Component Dispensing Device with Inclined Extraction Plate
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current component dispensing devices for manufacturing and assembly lines are costly, complex, and inefficient, particularly when handling components with electronic elements, as they often require specific and bulky setups that can damage sensitive components and involve high design and implementation costs, and are not ergonomic or compact.
Innovation Solution
A dispensing device with a main magazine, extraction plate, and temporary storage system that allows for bulk storage and sequential extraction of components with a circular shoulder or groove, using a vertically extending magazine with an inclined extraction plate and actuating means for alternating movement, along with transfer rails and pushing mechanisms to ensure constant supply and easy workstation integration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If vibrating bowl feed devices are used to dispense components, then components can be extracted and routed to mounting points, but the device becomes complex, bulky, and requires specific transfer studies for each application, increasing cost and lead time
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into distinct functional modules: a vibration exciter for component agitation, a guide wall structure for directional control, and a discharge opening for component release. This segmentation allows each module to perform its specific function independently, simplifying the overall system design and reducing complexity while maintaining productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The feed device is designed with universal characteristics that allow it to handle different types of components (screws, staples, or other parts with heads and axes) without requiring custom transfer studies. The guide wall and vibration mechanism work together in a standardized configuration that can be applied across multiple applications, reducing both complexity and lead time.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple feed devices are installed on the same machine to mount different components, then various components can be supplied, but the machine size increases and space requirements expand
Solution Approach 1:
The feed device is designed as a universal unit that can supply different types of components (screws, staples, or other parts with heads and axes) through standardized mechanisms. This allows a single compact device to replace multiple specialized feed devices, maintaining versatility while reducing the overall space required on the assembly machine.
3Productivity
If vibrating bowl feed devices are used for components with electronic elements, then components can be fed, but the electronic elements may be damaged by waves from the bowl generator and vibrations
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the harmful vibration source (bowl generator) from the system and replaces it with a gentle vibration exciter that produces minimal waves and vibrations. This allows electronic components to be fed without exposure to the harmful electromagnetic waves and intense vibrations that would damage sensitive elements.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using intense vibrations to move components, the invention uses gentle vibrations that are sufficient for component feeding but too weak to damage electronic elements. The harmful effect of strong vibrations is converted into a beneficial gentle agitation that achieves the same feeding function without the damaging side effects.
4Extent of automation
If robotic applications are used for mounting components, then automation is achieved, but design and implementation time increases, equipment becomes bulky, and qualified personnel are required
Solution Approach 1:
The feed device is designed to be self-contained and self-regulating, with the vibration exciter automatically agitating components and the guide wall automatically directing them to the discharge opening. This eliminates the need for complex robotic systems and qualified personnel, achieving automation through simple, self-service mechanisms that can be implemented quickly without extensive design time.
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
Significantly reduces design and automation study times, allows for compact and ergonomic setup, and ensures constant component supply without damaging electronic components, making it suitable for various components and reducing the need for multiple feed devices.
Implementation Method 1
its inclined position allows the component to descend at least by gravity in the direction of inclination, towards the lower end of said ridge
Data Source
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Figure 5~6
AI summary
The invention relates to a device (8) for dispensing components (1) intended to be assembled into parts. The device comprises: a main storage chamber (9) for the components; an component extraction plate (23), said plate comprising an inclined edge (26) which is arranged so as to bear against the components; plate actuating means for making the latter move vertically alternately up and down and for removing the components upwards; a temporary storage system (29) for the components, comprising an upstream part (22) arranged so as correspond with the edge when the plate is in the top position and to enable the transfer of components from the plate to said storage system which is provided with transfer means (30,31,37,39) arranged to convey the components from the upstream part towards a downstream part (44) provided for extracting components in succession from the device (8). (Figure 2)