Object Sorting Apparatus Using Inclined Deflector Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing manufacturing processes for cigarettes and smokeless tobacco products face inefficiencies due to the inclusion of misshapen or defective objects, such as partially or entirely empty capsules, which can disrupt the manufacturing process and user experience, necessitating an apparatus to sort objects into accepted and rejected categories for quality control.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus comprising a hopper assembly and a first object sorting arrangement with inclined members, deflector members, and wall members to direct objects based on their ability to navigate the structure, separating them into accepted and rejected categories through a series of channels and chutes, ensuring efficient sorting and minimizing the number of rejected objects.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If objects are sorted using complex automated detection systems, then sorting precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus allows objects to self-sort based on their physical properties. Objects that conform to specifications naturally navigate through the inclined member and deflector arrangement, while defective objects self-reject and fall into the rejection channel, eliminating the need for complex active detection systems
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex automated detection and sorting systems with a simple mechanical structure consisting of inclined members and deflectors that passively separate objects based on their physical characteristics, reducing device complexity while maintaining sorting effectiveness
2Productivity
If multiple sorting arrangements are used to reduce rejected objects, then productivity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sorting system is divided into multiple independent sorting arrangements, each handling a specific portion of the object flow. This segmentation allows parallel processing of objects, increasing productivity while keeping each individual sorting unit simple and manageable
3Device complexity
If objects are sorted by manual inspection, then device complexity is reduced, but productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
Manual inspection is replaced with a mechanical sorting system that automatically separates defective objects through the inclined member and deflector mechanism, significantly increasing productivity while maintaining relatively simple device architecture
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables automatic self-sorting of objects based on their physical properties, eliminating the need for manual inspection while maintaining simple mechanical components, thus improving productivity without substantially increasing device complexity
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
The apparatus effectively evaluates and sorts objects into accepted and rejected categories, reducing manufacturing disruptions and improving product quality by identifying and isolating defective objects, thereby enhancing the efficiency and consistency of the manufacturing process and user experience.
Implementation Method 1
a first inclined member having a first end in communication with the hopper assembly at a first elevation, and an opposing second end at a second elevation less than the first elevation. The first end is arranged to receive the objects exiting the release port of the hopper assembly and to direct the objects toward the second end
Implementation Method 2
a first deflector member spaced-apart from the second end of the first inclined member and disposed at a third elevation less than the second elevation. The first deflector member is arranged to deflect the objects directed thereto from the second end of the first inclined member
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus and associated method are provided for sorting objects as having one of an accepted and rejected status. The apparatus includes a hopper assembly configured to receive a plurality of objects and to release the objects through a release port associated therewith. A first object sorting arrangement is in communication with the hopper assembly and is configured to receive the objects therefrom. The first object sorting arrangement includes a first inclined member in communication with the hopper assembly for directing the objects to a first deflector member spaced-apart from the first inclined member. Objects deflected over a first wall member spaced-apart from the first deflector member, the first deflector member being disposed between the first inclined member and the first wall member have an accepted status, while objects directed into a first channel disposed between the first deflector member and the first wall member have a rejected status.