Rod Assembly Component Delivery Device Automation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Automated production line assemblies face challenges in efficiently delivering and ejecting components, such as bolts or nuts, with existing transfer apparatuses often requiring manual intervention and lacking consistent, repeatable precision.
Innovation Solution
A component delivery device with a rod assembly comprising an outer sleeve and inner rod, utilizing a biasing member and actuator to move between retracted, extended, and ejection configurations, allowing for precise displacement and ejection of components with minimal human intervention, featuring a removable tip and sleeve extension for secure component handling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a transfer apparatus is used to hold and transport components, then component delivery is automated, but manual intervention is still required and precision is inconsistent
Solution Approach 1:
The transfer apparatus is divided into multiple independent functional modules: a pickup mechanism at the first location, a transport mechanism, and a placement mechanism at the second location. Each module operates independently with its own actuation system, allowing for precise control and consistent performance of each function, thereby improving overall reliability while maintaining automation.
Solution Approach 2:
A controlled atmosphere environment serves as an intermediary between the component storage and the transfer apparatus. This intermediary layer maintains consistent environmental conditions (temperature, humidity, contamination control) that ensure reliable and precise component handling throughout the automated delivery process, eliminating variability caused by environmental fluctuations.
2Productivity
If existing transfer apparatuses are used, then component transport is achieved, but manual intervention is required reducing efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The transfer apparatus is designed with self-loading and self-unloading capabilities. The pickup mechanism automatically retrieves components from the first location without human assistance, and the placement mechanism automatically deposits them at the second location. The system monitors its own operation and performs automatic adjustments, eliminating the need for manual intervention entirely and maximizing productivity through complete automation.
Solution Approach 2:
Components are pre-positioned and pre-oriented in the pickup mechanism before the transfer cycle begins. The apparatus prepares all necessary components in advance at the first location, ensuring that when the transfer occurs, everything is ready for immediate automated handling. This preliminary preparation eliminates waiting time and manual setup, thereby increasing manufacturing efficiency while maintaining full automation.
3Manufacturing precision
If a simple transfer mechanism is used, then device complexity is low, but precision and repeatability of component delivery are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The transfer apparatus employs dynamic adjustment mechanisms that allow real-time modification of transport parameters such as speed, position, and orientation during the transfer cycle. Sensors continuously monitor component location and apparatus position, and actuators automatically adjust movement characteristics to maintain precise delivery. This dynamic control system achieves high manufacturing precision through active feedback and adjustment, accepting the necessary increase in device complexity as a trade-off for the required precision and repeatability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates sensors and detectors that continuously monitor the position of components and the state of the transfer apparatus. This feedback information is processed by a control system that makes real-time adjustments to ensure precise and repeatable component delivery. The feedback loop compensates for variations and maintains high manufacturing precision, justifying the increased device complexity through the significant improvement in delivery accuracy and consistency.
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
Enables automated, consistent, and repeatable delivery and ejection of components to a workpiece, enhancing manufacturing efficiency by autonomously transferring fasteners and assemblies with precision and reliability.
Implementation Method 1
a biasing member positioned at least partially within the outer sleeve. The biasing member may be configured to effect a biasing force on an inboard portion of the inner rod
Data Source
AI summary
A component delivery device includes an actuator that displaces an outer sleeve and an inner rod positioned within a cavity of the outer sleeve together from a retracted configuration to an extended configuration to move an ejectable component in relation to a feed head. The actuator further displaces the outer sleeve and not the inner rod to an ejection configuration to displace the ejectable component toward a workpiece. Displacing the outer sleeve and not the inner rod causes the outer sleeve to translate over the inner rod and compresses a biasing member that is disposed within the cavity and in engagement with the inner rod.