the loading of clips, then automation is achieved, but reliability and speed are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The loading process is segmented into distinct functional stages: the transfer device with double clips grasps the laundry item, transfers it to the loading device, which then feeds it into the clip mouth. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function, improving overall reliability while maintaining automation.
Solution Approach 2:
The transfer device acts as an intermediary between the separating device and the loading device. It uses double clips to temporarily hold and transfer the laundry item, ensuring controlled and reliable transfer without direct contact between the separating and loading devices, thereby improving system reliability.
2Extent of automation
If a known loading method is used to automate the loading of clips, then automation is achieved, but the process is too time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The double clips of the transfer device preliminarily grasp and position the laundry item before transfer to the loading device. This preliminary action ensures the item is properly oriented and secured in advance, enabling faster and more efficient loading without compromising reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The transfer device and loading device operate in a continuous sequence without interruption. While the loading device feeds one item into a clip, the transfer device is already preparing the next item, ensuring continuous productive action and maximizing loading speed.
3Reliability
If synchronous movement of adjacent clips is used, then frictionless transfer is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Adjacent clips of the loading device move synchronously in unison to transfer the laundry item. By coordinating their movement, they create a frictionless transfer mechanism that maintains item stability. The synchronized motion is controlled through a unified drive mechanism, managing complexity while achieving reliable transfer.
4Ease of manufacture
If the loading device interferes with conveyor movement, then loading can be performed, but continuous conveyor operation is disrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The loading operation is extracted from the main conveyor path. The loading device operates in a separate loading zone where clips are momentarily stopped or held stationary while loading occurs, then released to continue conveyor movement. This extraction allows loading without disrupting the overall continuous operation of the conveyor system.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus for transferring items of laundry after being separated first of all to a transfer device which then transfers the individual items of laundry to a loading device. The items of laundry are then hung individually by clips of the loading device into a clip which is in each case held ready and is to be loaded on the conveyor. Items of laundry can thereby be rapidly and reliably hung fully automatically into the clips to be loaded.