Rotating Receptacle Dispenser for High-Speed Object Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automated distribution systems for objects like tickets or access cards are bulky, costly, and inefficient, requiring multiple machines to serve multiple users, which increases size and maintenance costs while reducing the functional perimeter and distribution speed.
Innovation Solution
A device with a collector and multiple receptacles that can distribute objects to multiple destination locations via a motorized axis and pivoting arms, allowing for efficient translation and rotation between collection and dispensing positions, sharing resources to reduce size and costs while increasing distribution speed and scope.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple automated distributors are used to serve multiple users simultaneously, then distribution speed increases, but device size and production costs increase proportionally
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple distributor functions into a single integrated device. One distributor unit serves multiple users through a rotating receptacle system that can position objects at different distribution locations, eliminating the need for multiple separate distributor machines while maintaining high distribution speed
Solution Approach 2:
The distributor is designed with multi-functionality to serve multiple users and distribution points simultaneously. The rotating mechanism with multiple receptacles allows the same distributor unit to distribute objects to different destinations in sequence or parallel, making one device perform the work of multiple distributors
2Productivity
If multiple automated distributors are deployed to increase distribution speed, then productivity improves, but maintenance costs and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the functions of multiple distributors into one integrated system. A single distributor unit with a rotating receptacle mechanism serves multiple distribution points, reducing the total number of distributor units from multiple separate machines to one consolidated device, thereby simplifying maintenance and reducing complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The distributor employs dynamic elements including a rotating mechanism that allows the receptacle to move between different positions. This dynamic configuration enables one distributor to perform the work of multiple static distributors, improving productivity without proportionally increasing device complexity or maintenance requirements
3Area of stationary object
If the number of distributors is reduced to decrease footprint, then space is saved, but the number of users that can be served simultaneously decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The distributor is designed with universal functionality to serve multiple users and distribution points. The rotating receptacle system allows the same distributor unit to access multiple distribution locations, expanding the functional scope to serve multiple users simultaneously while maintaining a compact footprint of a single distributor unit
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds rotational movement as another dimension to the distribution system. Instead of expanding horizontally with multiple separate distributors, the system rotates the receptacle to access different distribution points, effectively using vertical and rotational space to increase functional scope without increasing the horizontal footprint
4Productivity
If multiple distributors are used to serve multiple users, then distribution speed increases, but resource utilization decreases due to multiplication of electronic, mechanical, and computer resources
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the electronic, mechanical, and computer resources of multiple distributors into a single shared system. One distributor unit with shared motors, control systems, and mechanical components serves multiple users, eliminating resource duplication and improving utilization efficiency while maintaining high distribution speed through the rotating receptacle mechanism
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 high-speed distribution to multiple users with reduced machine size and maintenance costs, as the device can serve multiple users simultaneously without proportional increases in size or production costs by sharing mechanical and electronic resources.
Implementation Method 1
a motorized axis located at the point equidistant from each distribution opening and capable of driving the linking means in rotation so as to allow the passage of the receptacle(s) from the collection position to one of the distribution positions
Implementation Method 2
In the collection position, the receptacle is positioned below the collector, so that it can receive the object by gravity from this collector
Implementation Method 3
the receptacle is capable of tilting so that, in the distribution position, it can discharge an object through one of the distribution openings. In the distribution position, the receptacle is positioned above one of the distribution openings, so that it can distribute the object by gravity into this distribution opening
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~16
Figure 4~11
AI summary
The invention relates to a device for automatic collection and distribution of objects, and an automatic distribution system containing said device, having application in the field of automatic distribution of objects such as tickets or cards for accessing a means of transport, or food products, and in the field of object sorting in a conveyor system. Said device (1) for automatic collection of objects from an original location and for automatic distribution of said objects to at least two destination locations (18 to 21), comprises a collector (2) for receiving the objects to be distributed from the original location, a distribution opening (3 to 6) associated with each destination location, and at least one receptacle (7, 8) that can move between a collection position, in which it is able to receive at least one object from the collector, and several distribution positions, in which it is able to distribute the object to the respective destination locations by corresponding distribution openings.