Pallet Replacing Device Batch Moving Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for replacing pallets in component supply devices are labor-intensive and prone to errors, especially when manually replacing pallets one by one, which can lead to deviations in component positions. Additionally, replacing magazines with filled pallets is cumbersome due to their weight.
Innovation Solution
A pallet replacing device is designed to efficiently and securely replace multiple pallets by storing them in individual slots within a magazine. The device includes a main body case with replacing slots, a positioning section to align the device with the magazine, and a moving tool or mechanism to batch move pallets between storage and replacing slots.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If multiple pallets are manually replaced one by one, then labor precision is improved (component positions remain accurate), but productivity deteriorates (work time extends)
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple individual pallet replacement operations into a single batch replacement operation. The tray feeder is designed to hold multiple trays (pallets) simultaneously, allowing them to be replaced together as one unit. This merging of operations maintains precision while significantly improving productivity by reducing the total number of handling operations required.
2Productivity
If the whole magazine filled with pallets is replaced at one time, then productivity is improved (work efficiency increases), but ease of operation deteriorates (replacement becomes difficult due to weight)
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the magazine into multiple storage slots, each capable of holding individual trays (pallets). This segmentation allows the operator to replace only the necessary number of trays in batches rather than handling the entire magazine at once. The segmented structure maintains high replacement efficiency while significantly reducing operational difficulty by dividing the heavy load into manageable portions.
3Productivity
If multiple pallets are moved in batch, then productivity is improved (replacement time reduces), but device complexity increases (requires batch moving mechanism)
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the tray feeder with self-service characteristics where the batch moving mechanism utilizes the gravitational force and structural arrangement of the trays themselves to facilitate movement. The trays are positioned and supported in a way that allows them to be moved together as a group using simple mechanical assistance, rather than requiring complex automated handling systems. This approach achieves high productivity while keeping the device complexity low.
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided a pallet replacing device configured to be applied to a component supply device in which pallets, each holding components, are individually stored in multiple storage slots which are formed at predetermined heightward intervals inside a magazine, and the pallets are selectively drawn out to supply the components, the pallet replacing device, including a main body case, multiple replacing slots formed at the predetermined heightward intervals inside the main body case and configured to store the pallets therein, a positioning section configured to position the main body case in a predetermined position where the multiple pallets can individually move between the storage slots and the replacing slots, and a moving tool configured to be used for a batch moving operation for moving the multiple pallets altogether at one time between the storage slots and the replacing slots.