Library Device Magazine Ejection Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing library devices with a two-tier magazine configuration require multiple steps and dedicated actuators for simultaneous ejection, increasing production costs and reducing reliability due to the complexity of moving parts and control circuits.
Innovation Solution
A library device with a simplified mechanism using a picker unit and base unit, along with a locking mechanism featuring a stopper part and biasing member, allows for simultaneous ejection of both magazines by controlling the movement of the picker and base units to release the locking mechanism for both tiers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a dedicated actuator is used for ejecting magazines, then the ejection function is reliable, but the device complexity and production cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the magazine ejection function with the existing accessor mechanism. The accessor, which normally performs cartridge operations, is made to also perform the magazine ejection function by moving it to a specific position and rotating it, thereby merging two functions into one mechanism and eliminating the need for a dedicated ejection actuator.
Solution Approach 2:
The accessor is designed to perform multiple functions: it performs both cartridge operations and magazine ejection operations. By making the accessor universal, the patent reduces the total number of components while maintaining reliable ejection functionality through the existing robust mechanism.
2Extent of automation
If a dedicated actuator and control circuit are added for magazine ejection, then the ejection control is precise, but the production cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The existing accessor control system is made to control both cartridge operations and magazine ejection. The same control circuit that manages the accessor for normal operations is extended to manage the ejection sequence by controlling the accessor's position and rotation, thereby avoiding additional control circuits and reducing production cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The accessor performs magazine ejection as part of its own operational cycle without requiring a separate dedicated control system. The mechanism uses the accessor's inherent movement capabilities to achieve ejection, making the system self-sufficient and reducing manufacturing complexity.
3Ease of operation
If the locking lever is rotated to release the stopper part, then the magazine can be drawn out, but the moving parts increase and reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the locking lever rotation function with the accessor's movement. Instead of a separate rotation mechanism, the accessor itself is moved to a position where it can rotate the locking lever as part of its normal operational movement, thereby combining multiple functions into one motion and reducing the number of separate moving parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The accessor acts as an intermediary that transfers the ejection force to the locking lever. By using the accessor as the mediating element, the patent avoids adding a dedicated rotation actuator and instead uses the existing accessor mechanism to perform the rotation, reducing overall system complexity and improving reliability.
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 simultaneous ejection of both magazines in a two-tier configuration with a reduced number of constituent parts, enhancing user convenience and reducing production costs while maintaining reliability.
Implementation Method 1
a biasing member (23) for biasing the stopper part (211) of the locking lever (21) in the direction of the step portion (24)
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a library device configured to comprise a magazine capable of containing a plurality of cartridges and a housing capable of containing the magazine in a two-tier manner, wherein: the housing is provided, in its inside, with an accessor comprising a picker unit for holding the cartridge and a base unit for moving the picker unit in the direction of insertion and drawing of the magazine and in the direction of tier arrangement; the magazine has a step member with a step formed therein; the housing has a locking member comprising a stopper part, which is disposed in a rotatable manner and positioned to abut the step, and a releasing part, and the housing has also a biasing member for biasing the stopper part in the direction of the step member; and, in accordance with movement of the picker and base units in the direction of drawing the magazine and movement of said picker unit in the direction of magazine-tier arrangement, unlocking of the upper-tier magazine, that of the lower-tier magazine or that of both of the magazines contained respectively in the upper and lower tiers is performed.