US20110070056A1 - High accuracy transfer system for intact filling - Google Patents
High accuracy transfer system for intact filling Download PDFInfo
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- US20110070056A1 US20110070056A1 US12/565,915 US56591509A US2011070056A1 US 20110070056 A1 US20110070056 A1 US 20110070056A1 US 56591509 A US56591509 A US 56591509A US 2011070056 A1 US2011070056 A1 US 2011070056A1
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- fixture
- base structure
- transfer
- retaining member
- work piece
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65G—TRANSPORT OR STORAGE DEVICES, e.g. CONVEYORS FOR LOADING OR TIPPING, SHOP CONVEYOR SYSTEMS OR PNEUMATIC TUBE CONVEYORS
- B65G25/00—Conveyors comprising a cyclically-moving, e.g. reciprocating, carrier or impeller which is disengaged from the load during the return part of its movement
- B65G25/02—Conveyors comprising a cyclically-moving, e.g. reciprocating, carrier or impeller which is disengaged from the load during the return part of its movement the carrier or impeller having different forward and return paths of movement, e.g. walking beam conveyors
Definitions
- the present disclosure relates to a system and method for helping to maintain the position and orientation of a work piece throughout the filling and packaging process.
- Machines which are used for pierce filling and laser heat sealing of the filing holes on a work piece require that the orientation and position be maintained from one operation to another.
- stretch, wear and tear, and backlash from the chain, sprockets, couplings, mountings, indexers and reducers can effect the orientation and position of the work piece.
- Work pieces also very greatly in dimension and thus are difficult to transfer consistently and accurately from one operation station to another.
- a transfer system including at least one base structure having at least one fixture retaining member disposed along a length thereof. Each fixture retaining member is configured to detachably secure a fixture thereon.
- a transfer carriage is configured to transport at least one fixture from a first position wherein each fixture is detachably secured to one of the fixture retaining members of the base structure to a second position wherein each fixture is detachably secured to another fixture retaining member of the same base structure.
- the transfer system may further include at least one side transfer arm.
- Each side transfer arm may be configured to transport at least one fixture from the first position to a third position wherein each fixture is detachably secured to a fixture retaining member of a different base structure.
- each fixture retaining member includes at least one peg and each fixture defines at least one aperture therein such that each peg is configured to engage a corresponding aperture and retain the fixture thereon.
- the transfer carriage may include at least one recess which is configured to retain a fixture therein during transportation from the first position to the second position.
- Each fixture may be configured to retain at least one work piece thereon.
- a gripper may be provided on each fixture, the gripper being configured to retain a work piece thereon.
- Each gripper may also be configured to at least partially surround a work piece, wherein each gripper secures the work piece by engaging the cap of each work piece.
- a transfer system including first and second base structures disposed adjacent each other wherein each base structure includes at least one fixture retaining member disposed along a length thereof. Each fixture retaining member is configured to detachably secure a fixture thereon.
- a first transfer carriage is configured to transfer at least one fixture from a fixture retaining member of the first base structure to another fixture retaining member of the first base structure and a second transfer carriage is configured to transfer at least one fixture from a fixture retaining member of the second base structure to another fixture retaining member of the second base structure.
- a first side transfer arm is configured to transfer at least one fixture from a fixture retaining member of the first base structure to a fixture retaining member of the second base structure and a second side transfer arm is configured to transfer at least one fixture from a fixture retaining member of the second base structure to a fixture retaining of the first base structure.
- a method of transferring work pieces including the steps of providing a transfer system, engaging the transfer carriage with at least one fixture disposed in the first position, lifting the transfer carriage such that the at least one fixture is lifted from the first position, moving the transfer carriage such that the at least one fixture is transported to a location above the second position, lowering the transfer carriage such that the at least one fixture is lowered into the second position and disengaging the transfer carriage from the at least one fixture.
- the transfer system includes at least one base structure having at least one fixture retaining member disposed along a length thereof. Each of the fixture retaining members is configured to detachably secure a fixture thereon.
- a transfer carriage is configured to transport at least one fixture from a first position wherein each fixture is detachably secured to one of the fixture retaining members of the at least one base structure to a second position wherein each fixture is detachably secured to another fixture retaining member of the same base structure.
- the transfer system provided in the method further includes at least one side transfer arm.
- Each side transfer arm may be configured to transport at least one fixture from the first position to a third position wherein each fixture is detachably secured to a fixture retaining member of another base structure.
- the method may also include the steps of engaging at least one side transfer arm with at least one fixture disposed in the first position, lifting the at least one side transfer arm such that the at least one fixture is lifted from the first position, moving the at least one side transfer arm such that the at least one fixture is transported to a location above the third position, lowering the at least one side transfer arm such that the at least one fixture is lowered into the third position and disengaging the at least one side transfer arm from the at least one fixture.
- Each of the at least one fixture retaining member may include at least one peg and each fixture may defines at least one aperture therein such that each peg is configured to engage a corresponding aperture and retain the fixture thereon.
- the transfer carriage includes at least one recess wherein each recess is configured to retain a fixture therein during transportation from the first position to the second position.
- Each fixture may be configured to retain at least one work piece thereon.
- At least one gripper may be provided on each fixture, each gripper being configured to retain a work piece thereon.
- Each gripper may also be configured to at least partially surround a work piece wherein each gripper secures the work piece by engaging the cap of each work piece.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a transfer system in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure
- FIGS. 2A-E are perspective views of the transfer system of FIG. 1 , showing two fixtures being transferred from a first position to a second position;
- FIG. 3A is a perspective view of the transfer system of FIG. 1 , showing two fixtures, each fixture retaining three work pieces thereon via grippers;
- FIG. 3B is a perspective view of a work piece of FIG. 3A , showing a gripper partially surrounding the work piece and engaging the work piece at a cap of the work piece, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure
- FIG. 4A is a perspective view of a transfer system in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure.
- FIG. 4B is an exploded perspective view of the fixtures of FIG. 4A ;
- FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the transfer system of FIG. 4A , wherein side transfer arms have begun to transport fixtures;
- FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the transfer system of FIGS. 4A and 5 , wherein the side transfer arms have transported the fixtures to above a third position;
- FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the transfer system of FIGS. 4-6 , wherein the side transfer arms have been disengaged from the fixture;
- FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the transfer system of FIGS. 4-7 , wherein the transfer carriage engages at least one fixture;
- FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the transfer system of FIGS. 3-8 , wherein the transfer carriage has transported the fixtures to a second position.
- the presently disclosed transfer systems are configured such that work pieces are maintained in a substantially fixed orientation and position on a fixture throughout the transferring of the fixtures from different locations. Maintaining a fixed orientation and position of the work piece helps create a high-accuracy system applicable to transferring, filling, sealing, and other operations.
- FIG. 1 illustrates a transfer system 10 including a base structure 100 .
- Base structure 100 includes two substantially parallel beams 110 , 160 spaced a distance 140 apart and connected via connector beams 150 .
- Beam 110 of base structure 100 includes fixture retaining members 111 - 116 disposed along a length thereof.
- beam 160 of base structure 100 includes corresponding fixture retaining members 161 - 166 disposed along a length thereof.
- Beams 110 , 160 are shown having six fixture retaining members 111 - 116 , 161 - 166 each, however it is envisioned and within the scope of the present disclosure, that more or fewer fixture retaining members may be provided.
