Synchronized Shutter and Conveyor Mechanism for Consistent Article Dropping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing article dropping apparatuses cause variations in the dropped position of stacked articles due to frictional forces applied by shutters, leading to inconsistent packaging.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus employs synchronized movement of first and second shutters and conveyor belts to maintain the relative position of stacked articles, minimizing kinetic friction and ensuring consistent dropping by moving the upper portions of the conveyor belts toward each other as the shutters open.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the shutters are opened to drop stacked articles into containers, then the articles can be transferred to containers, but frictional forces cause variation in dropped position
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces conveyor belts as intermediary elements between the shutters and the articles. The conveyor belts move in synchronization with the shutter opening, creating a coordinated movement system that reduces relative motion and friction between the shutters and articles, thereby maintaining consistent dropped positions while enabling efficient transfer
2Ease of operation
If the shutters move from closed to open positions, then articles can be released, but frictional forces apply to stacked articles causing position variation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic system where the conveyor belts are movable and synchronized with the shutter operation. Instead of fixed shutters, the system dynamically adjusts the conveyor belt positions to match shutter movement, reducing friction and maintaining article position control throughout the opening process
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
This solution effectively minimizes variations in the dropped position of stacked articles, ensuring precise and consistent placement into containers, thus improving packaging efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
because frictional forces are applied to the stacked articles by the shutters when the end portions of the shutters move away from each other
Data Source
AI summary
An article dropping apparatus may include a first shutter and a second shutter. A first movable member is movable relative to the first shutter. A second movable member is movable relative to the second shutter. An article may be supported by the first shutter and the second shutter to extend therebetween when the first shutter and the second shutter are positioned at closed positions. The first movable member and the second movable member may keep a relative position with respect to the article, via use of clamping members, during the movement of the first and second shutters from closed positions to open positions.