Continuous Motion Escapement for Component Feeding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing component feeding systems in automated assembly machines rely on intermittent 'slice' feeding, which is wasteful in terms of energy and time, and can damage components due to jarring, especially when handling asymmetrical or aspherical items at high speeds.
Innovation Solution
A continuous motion escapement system using a rotatable disk with component transfer mechanisms that grip and move components from a capture location to a delivery location, changing distance from the central axis to achieve controlled, continuous flow and precise orientation without stopping, thereby increasing spacing between components as needed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If intermittent slice feeding is used to provide spacing between components, then the required spacing is achieved, but processing speed is significantly limited and energy is wasted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous motion escapement where the transfer disk rotates continuously without stopping, and components are transferred smoothly from the feed track to the processing machine without intermittent halting. This eliminates the time loss associated with starting and stopping the feeding mechanism, thereby maintaining high processing speed while still achieving precise spacing through the continuous rotational motion and timed release of components.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses dynamic control of component release timing based on the rotational position of the transfer disk. By controlling when components are released during continuous rotation, the system dynamically adjusts spacing without requiring stops, allowing precise spacing control while maintaining continuous high-speed operation.
2Manufacturing precision
If intermittent stopping is used to transfer components, then spacing is created, but component damage occurs due to jarring
Solution Approach 1:
The continuous rotational motion of the transfer disk eliminates abrupt stopping and starting that causes jarring. Components are transferred smoothly during continuous motion, preventing the mechanical shocks and vibrations that would damage asymmetrical or aspherical components, while spacing is achieved through timed release during the continuous rotation cycle.
3Manufacturing precision
If intermittent feeding is used, then spacing is achieved, but time is lost during stopping intervals
Solution Approach 1:
The system maintains continuous rotational motion of the transfer disk, eliminating all stopping intervals. Components are spaced by controlling their release timing during continuous rotation rather than by stopping the mechanism, thereby completely eliminating time loss associated with intermittent halting while still achieving the required spacing between components.
Solution Approach 2:
Components are positioned and prepared for transfer during the continuous rotation cycle before their designated release point is reached. This preliminary positioning during motion allows the system to maintain continuous operation while still achieving precise spacing through pre-timed release at specific rotational positions.
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
This approach enhances processing speed, reduces component damage, and maintains precise orientation, achieving a continuous flow of components with minimal misalignment or loss.
Implementation Method 1
each component transfer mechanism comprises an arm having a distal end and a proximal end, wherein the component holder is attached to the distal end, and wherein the arm pivots about the proximal end causing the component holder to move from the first distance from the central axis to the second distance from the central axis
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3A
Figure 3B
AI summary
The invention relates to methods and systems for transferring a stream of a components (28, 84, 100, 100), either as individual components (28, 84, 100) or as a continuous strip (100) or band from which individual components are cut, from a component feeder (62a) to a component receiver (92, 108), e.g., in a processing machine, with controlled, e.g., continuous, motion escapement of the individual components (28, 84, 100, 100) from the feeder (62a).