- Fixture retaining members 111 - 116 and corresponding fixture retaining member 161 - 166 are configured to detachably retain a fixture thereon.
- Fixture retaining members 111 - 116 , 161 - 166 are shown as pegs 111 - 116 , 161 - 166 in the illustrated embodiments; however it is envisioned that the fixture retaining members 111 - 116 , 161 - 166 may be any mechanism configured to detachably retain a fixture thereon.
- Fixtures 310 , 330 are configured to releasably secure at least one work piece thereon. As shown in FIG. 1 , three work pieces 411 , 412 , 413 are secured on fixture 310 and three work pieces 431 , 432 , 433 are secured on fixture 330 . However, it is envisioned that the fixtures 310 , 330 may be configured such that more or fewer work pieces may be releasably secured thereon.
- At least one work piece holding device such as grippers 311 , 312 , 313 , 331 , 332 , 333 may be disposed on fixtures 310 , 330 , respectively, in order to hold work pieces 411 , 412 , 413 , 431 , 432 , 433 , respectively, in a substantially fixed orientation and position.
- fixture 310 defines apertures 317 , 318 therein and fixture 330 defines apertures 337 , 338 therein.
- Each fixture 310 , 330 may define two apertures, one aperture defined at a first end thereof and the other aperture defined at a second end thereof.
- fixture 310 defines aperture 317 at first end 315 and defines aperture 318 at second end 316 .
- fixture 330 defines aperture 337 at first end 335 and defines aperture 338 at second end 336 .
- the apertures 317 , 337 , 318 , 338 are configured such that pegs 112 , 113 , and 162 , 163 disposed on beams 110 , 160 respectively, may engage fixtures 310 , 330 and detachably retain fixtures 310 , 330 thereon.
- pegs 112 , 162 of beams 110 , 160 respectively are engaging apertures 317 , 318 of fixture 310 , detachably retaining fixture 310 thereon.
- Pegs 113 , 163 of beams 110 , 160 respectively are engaging apertures 337 , 338 of fixture 330 , detachably retaining fixture 330 thereon.
- work pieces 411 , 412 , 413 are held in a substantially fixed position and orientation on fixture 310 by grippers 311 , 312 , 313 and fixture 310 is held in a substantially fixed position and orientation by the fixture retaining members 112 , 162 of the base structure 100 .
- work pieces 431 , 432 , 433 are held in a substantially fixed position and orientation on fixture 330 by grippers 331 , 332 , 333 and fixture 330 is held in a substantially fixed position and orientation by the fixture retaining members 113 , 163 of the base structure 100 .
- this combination maintains a fixed orientation and position of each work piece 411 , 412 , 413 , 431 , 432 , 433 .
- the spacing between pegs 111 - 116 , 161 - 166 may be uniform or different distances.
- Fixtures 310 , 330 may further be configured such that a length of fixtures 310 , 300 is greater than the distance 140 between beams 110 and 160 .
- a portion of each fixture extends beyond each beam 110 , 160 of base structure 100 , thereby creating an over-hang.
- a transferring carriage 200 including beams 210 and 260 .
- Beams 210 , 260 of transfer carriage 200 are substantially parallel and spaced a fixed distance 240 apart.
- the distance 240 between beam 210 and beam 260 of transfer carriage 200 may be greater than the distance 140 between beam 110 and beam 160 of base structure 100 such that transfer carriage 200 may surround base structure 100 , as shown in FIG. 1 .
- Each beam 210 , 260 of transfer carriage 200 may also include at least one recess.
- Each recess 211 - 217 , 261 - 267 may be configured to retain a portion of a fixture therein.
- each recess 211 - 217 , 261 - 267 may be configured to accept an end portion 315 , 316 , 335 , 336 of a fixture 310 , 330 which over-hangs the base structure 100 as described above.
- fixture 310 is detachably secured to base structure 100 via the engagement of peg 112 and aperture 317 at one end 315 and the engagement of peg 162 and aperture 318 at the other end 316 .
- fixture 330 is detachably secured to base structure 100 via the engagement of peg 113 and aperture 337 at one end 315 and the engagement of peg 163 and aperture 338 at the other end 316 .
- the position illustrated in FIG. 2A and described above may be an at-rest or first position.
- Transfer carriage 200 is positioned below base structure 100 .
- Transfer carriage 200 is then translated upwardly relative to base structure 100 in the direction of arrow A. As transfer carriage 200 is moved farther in the direction of arrow A, it eventually contacts fixtures 310 , 330 . The recesses 212 , 213 , 262 , 263 on beams 210 and 260 of transfer carriage 200 engage each end portion 315 , 335 , 316 , 336 of fixtures 310 , 330 , respectively, which overhang base structure 100 . As transfer carriage 200 is moved even farther in the direction of arrow A, fixture ends 315 , 335 , 316 , 336 , which are now partially disposed within recesses 212 , 213 , 262 , 263 , respectively, are lifted along with transfer carriage 200 .
- pegs 112 and 162 disengage from apertures 317 and 318 and pegs 113 and 163 disengage from apertures 337 and 338 , respectively.
- Upward movement maintains the relative position of work pieces 411 , 412 , 413 , 431 , 432 , 433 with respect to transfer carriage 200 of transfer system 10 .
- transfer carriage 200 is positioned above base structure 100 (as a result of the movement described above in connection with FIG. 2A ), thereby suspending fixtures 310 , 330 above base structure 100 .
- Apertures 317 , 318 are positioned directly above pegs 112 , 162 , respectively and apertures 337 , 338 are positioned directly above pegs 113 , 163 , respectively.
- Transfer carriage 200 , and thus fixtures 310 , 330 are then moved in the direction of arrow B relative to base structure 100 .
- Transfer carriage 200 moves fixtures 310 , 330 in the direction of arrow B until apertures 317 , 318 are positioned directly above pegs 113 , 163 , respectively and apertures 337 , 338 are positioned directly above pegs 114 , 164 , respectively.
- transfer carriage 200 is lowered with respect to base structure 100 in the direction of arrow C as shown in FIG. 2C .
- Transfer carriage 200 lowers fixtures 310 , 330 in the direction of arrow C until pegs 113 , 163 of base structure 100 engage apertures 317 , 318 of fixture 310 , respectively and pegs 114 , 164 of base structure 100 engage apertures 337 , 338 of fixture 330 , respectively.
- Transfer carriage 200 is lowered farther such that transfer carriage 200 is disengaged from fixtures 310 , 330 , as shown in FIG. 2D .
- FIG. 2E shows fixtures 310 , 330 detachably secured to base structure 100 via the engagement of pegs 113 , 114 of beam 110 to the respective apertures 317 , 337 of fixtures 310 , 330 and via the engagement of pegs 163 , 164 of beam 160 to the respective apertures 318 , 338 of fixtures 310 , 330 .
- fixtures 310 and 330 are in a second position.
- FIGS. 2A-E illustrate one operation of transfer system 10 in which fixtures 310 , 330 are moved from the first position wherein fixtures 310 , 330 are retained by fixture retaining members 112 , 162 and 113 , 163 , respectively, of base structure 100 to the second position wherein fixtures 310 , 330 are retained by fixture retaining members 113 , 163 and 114 , 164 , respectively, of base structure 100 .
- Fixtures 310 , 330 are transported from the first position to the second position while substantially maintaining the position and orientation of the work pieces 411 , 412 , 413 , 431 , 432 , 433 with respect to the fixtures 310 , 330 and to base 100 .
