Modular Dispenser for Vehicle Wheel Balancing Weights
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle wheel balancing systems require significant space for weight dispensing and feeding, lack flexibility in handling different types of weights, and have inefficiencies in weight placement precision and speed.
Innovation Solution
A modular dispenser system with cartridges and sliders that can be adapted to specific weights, using actuators and sensors for precise and rapid delivery of balancing weights to a picking tray, allowing for easy refilling and interchange of modules.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If a traditional balancing feeding device with vibrating buckets and racks is used, then balancing weights can be delivered, but the device requires a significant amount of space
Solution Approach 1:
The feeding device is divided into multiple independent dispenser modules, each capable of holding and delivering balancing weights independently. Each module contains a cartridge with compartments for different weight types, allowing the system to maintain high productivity while reducing overall space requirements through modular architecture
Solution Approach 2:
The dispenser modules are arranged in a nested configuration where multiple cartridges can be stacked or positioned in compact arrangements. The cartridges themselves contain nested compartments within a single cartridge body, maximizing weight storage capacity within minimal space
2Speed
If a traditional feeding device is used, then balancing weights can be delivered, but the feeding speed is limited
Solution Approach 1:
Balancing weights are pre-sorted and stored in dedicated compartments within cartridges before the balancing operation begins. The dispenser modules are pre-positioned and ready to deliver specific weight types immediately when needed, eliminating sorting time during the actual balancing process
Solution Approach 2:
The dispenser modules operate continuously without interruption, with weights being delivered in a seamless stream to the picking position. The modular design allows one module to replenish while another delivers, maintaining continuous operation and maximizing feeding speed
3Manufacturing precision
If a traditional feeding device is used, then balancing weights can be delivered, but the location precision at picking position is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
Each dispenser module is specifically designed and adapted to handle particular types of balancing weights with precise geometric features. The picking position for each module is optimized for its specific weight type, ensuring high location precision while maintaining ease of handling through specialized design
4Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional feeding device is used, then balancing weights can be delivered, but the flexibility to handle different weight types is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The dispenser modules are designed with universal interfaces and standardized mounting mechanisms that allow them to be easily swapped or reconfigured. Each module can be adapted to handle different weight types by changing the cartridge or adjusting internal guides, providing high versatility without significantly increasing overall system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows dynamic reconfiguration of dispenser modules based on the specific balancing requirements. Modules can be added, removed, or repositioned during operation to adapt to different weight types and balancing scenarios, maintaining flexibility while managing complexity through modular architecture
Data Source
AI summary
A dispenser for balancing weights for vehicles comprises a plurality of dispenser modules. The dispenser modules have a cartridge with at least two compartments for storing balancing weights. Each compartment has at least one retrieval opening. A cartridge actuator moves the cartridge linearly along a first axis, such that a retrieval feed opening is positioned above a slider feed opening in the dispenser module. A slider, which is operated by a slider actuator along a second axis, parallel to the first axis, has a balancing weight compartment, which can be moved under the slider feed opening, such that a balancing weight may drop from the cartridge into the compartment. The compartment is then moved to a picking tray in which the balancing weight is delivered to a handling device for placing the balancing weight to a wheel.