U.S. patent application number 16/129290 was filed with the patent office on 2019-01-10 for spool securing mechanism.
The applicant listed for this patent is PLOMBCO INC.. Invention is credited to Maxime CHEVRIER, Mathieu PARE, Jean PREVOST.
Application Number | 20190010012 16/129290 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 59679360 |
Filed Date | 2019-01-10 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20190010012 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
CHEVRIER; Maxime ; et
al. |
January 10, 2019 |
SPOOL SECURING MECHANISM
Abstract
A spool-securing mechanism is presented herein and comprises a
spool-engaging member including a rotation axis thereof, a
spool-contacting member comprising a fixed portion fixedly secured
to the spool-engaging member about the rotation axis and a mobile
portion slidably secured to the spool-engaging member about the
rotation axis, the mobile portion being distal and adjacent to the
fixed portion, the spool-securing mechanism further comprising a
torque member rotatably secured to the spool-engaging member distal
to the mobile portion, the torque member comprising at least one
radially disposed slot-engaging member, and a locking member
secured to a distal end of the spool-engaging member. A kit and a
method of use thereof are equally herein presented.
Inventors: |
CHEVRIER; Maxime;
(Saint-Michel, CA) ; PARE; Mathieu; (Beauharnois,
CA) ; PREVOST; Jean; (Notre-Dame-de-l'Ile-Perrot,
CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
PLOMBCO INC. |
Salaberry-de-Valleyfield |
|
CA |
|
|
Family ID: |
59679360 |
Appl. No.: |
16/129290 |
Filed: |
September 12, 2018 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
15175475 |
Jun 7, 2016 |
10112798 |
|
|
16129290 |
|
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|
|
62334181 |
May 10, 2016 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65H 2701/5122 20130101;
B65H 49/26 20130101; B65H 75/182 20130101; B65H 2701/5136 20130101;
B65H 2701/37 20130101; B65H 2553/52 20130101; B65H 75/22 20130101;
B65H 75/30 20130101; B65H 75/14 20130101; B65H 54/543 20130101 |
International
Class: |
B65H 49/26 20060101
B65H049/26; B65H 75/18 20060101 B65H075/18; B65H 75/22 20060101
B65H075/22 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Feb 29, 2016 |
CA |
PCT/CA2016/000056 |
Claims
1. A spool-securing mechanism comprising: a spool-engaging member
including a rotation axis thereof; a spool-contacting member
comprising a fixed portion fixedly secured to the spool-engaging
member about the rotation axis; and a mobile portion slidably
secured to the spool-engaging member along the rotation axis, the
mobile portion being distal and adjacent to the fixed portion, the
spool-securing mechanism further comprising a torque member
rotatably secured to the spool-engaging member distal to the mobile
portion, the torque member comprising at least one radially
disposed slot-engaging member, and a locking member secured to a
distal end of the spool-engaging member for securing a spool on the
torque member.
2. The spool-securing mechanism of claim 1, wherein the fixed
portion comprises a female key receiver sized and designed to
secure a key lock therein to prevent rotation of the fixed portion
with respect to the spool-engaging member.
3. The spool-securing mechanism of claim 1, wherein the fixed
portion is axially secured to the spool-engaging member with a
fastener.
4. The spool-securing mechanism of claim 1, wherein the mobile
portion is secured to the spool-engaging member via a key lock to
prevent rotation of the fixed portion with respect to the
spool-engaging member.
5. The spool-securing mechanism of claim 1, wherein the mobile
portion is axially movable and biased from the fixed portion with a
biasing member.
6. The spool-securing mechanism of claim 1, wherein the mobile
portion includes four female key receivers therein.
7. The spool-securing mechanism of claim 6, wherein the mobile
portion includes two recessed portions in communication with four
female key receivers sized and designed to limit angular rotation
of the slot-engaging members therein.
8. The spool-securing mechanism of claim 7, wherein the two
recessed portions are sized and designed to allow angular rotation
of the torque member of about 90 degree about the rotation axis,
between a spool-locking configuration and a spool-engaging
configuration, when the mobile portion is pushed against the fixed
portion in a compressed configuration.
9. The spool-securing mechanism of claim 8, wherein one
slot-engaging member is aligned with the locking member in the
spool-engaging configuration.
10. The spool-securing mechanism of claim 9, wherein one
slot-engaging member and the locking member have a similar
profile.
11. The spool-securing mechanism of claim 1, wherein the at least
one radially disposed slot-engaging member is a pair of radially
disposed slot-engaging members.
12. A spool-securing kit comprising: a spool-engaging member
including a rotation axis thereof; a spool-contacting member
comprising a fixed portion adapted to be fixedly secured to the
spool-engaging member about the rotation axis; and a mobile portion
adapted to be slidably secured to the spool-engaging member about
the rotation axis, the mobile portion being secured distal and
adjacent to the fixed portion, the spool-securing mechanism further
comprising a torque member adapted to be rotatably secured to the
spool-engaging member distal to the mobile portion, the torque
member comprising at least one radially disposed slot-engaging
member, and a locking member adapted to be secured to a distal end
of the spool-engaging member.
13. The spool-securing kit of claim 12, wherein the fixed portion
comprises a female key receiver sized and designed to secure a key
lock therein to prevent rotation of the fixed portion with respect
to the spool-engaging member.
14. The spool-securing kit of claim 12, wherein the fixed portion
is adapted to be axially secured to the spool-engaging member with
a fastener.
15. The spool-securing kit of claim 12, wherein the mobile portion
is adapted to be secured to the spool-engaging member via a key
lock to prevent rotation of the fixed portion with respect to the
spool-engaging member.
16. The spool-securing kit of claim 12, wherein the mobile portion
is adapted to be axially movable and biased from the fixed portion
with a biasing member.
17. The spool-securing kit of claim 12, wherein the mobile portion
includes four female key receivers.
18. The spool-securing kit of claim 17, wherein the mobile portion
includes two recessed portions, each angularly communicating
between a pair of adjacent female key receivers sized and designed
to limit angular rotation of the slot-engaging members therein.
