Patent ID: 6305524
Filing Date: 2001-10-23
Classification: B65G

Abstract:
An electronically controlled apparatus for feeding bulk small assembly components into an assembly machine comprising:a cast housing that supports a plurality of main functional components of the apparatus;a cavity-hopper for loading and storing a plurality of assembly components;a chute lying at the bottom of the hopper the chute further comprising a groove on the top surface;a deflector located in the lower part of the hopper, the deflector is made out of thin sheet metal;a housing insert which defines a second stage of alignment;a chute cover made of clear plastic which allows viewing of moving components;an adjustable hard stop for positioning assembly components before the components are picked up;an air jet nearby a passage from the hopper to the housing insert, the air jet is blow away the components which are obstructing the passage;a second air jet nearby a second passage comprising the groove of the chute covered the second air jet blows away the components which are obstructing this passage;a third air jet to move the assembly of components along the groove in the chute;a photoelectric switch located at the pickup position;a second photoelectric switch located before pickup position, in the end of the buffer;a solenoid valve;an electrical connector power supply and communication with assembly machine controls;a printed circuit board for electronic control;a plurality of hoses for individual air supply to each of the three air jets; anda restriction valve to control the air flow for moving the components along the chute.