Electromagnetic Securement for Vibratory Feeder Changeover
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current vibratory parts feeding systems require lengthy changeover times and the use of tools for securing and removing feeder components, which is inefficient and costly, especially in sterile environments, and previous solutions with vacuum systems are prone to fragile seals and maintenance issues.
Innovation Solution
An electromagnetic securement system using a metallic mounting plate and a selectively energized electromagnet to securely attach and detach feeder components like bowls, hoppers, and inline tracks from a base drive unit, eliminating the need for bolts and tools, and providing reliable securement without fragile seals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If bolts or removable attachment means are used to secure the feeder component to the base drive unit, then the connection is strong and reliable, but the changeover time is long and tools are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical bolt-based attachment system with an electromagnetic attachment system. The electromagnet generates a magnetic field that securely holds the feeder component to the base drive unit, eliminating the need for bolts, nuts, and wrenches. This allows for rapid changeover by simply energizing or de-energizing the electromagnet, while maintaining secure connection during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the attachment mechanism from a mechanical state (bolts physically fastened) to an electromagnetic state (magnetic field activated). By controlling the electrical parameter (power to the electromagnet), the attachment strength can be quickly changed from zero to full securement, enabling rapid changeover without mechanical tool operations.
2Reliability
If tools such as wrenches are used to remove and re-attach the feeder component, then secure attachment is achieved, but sterilization of tools is required and downtime increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electromagnetic attachment system eliminates the need for manual tools like wrenches. The electromagnet provides secure attachment through magnetic force, and removal is achieved by simply de-energizing the magnet, allowing the component to be lifted away without any tool intervention. This greatly simplifies the changeover operation and eliminates sterilization requirements for tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The electromagnetic attachment system is self-actuating through electrical control. The attachment and release functions are performed automatically by controlling the electromagnet's power state, without requiring human operators to manually manipulate tools. This makes the changeover process simpler and more efficient.
3Ease of operation
If a vacuum system is used to secure the bowl to the drive unit, then tool-free attachment is achieved, but fragile seals and smooth engagement surfaces are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the vacuum-based attachment system with an electromagnetic attachment system. Instead of using vacuum pressure and fragile seals to hold the component, the electromagnet uses magnetic field force to secure the feeder component. This eliminates the need for seals and smooth engagement surfaces, making the system more robust and less prone to failure.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment mechanism changes from pressure-based (vacuum) to field-based (electromagnetic). This parameter change allows for tool-free operation while eliminating the need for fragile sealing components, as the magnetic field acts through the mounting plate without requiring contact seals.
4Reliability
If the feeder component is removed during normal operation for sterilization or product changeover, then sanitary requirements are met, but production line downtime occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The electromagnetic attachment system enables rapid component removal and reattachment by simply controlling the magnet's power state. This reduces the time required for product changeovers and sterilization activities, minimizing production line downtime while maintaining sanitary compliance through quick component exchange.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows for quick preparation and installation of pre-sterilized or pre-configured feeder components. By having replacement components ready and being able to quickly swap them using the electromagnetic attachment system, the production line can maintain higher efficiency during changeover operations.
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 quick and efficient attachment and detachment of feeder components, reducing downtime and maintaining sterility, while ensuring reliable securement and vibration transfer without the need for tools or fragile seals.
Implementation Method 1
a selectively energized electromagnet which is arranged to provide a downward force to the mounting plate of the feeder bowl
Implementation Method 2
the vibrations of the base drive unit are imparted upon the feeder bowl
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a vibratory parts feeding system having an electromagnetic securement system for operatively coupling a feeder bowl, inline feeder, and/or hopper bin to their respective base drive units. The securement system includes a metallic plate and a mounting portion, wherein the metallic plate is affixed to or integrated into the feeder bowl, inline feeder, or hopper bin and the mounting portion, which includes an electromagnet, is affixed to or integrated into the base drive unit. The metallic plate and mounting portion are designed to interface with one another, and when the electromagnet is energized, the metallic plate is secured to the base drive unit by the mounting portion.