19. The spool-securing kit of claim 18, wherein the two recessed
portions are sized and designed to allow angular rotation of the
torque member of 90 degree about the rotation axis, between a
spool-locking configuration and a spool-engaging configuration,
when the mobile portion is pushed against the fixed portion in a
compressed configuration.
20. The spool-securing kit of claim 19, wherein one slot-engaging
member is adapted to be aligned with the locking member in the
spool-engaging configuration.
21. The spool-securing kit of claim 12, wherein the at least one
radially disposed slot-engaging member is a pair of radially
disposed slot-engaging members.
22. A method of securing a spool to a spool-securing mechanism, the
method comprising: axially aligning a slot-engaging member and a
locking member of the spool-securing mechanism; axially engaging a
central opening and a locking member receiver of a spool with a
spool-engaging member, the slot-engaging member thereof and the
locking member thereof of the spool-securing mechanism; axially
pushing the spool on the spool-engaging member to apply pressure
against a mobile portion toward against a fixed portion of the
spool-securing mechanism to disengage a torque member from the
mobile portion; rotating the spool 90 degree to rotate the torque
member of the spool-securing mechanism; and axially releasing the
pressure against the mobile portion of the spool-securing mechanism
to lock the torque member with the mobile portion and lock the
spool on the spool-securing mechanism with the locking member.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCES
[0001] The present application claims priority from and is a
continuing application of U.S. patent application Ser. No.
15/175,475, filed Jun. 7, 2016, entitled SPOOL ASSEMBLY AND METHOD
OF USE THEREOF, which is a non-provisional of and claims priority
from U.S. provisional patent application No. 62/334,181, filed May
10, 2016, entitled SPOOL SECURING MECHANISM AND METHOD OF USE
THEREOF, and PCT application no. PCT/CA2016/000056, filed Feb. 29,
2016, entitled BALANCING WEIGHT APPLICATION MACHINE AND METHOD OF
USE THEREOF, these applications are incorporated herein by
reference in their entireties.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] This invention relates to a spool and mechanism for securing
a spool to a shaft. The invention also relates to a method of using
same.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Spools are used for receiving thereon a strip of parts. The
strip of parts can be easily handled with the spool and be provided
to a machine for further transformation or installation on a
manufactured product. Spools can have various formats and
configurations adapted to their intended use. Spools, for instance,
can be made of two assembled sides cooperating together to house
and wind the strip of parts in a radial overlapping arrangement
adapted to be unwinded when parts are required during the
manufacturing process.
[0004] The two sides of the spool can be made of metallic, plastic
or other types of materials suitable for sustaining the required
mechanical load applied to the spool. Ideally, the two sides of the
spool are made of strong and light material. The spool is generally
rotatably secured on a support shaft for winding and unwinding the
strip of parts.
[0005] Manipulation of spools can be difficult given the weight of
the strip winded thereon. Replacement of empty spools might be
tedious to keep an assembly line working without having to stop for
spool replacement. Spools supporting a heavy strip of parts can
also be challenging to actuate without damaging the spool.
[0006] Therefore, there is a need in the art for an improved spool
and a way to secure the spool on support shaft. A need has been
felt to support and manage rotation of the spool with a shaft that
can secure the spool thereon. Additionally, there is a need for a
spool-securing mechanism that can automatically secure and unsecure
a spool thereon.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] It is one aspect of the present invention to alleviate one
or more of the drawbacks of the background art by addressing one or
more of the existing needs in the art.
[0008] The present application is generally concerned, in
accordance with at least one embodiment thereof, with a
spool-supporting assembly including a spool-engaging member
configured to receive and secure thereon a spool.
[0009] The present application is generally concerned, in
accordance with at least one embodiment thereof, with a
spool-supporting assembly capable of rotationally engaging and
axially securing the spool.
[0010] The present application is also generally concerned, in
accordance with at least one embodiment thereof, with a
spool-supporting assembly capable of automatically charging and
discharging a spool thereon.
[0011] An aspect of the present invention provides, in accordance
with at least one embodiment thereof, a spool-engaging member
adapted to engage, support and lock a spool thereon without human
intervention.
[0012] An aspect of the present invention provides, in accordance
with at least one embodiment thereof, a spool-engaging member
rotatably managing the unwinding of a spool thereon.
[0013] An aspect of the present invention provides, in accordance
with at least one embodiment thereof, a spool-engaging member
securing a spool thereon with a partial rotation of the spool in
respect with the spool-engaging support.
[0014] An aspect of the present invention provides, in accordance
with at least one embodiment thereof, a spool-engaging support
requiring an axial compression to lock the spool thereon.
[0015] An aspect of the present invention provides, in accordance
with at least one embodiment thereof, a spool-engaging member that
axially compresses the two sides of the spool toward each other for
locking the spool thereon.
[0016] An aspect of the present invention provides, in accordance
with at least one embodiment thereof, a spool including a central
opening including a locking member receiver.
[0017] An aspect of the present invention provides, in accordance
with at least one embodiment thereof, a spool including a distal
side and a proximal side axially assembled thereof.
[0018] An aspect of the present invention provides, in accordance
with at least one embodiment thereof, a spool with a locking
mechanism configured to be engaged with a partial rotation of the
spool.
[0019] An aspect of the present invention provides, in accordance
with at least one embodiment thereof, a spool and adaptor assembly
allowing to secure the spool on a spool-engaging member via the
adaptor.
[0020] An aspect of the present invention provides, in accordance
with at least one embodiment thereof, a spool designed to sustain
rotational torque with an axial slot therein.
[0021] An aspect of the present invention provides, in accordance
with at least one embodiment thereof, a spool including two similar
halves--a distal side and a proximal side.
[0022] An aspect of the present invention provides, in accordance
with at least one embodiment thereof, a spool including an RFID tag
therein.
[0023] An aspect of the present invention provides, in accordance
with at least one embodiment thereof, a spool sized and designed to
wind about 9 kg of goods thereon.
[0024] An aspect of the present invention provides, in accordance
with at least one embodiment thereof, a spool including a slot
therein of about between 5 mm and 8 mm wide.
