Motorized Adhesive Dispensing Module with Segmented Cartridge Mixing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing liquid dispensing systems face challenges in dispensing precise volumes of single-part and multi-part compounds due to limited working times, inconsistent dispensing quantities, and inefficiencies in manual or automated mixing processes, leading to waste and system clogging.

Innovation Solution

A motorized liquid dispensing apparatus with a cartridge system and a movable plate driven by a motor and threaded rod, which allows for precise control of liquid compound dispensing through a robotic system, accommodating varying viscosity and preventing curing by automatic volume control.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Stability of the object's composition

If automated mixing devices are used to mix multi-part compounds, then mixing uniformity is improved, but the compound begins to cure in the dispensing device leading to clogging and increased maintenance

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemixing uniformityVSAvoidsystem clogging
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system divides the compound storage into separate cartridges for each component part. These cartridges are individually dispensed and mixed only at the point of application, preventing premature curing in storage and dispensing components while ensuring proper mixing uniformity at the mixing chamber.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

A mixing chamber acts as an intermediary between separate component cartridges and the dispensing tip. The chamber provides a controlled environment where components are mixed briefly before application, preventing curing in the dispensing device while ensuring proper mixing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Stability of the object's composition

If manual pre-mixing is performed with a dispensing device, then compound uniformity is achieved, but compound loss occurs during transfer and physical labor is required

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecompound uniformityVSAvoidcompound loss
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSLoss of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The system eliminates manual transfer by using separate cartridges for each component that are directly mounted on the dispensing device. This segmentation allows automated dispensing without manual pouring or transfer, eliminating compound loss while maintaining mixing uniformity through controlled dispensing ratios.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs self-service by automatically dispensing precise amounts of each component from separate cartridges through a motorized mechanism. The system calculates and dispenses the correct ratios automatically, eliminating manual intervention and preventing compound loss during transfer.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Productivity

If high pressure is applied to dispense liquid compound, then dispensing speed is improved, but inconsistent dispensing quantity occurs due to viscosity changes

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedispensing speedVSAvoiddispensing quantity consistency
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The system incorporates feedback mechanisms including encoders on the motor to precisely track piston position and dispensing volume. This feedback allows the control system to adjust pressure and speed in real-time, maintaining consistent dispensing quantity even at high speeds by compensating for viscosity changes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses dynamic pressure control rather than constant high pressure. The motorized piston adjusts dispensing pressure and speed dynamically based on real-time feedback, allowing high productivity while maintaining precision by adapting to changing material properties during the dispensing cycle.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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 precise and repeatable dispensing of liquid compounds with reduced waste and increased system reliability by accounting for internal and external variations, and preventing curing through controlled pressure and automatic mixing.

Implementation Method 1

A motor unit may be attached to and may drive driving belt 211

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic conversion: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

driving belt 211 that is attached to and drives threaded rod 213

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical transmission through threaded rod: Screw

Implementation Method 3

at least one plunger 217a, 217b attached to front plate 215 and terminating into pistons 219a, 219b which are driven into cartridge system 221 to displace the liquid compound housed within the cartridge system

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical displacement: Mechanical Force

Data Source

PatentUS9931665B2Motorized adhesive dispensing module
Publication Date: 2018.04.03 FLEXTRONICS AP LLC
  • US9931665B2 patent drawing
  • US9931665B2 patent drawing
  • US9931665B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A liquid compound dispensing apparatus for dispensing a controlled amount of liquid compound onto a workpiece is described. The apparatus comprises a cartridge system. The cartridge system may accept a liquid compound cartridge containing liquid compound. The apparatus also comprises a plate, having a threaded bore, positioned above the cartridge system that is movable in a first and second direction, at least one plunger attached to the plate at a first end and attached to a piston at a second end. The piston is dimensioned to move within the liquid compound cartridge to displace liquid compound when the plate is moved in the second direction. A driving mechanism moves the plate in the first and the second directions to dispense product and comprises a motor, a threaded rod disposed through the threaded bore of the plate that is driven by a driving belt attached to the motor.