Golf Ball Holder Clamp for Precise Orientation and Fast Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional automation tools have limited applicability in golf ball manufacturing due to the variety of markings and small quantities, requiring manual movement and inefficient processing between stations.
Innovation Solution
A golf ball holder and transportation system with a shuttle and track configuration, including a holding clamp with a cutout and movable contact element, and a ball lifting mechanism for automated handling and precise orientation of golf balls through multiple processing stations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual movement of golf balls between processing stations is used, then flexibility in handling different markings and small quantities is maintained, but processing speed and efficiency are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the golf ball handling process into discrete stations (transportation station, printing station, inspection station, offloading station) connected by a track system. Each station performs a specific function, allowing automated high-speed processing while maintaining flexibility through modular station design that can be configured for different marking requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The automated transportation system provides universal applicability across multiple processing stations and different golf ball marking scenarios. The track-based shuttle system can handle various marking types and quantities through programmable control, eliminating the need for manual intervention while adapting to different production requirements.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional automation tools are used, then processing automation is achieved, but applicability is limited due to variety of markings and small quantities
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs dynamic, adjustable components including the holding clamp with movable contact element that can adapt to different golf ball positions and orientations. The programmable control system allows dynamic reconfiguration of processing parameters for different marking types, maintaining high processing speeds while accommodating variety in marking requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters (speed, positioning, clamp force, orientation) based on the specific marking requirements and golf ball characteristics. This allows the automated system to maintain high productivity across different marking scenarios by adjusting parameters rather than requiring physical reconfiguration.
3Productivity
If high-speed automated processing is implemented, then productivity increases to 300 balls per minute, but system complexity increases with track, shuttles, and coordination mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The track system serves as an intermediary that simplifies the coordination between stations. Rather than complex direct coupling between all components, the track-shuttle mechanism provides a standardized interface for transporting golf balls, reducing overall system complexity while enabling high-speed operation through centralized control.
4Manufacturing precision
If golf balls are securely held in fixed position, then printing precision is improved, but ball removal and repositioning become difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The holding clamp employs a movable contact element that transitions between a locked position (providing secure holding for precise printing) and an unlocked position (enabling easy ball removal). This dynamic mechanism maintains manufacturing precision during processing while facilitating ease of operation during loading and unloading cycles.
Data Source
AI summary
A golf ball holder is configured to be attached to a shuttle attached to a track for movement of the golf ball holder along the track. The golf ball holder has a holding clamp. The holding clamp has a cup having a plurality of walls, a cavity for receiving a portion of the golf ball, and a support surface within the cavity for supporting the golf ball, wherein the cup also has a cutout in one of the plurality of walls, wherein the cutout provides a direct path into the cavity to a point below a centerline of the golf ball. The holding clamp also has a movable contact element configured to move between a locked position in which the golf ball is securely held in a position and orientation in the cavity and an unlocked position in which the golf ball is freely movable out of the cavity.