Segmented Vibrator with Bayonet Coupling for Tool-Free Replacement

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing vibrators in rod-shaped article handling systems require two technicians for replacement and use of special tools, compromising the integrity of the device and vibrator due to continuous tightening/untightening of fastening means.

Innovation Solution

A two-piece vibrator design with quick-coupling bayonet-style connection means allows single-operator replacement without external tools, ensuring the structural integrity of both the vibrator and the device by stabilizing one portion to the motor and allowing easy swapping of the other portion within the hopper.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional fastening means are used to secure the vibrator to the motor, then the vibrator is firmly fixed, but two technicians are required for replacement and special tools are needed

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecure fixation of vibratorVSAvoidreplacement complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The vibrator is divided into two separate portions: a first portion that remains fixed to the motor and a second portion that can be easily removed and replaced. This segmentation allows the second portion to be quickly exchanged without affecting the secure mounting of the first portion to the motor, thereby enabling single-operator replacement while maintaining reliable fixation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Reliability

If traditional fastening means are used to secure the vibrator, then the vibrator is firmly fixed, but continuous tightening/untightening compromises the integrity of the device and vibrator

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecure fixation of vibratorVSAvoidintegrity of device and vibrator
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

By segmenting the vibrator into a permanently mounted first portion and a replaceable second portion, the fastening means are only applied to the first portion during initial installation. The second portion uses coupling means that do not require repeated tightening/untightening, thus preserving the structural integrity of both the device and vibrator components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Device complexity

If the vibrator is made as a single piece, then the structure is simple, but replacement requires two technicians and special equipment

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevibrator structureVSAvoidreplacement ease
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The vibrator is segmented into two portions with coupling means that enable tool-free attachment and detachment. The first portion remains fixed to the motor while the second portion can be independently replaced by a single operator, combining the simplicity of a unified structure with the ease of modular replacement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

4Ease of operation

If the vibrator is designed for easy replacement, then single-operator replacement is possible, but the secure fixation may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvereplacement easeVSAvoidsecure fixation of vibrator
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The segmentation strategy ensures that the first portion maintains secure fixation to the motor through traditional fastening means, while the second portion employs simplified coupling means for easy replacement. This division preserves reliable fixation where needed while enabling operational ease where required.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

5Reliability

If two technicians are used for vibrator replacement, then secure replacement is ensured, but time consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvereplacement accuracyVSAvoidreplacement time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

By dividing the vibrator into fixed and replaceable portions with intuitive coupling means, the replacement operation can be performed by a single operator without requiring coordinated efforts of two technicians. This reduces replacement time while maintaining the reliability of the connection through the designed coupling mechanism.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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

Facilitates easy and tool-free replacement of vibrators by a single operator, maintaining the integrity of the device and vibrator, enhancing operational efficiency and reducing damage risks.

Implementation Method 1

a motor configured to drive the plurality of vibrators

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic force: Lorentz Force

Implementation Method 2

the function of which is to move the articles by means of a vibrating or rotating action

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectVibration: Vibration

Data Source

PatentEP4424179A1Vibrator usable by immersion in a flow or mass of rod-shaped articles
Publication Date: 2024.09.04 GD SPA
  • EP4424179A1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4424179A1 patent drawingFigure 2~3
  • EP4424179A1 patent drawingFigure 4~5

AI summary

A vibrator (100) usable by immersion in a flow or mass of rod-shaped articles to influence the positioning of the articles in the flow or mass. The vibrator (100) comprises a first rod-shaped portion (101) and a second portion (102) connected to the first portion (101) so that the two portions (101, 102) are parallel and preferably coaxial. The first portion (101) and the second portion (102) have respective connecting ends (103, 104) provided with releasable mutual coupling means (105, 106). One of the portions (101, 102) is configured to be stably connected to a motor (6) and the other portion (102, 101) is configured to be placed inside a flow or mass of rod-shaped articles.