Automatic Hanger Loading Device for Shirt Ironing to Reduce Cycle Time
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing shirt ironing apparatuses require multiple manual operations for loading hangers and arranging shirts, leading to reduced precision, increased cycle time, and operator stress, as well as decreased efficiency.
Innovation Solution
An automatic hanger loading device equipped with a conveyor system, a movable arm with a gripping and releasing end, and a storage system for hangers, which automatically positions hangers on manikins before shirts are ironed, reducing manual labor and enhancing automation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If manual operations are used for loading hangers and arranging shirts, then the apparatus can operate with simpler structure, but the precision of shirt arrangement and operating speed deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The loading process is segmented into distinct functional modules: a hanger loading mechanism that automatically positions hangers on manikins, and a separate shirt arrangement mechanism that folds and positions shirts. This segmentation allows each module to be optimized for its specific function, achieving high precision without requiring the entire system to be overly complex.
Solution Approach 2:
The hanger loading mechanism performs preliminary action by automatically positioning hangers on manikins before the shirt arrangement process begins. This pre-positioning of hangers creates a standardized base state that enables subsequent shirt folding and arrangement operations to achieve higher precision more efficiently.
2Productivity
If multiple manual operations are performed by operator, then the device structure can be simpler, but the cycle time increases and operating speed decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus performs self-service through automated mechanisms: the hanger loading mechanism automatically retrieves and positions hangers, and the shirt arrangement mechanism automatically folds and positions shirts on manikins. This eliminates the need for multiple manual operations by a single operator, significantly increasing operating speed while the modular design keeps the automation system manageable in complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The automated loading and arrangement mechanisms enable continuous operation without interruption. The hanger loading mechanism operates continuously to supply hangers to manikins, while the shirt arrangement mechanism continuously processes shirts, eliminating the stop-start nature of manual operations and thereby increasing overall productivity and operating speed.
3Manufacturing precision
If manual operations are performed quickly to meet apparatus timing, then operating speed can be maintained, but the precision of shirt arrangement deteriorates and operator stress increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operations with automated mechanical systems. The hanger loading mechanism uses automated positioning systems, and the shirt arrangement mechanism uses automated folding and positioning systems, both controlled by programmable logic controllers. This substitution eliminates the trade-off between speed and precision that plagues manual operations, as the automated systems can operate at optimal speeds while maintaining consistent high precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The automated mechanisms incorporate feedback control systems that monitor the positioning and arrangement of hangers and shirts, making real-time adjustments to ensure precision. Sensors detect the position of components and provide feedback to the control system, which adjusts the operation parameters to maintain high quality ironing results while optimizing cycle time.
Data Source
AI summary
A device for the automatic loading of hangers in an apparatus for ironing shirts or similar items includes a storage configured to support a plurality of hangers and an arm comprising a gripping and releasing. The arm is movable between a first position and a second position. In the first position, the gripping and releasing end is close to the storage to pick up or receive a hanger from the storage, and in the second position, the gripping and releasing end is placed above the manikin placed upstream of a loading station of the apparatus, to release the hanger, previously picked up, into the seat of the manikin.