Radial Powder Stocker Layout for Space-Saving Central Supply
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing powder supply systems require significant space due to the need for separate cutting out places for each type of powder, leading to inefficient use of installation space and increased human error risk.
Innovation Solution
A centralized powder supply device with radially arranged stockers connected to a main body, allowing multiple types of powder to be supplied from a single location using a conveyance unit and measurement unit, with detachable stockers for easy replacement and maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate cutting out places are provided for each type of powder, then each powder can be supplied independently, but the installation space becomes large
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate cutting out places into a single integrated supply location. Multiple stockers storing different powder types are arranged radially around one central supply region, allowing all powder types to be supplied from a single location rather than requiring separate cutting out places for each powder type.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a linear arrangement of separate supply stations to a radial arrangement around a central point. The stockers are positioned at different angular positions around the supply region, utilizing spatial distribution in a radial pattern rather than a sequential linear layout, which reduces the overall footprint.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate supply locations are used, then each powder can be handled separately, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The single supply region serves as a universal interface for multiple powder types. The conveyor unit can position the container to receive any type of powder from any of the radially arranged stockers at this single supply location, making the supply region multi-functional rather than requiring dedicated supply locations for each powder type.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses dynamic positioning of the conveyor unit to select which stocker supplies powder to the container. The conveyor can move the container to different angular positions to align with different stockers, providing flexibility in powder selection without requiring multiple fixed supply locations.
3Ease of operation
If manual powder supply process is used, then flexibility is maintained, but time consumption and human errors increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables automatic powder supply where the conveyor unit autonomously positions the container and the appropriate stocker supplies powder without manual intervention. The controller automatically manages the supply process, selecting the correct stocker and controlling the supply timing, which reduces both time consumption and human errors while maintaining operational flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates a measurement unit that measures the weight of powder supplied to the container and provides feedback to the controller. This feedback mechanism enables automatic control of the supply process, ensuring accurate powder quantities are supplied without manual measurement, thereby reducing errors and improving efficiency.
Data Source
AI summary
An object of the invention is to provide a space-saving powder supply device capable of supplying a plurality of kinds of powder at one place. A powder supply device according to the present invention is provided with: a main body; a container for storing powder therein; a conveyance unit; and a plurality of stockers. The conveyance unit has a supply region which is a region for supplying the powder from the stocker to the container mounted on the upper side of the conveyance unit. The stocker has: a charge port through which the powder can be charged into the stocker; a supplier for supplying the powder stored in the stocker from the supply port. The stocker is connected to the main body, with the plurality of stockers being arranged radially around the supply region, and a center axis of the supplier being directed to a center of the supply region.