Enamel Powder Dusting Device with Rotating Sieves for Wafer Uniformity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing manufacturing processes for enamelled components, particularly in watchmaking, suffer from low reproducibility and efficiency due to manual and inconsistent application of enamel powder, leading to high reject rates and increased production costs.
Innovation Solution
A device for automated and homogeneous distribution of enamel powder using a frame with a distribution device comprising a reservoir, conduit, sieves, and motors for controlled flow and rotation, along with additional features like heating, ionizing, and magnetic retention to ensure consistent application.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If manual dusting of enamel powder is performed by an operator, then flexibility and adaptability are maintained, but homogeneity of distribution and reproducibility deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical dusting operation with an automated distribution device that uses a sieve mechanism and controlled powder flow system. The device includes a reservoir for enamel powder, a distribution outlet, and a sieve that automatically distributes the powder onto the wafer, eliminating the need for manual tapping and handling while ensuring homogeneous distribution.
Solution Approach 2:
The distribution device is designed to automatically regulate and distribute the enamel powder without continuous human intervention. The system self-manages the powder flow from the reservoir through the distribution outlet and sieve, maintaining consistent distribution patterns and enabling reproducible results across multiple operations.
2Productivity
If manual dusting is performed, then device complexity remains low, but productivity and processing speed deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The distribution device is segmented into distinct functional components: a reservoir for storing enamel powder, a distribution outlet for controlled discharge, a sieve for uniform distribution, and a support structure. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently while enabling automated operation that increases productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates dynamic elements including the sieve mechanism that can be adjusted or replaced, and the powder flow system that adapts to different dusting requirements. The automated operation allows for consistent high-speed dusting while the modular design maintains relative simplicity for maintenance and adaptation.
3Reliability
If manual dusting is used, then equipment investment is low, but manufacturing cost and reject rate worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent controls key parameters of the dusting process including powder flow rate, sieve mesh size, and distribution pattern to ensure consistent and reproducible results. By standardizing these parameters through the automated device, the process achieves high reliability and reproducibility, reducing variability that leads to rejects while maintaining cost-effectiveness through efficient material usage.
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
The device achieves high reproducibility and speed in enamel powder distribution, reducing manual labor and improving the quality and efficiency of enamelled component production.
Implementation Method 1
a linear vibrator arranged between the reservoir and the distribution outlet so as to allow and regulate the flow of the enamel powder to be sprinkled
Implementation Method 2
at least one first motor arranged to allow the conduit to be driven in rotation along the axis X, with reference to the frame
Implementation Method 3
at least one second motor arranged to enable the support member to be driven in rotation along an axis of rotation substantially aligned with the X axis, with reference to the frame, in a direction of rotation opposite to that of the conduit
Implementation Method 4
a heating member arranged to be able to heat a predefined volume, located on the passage of the flow of the enamel powder, to a temperature of at least 50°C, preferably at least 60°C
Implementation Method 5
an ionizing device arranged to be able to treat the flow of the enamel powder to be sprinkled, between the linear vibrator and the distribution outlet, to eliminate any static electricity
Implementation Method 6
at least one magnet arranged between the distribution outlet and the sieve, so as to be able to retain any particles having ferromagnetic properties which may be contained in the enamel powder to be sprinkled
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a device (1) for sprinkling enamel powder onto a wafer, comprising a sieve (64) for distributing the enamel powder, and characterized in that it comprises a frame (2) carrying: - a distribution device (20) comprising a reservoir (12) and a distribution outlet intended to define a flow of enamel powder with a limited flow rate, - a rectilinear conduit (46), of axis X, intended to be oriented vertically, and comprising an inlet, arranged opposite the distribution outlet, as well as an outlet, intended to allow the sprinkling of the enamel powder onto the wafer, - at least one additional sieve (64), all the sieves (64) being arranged inside the conduit (46) and being integral with the latter, - at least one first motor (50) arranged to allow the conduit (46) to be driven in rotation along the axis X, with reference to the frame (2).