- two fixtures 310 , 330 are transported from a first position to a second position in FIGS. 2A-E .
- more or fewer fixtures may be transported by the transfer carriage 200 .
- the fixtures 310 , 330 be transported such that the fixtures 310 , 330 are transferred to different operational stations along the base structure 100 , such as filling stations and sealing stations.
- the first and second positions are simply used to represent two different positions and are not intended to define specific locations.
- the fixtures may be transported from one base structure to another base structure.
- fixture 310 ′ includes work pieces 411 ′, 412 ′, 413 ′ and fixture 330 ′ includes work pieces 431 ′, 432 ′, 433 ′.
- Grippers 311 ′, 312 ′, 313 ′, 331 ′, 332 ′, 333 ′ are partially surrounding work pieces 411 ′, 412 ′, 413 ′, 431 ′, 432 ′, 433 ′, respectively.
- FIGS. 3A-B an enlarged work piece 411 ′ is shown, including work piece cap 411 x ′.
- Gripper 311 ′ is partially surrounding work piece 411 ′ with a first part 311 a ′ surrounding one side of work piece 411 ′ and a second part 311 b ′ surrounding an opposite side of work piece 411 ′.
- First and second parts 311 a ′, 311 b ′ of gripper 311 ′ surround and engage cap 411 x ′ of work piece 411 ′, thereby securing work piece 411 ′ in a substantially fixed orientation and position.
- Gripper 311 ′ is secured to fixture 310 ′ such that work piece 411 ′ is secured in a substantially fixed orientation and position to fixture 310 ′. While the specific embodiment of the grippers in FIGS. 3A-B are shown and described, it is contemplated that any gripper system in which a work piece is held in a substantially fixed orientation and position on the fixture is within the scope of the
- transfer system 20 comprises a first base structure 1100 and a second base structure 2100 disposed adjacent to first base structure 1100 .
- First and second base structures 1100 , 2100 are substantially similar to one another.
- First base structure 1100 includes beams 1110 , 1160 , separated a fixed distance 1140 apart.
- second base structure 2100 includes beams 2110 , 2160 , separated a fixed distance 2140 apart.
- Beam 1110 of first base structure 1100 includes fixture retaining members 1111 - 1116 disposed along a length thereof.
- Beam 1160 of first base structure 1100 includes corresponding fixture retaining members 1161 - 1166 disposed along a length thereof.
- Beam 2110 of second base structure 2100 includes fixture retaining members 2111 - 2116 disposed along a length thereof.
- Beam 2160 of second base structure 2100 includes corresponding fixture retaining members 2161 - 2166 disposed along a length thereof. While six fixture retaining members are shown disposed on each of beams 1110 , 1160 , 2110 , 2160 , it is envisioned that more or fewer fixture retaining members 1111 - 1116 , 1161 - 1166 , 2111 - 2116 , 2161 - 2166 may be provided.
- Each fixture retaining member 1111 - 1116 , 2111 - 2116 and corresponding fixture retaining member 1161 - 1166 , 2161 - 2166 are configured to detachably retain a fixture thereon.
- Fixture retaining members 1111 - 1116 , 1161 - 1166 , 2111 - 2116 , 2161 - 2166 are shown as pegs 1111 - 1116 , 1161 - 1166 , 2111 - 2116 , 2161 - 2166 in the illustrated embodiments, however it is envisioned that the fixture retaining members 1111 - 1116 , 1161 - 1166 , 2111 - 2116 , 2161 - 2166 may be any mechanism configured to detachably retain a fixture thereon.
- a first transfer carriage 1200 is provided in connection with the first base structure 1100 .
- a second transfer carriage 2200 is also provided, the second transfer carriage 2200 being associated with the second base structure 2100 .
- the first base structure 1100 and first transfer carriage 1200 and the second base structure 2100 and second transfer carriage 2200 may be configured substantially similarly to base structure 100 and transfer carriage 200 of transfer system 10 , discussed above and illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2 A-E. In this configuration, the distance 1240 between beams 1210 and 1260 of first transfer carriage 1200 would be greater than the distance 1140 between beams 1110 and 1160 of first base structure 1100 , such that first transfer carriage 1200 may surround first base structure 1100 .
- First and second base structures 1100 , 2100 may include at least one fixture retaining member, which may be a peg, and first and second transfer carriages 1200 , 2200 may included at least one recess.
- the operation of each base structure 1100 , 2100 and corresponding transfer carriage 1200 , 2200 would operate in substantially the same manner as described above in connection with transfer system 10 , comprising a single base structure 100 and transfer carriage 200 .
- both base structures 1100 , 2100 and respective transfer carriages 1200 , 2200 may be configured as shown in FIGS. 4-9 .
- first base structure 1100 includes beams 1110 , 1160 separated by a distance 1140 .
- First transfer carriage 1200 includes beams 1210 , 1260 separated by a distance 1240 , which is smaller than distance 1140 .
- first base structure 1100 may surround first transfer carriage 1200 .
- second base structure 2100 includes beams 2110 , 2160 separated by a distance 2140 .
- Second transfer carriage 2200 includes beams 2210 , 2260 separated by a distance 2240 , smaller than distance 2140 , such that second base structure 2100 may surround second transfer carriage 2200 .
- first and second transfer carriages 1200 , 2200 contain at least one peg disposed along a length thereon.
- First and second base structures 1100 , 2100 also include at least one peg disposed along a length thereon configured to detachably secure a fixture thereon, as described above in connection with transfer system 10 .
- each of fixtures 1310 , 1330 , 1350 , 1370 , 1390 , 2310 , 2330 , 2350 , 2370 , 2390 include three apertures defined at a first end and three apertures defined at a second end.
- Fixtures also include grippers secured on each of the fixtures to retain work pieces thereon. Work pieces may be secured to any of the fixtures by the grippers. The grippers are configured to hold work pieces in a substantially fixed orientation and position.
- fixture 1310 defines apertures 1317 a - c at a first end 1315 thereof and defines apertures 1318 a - c at a second end 1316 thereof.
- Fixture 1310 also includes gripper 1311 , 1322 for retaining work pieces thereon.
- Fixtures 1330 , 1350 , 1370 , 1390 , 2310 , 2330 , 2350 , 2370 , 2390 are configured in substantially the same manner as fixture 1310 .
- each fixture includes three apertures defined at a first end and three apertures defined at a second end.
- Each fixture also includes two grippers for retaining work pieces thereon, although it is envisioned that more or fewer grippers may be provided.
- the outer apertures ( 1317 a , 1337 a , 1357 a . . . , 1318 a , 1338 a , 1358 a . . . 2317 a , 2337 a , 2357 a . . . , 2318 a , 2338 a , 2358 a . . . ) are configured such that the pegs disposed on the corresponding base structure ( 1100 for 13 ** a apertures, 2100 for 23 ** a apertures) respectively, may engage the outer apertures and detachably retain the fixtures thereon. As shown in FIG.
- base 1100 includes pegs 1111 - 1115 of beam 1110 engaging outer apertures 1317 a , 1337 a , 1357 a , 1377 a , 1397 a of fixtures 1310 , 1330 , 1350 , 1370 , 1390 , respectively, detachably retaining the fixtures thereon.
- pegs 1161 - 1165 of beam 1160 respectively are engaging outer apertures 1318 a , 1338 a , 1358 a , 1378 a , 1398 a of fixtures 1310 , 1330 , 1350 , 1370 , 1390 , respectively, detachably retaining the fixtures thereon.