[0025] An aspect of the present invention provides, in accordance
with at least one embodiment thereof, a spool including a central
opening of between about 15 mm and 18 mm in diameter, and more
preferably about 16.8 mm (0.661'') in diameter.
[0026] Other objects and further scope of applicability of the
present invention will become apparent from the detailed
description given hereinafter. However, it should be understood
that the detailed description and specific examples, while
indicating preferred embodiments of the invention, are given by way
of illustration only, since various changes and modifications
within the spirit and scope of the invention will become apparent
to those skilled in the art from this detailed description.
[0027] Additional and/or alternative advantages and salient
features of the invention will become apparent from the following
detailed description, which, taken in conjunction with the annexed
drawings, disclose preferred embodiments of the invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0028] Referring now to the drawings which form a part of this
original disclosure:
[0029] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a drive mechanism in
accordance with at least one embodiment of the invention;
[0030] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a drive mechanism in
accordance with at least one embodiment of the invention;
[0031] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a drive mechanism in
accordance with at least one embodiment of the invention;
[0032] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an exploded drive mechanism
in accordance with at least one embodiment of the invention;
[0033] FIG. 5(A) is an elevation section view of a supplying module
in accordance with at least one embodiment of the invention;
[0034] FIG. 5(B) is a side elevation view of a supplying module in
accordance with at least one embodiment of the invention;
[0035] FIG. 5(C) is an elevation view of a supplying module in
accordance with at least one embodiment of the invention;
[0036] FIG. 5(D) is an isometric view of a supplying module in
accordance with at least one embodiment of the invention;
[0037] FIG. 6(A) is an elevation view of a pair of supplying
modules in accordance with at least one embodiment of the
invention;
[0038] FIG. 6(B) is an elevation view of a pair of supplying
modules in accordance with at least one embodiment of the
invention;
[0039] FIG. 7 is an axial elevation view of a spool in accordance
with at least one embodiment of the invention;
[0040] FIG. 8 is a partial axial elevation view of a spool in
accordance with at least one embodiment of the invention;
[0041] FIG. 9 is a partial section view of a spool in accordance
with at least one embodiment of the invention;
[0042] FIG. 10 is a partial magnified section view of a spool in
accordance with at least one embodiment of the invention;
[0043] FIG. 11 is a partial axial elevation view of a spool in
accordance with at least one embodiment of the invention;
[0044] FIG. 12 is a partial section view of a spool in accordance
with at least one embodiment of the invention;
[0045] FIG. 13 is a partial magnified section view of a spool in
accordance with at least one embodiment of the invention;
[0046] FIG. 14 is an isometric exploded view of a spool-engaging
member assembly in accordance with at least one embodiment of the
invention;
[0047] FIG. 15 is an isometric exploded view of a spool-engaging
member assembly in accordance with at least one embodiment of the
invention;
[0048] FIG. 16 is an isometric exploded view of a portion of the
spool-engaging member assembly, in arrangement 1, in accordance
with at least one embodiment of the invention;
[0049] FIG. 17 is an isometric exploded view of a portion of the
spool-engaging member assembly, in arrangement 2, in accordance
with at least one embodiment of the invention;
[0050] FIG. 18 is an isometric exploded view of a portion of the
spool-engaging member assembly, in arrangement 3, in accordance
with at least one embodiment of the invention;
[0051] FIG. 19 is an isometric exploded view of a portion of the
spool-engaging member assembly, in arrangement 4, in accordance
with at least one embodiment of the invention;
[0052] FIG. 20 is an isometric exploded view of a portion of the
spool-engaging member assembly, in arrangement 5, in accordance
with at least one embodiment of the invention;
[0053] FIG. 21 is an elevation view of the moving portion of the
spool-contacting member in accordance with at least one embodiment
of the invention;
[0054] FIG. 22 is an isometric view of the moving portion of the
spool-contacting member in accordance with at least one embodiment
of the invention;
[0055] FIG. 23 is an isometric view of the moving portion of the
spool-contacting member in accordance with at least one embodiment
of the invention;
[0056] FIG. 24 is an isometric view of a portion of the
spool-engaging member assembly, in arrangement 1, in accordance
with at least one embodiment of the invention;
[0057] FIG. 25 is an isometric view of a portion of the
spool-engaging member assembly, in arrangement 2, in accordance
with at least one embodiment of the invention;
[0058] FIG. 26 is an isometric view of a portion of the
spool-engaging member assembly, in arrangement 3, in accordance
with at least one embodiment of the invention;
[0059] FIG. 27 is an isometric view of a portion of the
spool-engaging member assembly, in arrangement 4, in accordance
with at least one embodiment of the invention;
[0060] FIG. 28 is an isometric view of a portion of the
spool-engaging member assembly, in arrangement 5, in accordance
with at least one embodiment of the invention;
[0061] FIG. 29 is an isometric view of a portion of the spool on
the spool-engaging member, in accordance with at least one
embodiment of the invention;
[0062] FIG. 30 is an isometric view of a portion of the spool on
the spool-engaging member, in accordance with at least one
embodiment of the invention;
[0063] FIG. 31 is an isometric view of the spool and the
spool-engaging member, in accordance with at least one embodiment
of the invention;
[0064] FIG. 32 is an isometric view of the spool and the
spool-engaging member, in accordance with at least one embodiment
of the invention;
[0065] FIG. 33 is an isometric view of a portion of the spool and
the spool-engaging member assembly, in accordance with at least one
embodiment of the invention;
[0066] FIG. 34 is an isometric view of a portion of the spool and
the spool-engaging member assembly, in accordance with at least one
embodiment of the invention;
[0067] FIG. 35 is an elevation section view of the spool and the
spool-engaging member assembly, in accordance with at least one
embodiment of the invention;
[0068] FIG. 36 is an isometric view of a portion of the spool and
the spool-engaging member assembly, in accordance with at least one
