Flexible Vacuum Screw Gripper With Adjustable Fastener Feeding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automatic screwdrivers and fastener feeders are limited in their ability to adapt to different sizes and types of fasteners, leading to inefficiencies in smaller manufacturing operations where a single unit must handle multiple fastener types, and they often require complex maintenance or additional parts for adjustments.
Innovation Solution
Integration of a vacuum source and communication channels within the screwdriving unit, along with a flexible vacuum gripping attachment and an adjustable fastener feeder mechanism, allows for versatile fastener handling and quick adjustments without the need for additional parts or specialized knowledge.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a fastener feeder is designed to work with a specific type and size of fastener, then the device can be optimized for that particular fastener, but it cannot be modified to accept different types and/or sizes of fasteners
Solution Approach 1:
The fastener feeder incorporates adjustable components including the vibratory bowl orientation, raceway geometry, and fastener guide positioning that can be dynamically modified to accommodate different fastener types and sizes while maintaining precise handling performance
Solution Approach 2:
The feeder design integrates multiple adjustment mechanisms and interchangeable components that enable a single device to handle various fastener types (screws, bolts, nuts) and sizes, transforming a specialized device into a universal fastening system
2Adaptability or versatility
If a fastener feeder is made adjustable to different fastener types and sizes, then versatility is improved, but the device complexity and maintenance requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The feeder utilizes adjustable parameters such as vibratory bowl angle, raceway curvature, and guide slot positioning that can be modified to suit different fasteners without requiring complex mechanical reconfiguration or specialized knowledge
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustment mechanisms are divided into independent, modular components (vibratory bowl adjustment, raceway selection, guide positioning) that can be individually modified, simplifying the overall complexity while maintaining versatility
3Reliability
If a vacuum source and connection are provided as separate units from the automatic screwdriver, then the vacuum system can be independently optimized, but the dimensions and encumbrance of the screwdriving unit increase
Solution Approach 1:
The vacuum source, communication channels, and screwdriving components are integrated into a single unified unit, eliminating the need for separate vacuum systems and reducing overall dimensions while maintaining functional reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The vacuum communication channels are nested within the screwdriving unit housing, and the vacuum source is integrated into the same casing as the motor, creating a compact nested arrangement that minimizes volume
4Volume of moving object
If a vacuum source and communication channels are integrated inside the screwdriving unit, then the dimensions and complexity are reduced, but the manufacturing precision and assembly requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated design combines vacuum channels, vacuum source, motor, and screwdriver bit into a single housing with pre-defined connection points, reducing assembly complexity despite the integrated nature of components
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 reduces the risk of mounting errors, simplifies operations, and enables efficient handling of various fastener sizes and types, minimizing production downtime and costs in smaller manufacturing environments.
Implementation Method 1
a vacuum source operable to create a vacuum pressure
Implementation Method 2
a deformable section such that an upward force exerted on the flexible vacuum fastener gripping attachment deforms the deformable section
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to flexible vacuum fastener gripping attachment for a screwdriver and an adjustable screw feeder operable to provide screws to an automatic screwdriving unit. The flexible vacuum fastener gripping attachment may be made of flexible material and may be operable to surround a bit of an automated screwdriving unit while a vacuum is communicated to the gripping attachment. The fastener feeder may be easily adjusted to different types and/or sizes since it may be adjusted by rotating a thumb screw accessible from the outside of the casing of the fastener feeder while the fastener feeder is operating.