- Base 2100 includes pegs 2112 - 2116 of beam 2110 engaging outer apertures 2317 a , 2337 a , 2357 a , 2377 a , 2397 a of fixtures 2310 , 2330 , 2350 , 2370 , 2390 , respectively, detachably retaining the fixtures thereon.
- pegs 2162 - 1166 of beam 2160 respectively are engaging outer apertures 2318 a , 2338 a , 2358 a , 2378 a , 2398 a of fixtures 2310 , 2330 , 2350 , 2370 , 2390 , respectively, detachably retaining the fixtures thereon.
- the fixtures are held in a substantially fixed position and orientation by the fixture retaining members of the base structures, as described above and the work pieces may held in a substantially fixed position and orientation on the fixtures by the grippers, as described above.
- the middle apertures ( 1317 b , 1337 b , 1357 b . . . , 1318 b , 1338 b , 1358 b . . . 2317 b , 2337 b , 2357 b . . . , 2318 b , 2338 b , 2358 b . . . ) defined on each fixture are configured to accept pegs of transfer carriages 1200 , 2200 , in order to detachably secure the fixtures onto transfer carriages 1200 , 2200 during transferring from a first position to a second position, as will be described in more detail below.
- the inner apertures ( 1317 c , 1337 c , 1357 c . . . , 1318 c , 1338 c , 1358 c . . . 2317 c , 2337 c , 2357 c . . . , 2318 c , 2338 c , 2358 c . . . ) of each fixture are configured to accept pegs of side transfer arms 1500 , 2500 ( FIG. 4A ). Side transfer arms 1500 , 2500 will be discussed in more detail below.
- side transfer arms 1500 , 2500 are configured to transport fixtures from one base structure 1100 or 2100 to another base structure 2100 or 1100 .
- Each side transfer arm 1500 , 2500 includes a base portion and two extended arms. Each of the two extended arms contains at least one peg configured to retain a fixture thereon during transportation of the fixture.
- Side transfer arm 1500 includes pegs 1511 , 1512 and side transfer arm 2500 includes pegs 2511 , 2512 . The operation of the side transfer arms 1500 , 2500 will be described in more detail below.
- first base structure 1100 is disposed adjacent to second base structure 2100 .
- Each base structure 1100 , 2100 is detachably securing five fixtures 1310 , 1330 , 1350 , 1370 , 1390 , 2310 , 2330 , 2350 , 2370 , 2390 thereon.
- Fixture retaining members 2112 - 2116 of second base structure 2100 and corresponding fixture retaining members 2162 - 2166 are securing fixtures 2310 , 2330 , 2350 , 2370 , 2390 thereon, via outer apertures 23 * 7 a and 23 * 8 a respectively.
- first side transfer arm 1500 is disposed below fixture 1310 and second side transfer arm 2500 is disposed below fixture 2390 .
- Side transfer arms 1500 , 2500 are moved upward, in the direction of arrow AA, with respect to base structures 1100 , 2100 , such that pegs 1511 , 1512 of first side transfer arm 1500 engage apertures 1317 c , 1318 c of fixture 1310 and such that pegs 2511 , 2512 of second side transfer arm 2500 engage apertures 2397 c , 2398 c of fixture 2390 .
- Side transfer arms 1500 , 2500 are raised farther upward, in the direction of arrow AA, such that apertures 1317 a , 1318 a and 2397 b , 2398 b of fixtures 1310 , 2390 , respectively, are disengaged from pegs 1111 , 1161 , 2116 , 2166 , respectively and are positioned above base structures 1100 , 2100 , respectively.
- first side transfer arm 1500 is moved in the direction of arrow BB.
- Fixture 1310 which is secured to first side transfer arm 1500 , is thus also moved in the direction of arrow BB.
- second side transfer arm 2500 is moved in the direction of arrow CC.
- Fixture 2390 which is secured to second side transfer arm 2500 , is thus also moved in the direction of arrow CC.
- First side transfer arm 1500 is moved farther in the direction of arrow BB until apertures 1317 a and 1318 a are positioned directly above pegs 2111 and 2161 , respectively, of second base structure 2100 .
- second side transfer arm 2500 is moved farther in the direction of arrow CC until apertures 2397 a and 2398 a are positioned directly above pegs 1116 and 1166 of first base structure 1100 .
- side transfer arms 1500 , 2500 are disposed above base structures 1100 , 2100 , respectively, as described above.
- First side transfer arm 1500 is then lowered in the direction of arrow DD with respect to base structure 2100 such that fixture 1310 is also lowered in the direction of arrow DD with respect to base structure 2100 .
- Side transfer arm 1500 is lowered farther until pegs 2111 and 2161 of base structure 2100 engage apertures 1317 a and 1318 a of fixture 1310 , respectively.
- pegs 1511 , 1512 of side transfer arm 1500 are disengaged from apertures 1317 a and 1318 a of fixture 1310 .
- a substantially similar process is carried out by side transfer arm 2500 .
- Side transfer arm 2500 is lowered in the direction of arrow DD such that fixture 2390 is also lowered with respect to base structure 1100 until pegs 1116 and 1166 of base structure 1100 engage apertures 2397 a and 2398 a of fixture plate 2390 , respectively. Pegs 2511 , 2512 of side transfer arm 2500 are eventually disengaged from apertures 2397 a and 2398 a of fixture 2390 .
- FIG. 7 represents the positions of the fixtures relative to base structures 1100 , 2100 after the operation of side transfer arms 1500 , 2500 as described above. More specifically, FIG. 7 reflects that fixture 1310 has been moved from base structure 1100 to base structure 2100 while fixture 2390 has been moved from base structure 2100 to base structure 1100 .
- transfer system 20 includes two base structures and two side transfer arms, it is envisioned that more base structures and thus more side transfer arms could also be used in accordance with the present disclosure. It is also envisioned that the side transfer arms may be configured to detachably secure and transport more than one fixture per operation.
- transfer carriage 1200 has been raised, in the direction of arrow EE such that pegs 1211 - 2115 have engaged apertures 1337 b , 1357 b , 1377 b , 1397 b and 2397 b , respectively and such that pegs 1261 - 1265 have engaged apertures 1338 b , 1358 b , 1378 b and 1398 b , thereby securing fixtures 1330 , 1350 , 1370 , 1390 , 2390 thereon.
- transfer carriage 2200 has been raised, in the direction of arrow EE such that pegs 2211 - 2216 have engaged apertures 1317 b , 2317 b , 2337 b , 2357 b and 2377 b , respectively and such that pegs 2261 - 2265 have engaged apertures 1318 b , 2318 b , 2338 b , 2358 b and 2378 b , thereby securing fixtures 1310 , 2310 , 2330 , 2350 , 2370 thereon.
- transfer carriages 1200 , 2200 are then raised even further, disengaging the outer (“a”) apertures of the fixtures from pegs 1112 - 1116 , 1162 - 1166 , 2111 - 2115 , 2161 - 2165 of base structures 1100 , 2100 .
- Transfer carriage 1200 may then be moved in the direction of arrows FF ( FIG. 8 ).
- transfer carriage 2200 may then be moved in the direction of arrows GG, as shown in FIG. 8 .
- transfer carriages 1200 , 2200 are lowered with respect to base structures 1100 , 2100 , in the direction of arrow HH, such that pegs 1111 - 1115 , 1161 - 1165 , 2112 - 2116 , 2161 - 2166 engage the corresponding “a” apertures of the fixtures, thereby retaining the fixtures thereon.