embodiment of the invention;
[0069] FIG. 37 is an isometric front elevational view of a portion
of the spool and the spool-engaging member assembly, in accordance
with at least one embodiment of the invention;
[0070] FIG. 38 is an elevation section view of the spool and the
spool-engaging member assembly, in accordance with at least one
embodiment of the invention;
[0071] FIG. 39 is a front elevational view of the spool, in
accordance with at least one embodiment of the invention;
[0072] FIG. 40 is a side elevational section view of the spool, in
accordance with at least one embodiment of the invention;
[0073] FIG. 41 is a side elevational section view of the spool and
the spool-engaging member assembly, in accordance with at least one
embodiment of the invention;
[0074] FIG. 42 is a side elevational view of a spool in accordance
with at least one embodiment of the invention;
[0075] FIG. 43 is a section view of the spool of FIG. 42 in
accordance with at least one embodiment of the invention;
[0076] FIG. 44 is a section view of the spool of FIG. 42 in
accordance with at least one embodiment of the invention;
[0077] FIG. 45 is a side elevational view of a spool in accordance
with at least one embodiment of the invention;
[0078] FIG. 46 is a section view of the spool of FIG. 42 in
accordance with at least one embodiment of the invention;
[0079] FIG. 47 is a section view of the spool of FIG. 42 in
accordance with at least one embodiment of the invention;
[0080] FIG. 48 is a flow chart exemplifying a process in accordance
with at least one embodiment of the invention; and
[0081] FIG. 49 is a flow chart exemplifying a process in accordance
with at least one embodiment of the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0082] Embodiments of the present invention are described bellow
with reference to the appended Figures. An exemplary
spool-supporting assembly 10 with a spool 14 secured thereon is
illustrated in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2. The illustrated spool 14 contains
about 9 kg (20 pounds) of material therein and is configured to be
manipulated automatically or manually by an operator. The
spool-supporting assembly 10 includes a supporting frame 18
supporting a drive mechanism 22 that can be axially translated 26
about the supporting frame 18 along rails 30. The axial translation
26 is actuated by an actuator 34, or a pair or actuators 34, as
illustrated in FIG. 1. Interconnecting elements, like wires, hose
and other elements are optionally housed in an articulated support
38 that can accommodate the translation 26 of the drive mechanism
22.
[0083] The drive mechanism 22 illustrated in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2
includes a support 42 slidably connected to the rails 30 at a first
end 46 thereof. A spool-engaging member 50 is rotatably connected
to the support 42 at a second end 54 thereof, along a rotation axis
58. The spool 14 is rotatably actuated by a spool actuator 62
interconnected with a drive member 66 and associated pulleys 70.
Proper tension in the drive member 66 is provided by a tensioner 74
in the illustrated embodiment.
[0084] FIG. 3 depicts an embodiment of the drive mechanism 22
without its associated supporting frame 18. An exploded view of the
drive mechanism 22 is illustrated in FIG. 4. It can be appreciated
the spool-engaging member 50 is rotatably supported by the support
42 with bearing members 90 housed in a bearing holder 94 and
supporting, at a distal end thereof, a spool-contacting member 98.
It can also be appreciated the bearing holder 94 is associated with
an RFID reader 102 adapted to take a reading of RFID chips 104
embedded in the spool 14. A suitable RFID, like the HF Circus R19
Wet Inlay, can be suitable for the present application. The RFID HF
Circus round wet inlay has a 19 mm diameter and consists of 13.56
MHz high frequency (HF) transponders that are compliant with ISO
15693 and ISO 18000-3; a global open standard. This transponder
inlay is well suited for small stickers, key tags, item-level
applications and ticketing of spools. The following additional
technical specifications: Memory: 1 k bits; Antenna Size: 016 mm;
Die Cut Size: 019 mm; IC: NXP ICode SLIX.
[0085] The support 42 is also equipped with a spool-rotation
blocking assembly 78 and a spool-pushing assembly 82. The
spool-rotation blocking assembly 78 is selectively actuated to
allow, when disengaged from the spool 14, rotation of the spool 14
and prevent, when engaged with the spool 14, rotation of the spool
14 on the spool-engaging member 50. The spool-engaging member 50
includes several axial sections. Beginning from a proximal side of
the spool-engaging member 50, as identified in FIG. 4, a first
section 106 is engaging a pulley 70 on a proximal side of the
support 42 and is rotationally connected to the pulley 70 with a
key lock 110, or another mechanism providing similar rotation
blocking results about the spool-engaging member 50. A second
section 114 is sized and design to received thereon a first bearing
90.1 adapted to be housed in a bearing-receiving housing 118 shaped
in the support 42 and is followed with a shoulder 122 axially
locking the spool-engaging member 50 in the support 42 with the
pulley 70 assembly on the proximal side of the support 42. A third
section 126 is sized and design to received thereon a second
bearing 90.2 that is going to be axially secured on the distal side
by the spool-contacting member 98 rotatably locked against the
spool-engaging member 50 with a key lock 110, or the like, located
at a fourth portion 130 of the spool-engaging member 50. A
spool-engaging drive portion 134 is located at a distalmost end of
the spool-engaging member 50 for engaging a corresponding central
opening in the spool 14 and is followed by a locking member
136.
[0086] Still referring to FIG. 4, it is possible to appreciate the
spool-rotation blocking assembly 78 includes an axial actuator 140
connected to a spool-blocking member 144 designed to engage
branches 148 of the spool 14. The spool-rotation blocking assembly
78 is secured to the spool-pushing assembly 82 by an intervening
connector 152. The spool-pushing assembly 82 comprises an axial
actuator 156 connected to a spool-pushing member 160 to distally
push out of the spool-engaging drive portion 134 when the spool 14
is empty.
[0087] The drive mechanism 22 can be used in conjunction with a
balancing weights installation apparatus (not illustrated). The
balancing weight installation apparatus is designed to manage the
procurement of specific wheel-balancing weight masses that come in
strips to be secured to a wheel and balance the wheel. In contrast,
the drive mechanism 22 could be used to roll a strip of products at
the end of a process. The drive mechanism 22 would rotate to
collect and store in spools 14 goods/products after they are
manufactured to storage and shipment.
