Modular Tool Dispenser with Weight-Based Height Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automatic tool dispensers lack flexibility and adaptability to meet individual and operational organizational needs, limiting the full exploitation of cost savings and efficiency benefits.
Innovation Solution
A modular automatic tool machine design featuring tool dispensing modules with customizable tool compartments and conveyor devices, prioritizing tool weight for ergonomic access and reduced damage, and a modular tool selection system for efficient tool distribution and maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed, non-modular tool dispenser design is used, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the flexibility and adaptability to organizational needs are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The tool dispenser is divided into multiple independent modules, each containing tool compartments and conveyor devices. These modules can be selectively assembled and configured based on specific organizational needs, allowing the system to adapt to different tool management requirements while maintaining manageable complexity through standardized module designs
Solution Approach 2:
The modular design enables dynamic reconfiguration of the tool dispenser system. Modules can be added, removed, or rearranged to adapt to changing organizational structures, tool inventories, and operational requirements, transforming a static system into a dynamically adaptable one
2Object-affected harmful factors
If heavy tools are dispensed from high positions, then the device structure is simplified, but tool damage and safety risks increase due to higher drop heights
Solution Approach 1:
The tool dispenser implements differentiated height arrangements for different tool compartments based on tool weight characteristics. Heavy tool compartments are positioned at lower heights to minimize drop damage, while light tool compartments can be positioned higher, creating a localized optimization of compartment positions tailored to the specific tools they contain
3Productivity
If tools are dispensed individually, then precision in tool issuance is improved, but productivity decreases due to frequent dispensing operations
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple individual tools are grouped together in nested packaging or containers within tool compartments. The conveyor device can then dispense these nested groups as single units, maintaining precision in controlled dispensing while improving productivity by reducing the number of separate dispensing operations needed for multiple identical tools
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
Enhances flexibility and adaptability, reduces tool wear and maintenance costs, and improves user safety by allowing ergonomic access and efficient tool distribution, while maintaining cost-effectiveness and operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
the drop height of the tools from the tool conveyor device to the tool dispensing point being lower for heavy tools than for light tools
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a modular automated tool dispenser comprising at least one tool delivery module with at least one tool compartment containing a plurality of tools that are combined to form tool classes and with a plurality of tool conveying devices, each device being associated with one of the tool classes and conveying tools of one class to a tool delivery point. Each tool class is defined by the tool type, tool size and/or the tool weight as a tool parameter. The dispenser also comprises a tool selection device for selecting the desired tool class and the number of tools to be delivered and for activating the tool conveying device that is associated with the selected tool class.