- Lowering transfer carriages 1200 , 2200 further in the direction of arrow HH disengages the pegs on transfer carriages 1200 , 2200 from the “b” apertures of the fixtures.
Abstract
A transfer system including at least one base structure having at least one fixture retaining member disposed along a length thereof. Each of the at least one fixture retaining members is configured to detachably secure a fixture thereon. A transfer carriage is configured to transport at least one fixture from a first position wherein each fixture is detachably secured to one of the at least one fixture retaining members of the at least one base structure to a second position wherein each fixture is detachably secured to another fixture retaining member of the same base structure.
Description
- 1. Technical Field
- The present disclosure relates to a system and method for helping to maintain the position and orientation of a work piece throughout the filling and packaging process.
- 2. Description of the Related Art
- Machines which are used for pierce filling and laser heat sealing of the filing holes on a work piece require that the orientation and position be maintained from one operation to another. In conventional machines, the stretch, wear and tear, and backlash from the chain, sprockets, couplings, mountings, indexers and reducers can effect the orientation and position of the work piece. Work pieces also very greatly in dimension and thus are difficult to transfer consistently and accurately from one operation station to another.
- In accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, a transfer system is provided, the transfer system including at least one base structure having at least one fixture retaining member disposed along a length thereof. Each fixture retaining member is configured to detachably secure a fixture thereon. A transfer carriage is configured to transport at least one fixture from a first position wherein each fixture is detachably secured to one of the fixture retaining members of the base structure to a second position wherein each fixture is detachably secured to another fixture retaining member of the same base structure.
- The transfer system may further include at least one side transfer arm. Each side transfer arm may be configured to transport at least one fixture from the first position to a third position wherein each fixture is detachably secured to a fixture retaining member of a different base structure.
- In a disclosed embodiment, each fixture retaining member includes at least one peg and each fixture defines at least one aperture therein such that each peg is configured to engage a corresponding aperture and retain the fixture thereon. The transfer carriage may include at least one recess which is configured to retain a fixture therein during transportation from the first position to the second position.
- Each fixture may be configured to retain at least one work piece thereon. A gripper may be provided on each fixture, the gripper being configured to retain a work piece thereon. Each gripper may also be configured to at least partially surround a work piece, wherein each gripper secures the work piece by engaging the cap of each work piece.
- In accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure, a transfer system is provided, the transfer system including first and second base structures disposed adjacent each other wherein each base structure includes at least one fixture retaining member disposed along a length thereof. Each fixture retaining member is configured to detachably secure a fixture thereon. A first transfer carriage is configured to transfer at least one fixture from a fixture retaining member of the first base structure to another fixture retaining member of the first base structure and a second transfer carriage is configured to transfer at least one fixture from a fixture retaining member of the second base structure to another fixture retaining member of the second base structure. A first side transfer arm is configured to transfer at least one fixture from a fixture retaining member of the first base structure to a fixture retaining member of the second base structure and a second side transfer arm is configured to transfer at least one fixture from a fixture retaining member of the second base structure to a fixture retaining of the first base structure.
- A method of transferring work pieces is also provided in accordance with the present disclosure, the method including the steps of providing a transfer system, engaging the transfer carriage with at least one fixture disposed in the first position, lifting the transfer carriage such that the at least one fixture is lifted from the first position, moving the transfer carriage such that the at least one fixture is transported to a location above the second position, lowering the transfer carriage such that the at least one fixture is lowered into the second position and disengaging the transfer carriage from the at least one fixture. The transfer system includes at least one base structure having at least one fixture retaining member disposed along a length thereof. Each of the fixture retaining members is configured to detachably secure a fixture thereon. A transfer carriage is configured to transport at least one fixture from a first position wherein each fixture is detachably secured to one of the fixture retaining members of the at least one base structure to a second position wherein each fixture is detachably secured to another fixture retaining member of the same base structure.
- In another disclosed embodiment, the transfer system provided in the method further includes at least one side transfer arm. Each side transfer arm may be configured to transport at least one fixture from the first position to a third position wherein each fixture is detachably secured to a fixture retaining member of another base structure.
- The method may also include the steps of engaging at least one side transfer arm with at least one fixture disposed in the first position, lifting the at least one side transfer arm such that the at least one fixture is lifted from the first position, moving the at least one side transfer arm such that the at least one fixture is transported to a location above the third position, lowering the at least one side transfer arm such that the at least one fixture is lowered into the third position and disengaging the at least one side transfer arm from the at least one fixture.
- Each of the at least one fixture retaining member may include at least one peg and each fixture may defines at least one aperture therein such that each peg is configured to engage a corresponding aperture and retain the fixture thereon.
- In a disclosed embodiment, the transfer carriage includes at least one recess wherein each recess is configured to retain a fixture therein during transportation from the first position to the second position. Each fixture may be configured to retain at least one work piece thereon. At least one gripper may be provided on each fixture, each gripper being configured to retain a work piece thereon. Each gripper may also be configured to at least partially surround a work piece wherein each gripper secures the work piece by engaging the cap of each work piece.
- Various embodiments of the presently disclosed high accuracy transfer system are described herein with reference to the drawings wherein:
-
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a transfer system in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; -
FIGS. 2A-E are perspective views of the transfer system ofFIG. 1 , showing two fixtures being transferred from a first position to a second position; -
FIG. 3A is a perspective view of the transfer system ofFIG. 1 , showing two fixtures, each fixture retaining three work pieces thereon via grippers; -
FIG. 3B is a perspective view of a work piece ofFIG. 3A , showing a gripper partially surrounding the work piece and engaging the work piece at a cap of the work piece, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; -
FIG. 4A is a perspective view of a transfer system in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure; -
FIG. 4B is an exploded perspective view of the fixtures ofFIG. 4A ; -
FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the transfer system ofFIG. 4A , wherein side transfer arms have begun to transport fixtures; -
FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the transfer system ofFIGS. 4A and 5 , wherein the side transfer arms have transported the fixtures to above a third position; -
FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the transfer system ofFIGS. 4-6 , wherein the side transfer arms have been disengaged from the fixture; -
FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the transfer system ofFIGS. 4-7 , wherein the transfer carriage engages at least one fixture; and -
FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the transfer system ofFIGS. 3-8 , wherein the transfer carriage has transported the fixtures to a second position. - Embodiments of the presently disclosed transfer system will now be described in detail with reference to the drawings, in which like reference numerals designate identical or corresponding elements in each of the several views.
- The presently disclosed transfer systems are configured such that work pieces are maintained in a substantially fixed orientation and position on a fixture throughout the transferring of the fixtures from different locations. Maintaining a fixed orientation and position of the work piece helps create a high-accuracy system applicable to transferring, filling, sealing, and other operations.
