Method and apparatus for supplying and fixing snap connectors
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current manufacturing processes for ripple fold curtain systems are inefficient as they require manual snapping of snap connectors onto rivets, lacking automation for the distribution and fixation of snap connectors.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus comprising a drum for mixing and orienting snap connectors, a channel for maintaining vertical orientation, and a receptacle with shoulders for precise snapping, along with a hammering surface for automated snapping onto rivets, enables the automated feeding and fixing of snap connectors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual snapping of snap connectors is used, then the process is simple to operate, but the productivity is low and labor intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus is divided into distinct functional modules: a drum for storing and orienting snap connectors, a channel for guiding them vertically, and a receptacle for precise positioning during snapping. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently, automating the previously manual process while maintaining operational simplicity through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The drum automatically orients snap connectors as they are fed into the channel, using the connectors' own geometry and gravity to achieve vertical alignment. The receptacle then positions them precisely without additional manual intervention. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for operators to manually orient and position each connector, significantly improving productivity.
2Productivity
If automated feeding and fixing apparatus is implemented, then the productivity increases, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each component of the apparatus is designed with specific local characteristics optimized for its function: the drum has a specific geometry for storing and rotating connectors, the channel has vertical walls for maintaining orientation, and the receptacle has precise dimensions for positioning. These localized design features enable automation without requiring complex control systems throughout the entire apparatus.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of attempting to grip and position the snap connectors from the outside, the apparatus inverts the approach by having the connectors feed themselves through the drum and channel, using their own shape and gravity to achieve proper orientation and positioning. The receptacle then simply receives them in the correct position, reversing the traditional automation approach of active manipulation.
3Manufacturing precision
If snap connectors are fed through an opening with height smaller than width, then the orientation is forced and precision is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The opening in the drum and the channel are designed with asymmetric dimensions where the height is deliberately smaller than the width. This asymmetry forces the snap connectors to orient themselves in a specific vertical position as they pass through, ensuring consistent orientation without requiring complex alignment mechanisms. The receptacle continues this asymmetric design to maintain precision positioning.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for feeding and fixing snap connectors of a ripple fold curtain system, in which a drum mixes loose snap connectors, successively introduced individually in an opening in the drum for letting one of the snap connectors out. The orientation of the one of the snap connectors is forced by having the opening have a height smaller than the width of the snap connectors. After travelling while maintaining their orientation aligned with motion, each snap connector is received in the same orientation at a receptacle comprising shoulders for retaining a larger portion of the one of the snap connectors, the receptacle retaining it at a definite location and maintaining the orientation. A rivet is positioned on that larger portion of the snap connector and snapped using a hammer of which the surface is parallel with the snap connector and underlying receptacle bottom surface.