Tableware Feeding Device with Self-Service Separation Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current tableware dispensers require complex and inconvenient manual operations for initial loading and feeding, especially for separating the first piece of tableware.
Innovation Solution
A tableware feeding device with a simple structure, featuring a stock bin, a support component, an inclined chute, and an actuating component with baffles, transmission shafts, and gears that rotate the tableware placement section to push tableware into the chute.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual operation is used to separate the first piece of tableware, then the tableware can be loaded into the dispenser, but the operation becomes complex and inconvenient
Solution Approach 1:
The tableware itself serves as the separating tool. When tableware is pulled from the stack, it automatically pushes against the tableware below it, causing the bottom layer to rotate and separate. This eliminates the need for separate manual separation operations or complex feeding structures.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using a complex mechanism to push tableware out, the invention allows tableware to be pulled out naturally, and this pulling action itself drives the separation mechanism. The bottom layer tableware rotates automatically due to the pushing force from the pulled tableware, inverting the traditional approach.
2Productivity
If support plates are used to lift and push tableware, then feeding can be achieved, but the structure becomes complex and inconvenient to operate
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts and eliminates the complex support plate mechanism entirely. Instead of using multiple support plates to lift and push tableware, a single bottom layer tableware is used to perform the separation function, significantly simplifying the device structure while maintaining feeding capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The bottom layer tableware serves multiple functions: it is both the object being fed and the tool that enables separation. When pulled, it automatically pushes against the stack below, causing rotation and separation without requiring external support plates or complex mechanisms.
3Productivity
If traditional feeding mechanisms are used, then tableware can be dispensed, but the underlying tableware may get stuck or deform
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of pushing tableware out with a mechanism that may cause sticking or deformation, the invention allows tableware to be pulled out naturally. This pulling action creates a gentle pushing force on the bottom layer that causes controlled rotation, preventing sticking and deformation while maintaining dispensing efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces dynamic rotation of the bottom layer tableware during the dispensing process. Rather than a static pushing mechanism, the bottom layer rotates as it is pushed by the pulled tableware, creating a dynamic separation process that prevents sticking and deformation.
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 device simplifies the process of accessing and separating tableware, preventing it from getting stuck and reducing the risk of contamination by insects, while also ensuring accurate and reliable feeding.
Implementation Method 1
an inclined chute for sliding tableware is provided below the support component
Data Source
AI summary
This present application involves a tableware feeding device including a stock bin with a supporting component installed below it to support the tableware. Below the supporting component, there is an inclined chute for the tableware to slide down, and at the end of the inclined chute, there is a tableware access opening. It also includes a transmission structure and an actuating component. One end of the transmission structure is connected to one end of the supporting component, and the actuating component consists of multiple baffles, a first actuating member, and a second actuating member. The baffles are positioned at the tableware access opening. When the tableware is pulled, the baffle is dragged along, and it is driven by a transmission structure connected to the first and second movable components. This, in turn, causes the supporting component to rotate, thereby allowing the tableware inside the stock bin to be discharged.