- Referring now to the drawings,
FIG. 1 illustrates atransfer system 10 including abase structure 100.Base structure 100 includes two substantiallyparallel beams distance 140 apart and connected viaconnector beams 150.Beam 110 ofbase structure 100 includes fixture retaining members 111-116 disposed along a length thereof. Similarly,beam 160 ofbase structure 100 includes corresponding fixture retaining members 161-166 disposed along a length thereof.Beams -
Fixtures FIG. 1 , threework pieces fixture 310 and threework pieces fixture 330. However, it is envisioned that thefixtures grippers fixtures work pieces - In the embodiment of
FIG. 1 ,fixture 310 definesapertures fixture 330 definesapertures fixture FIG. 1 ,fixture 310 definesaperture 317 atfirst end 315 and definesaperture 318 atsecond end 316. Similarly,fixture 330 definesaperture 337 atfirst end 335 and definesaperture 338 atsecond end 336. Theapertures beams fixtures fixtures FIG. 1 , pegs 112, 162 ofbeams apertures fixture 310, detachably retainingfixture 310 thereon.Pegs beams apertures fixture 330, detachably retainingfixture 330 thereon. In such a configuration,work pieces fixture 310 bygrippers fixture 310 is held in a substantially fixed position and orientation by thefixture retaining members base structure 100. Similarly,work pieces fixture 330 bygrippers fixture 330 is held in a substantially fixed position and orientation by thefixture retaining members base structure 100. Thus, this combination maintains a fixed orientation and position of eachwork piece -
Fixtures fixtures 310, 300 is greater than thedistance 140 betweenbeams fixture retaining members fixtures 310, 330 (e.g. through a peg-aperture connection), a portion of each fixture extends beyond eachbeam base structure 100, thereby creating an over-hang. - With continued reference to
FIG. 1 , a transferringcarriage 200 is shown includingbeams Beams transfer carriage 200 are substantially parallel and spaced a fixeddistance 240 apart. Thedistance 240 betweenbeam 210 andbeam 260 oftransfer carriage 200 may be greater than thedistance 140 betweenbeam 110 andbeam 160 ofbase structure 100 such thattransfer carriage 200 may surroundbase structure 100, as shown inFIG. 1 . Eachbeam transfer carriage 200 may also include at least one recess. Each recess 211-217, 261-267 may be configured to retain a portion of a fixture therein. Specifically, each recess 211-217, 261-267 may be configured to accept anend portion fixture base structure 100 as described above. - Referring now to
FIGS. 2A-E , the operation oftransfer system 10 in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure will now be discussed. As shown in FIG. 2A,fixture 310 is detachably secured tobase structure 100 via the engagement ofpeg 112 andaperture 317 at oneend 315 and the engagement ofpeg 162 andaperture 318 at theother end 316. Similarly,fixture 330 is detachably secured tobase structure 100 via the engagement ofpeg 113 andaperture 337 at oneend 315 and the engagement ofpeg 163 andaperture 338 at theother end 316. As a point of reference, the position illustrated inFIG. 2A and described above may be an at-rest or first position.Transfer carriage 200 is positioned belowbase structure 100.Transfer carriage 200 is then translated upwardly relative tobase structure 100 in the direction of arrow A. Astransfer carriage 200 is moved farther in the direction of arrow A, it eventuallycontacts fixtures recesses beams transfer carriage 200 engage eachend portion fixtures overhang base structure 100. Astransfer carriage 200 is moved even farther in the direction of arrow A, fixture ends 315, 335, 316, 336, which are now partially disposed withinrecesses transfer carriage 200. As thefixtures transfer carriage 200, pegs 112 and 162 disengage fromapertures apertures work pieces carriage 200 oftransfer system 10. - Muhammad, we need additional information as to how the system moves the beams of the transfer carriage both vertically and horizontally. I presume you would employ an electric motor coupled to the beams using gears, pulleys, or the like. Also, what type of controller is coupled to the system for regulating the movement of the beams? We would also appreciate line drawings for the two systems so we do not have to employ the services of a draftsman to prepare the drawings for filing in the USPTO. Any additional information you could provide would be greatly appreciated.
- Referring now to
FIG. 2B ,transfer carriage 200 is positioned above base structure 100 (as a result of the movement described above in connection withFIG. 2A ), thereby suspendingfixtures base structure 100.Apertures pegs apertures pegs Transfer carriage 200, and thusfixtures base structure 100.Transfer carriage 200moves fixtures apertures pegs apertures pegs - Once
transfer carriage 200 has movedfixtures pegs apertures pegs transfer carriage 200 is lowered with respect tobase structure 100 in the direction of arrow C as shown inFIG. 2C .Transfer carriage 200 lowersfixtures pegs base structure 100 engageapertures fixture 310, respectively and pegs 114, 164 ofbase structure 100 engageapertures fixture 330, respectively.Transfer carriage 200 is lowered farther such thattransfer carriage 200 is disengaged fromfixtures FIG. 2D . -
FIG. 2E showsfixtures base structure 100 via the engagement ofpegs beam 110 to therespective apertures fixtures pegs beam 160 to therespective apertures fixtures FIG. 2E ,fixtures -
FIGS. 2A-E illustrate one operation oftransfer system 10 in whichfixtures fixtures fixture retaining members base structure 100 to the second position whereinfixtures fixture retaining members base structure 100.Fixtures work pieces fixtures base 100. - Simply by way of example, two
fixtures FIGS. 2A-E . However, it is envisioned that more or fewer fixtures may be transported by thetransfer carriage 200. It is also within the scope of, and contemplated by, the present disclosure that thefixtures fixtures base structure 100, such as filling stations and sealing stations. The first and second positions are simply used to represent two different positions and are not intended to define specific locations. As will be described hereinbelow, it is also envisioned that the fixtures may be transported from one base structure to another base structure. - Referring now to
FIG. 3A , twofixtures 310′ and 330′ are shown in which another embodiment of the grippers is shown. In the embodiment shown inFIG. 3A ,fixture 310′ includeswork pieces 411′, 412′, 413′ andfixture 330′ includeswork pieces 431′, 432′, 433′.Grippers 311′, 312′, 313′, 331′, 332′, 333′ are partially surroundingwork pieces 411′, 412′, 413′, 431′, 432′, 433′, respectively. Referring now toFIG. 3B , anenlarged work piece 411′ is shown, includingwork piece cap 411 x′.Gripper 311′ is partially surroundingwork piece 411′ with afirst part 311 a′ surrounding one side ofwork piece 411′ and asecond part 311 b′ surrounding an opposite side ofwork piece 411′. First andsecond parts 311 a′, 311 b′ ofgripper 311′ surround and engagecap 411 x′ ofwork piece 411′, thereby securingwork piece 411′ in a substantially fixed orientation and position.Gripper 311′ is secured tofixture 310′ such thatwork piece 411′ is secured in a substantially fixed orientation and position tofixture 310′. While the specific embodiment of the grippers inFIGS. 3A-B are shown and described, it is contemplated that any gripper system in which a work piece is held in a substantially fixed orientation and position on the fixture is within the scope of the present disclosure. - In another embodiment in accordance with the present disclosure, illustrated in
FIGS. 4-9 ,transfer system 20 comprises afirst base structure 1100 and asecond base structure 2100 disposed adjacent tofirst base structure 1100. First andsecond base structures First base structure 1100 includesbeams distance 1140 apart. Similarly,second base structure 2100 includesbeams distance 2140 apart.Beam 1110 offirst base structure 1100 includes fixture retaining members 1111-1116 disposed along a length thereof.Beam 1160 offirst base structure 1100 includes corresponding fixture retaining members 1161-1166 disposed along a length thereof.Beam 2110 ofsecond base structure 2100 includes fixture retaining members 2111-2116 disposed along a length thereof.Beam 2160 ofsecond base structure 2100 includes corresponding fixture retaining members 2161-2166 disposed along a length thereof. While six fixture retaining members are shown disposed on each ofbeams - A
