Segmented Doser Sockets for Variable Plate Volume Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dosing devices in slab production systems are limited in accommodating different material volumes for various plate molds, as all dosator sockets are typically filled equally, failing to meet the diverse volume requirements of different molds.
Innovation Solution
A dosing device with multiple displacement devices for dosator sockets, allowing individual control of material filling through a control system, enabling precise distribution of material to each socket, and the ability to open or close sockets as needed, using sliding elements and linear drive mechanisms for adjustable material volume.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If all dosator sockets are filled with the same amount of material, then the dosing device is simple to operate, but it cannot accommodate different volume requirements of various plate molds
Solution Approach 1:
The dosing device is segmented into multiple independently controllable dosator sockets, each capable of receiving different material volumes. The displacement devices are individually assigned to each socket, allowing separate control of material filling for each socket according to specific mold requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The dosing device incorporates movable displacement devices that can be individually positioned to control material flow into each dosator socket. The linear drive mechanisms enable dynamic adjustment of material volume for each socket, transforming the static uniform dosing system into a dynamic adaptable one.
2Manufacturing precision
If displacement devices are individually controlled for each dosator socket, then precise material portioning is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex individual mechanical control systems with a centralized control device that coordinates multiple displacement devices. This substitution reduces overall system complexity while maintaining precise material portioning for each dosator socket through electronic or programmable control.
Solution Approach 2:
The control device is designed with universal functionality to manage all displacement devices and dosator sockets through a single interface. This multi-functional control system can precisely portion material for each socket without requiring separate control mechanisms for each, thereby reducing device complexity.
3Loss of substance
If dosing sockets can be opened or closed individually, then material waste is reduced for specific plate shapes, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The displacement devices are positioned and dosator sockets are opened or closed in advance before material filling begins. This preliminary action ensures that only the necessary dosator sockets are open and ready to receive material, preventing material waste by closing unnecessary sockets before the dosing process starts.
Solution Approach 2:
The control device receives feedback information about plate shapes and mold requirements, automatically determining which dosator sockets should be opened or closed. This feedback mechanism enables the system to adaptively control socket openings based on actual production needs, reducing material waste without requiring complex manual intervention.
4Measurement precision
If automated detection of plate shape is implemented, then dosing accuracy is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The dosing device incorporates automated plate shape detection and self-adjustment capabilities, enabling the system to automatically identify plate shapes and configure the appropriate dosator sockets without external intervention. This self-service functionality improves dosing accuracy while minimizing the need for additional complex control systems.
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 the production of plates with varying shapes and sizes by allowing individual dosing sockets to be filled with different amounts of material, optimizing material usage and accommodating different plate shapes by automatically detecting plate presence and adjusting filling quantities.
Implementation Method 1
By means of a linear drive element, in particular a reciprocating piston, a sliding element is displaceable between an opening in the bottom area of the dosator pot, i.e. in the dosator bottom disk, and the inlet area of the dosator socket
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a metering device (11) for arrangement on a slab production plant for the production of stone and concrete slabs, wherein the metering device (11) extends in a vertical direction (H) and has a metering pot (12) for receiving material to be metered, at least one upper metering base plate (13) with a plurality of outlet openings for releasing the material into a plurality of metering bushings (15-19) each with a material inlet opening and each with a material outlet opening (20-25) for metering a specific quantity of the material, wherein the metering bushings (15-19) are arranged between the upper metering base plate (13) and a lower metering base plate (14) which is arranged vertically below the upper metering base plate (13), and each metering bushing (15-19) with an individually portioned metering quantity by means of displacement devices (32-37; 26-31) It is refillable.