Automated Component Sorting via Holding Table Positioning
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing inspection devices lack the capability to automatically sort and collect components based on their electrical characteristics after measurement, leading to inefficient use of components and inability to identify unsuitable components effectively.
Innovation Solution
An inspection device equipped with a holding table, measuring elements, and a sorting and collecting mechanism that adjusts positions based on measurement results, utilizing a relative movement device and air supply system to separate and collect components into suitable and unsuitable categories through specific through-holes and air passages.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If components are simply discarded without being sorted after measurement, then the device structure is simple, but component utilization efficiency is low and unsuitable components cannot be identified
Solution Approach 1:
The holding table is divided into multiple through-holes (first through-hole, second through-hole) that correspond to different component categories. The sorting and collecting device segments the component disposal process by directing suitable and unsuitable components to different through-holes based on measurement results, enabling automated classification without complex additional sorting mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The holding table serves multiple functions: it holds components for measurement, classifies components based on measurement results, and directs components to appropriate collection locations. The relative movement device also performs dual functions of positioning the holding table and controlling the separation of measuring elements, reducing the need for dedicated components for each function
2Productivity
If a sorting and collecting device is added to sort and collect components based on measurement results, then component utilization efficiency is improved, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The sorting and collecting device is merged with the existing holding table structure by forming through-holes directly in the holding table body. The air supply device is integrated to work with the measuring elements and holding table, creating a coordinated system that achieves automated sorting without adding separate complex sorting mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The air supply device uses pneumatic principles to supply air to the holding table, creating airflow that facilitates component separation and collection. The air supply works in coordination with the relative movement of the holding table and measuring elements to efficiently direct components into appropriate through-holes based on measurement results
3Extent of automation
If the relative position of the holding table and measuring elements is changed based on measurement results, then automated sorting is achieved, but control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The holding table and measuring elements are designed to move relative to each other based on measurement results. The relative movement device dynamically adjusts the position of the holding table to align specific through-holes with the component discharge location, enabling automated sorting through simple positional changes rather than complex sorting mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement section provides feedback on component electrical characteristics, which the control device uses to determine the appropriate sorting action. Based on this feedback, the holding table position is adjusted to direct suitable or unsuitable components to the correct through-hole, creating a closed-loop automated sorting system
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
Enables effective sorting and collection of components, allowing suitable components to be reused and identifying the cause of unsuitable components, thereby optimizing component utilization and improving assembly processes.
Implementation Method 1
an air supply device configured to supply air through a passage portion on the fixed element side, the passage portion having an opening facing the opposing surface of the movable element, towards the opposing surface of the movable element when the pair of measuring elements are separated from each other
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
In an inspection device, components s are separated and collected after electrical characteristics have been measured. The inspection device includes holding table 32, pair of measuring elements 34 and 36 configured to grip a component s held on holding table 32 and measure electrical characteristics of the component; and a relative movement device configured to relatively move holding table 32 and the pair of measuring elements 34 and 36. Components s are separated and collected by the relative position of movable element 36 and holding table 32 being changed based on measurement results of the electrical characteristics of component s.