Plug Processing Device with Inclined Chuck Supports
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing plug processing devices in specimen test automation systems require dedicated mechanisms and frequent cleaning, leading to reduced throughput and increased maintenance due to frictional gripping and pressing forces, which are labor-intensive and prone to damage.
Innovation Solution
A plug processing device with a plug-closing mechanism that uses a combination of first and second plug chuck parts with inclined supports to securely grip and rotate plugs of varying types, reducing deformation and damage, and incorporating a plug supply and conveyance system to optimize processing efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If frictional contact gripping is used to hold the lid, then gripping force is sufficient, but periodic cleaning operation is required which reduces throughput
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the cleaning function from the gripping system by using a holder with a recess that physically contains the lid, eliminating the need for frictional contact and subsequent cleaning operations. The lid is held through geometric constraint rather than friction, allowing continuous operation without cleaning interruptions.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses a simple holder structure with a recess that can be easily manufactured and replaced if needed, rather than maintaining complex friction-based gripping surfaces that require periodic cleaning and maintenance.
2Force
If pressing force is applied to press-fit plugs, then plug closing is achieved, but mechanism damage risk increases and maintenance frequency increases
Solution Approach 1:
The holder with recess provides a pre-positioning function that aligns the plug before the pressing operation, ensuring that the pressing force is applied centrally and evenly. This prevents off-center loading that could damage the mechanism, and the recess acts as a cushioning element that absorbs misalignment.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the parameter of force application from high-magnitude impulsive pressing to controlled, aligned pressing through the recess structure. The recess constrains the plug position, transforming the pressing operation into a more controlled process with lower peak forces and better distribution.
3Ease of operation
If dedicated cup holder and container holding mechanism are used, then plug opening and closing can be performed, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The holder with recess is designed to accommodate different types of containers and lids through a universal interface. The recess geometry can be adjusted to fit various lid types, making the same holder structure applicable to multiple container types, thereby reducing the need for dedicated mechanisms for each container type.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges the holding and positioning functions into a single recess structure, rather than using separate holding mechanisms and positioning devices. The recess simultaneously provides container support, lid retention, and alignment functions, simplifying the overall device structure.
4Reliability
If dedicated transport line is used for plug-closing processing, then processing stability is improved, but system complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The holder with recess merges the transport and processing functions into a single integrated component. The holder serves as both the transport carrier and the processing fixture, eliminating the need for a separate dedicated transport line while maintaining processing stability through the rigid recess structure.
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 solution enables stable and efficient plug-opening and plug-closing processing on a conveyor line, improving system reliability and throughput by minimizing damage and maintenance, and allowing for automatic handling of both press-fit and screw plugs without reducing overall system performance.
Implementation Method 1
The gripping jaws are arranged such that the lid is held by the gripping jaws through frictional contact
Implementation Method 2
a plug-closing mechanism (800) comprising: a first plug chuck part (840)... a second plug chuck part (842)... each having an inclined lower end surface... configured to be rotated so as to perform plug opening or plug closing
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
Plug-closing processing units 180A, 180B are provided with: a first plug chuck parts 840 that grasp plugs 202, 205; and a second plug chuck part 842 located above the first plug chuck parts 840, wherein the first plug chuck parts 840 each include at least two first supports 841 that grasp the plugs 202, 205 from more than one direction, and the second plug chuck part 842 is provided with a plug-closing mechanism 800 that includes a second support 843 disposed in the radial direction of plugs 202, 205 and having an inclined lower end surface. Thus, provided are a plug processing device capable of stable plug-opening processing and plug-closing processing on a conveyor line for a specimen container, and a specimen test automation system including the plug processing device.