[0088] An exemplary supplying module 180, depicted in FIG. 5, is
designed to provide a continuous strip of weights to the balancing
weight application apparatus. The strip is generally a juxtaposed
series of weights secured to each other with a tape to continuously
supply a desired number of weights to the balancing weight
application apparatus. Each weight, generally made of a heavy
material like steel, lead or tungsten, is generally distinct from
the other adjacent weights hence allowing some movement
therebetween. The length, height and width of a weight are
preferably standardized for ease of packaging and management
predictability. However, the balancing weight application apparatus
can manage weights of different proportions that can be better
adapted for particular applications. The strip allows long
productivity cycles without having to reload the supplying module
180 with an additional strip of weights. Other alternate
weights-supplying configurations that could be used with the
balancing weight application apparatus and remain within the scope
of the present application despite the illustrated embodiments are
limited to some possible configurations for illustrative
purposes.
[0089] The supplying module 180 provides strips of weights that are
winded on spools 14 for compact shipment and easy manipulation.
Spools 14 can be housed and managed in a spool manager assembly 184
to further facilitate management thereof. The spool manager
assembly 184 can support a plurality of spools 14 and provide a
spool 14 to the cooperating spool-supporting assembly 10 that would
allow controlled unwinding of the strip. Each spool 14 of weights
can be operatively installed in the drive mechanism 22 in a manner
suitable to provide weights to a feeding module, for instance.
[0090] The exemplified spool manager assembly 184 of FIG. 5
includes a frame 188 forming a structure adapted to sequentially
mount a plurality of spools 14 in a spools receptacle 192. The
exemplified spools manager assembly 184 is including a
spool-supporting axle 196 adapted to receive thereon and support a
plurality of individual spools 14 along an axle axis 200. Each
spool 14 in the illustrated configuration is containing, for
example, a strip of weights of about 9 kg (about 20 pounds) each.
As mentioned above, each individual spool 14 can accommodate
weights of different configurations, sizes, finishes, colors or
masses to provide a plurality of different weights or all the same
masses model in order to feed a spool 14 full of weights to the
spool-supporting apparatus 10 when the spool 14 on the
spool-supporting apparatus 10 is empty. The spool-supporting axle
196 is secured to the frame 188, in cantilever, thus allowing axial
insertion and removal of spools 14. The illustrated spools manager
assembly 184 can accommodate ten (10) spools 14 although a
different number of spools 14 could be used. The spools 14 stored
in the spools receptacle 192 are rotatably restricted about the
spool axle axis 200 by one or a plurality of spool angular locating
members 204 axially projecting from the side of the frame 188
holding the spool-supporting axle 196. The spool angular locating
members 204 are engaging openings 208 in each spool 14 to prevent
undesired rotation of the spools 14. Indeed, the spools 14 could
have a tendency to unwind given the significant mass of the strip
of weights enclosed therein. The openings 208 pattern is designed
such that the spools 14 are all located in a single possible
angular position to ensure the end of the strip is going to be
located at the same position for each of the spools 14. The spool
angular locating members 204 have preferably an axial length
similar to the length of the spool-supporting axle 196 to axially
rotatably secure all the spools 14 on the spool-supporting axle
196.
[0091] The spool manager assembly 184 further includes a push
member 212 adapted to axially push the spools 14 toward the distal
end of the spool-supporting axle 196, or out of the
spool-supporting axle 196. The push member 212 is embodied as a
circular plate movable along the spool-supporting axle 196. Axial
movement of the push member 212 in the illustrated configuration is
actuated by a servo motor 216 (other alternative means for knowing
the angular and/or linear position of the push member 212 are
contemplated in the present application) operatively connected to
the push member 212 with a pair of pulleys 220 and a belt 224
tensed with an optional tensioner 228. The servo motor 216 can
selectively move the push member 212 in both axial directions and
can configured to move by increments of one or more spool 14
thickness. The embodied mechanism axially moves the push member 212
without rotating it about the spool-supporting axle 196.
[0092] The spools receptacle 192 of the spools manager assembly 184
is used in cooperation with the spool-supporting assembly 10. A
spool-free spool-supporting assembly 10 can load a spool 14 from
the spools receptacle 192, as it can be appreciated in FIG. 6, when
a spool 14 is in the spool-loading position 232. The spool is moved
on the spool-engaging member 50, manually or automatically by
actuation of the push member 212. The drive mechanism 22 of the
spool-supporting assembly 10 then moves to a feeding position 236
to feed the strip for assembling the weights to the wheel or for
other parts dispensing capability in a production process. The
drive mechanism 22 moves to an unloading position 240 when the
spool 14 is empty of strip to unload the empty spool 14 with an
actuation of the spool-pushing assembly 82. The empty spool then
falls in an empty spool receptacle (not illustrated). The push
member 212 is used in cooperation with the axially positioned
spool-supporting assembly 10 abutting the spool-supporting axle 196
to push a spool 14 toward the spool-supporting assembly 10 that is
axially engaging and securing the spool 14 thereon. The axially
mounted spool 14 is then moved to the feeding position 236 for
feeding the strip of weights to the balancing weight application
apparatus (not illustrated). The spool 14 and the spool-engaging
member 50 rotate to let fall the end of the strip on a strip
receiver 244, located in a strip-reception position 248, to route
the strip of weights toward their installation on wheels.
[0093] The supplying module 180 illustrated in FIG. 6 is embodied
with a plurality of spools manager assemblies 184.1 and 184.2. The
plurality of spools manager assemblies 184.1 and 184.2 provides a
choice of weights having different characteristics to the balancing
weight application apparatus. For instance, a first spools manager
assembly 184.1 could provide grey colored weights to match grey
colored or greyish wheels and alternatively provide with the second
spools manager assembly 184.2 weights having different
characteristic, like black colored weights to match black or dark
wheels as identified by sensors of the balancing weight application
apparatus. Still referring to FIG. 6, the spools manager assembly
184.1 and its counterpart spool-supporting assembly 10.1 are in the
loading position 232 where a spool 14 is mounted on the
spool-supporting assembly 10.1. As best seen in FIG. 6 B), the
spool-supporting assembly 10.1 is slightly moved away from the
spools manager assembly 184.1 toward the feeding position 236
illustrated with the position of the lower spool-supporting
assembly 10.2.
