Rivet Reloading Channel and Gate Layout for Jam-Free Dispensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for reloading rivets in resistance spot rivet welding systems are inefficient, particularly in ensuring consistent orientation and preventing jamming, which can disrupt the welding process.
Innovation Solution
A rivet dispenser reloading system with a receiving member featuring a channel and gates that align and transport rivets in a series arrangement, using pressurized gas to facilitate smooth dispensing and prevent jamming, while allowing for selective positioning to inhibit or enable rivet movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If rivets are fed to a resistance spot rivet welding system using conventional methods, then the welding process can proceed, but rivet orientation consistency is poor and jamming occurs frequently
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-arranges rivets in a channel with proper orientation and spacing before feeding them to the welding system. The rivets are positioned in advance with their stems aligned and heads facing the correct direction, eliminating orientation issues during the feeding process
Solution Approach 2:
A channel structure acts as an intermediary between the rivet storage and the welding system. This channel guides and organizes rivets into the correct configuration before they enter the welding process, ensuring consistent orientation and preventing jamming
2Reliability
If a gate mechanism is added to control rivet movement, then jamming is prevented and orientation is maintained, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The feeding system is divided into separate functional sections: a storage area, a channel with gate mechanism, and a dispensing area. The gate is positioned at a specific location within the channel to control rivet flow, allowing independent optimization of each section
Solution Approach 2:
The gate mechanism is designed to be movable rather than fixed, allowing it to open and close based on the welding cycle requirements. This dynamic control enables the system to maintain reliability by preventing jamming while keeping the mechanism simple through minimal moving parts
3Manufacturing precision
If rivets are transported in a series arrangement with preselected orientation, then welding precision improves, but the time required for reloading increases
Solution Approach 1:
Rivets are pre-oriented and pre-positioned in the channel during the previous welding cycle or in advance of the current cycle. This preliminary arrangement eliminates the need for time-consuming orientation adjustments during reloading, maintaining both precision and speed
Solution Approach 2:
The system maintains continuous rivet flow through the channel with proper spacing and orientation. The gate mechanism controls the timing of rivet release to ensure continuous feeding without interruptions, maintaining both precision and efficient reloading speed
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
Ensures reliable and efficient reloading of rivets, maintaining process efficiency by preventing jamming and ensuring consistent orientation, thereby reducing machine cycle time and increasing production rates.
Implementation Method 1
The channel extends between the first port and the second port and is configured to transport rivets from the first port to the second port in a series arrangement and in a preselected orientation
Implementation Method 2
using pressurized gas to facilitate smooth dispensing and prevent jamming
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 1C
AI summary
Rivet dispenser reloading systems and methods of use thereof are provided. A non-limiting embodiment of a rivet dispenser reloading system comprises a receiving member defining a channel therein, and a first gate. The rivet receiving member comprises a first port and a second port that communicate with the channel. The first port is configured to receive rivets. The second port is configured to selectively engage with a rivet dispenser and introduce rivets to the rivet dispenser. The channel extends between the first port and the second port and is configured to transport rivets from the first port to the second port in a series arrangement and in a preselected orientation. The first gate is in communication with the second port and is selectively positionable between a first configuration inhibiting movement of rivets through the second port, and a second configuration enabling movement of rivets through the second port.