Perforated Drive Belt for Automatic Feeder Stack Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Automatic singulation of flimsy articles from bulk stacks is hindered by incorrect positioning, leading to slowed or erroneous processing due to slumping or improper alignment, which affects the efficiency of the singulation process in existing automatic feeders.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a perforated drive belt assembly with pivotable ends, a conveyor, and sensors to detect force and pressure, along with a vacuum unit, which adjusts the position of the articles for optimal alignment and supports the stack using a paddle and belt, ensuring proper contact with the drive belt for efficient singulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If articles are placed in a bulk stack in the feeder, then singulation processing can be automated, but the stack may slump or become misaligned causing errors and slowing down the process
Solution Approach 1:
The drive belt assembly is made pivotable at its ends, allowing it to dynamically adjust its position in response to stack alignment needs. The controller activates the drive belt to pivot the assembly until optimal alignment with the stack is achieved, transforming a static structure into a dynamic one that adapts to maintain processing reliability
Solution Approach 2:
A sensor detects the alignment between the drive belt assembly and the article stack, providing feedback to the controller. The controller uses this feedback to determine when the assembly is properly aligned and activates the drive belt accordingly, creating a closed-loop control system that ensures reliable positioning
2Reliability
If the drive belt assembly is made pivotable to adjust alignment, then processing reliability improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The drive belt assembly incorporates pivotable ends that allow automatic adjustment through mechanical rotation. This dynamic capability enables the system to self-align without complex additional mechanisms, achieving improved reliability through a relatively simple pivot-based adjustment system
Solution Approach 2:
The pivotable drive belt assembly can automatically adjust its own position in response to alignment requirements. The system uses its own drive mechanism to pivot the assembly into proper alignment, eliminating the need for separate complex positioning systems and reducing overall device complexity
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
The system enhances the efficiency and accuracy of singulating articles by maintaining optimal alignment and contact, reducing misfeeds and damage, and improving the overall processing speed and reliability of the automatic stack feeder.
Implementation Method 1
the perforated drive belt assembly comprises a vacuum unit configured to apply a vacuum through the opening in the drive belt
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of a system and method for singulating articles in an automatic stack feeder are disclosed. The automatic stack feeder may comprise a pressure sensor on a perforated drive belt assembly configured to sense the pressure exerted by a stack of articles. The sensed pressure may be used to control various portions of the automatic stack feeder, such as a belt or a paddle.