Conveyors: power-driven – Conveyor section – Reciprocating conveying surface
Reexamination Certificate
1999-08-04
2001-07-17
Olszewski, Robert P. (Department: 2167)
Conveyors: power-driven
Conveyor section
Reciprocating conveying surface
C198S751000, C198S769000
Reexamination Certificate
active
06260691
ABSTRACT:
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates generally to a vibratory system, and more particularly to a vibratory system for a vibratory parts feeder.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Vibration systems are conventionally used in manufacturing to correctly orient and deliver small items such as plastic covers to assembly lines. Such systems typically include a vibratory bowl, the vibration of which is controlled by a controller.
Conventional systems have a number of associated problems. Firstly, the controllers of the system are typically on/off switches which do not allow for the system to be fine-tuned for specific applications. Secondly, adjustment of the vibration parameters is achieved by manual adjustment of the vibratory blocks. These blocks are typically located underneath the vibratory bowl or the like and are often difficult to access.
Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to provide a vibratory system which overcomes the above-mentioned drawbacks and disadvantages.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
According to a first aspect of the present invention, a vibratory system for a vibration feeder includes pulse means for generating electrical digital pulse signals. A controller controllably converts the electrical digital pulse signals either into an incrementally increasing or decreasing DC voltage level. At least one vibration block is coupled to the controller for being increased or decreased in its amplitude of vibration in response to the respective incrementally increasing or decreasing DC voltage level generated by the controller.
More specifically, the controller includes an adjustment function for varying the vibration parameters of the vibration system, and may include a save function to save the vibration parameters.
As mentioned above, the adjustment function typically allows the amplitude of the vibration of the system to be controlled. This allows a user to accurately set and control the vibration system.
Typically, the adjustment of the amplitude is incremental. The increments are preferably small values. This allows the vibration system to be finely tuned for a specific application.
The adjustment function typically includes an increment button, an up/down button and a save button.
Preferably, the adjustment function includes a feedback system. This allows for automatic adjustment of the vibration parameters to maintain a constant output. The feedback system typically comprises a transducer, the transducer being coupled to the vibration system to measure the amplitude and/or frequency of vibration. The transducer is preferably a solid state transducer. This reduces the possibility of failure as there are no moving parts, thus increasing the lifecycle and reliability of the controller.
The save function typically allows a user to save the latest parameters of the vibration system. Thus, when the system is powered down (i.e., switched off) the latest parameters are stored for subsequent retrieval when the system is powered up (i.e., switched on).
Optionally, the controller includes a display for displaying the vibration parameters. Preferably, the display is a digital display. This allows for more accurate readings and aids the user in setting up the vibration system.
Optionally, the controller further includes indicia for indicating the status of the controller. The indicia typically comprises light emitting diodes (LEDs). Typically, a green LED indicates that the system is running, and a red LED indicates a fault in the system.
Optionally, a remote controller may be coupled to the control to remotely control the functions of the controller. The remote controller is typically provided with an increment button, an up/down button and a save button. The remote controller optionally includes a display for displaying the vibration parameters. The remote controller optionally includes indicia for indicating the current status of the controller.
According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided a vibratory block comprising a pair of end plates, at least one pair of springs attached to opposite edges of said end plates, and vibration means, characterized in that the springs comprise composite springs.
The composite springs are preferably flat, leaf springs. The composite springs typically comprise a plurality of glass filaments. Preferably, 85-90% of the filaments are oriented in the bending or primary direction, and 10%-15% of the filaments are oriented perpendicularly to the primary direction.
The vibration means typically comprises an electromagnet.
Embodiments of the present invention shall now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.
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Arthur G. Russell Company, Inc.
McCormick Paulding & Huber LLP
Olszewski Robert P.
Ridley Richard
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