Dual-Direction Supply Path for Variable Capsule Sizes
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing article supply apparatus lacks versatility due to its limited ability to handle capsule articles of varying sizes, as it is designed to discharge only articles with the same outer diameter.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus features a dual supply path system, with a first supply path in one direction and a second supply path in a different direction, allowing for the accommodation and discharge of articles of different sizes by utilizing a turntable with a rack gear mechanism and a locking system to manage articles of varying weights and sizes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single supply path is used in a fixed direction, then the device structure is simple, but the versatility to handle articles of different sizes is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The supply path is designed to be changeable in direction, allowing the system to adapt dynamically to different article sizes. The supply path can switch between a first direction for larger articles and a second direction for smaller articles, making the structure dynamic rather than fixed.
Solution Approach 2:
The supply path is divided into multiple segments with different directions. The first supply path handles articles in a first direction while the second supply path handles articles in a second direction, allowing segmented handling of different article types.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the supply path is made changeable in direction to handle different article sizes, then the versatility is improved, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The supply path system is designed with multi-functionality, where the same supply path structure can handle both large and small articles by switching between first and second directions. This universal design allows one system to perform multiple functions rather than requiring separate systems for different article types.
3Reliability
If articles of different sizes are supplied through a single path, then the structure remains simple, but the reliability of article delivery is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
Different sections of the supply path are optimized for different article sizes. The first supply path is configured with characteristics suitable for larger articles while the second supply path is optimized for smaller articles, ensuring each local section provides the appropriate quality of service for its designated article type.
Data Source
AI summary
An article supply apparatus comprises a main body, an article accommodation unit provided in the main body, and an article supply unit provided in the article accommodation unit, an article supply path through which an article supplied from the article supply unit is supplied to a supply port, wherein the supply path includes a first supply path provided in a first direction, and a second path provided in a second direction which is different from the first direction.