Linked Plate Transfer Mechanism for Single-Operator Stitching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional stitching machine loading and unloading devices require operators to frequently move between the loading and receiving areas, increasing labor costs and operational inefficiencies, especially when additional drive mechanisms are needed for multiple operators or receiving devices.
Innovation Solution
An automatic loading and unloading device with a frame, unloading unit, receiving unit, and receiving link unit, featuring slide rails and drive groups that enable plates to be moved automatically from the processing area to the unloading area and then to the receiving area without requiring operators to change positions, using interconnected pulleys and push rods to synchronize movements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the loading area is separated from the receiving area, then the stitching machine can process plates continuously, but operators must move between areas increasing labor costs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the loading unit and receiving unit into a single integrated system where the receiving area is positioned adjacent to the loading area. The link unit merges the movement functions of both units, allowing one operator to manage both loading and receiving operations at adjacent stations without moving between separated areas, thus resolving the contradiction between continuous processing and operator movement requirements
2Productivity
If an additional receiving device is provided, then plate receiving capability is enhanced, but the drive mechanism cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The link unit serves multiple functions: it acts as both the driving mechanism for the loading unit and the receiving unit simultaneously. By using a single multi-functional link unit instead of separate drive mechanisms for each unit, the patent reduces the overall number of drive components while maintaining enhanced plate receiving capability, thus resolving the contradiction between productivity enhancement and device complexity
3Productivity
If two operators are provided for loading and receiving, then operational efficiency improves, but labor cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of loading and receiving operations into adjacent positions that can be managed by a single operator. The integrated design allows one operator to perform both loading and receiving tasks at neighboring stations, eliminating the need for multiple operators while maintaining operational efficiency, thus resolving the contradiction between productivity and labor quantity
Data Source
AI summary
An automatic loading and unloading device includes a frame, an unloading unit, a receiving unit and a receiving link unit. The frame defines a processing area, an unloading area and a receiving area. The unloading unit includes an unloading slide rail, and an unloading drive group movably disposed on the unloading slide rail for driving at least one plate to move from the processing area to the unloading area. The receiving unit includes a receiving slide rail, and a receiving lift group movably disposed on the receiving slide rail for driving the at least one plate to move from the unloading area to the receiving area. The receiving link unit interconnects the unloading drive group and the receiving lift group.