[0094] Referring now to FIG. 7 throughout FIG. 13. The spool 14
includes a central portion 252 including a central opening 256 and
a plurality of assembly openings 260 and at least one angular
locating member receiver 258 radially disposed about the rotation
axis 58. The angular locating member receiver 258 are sized and
designed to receive therein the spool angular locating member 204.
The central opening 256 is sized and designed to receive therein
the spool-engaging member 50. The assembly openings 260 are
located, sized and designed to receive therein a connector 262 for
securing both halves of the spool 14. The assembly openings 260 and
corresponding connectors 262 are alternated on a proximal side 268
and a distal side 276 of the spool 14. The assembly openings 260
and corresponding connectors 262, embodied as a hole 260 and as a
connector 262 with a conical shape interacting with the hole 260,
are engaging together to secure the proximal side 268 and the
distal side 276 of the spool 14. This assembly between the proximal
side 268 and the distal side 276 is allowing some axial compression
that is used to allow engagement of the locking member 136 with the
locking member receiver 284, particularly when the spool 14 has no
ramps 280. Expansion of the proximal side 268 and the distal side
276, returning from compression, is keeping the locking member 136
secured in the locking member receiver 284. It can be appreciated
that the locking member 136 can be made, or covered, with low
friction material such as Teflon.TM.. The central opening 256
includes at least one slot 264, however two opposed slots 264 are
illustrated in the present embodiment, to receive the locking
member 136 of the spool-supporting axle 196. For illustrative
purposes, the width of the slot 264 can be embodied as being about
between 5 mm and 8 mm wide, and more preferably about 6.5 mm
(0.256'') wide while the central opening can be embodied as being
between about 15 mm and 18 mm in diameter, and more preferably
about 16.8 mm (0.661'') in diameter. It can be appreciated that an
adaptor (not illustrated) used to provide similar dimensions to
mate with the spool-engaging member 50 for supporting a spool 14
having a different center configuration is within the scope of the
present specification. Put differently, a spool 14 with a different
center configuration that can be used in combination with an
adaptor including a center configuration adapted to be operatively
connected with the spool-engaging member 50 for supporting a spool
14 is an equivalent of the spool 14 exemplified in this
specification. The spool 14 can be embodied with an axial thickness
266 of about 32 mm (1.250''). The spool 14 surface of the
illustrated embodiment ends flush with a proximal side 268 of the
spool 14 while the recessed portion 272 is located on the distal
side 276. The recessed portion 272 is sufficiently deep for
accommodating a thickness of the locking member 136 for rotating
the locking member 136, once the locking member 136 is passed
through the central opening 256, without interfering with an
adjacent spool 14 when a spool 14 is transferred to the drive
mechanism 22 from the supplying module 180. The recessed portion
272 of the present embodiment is about 5 mm (0.20'') deep (in the
axial direction). The recessed portion 272 further accommodates a
locking member receiver 284 sized and designed to received therein
the locking member 136 when the locking member 136 is rotated and
moved along adjacent ramps 280. The optional ramps 280 route the
locking member 136 to the recessed portion 272 that is capturing
the locking member 136 therein. The interaction of the locking
member 136 with the spool 14 is going to be discussed in more
details below.
[0095] FIG. 14 and FIG. 15 are illustrating an exploded view of the
spool-engaging member 50 discussed in respect with FIG. 4 above.
The key lock 110.2 are rotatably securing a fixed portion 98.1 of
the spool-contacting member 98 with corresponding female key
receivers 288 and held with set screws 292. An additional set screw
296 axially locks the fixed portion 98.1 of the spool-contacting
member 98 to the spool-engaging member 50. A mobile portion 98.2 of
the spool-contacting member 98 is axially secured to the fixed
portion 98.1 of the spool-contacting member 98 with a pair of
shoulder bolts 300 with a pair of intervening springs 304 distally
biasing the mobile portion 98.2 of the spool-contacting member 98.
A torque member 308 including a pair of radially protruding
slot-engaging members 312 is rotatably assembled on the
spool-engaging drive portion 134. The torque member 308 can be
embodied as being about 16.3 mm (0.640'') in diameter and the
slot-engaging members 312 can be embodied as being about 6.1 mm
(0.240'') wide. The pair of radially protruding slot-engaging
members 312 is extending over the width of the spool 14 to reduce
the stress on the slots 264 of the spool 14 and prevent stripping
of the slots 264 material given the significant torque applicable
to the spool 14 with rotating spool 14 that is full of weights.
[0096] The pair of radially protruding slot-engaging members 312 is
also adapted to engage a central portion of the mobile portion 98.2
of the spool-contacting member 98 to selectively allow a 90-degree
rotation about the mobile portion 98.2 of the spool-contacting
member 98. A bolt 316 and washer 320 are axially securing the
torque member 308 to the spool-engaging member 50. One can also
appreciate the distal end of the spool-engaging member 50 includes
an interlocking shape 324 configured to prevent rotation of the
locking member 136 with engagement of a corresponding shape 328
therein.
[0097] A spool 14 can be mounted on the spool-engaging member 50 of
the drive mechanism 22 manually or automatically. The following is
going to describe interactions between a spool 14 and the
spool-engaging member 50. The spool 14 can be manually or
automatically secured to the spool-engaging member 50. Manually
pivoting the spool 14 on the spool-engaging member 50 is going so
secured the spool 14 on the spool-engaging member 50. Automatic
securing of the spool 14 can be achieved using a rotation of the
drive mechanism 22 to engage the locking member 136 with the spool
14. As mentioned above, a spool 14 is moved to the distal end of
the spool-supporting axle 196 of a spools manager assembly 184. The
drive mechanism 22 is also moved to abut the spool-engaging member
50 to the distal end of the spool-supporting axle 196. The spool 14
at the distal end of the spool-supporting axle 196 is manually
pushed on the spool-engaging member 50. The spool 14 is then locked
on the spool-engaging member 50 with a partial rotation of the
spool 14 on the spool-engaging member 50. A plurality of stages is
required to secure the spool 14 on the spool-engaging member 50;
these stages are illustrated in FIG. 16 throughout FIG. 20.