first transfer carriage 1200 is provided in connection with thefirst base structure 1100. Asecond transfer carriage 2200 is also provided, thesecond transfer carriage 2200 being associated with thesecond base structure 2100. Thefirst base structure 1100 andfirst transfer carriage 1200 and thesecond base structure 2100 andsecond transfer carriage 2200 may be configured substantially similarly tobase structure 100 andtransfer carriage 200 oftransfer system 10, discussed above and illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2A-E. In this configuration, thedistance 1240 betweenbeams first transfer carriage 1200 would be greater than thedistance 1140 betweenbeams first base structure 1100, such thatfirst transfer carriage 1200 may surroundfirst base structure 1100. Thedistance 2240 between beams 2210 and 2260 ofsecond transfer carriage 2200 would also be greater than thedistance 2140 betweenbeams second base structure 2100, such thatsecond transfer carriage 2200 may surroundsecond base structure 2100. First andsecond base structures second transfer carriages base structure corresponding transfer carriage transfer system 10, comprising asingle base structure 100 andtransfer carriage 200. - Alternatively, both
base structures respective transfer carriages FIGS. 4-9 . As illustrated inFIG. 4A ,first base structure 1100 includesbeams distance 1140.First transfer carriage 1200 includesbeams distance 1240, which is smaller thandistance 1140. Thus, as shown inFIG. 4A ,first base structure 1100 may surroundfirst transfer carriage 1200. Similarly,second base structure 2100 includesbeams distance 2140.Second transfer carriage 2200 includes beams 2210, 2260 separated by adistance 2240, smaller thandistance 2140, such thatsecond base structure 2100 may surroundsecond transfer carriage 2200. In this configuration, first andsecond transfer carriages second base structures transfer system 10. - With reference to
FIG. 4B , each offixtures - More specifically, as shown in
FIG. 4B ,fixture 1310 defines apertures 1317 a-c at afirst end 1315 thereof and defines apertures 1318 a-c at asecond end 1316 thereof.Fixture 1310 also includesgripper 1311, 1322 for retaining work pieces thereon.Fixtures fixture 1310. Thus, each fixture includes three apertures defined at a first end and three apertures defined at a second end. Each fixture also includes two grippers for retaining work pieces thereon, although it is envisioned that more or fewer grippers may be provided. - Generally, the outer apertures (1317 a, 1337 a, 1357 a . . . , 1318 a, 1338 a, 1358 a . . . 2317 a, 2337 a, 2357 a . . . , 2318 a, 2338 a, 2358 a . . . ) are configured such that the pegs disposed on the corresponding base structure (1100 for 13**a apertures, 2100 for 23**a apertures) respectively, may engage the outer apertures and detachably retain the fixtures thereon. As shown in
FIG. 4A ,base 1100 includes pegs 1111-1115 ofbeam 1110 engagingouter apertures fixtures beam 1160 respectively are engagingouter apertures fixtures Base 2100 includes pegs 2112-2116 ofbeam 2110 engagingouter apertures fixtures beam 2160 respectively are engagingouter apertures fixtures - With continued reference to
FIG. 4B , the middle apertures (1317 b, 1337 b, 1357 b . . . , 1318 b, 1338 b, 1358 b . . . 2317 b, 2337 b, 2357 b . . . , 2318 b, 2338 b, 2358 b . . . ) defined on each fixture are configured to accept pegs oftransfer carriages transfer carriages side transfer arms 1500, 2500 (FIG. 4A ).Side transfer arms - As shown in FIGS. 4A & 5-9,
side transfer arms base structure base structure side transfer arm Side transfer arm 1500 includespegs side transfer arm 2500 includespegs side transfer arms - The operation of
transfer system 20, in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure will now be described with reference toFIGS. 4-9 . As shown inFIG. 4A ,first base structure 1100 is disposed adjacent tosecond base structure 2100. Eachbase structure fixtures first base structure 1100 and corresponding fixture retaining members 1111-1115 are securingfixtures fixture 1310, *=3 forfixture 1330 . . . ), respectively. Fixture retaining members 2112-2116 ofsecond base structure 2100 and corresponding fixture retaining members 2162-2166 are securingfixtures - With continued reference to
FIG. 4A , firstside transfer arm 1500 is disposed belowfixture 1310 and secondside transfer arm 2500 is disposed belowfixture 2390.Side transfer arms base structures side transfer arm 1500 engageapertures fixture 1310 and such that pegs 2511, 2512 of secondside transfer arm 2500 engageapertures fixture 2390.Side transfer arms apertures fixtures pegs base structures - Referring now to
FIG. 5 , firstside transfer arm 1500 is moved in the direction of arrow BB.Fixture 1310, which is secured to firstside transfer arm 1500, is thus also moved in the direction of arrow BB. Similarly, secondside transfer arm 2500 is moved in the direction of arrow CC.Fixture 2390, which is secured to secondside transfer arm 2500, is thus also moved in the direction of arrow CC. Firstside transfer arm 1500 is moved farther in the direction of arrow BB untilapertures pegs second base structure 2100. Similarly, secondside transfer arm 2500 is moved farther in the direction of arrow CC untilapertures pegs first base structure 1100. - Referring now to
FIG. 6 ,side transfer arms base structures side transfer arm 1500 is then lowered in the direction of arrow DD with respect tobase structure 2100 such thatfixture 1310 is also lowered in the direction of arrow DD with respect tobase structure 2100.Side transfer arm 1500 is lowered farther untilpegs base structure 2100 engageapertures fixture 1310, respectively. Upon further lowering ofside transfer arm 1500, pegs 1511, 1512 ofside transfer arm 1500 are disengaged fromapertures fixture 1310. A substantially similar process is carried out byside transfer arm 2500.Side transfer arm 2500 is lowered in the direction of arrow DD such thatfixture 2390 is also lowered with respect tobase structure 1100 untilpegs base structure 1100 engageapertures fixture plate 2390, respectively.Pegs side transfer arm 2500 are eventually disengaged fromapertures fixture 2390. -
FIG. 7 represents the positions of the fixtures relative tobase structures side transfer arms FIG. 7 reflects thatfixture 1310 has been moved frombase structure 1100 tobase structure 2100 whilefixture 2390 has been moved frombase structure 2100 tobase structure 1100. - While the above-described operation of
transfer system 20 includes two base structures and two side transfer arms, it is envisioned that more base structures and thus more side transfer arms could also be used in accordance with the present disclosure. It is also envisioned that the side transfer arms may be configured to detachably secure and transport more than one fixture per operation. - Beginning with
FIG. 7 , another operation oftransfer system 20 will now be described with reference toFIGS. 7-9 . - As illustrated in
FIG. 7 ,transfer carriage 1200 has been raised, in the direction of arrow EE such that pegs 1211-2115 have engagedapertures apertures fixtures transfer carriage 2200 has been raised, in the direction of arrow EE such that pegs 2211-2216 have engagedapertures apertures fixtures system 10,transfer carriages base structures Transfer carriage 1200 may then be moved in the direction of arrows FF (FIG. 8 ). Similarly,transfer carriage 2200 may then be moved in the direction of arrows GG, as shown inFIG. 8 . - Referring now to
FIG. 9 ,transfer carriages base structures transfer carriages transfer carriages - While several embodiments of the disclosure have been shown in the drawings and/or discussed herein, it is not intended that the disclosure be limited thereto, as it is intended that the disclosure be as broad in scope as the art will allow and that the specification be read likewise. Therefore, the above description should not be construed as limiting, but merely as exemplifications of particular embodiments. Those skilled in the art will envision other modifications within the scope and spirit of the claims appended hereto.
