Quick-Release Nozzle Coupling for Tool-Free Screw Feeder Maintenance
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing screw feeders require tools for removing and installing the nozzle assembly, leading to inconvenience and risk of damaging internal components.
Innovation Solution
A screw feeding device with a quick-release assembly that allows the nozzle assembly to be detached and reattached by hand, utilizing a quick-release assembly comprising a seat body, pushing member, and elastic member to engage and disengage fixing pins without tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional tool-based assembly and disassembly methods are used for the nozzle assembly, then the connection is reliable and secure, but the operation becomes inconvenient and time-consuming requiring additional tools
Solution Approach 1:
The quick-release assembly enables the nozzle assembly to perform self-service assembly and disassembly operations. The pushing member, when actuated, directly manipulates the fixing pins through the elastic member to release the connection, allowing users to complete the entire assembly and disassembly process without requiring external tools or assistance.
Solution Approach 2:
The fixing pins are extracted from the traditional permanent fastening mechanism and integrated into the quick-release assembly. These pins can be independently actuated to release the connection between the nozzle assembly and screw feeder body, separating the fastening function from the main structure and enabling quick release operations.
2Reliability
If traditional tool-based disassembly is used, then the connection is secure during operation, but the risk of damaging internal components increases during assembly and disassembly
Solution Approach 1:
The fixing pins act as intermediary elements between the nozzle assembly and the screw feeder body. During normal operation, these pins maintain secure connection; during release, they serve as the intermediate mechanism that gradually disengages the connection, preventing sudden movements that could damage internal components.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic member provides beforehand cushioning by absorbing shock and controlling the release motion of the fixing pins. When the pushing member is actuated, the elastic member gradually releases the pins from their engaged position, cushioning the disengagement process and preventing impact damage to the nozzle assembly or screw feeder body.
3Productivity
If the nozzle assembly is permanently fixed, then the connection is strong and stable, but the cleaning and maintenance operations become difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system transitions from a static permanent fixation to a dynamic quick-release mechanism. The fixing pins can be rapidly actuated by the pushing member to change the connection state between engaged and disengaged, enabling the nozzle assembly to be quickly removed for cleaning and maintenance while maintaining strong connection during operation.
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 quick and tool-free assembly and disassembly of the nozzle assembly, enhancing user convenience and reducing the risk of component damage.
Implementation Method 1
the elastic member is compressed and deformed by an inner wall of the limiting groove, thereby causing the fixing pins to move toward each other and disengage from the housing of the screw feeder body
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a screw feeding device including a nozzle assembly, a quick-release assembly, and a screw feeder body. The quick-release assembly is mounted on the nozzle assembly to allow it to be removably attached to the screw feeder body. The assembly includes a seat body, a pushing member, and an elastic member. The pushing member is movably placed in a sliding slot of the seat body and has a limiting groove with a tapered width. The elastic member is positioned in the limiting groove and has two linkage portions extending wider in the opposite direction. Each linkage portion is provided with a fixing pin, which are elastically positioned within a groove of a housing of the screw feeder body. When the pushing member moves relative to the elastic member, the elastic member deforms, causing the fixing pins to move closer and detach from the screw feeder body.