[0098] FIG. 16 depicts a first arrangement where the torque member
308 and spool-contacting member 98 assembly with the torque member
308 in a spool-insertion configuration 350 and the mobile portion
98.2 in a locked position 354. FIG. 17 depicts a second arrangement
where the torque member 308 and spool-contacting member 98 assembly
with the torque member 308 in the spool-insertion configuration 350
and the mobile portion 98.2 in an unlocked position 358. FIG. 18
depicts a third arrangement where the torque member 308 and
spool-contacting member 98 assembly with the torque member 308 in
an intermediate configuration 352, between the spool-insertion
configuration 350 and a spool-locking configuration 362, and the
mobile portion 98.2 in the unlocked position 358. FIG. 19 depicts a
fourth arrangement where the torque member 308 and spool-contacting
member 98 assembly with the torque member 308 in the spool-locking
configuration 362 and the mobile portion 98.2 in the unlocked
position 358. FIG. 20 depicts a fifth arrangement where the torque
member 308 and spool-contacting member 98 assembly with the torque
member 308 in the spool-locking configuration 362 and the mobile
portion 98.2 in the locked position 354.
TABLE-US-00001 TABLE 1 Arrangement Configuration Position FIG. 1
spool-insertion locked 16 24 29 2 spool-insertion unlocked 17 25 29
3 spool-insertion unlocked 18 26 -- 4 spool-locking unlocked 19 27
30 5 spool-locking locked 20 28 30
[0099] It can be appreciated from FIG. 16 throughout FIG. 20 the
mobile portion 98.2 is biased toward the fixed portion 98.1 by
springs 304 and can be compressed toward the fixed portion 98.1
when the spool 14 is pressed toward the mobile portion 98.2. The
compression of the mobile portion 98.2 is partially disengaging the
pair of slot-engaging members 312 from the female key receiver 288
of the mobile portion 98.2. As best seen in FIG. 21, FIG. 22 and
FIG. 23, the mobile portion 98.2 includes two recessed portions 370
located between two adjacent female key receivers 288. The recessed
portions 370 include an axial depth allowing a partial axial
disengagement of the slot-engaging members 312 from respective
female key receivers 288 that is allowing a 90-degree pivot 374
about the rotation axis 58. The 90-degree pivot 374 of the
slot-engaging members 312 of the torque member 308 that is adapted
to move between the spool-insertion configuration 350 and the
spool-locking configuration 362. Pivotal of the torque member 308
is limited to a 90-degree pivot 374 because the pair of
slot-engaging members 312 are still angularly abutting a stopper
side 314 of the female key receivers 288 when the mobile portion
98.2 is in the unlocked position 358.
[0100] One of the slot-engaging members 312 is axially aligned with
the locking member 136 in the spool-insertion configuration 350.
Conversely, the slot-engaging members 312 is not axially aligned
with the locking member 136 in the spool-locking configuration 362.
The locking member 136 is captured in the locking member receiver
284 with the axial pressure exercised by the mobile portion 98.2 on
the spool 14 in the spool-locking configuration 362 and that the
mobile portion 98.2 needs to be compressed toward the
spool-insertion configuration 350. It can also be appreciated the
shape of the ramps 280 is allowing compression of the mobile
portion 98.2 toward the unlocked position 358 to engage the locking
member 136 in the locking member receiver 284 with a pivotal of the
spool 14.
[0101] FIG. 24 throughout FIG. 28 are illustrating the five
arrangements listed in Table 1 above in further details. FIG. 29
depicts the relation with a spool 14 in regard with the first three
arrangements in the spool-insertion position. Finally, FIG. 30
provides details of the spool 14 in interaction with the locking
member 136 in the last three arrangements of Table 1.
[0102] Moving now to FIG. 31 and FIG. 32 that illustrate an
alternate embodiment of the spool-engaging member 50 and the spool
14. This embodiment is preferably usable with light spools 14 or
with spools 14 made of strong material. Indeed, the spool-engaging
member 50 includes a proximal slot-engaging member 380 and a distal
slot-engaging member 384. Both slot-engaging members 380, 384 are
engaging the spool's slots 264 in replacement of the torque member
308 of the previous embodiments. The slot-engaging members 380, 384
have a smaller contact area with the slots 264 of the spool 14 and
can manage rotation of the spool 14. The spool-insertion
configuration of this embodiment can be appreciated from FIG. 33,
FIG. 34 and FIG. 35 while the spool-locking configuration is
illustrated in FIG. 36, FIG. 37 and FIG. 38. A pivotal of the spool
14 is sufficient in this embodiment to secure the spool 14 to the
spool-engaging member 50 since both slot-engaging members 380, 384
can engage their respective locking member receiver 284 with a
fixed spool-contacting member 98. The slot-engaging members 380,
384 are aligned with their respective locking member receiver 284
when the spool 14 is installed on the spool-engaging member 50.
[0103] The spool 14 can be embodied to be reversible to be used in
both sides in combination with the spool-engaging member 50.
Referring to FIG. 39, FIG. 40 and FIG. 41, a reversible spool 14 is
embodied with a recessed portion 272 and a locking member receiver
284 disposed on each side of the spool 14. The spool-engaging
member 50 can then secure a spool 14 from either side thereof. This
can be helpful to reduce handling of the spools 14 that do not have
to be assembled in a specified side thereof. It can be appreciated
the spool 14 is exemplified with two identical sides 268, 276 hence
providing an additional advantage by requiring a single mold to
produce both sides 268, 276 of a spool 14 in injected material such
as plastic. Other manufacturing processes could alternatively be
used for molding sides 268, 276 of a spool 14 without departing
from the scope of the present specification.