Claims (16)
1. A transfer system comprising:
at least one base structure including at least one fixture retaining member disposed along a length thereof, each of the at least one fixture retaining member being configured to detachably secure a fixture thereon; and
a transfer carriage configured to transport at least one fixture from a first position wherein each fixture is detachably secured to one of the at least one fixture retaining member of the at least one base structure to a second position wherein each fixture is detachably secured to another fixture retaining member of the same base structure.
2. The transfer system of claim 1 , further comprising at least one side transfer arm, each side transfer arm being configured to transport at least one fixture from the first position to a third position wherein each fixture is detachably secured to a fixture retaining member of a different base structure.
3. The transfer system of claim 1 , wherein each of the at least one fixture retaining member includes at least one peg and wherein each fixture defines at least one aperture therein such that each peg is configured to engage a corresponding aperture and retain the fixture thereon.
4. The transfer system of claim 1 , wherein the transfer carriage includes at least one recess, each recess configured to retain a fixture therein during transportation from the first position to the second position.
5. The transfer system of claim 1 , wherein each fixture is configured to retain at least one work piece thereon.
6. The transfer system of claim 1 , wherein each fixture includes at least one gripper, each gripper being configured to retain a work piece thereon.
7. The transfer system of claim 6 , wherein each gripper is configured to at least partially surround a work piece and wherein each gripper secures the work piece by engaging the cap of each work piece.
8. A transfer system comprising:
first and second base structures disposed adjacent each other, each base structure including at least one fixture retaining member disposed along a length thereof, each of the at least one fixture retaining member being configured to detachably secure a fixture thereon;
a first transfer carriage configured to transfer at least one fixture from a fixture retaining member of the first base structure to another fixture retaining member of the first base structure;
a second transfer carriage configured to transfer at least one fixture from a fixture retaining member of the second base structure to another fixture retaining member of the second base structure;
a first side transfer arm configured to transfer at least one fixture from a fixture retaining member of the first base structure to a fixture retaining member of the second base structure; and
a second side transfer arm configured to transfer at least one fixture from a fixture retaining member of the second base structure to a fixture retaining member of the first base structure.
9. A method of transferring work pieces comprising the steps of:
providing a transfer system comprising:
at least one base structure including at least one fixture retaining member disposed along a length thereof, each of the at least one fixture retaining member being configured to detachably secure a fixture thereon; and
a transfer carriage configured to transport at least one fixture from a first position wherein each fixture is detachably secured to one of the at least one fixture retaining member of the at least one base structure to a second position wherein each fixture is detachably secured to another fixture retaining member of the same base structure;
engaging the transfer carriage with at least one fixture disposed in the first position;
lifting the transfer carriage such that the at least one fixture is lifted from the first position;
moving the transfer carriage such that the at least one fixture is transported to a location above the second position;
lowering the transfer carriage such that the at least one fixture is lowered into the second position; and
disengaging the transfer carriage from the at least one fixture.
10. The method of claim 9 , wherein the transfer system further comprises at least one side transfer arm, each side transfer arm being configured to transport at least one fixture from the first position to a third position wherein each fixture is detachably secured to a fixture retaining member of another base structure.
11. The method of claim 10 , further comprising the steps of:
engaging at least one side transfer arm with at least one fixture disposed in the first position;
lifting the at least one side transfer arm such that the at least one fixture is lifted from the first position;
moving the at least one side transfer arm such that the at least one fixture is transported to a location above the third position;
lowering the at least one side transfer arm such that the at least one fixture is lowered into the third position; and
disengaging the at least one side transfer arm from the at least one fixture.
12. The method of claim 9 , wherein each of the at least one fixture retaining member comprises at least one peg and wherein each fixture defines at least one aperture therein such that each peg is configured to engage a corresponding aperture and retain the fixture thereon.
13. The method of claim 9 , wherein the transfer carriage includes at least one recess, each recess configured to retain a fixture therein during transportation from the first position to the second position.
14. The method of claim 9 , wherein each fixture is configured to retain at least one work piece thereon.
15. The method of claim 9 , wherein each fixture includes at least one gripper, each gripper being configured to retain a work piece thereon.
16. The method of claim 15 , wherein each gripper is configured to at least partially surround a work piece and wherein each gripper secures the work piece by engaging the cap of each work piece.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US12/565,915 US20110070056A1 (en) | 2009-09-24 | 2009-09-24 | High accuracy transfer system for intact filling |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US12/565,915 US20110070056A1 (en) | 2009-09-24 | 2009-09-24 | High accuracy transfer system for intact filling |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
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US20110070056A1 true US20110070056A1 (en) | 2011-03-24 |
Family
ID=43756757
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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US12/565,915 Abandoned US20110070056A1 (en) | 2009-09-24 | 2009-09-24 | High accuracy transfer system for intact filling |
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US (1) | US20110070056A1 (en) |
Cited By (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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CN102649508A (en) * | 2012-05-10 | 2012-08-29 | 苏州瀚川机电有限公司 | Conveying equipment |
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US5856924A (en) * | 1994-05-06 | 1999-01-05 | Brost; Randolph C. | Processor and method for developing a set of admissible fixture designs for a workpiece |
US6116075A (en) * | 1999-05-06 | 2000-09-12 | Hms Products Co. | Transfer bar attachment |
US6134939A (en) * | 1999-07-02 | 2000-10-24 | Hms Products | Toolless quick release of transfer bar |
US6691856B1 (en) * | 1999-11-05 | 2004-02-17 | Bouwe Prakken | Conveyor track of the smart-track type |
US20090202323A1 (en) * | 2007-10-24 | 2009-08-13 | Applied Materials Baccini Spa Con Socio Unico | Alignment device and method to align plates for electronic circuits |
US7784324B2 (en) * | 2006-05-31 | 2010-08-31 | Schuler Pressen GmbH Co. KG | Workpiece gripper arrangement for automatic tool change operations |
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2009
- 2009-09-24 US US12/565,915 patent/US20110070056A1/en not_active Abandoned
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US5856924A (en) * | 1994-05-06 | 1999-01-05 | Brost; Randolph C. | Processor and method for developing a set of admissible fixture designs for a workpiece |
US6116075A (en) * | 1999-05-06 | 2000-09-12 | Hms Products Co. | Transfer bar attachment |
US6134939A (en) * | 1999-07-02 | 2000-10-24 | Hms Products | Toolless quick release of transfer bar |
US6691856B1 (en) * | 1999-11-05 | 2004-02-17 | Bouwe Prakken | Conveyor track of the smart-track type |
US7784324B2 (en) * | 2006-05-31 | 2010-08-31 | Schuler Pressen GmbH Co. KG | Workpiece gripper arrangement for automatic tool change operations |
US20090202323A1 (en) * | 2007-10-24 | 2009-08-13 | Applied Materials Baccini Spa Con Socio Unico | Alignment device and method to align plates for electronic circuits |
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CN102649508A (en) * | 2012-05-10 | 2012-08-29 | 苏州瀚川机电有限公司 | Conveying equipment |
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Owner name: MODERN PACKAGING INC., NEW YORK Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:DABEK, JAROSLAW;HOSSAIN, SYED ZAKI;REEL/FRAME:023277/0507 Effective date: 20090923 |
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