[0104] Another embodiment of the spool 14 is illustrated in FIG. 42
throughout FIG. 44. The proximal side 268 of the spool 14 of this
embodiment includes an extended central portion 332 that is
generally extending over the thickness of the spool 14. The distal
side 276 of the spool 14 includes a central opening 336 sized and
designed to mate with the extended central portion 332. The central
opening 336, in a preferred configuration, is radially transmitting
a load to the extended central portion 332. A pair of locking
member receivers 284 are included in the extended central portion
332 to receive the locking member 136 therein when in a locked
configuration. In the illustrated embodiment, the distal side 276
of the spool 14 can be disassembled from the proximal portion 268
when the spool 14 is secured on the spool-engaging member 50 when
the proximal side 268 is proximally mounted on the spool-engaging
member 50. Conversely, the illustrated spool 14 can be mounted in
the opposite direction where the proximal side 268 of the spool 14
is distally mounted on the spool-engaging member 50. The embodiment
depicted in FIG. 42 throughout FIG. 44 can include ramps 280 and
could also be used without ramps 280 and use the temporary
compression of the proximal side 268 toward the distal side 276
when engaging the locking member 136 in the locking member receiver
284.
[0105] An alternate embodiment of the spool 14 is illustrated in
FIG. 45 throughout FIG. 47. As indicated in the previous embodiment
illustrated in FIG. 42 throughout FIG. 44, the proximal side 268 of
the spool 14 of this embodiment includes an extended central
portion 332 that is generally extending over the thickness of the
spool 14. The distal side 276 of the spool 14 includes a central
opening 336 sized and designed to mate with the extended central
portion 332. The central opening 336, in a preferred configuration,
is radially transmitting a load to the extended central portion
332. A pair of locking member receivers 284 are included inside the
extended central portion 332 to receive the locking member 136
therein when in the locked configuration. The locking member 136 is
inserted in the slot 264 and axially pushed to reach the locking
member receiver 284 to be pivoted in the locking member receiver
284 to be secured therein. The locking member receiver 284 is
axially located in the extended central portion 332 and is embodied
axially halfway in the extended central portion 332 to allow
securing the spool 14 on the spool-engaging member 50 on both
sides. The locking member receiver 284 could be located at a
different distance that could prevent the reversal use of the spool
14. Two locking member receiver 284 could be respectively axially
located at a same distance from each side of the spool 14 in
another embodiment. In the illustrated embodiment, the distal side
276 of the spool 14 can be disassembled from the proximal portion
268 when the spool 14 is secured on the spool-engaging member 50
when the proximal side 268 is proximally mounted on the
spool-engaging member 50. Conversely, the illustrated spool 14 can
be mounted in the opposite direction where the proximal side 268 of
the spool 14 is distally mounted on the spool-engaging member 50.
The embodiment depicted in FIG. 45 throughout FIG. 47 can include
ramps 280, however, this would increase the manufacturing
complexity. The embodiment illustrated in FIG. 45 throughout FIG.
47 could also be used without ramps 280.
[0106] Two illustrative flow charts are provided in FIG. 48 and
FIG. 49. FIG. 48 exemplifies a series of steps for loading a spool
from the spool-supporting axle of the drive mechanism 22 to the
spool-engaging member 50. In so doing, the spool-engaging member is
moved in abutment with the spool-supporting axle 400 from where the
push member is actuated 404 to transfer a spool from the supporting
axle to the spool-engaging member 408. The spool is proximally
pushed on the spool-engaging member to compress the moving portion
of the spool-contacting portion 412 to allow pivotal of the spool
416 to lock the spool on the spool-supporting axle 420. The RFID of
the spool is acknowledged 424 to then move the spool in the feeding
position 428 and unwinding the strip 432 to provide the parts on
the spool to the assembly process.
[0107] The flow chart of FIG. 49 exemplifies a series of steps for
loading a spool 14 to the spool-engaging member 50 to the unwinding
of the spool 14. The process begins with an empty spool-engaging
member 450 that is in the spool-receiving configuration and the
locked position 454 on which is inserted a spool 458. A compression
of the moving portion of the spool-contacting member 462 to get in
the unlocked position to rotate the spool 466 to engage the locking
member with the slot of the spool 470 and axially releasing the
mobile portion of the spool-contacting member 474 in the
spool-locking configuration and the locked position 478. The spool
is then engaged with the spool-engaging member that is ready to
move the spool in the feeding position 482 to unwind the strip from
the spool 486.
[0108] Additional claim language directed to embodiments of the
invention could read as follow: a spool-supporting shaft comprising
a shaft including a rotational axis thereof, an apparatus engaging
portion located toward a first side of the shaft and a
spool-supporting portion located toward a second side of the shaft,
the spool-supporting portion comprising a first radial protrusion
radially extending from the shaft in a first direction, a second
radial protrusion radially extending from the shaft in a second
direction and a spool-receiving portion between the first radial
protrusion and the second radial protrusion. Wherein the
protrusions include a rectangular section. Wherein the protrusions
include a generally flat surface on axially facing surfaces
thereof. Wherein the first direction and the second direction are
angularly spaced with a 180-degree angle. Wherein the radial
protrusions are assembled to the shaft. Wherein the radial
protrusions are part of the shaft. Wherein the second radial
protrusion is adjacent to a shoulder.
[0109] Other additional claim language directed to embodiments of
the invention could read as follow: a spool-securing assembly
comprising a spool-supporting shaft comprising a shaft including a
rotational axis thereof, an apparatus engaging portion located
toward a first side of the shaft and a spool-supporting portion
located toward a second side of the shaft, the spool-supporting
portion comprising a first radial protrusion radially extending
from the shaft in a first direction, a second radial protrusion
radially extending from the shaft in a second direction and a
spool-receiving portion between the first radial protrusion and the
second radial protrusion, the spool-supporting shaft being adapted
to cooperate with a spool comprising a pair of opposed spool sides,
each spool side including an axial shaft receiving opening aligning
together when the spool sides are assembled together in opposition
with each other and a pair of axial slots communicating with the
central shaft receiving opening, the axial slots being sized and
designed to axially translate therein the first radial protrusion.
Wherein each of the spool sides comprises an axial recessed
protrusion-receiving portion sized and designed to receive therein
a radial protrusion when the spool is engaged on the
spool-supporting shaft, between the pair of radial protrusions, and
rotated about the spool-supporting shaft to angularly rotate the
radial protrusions from the pair of axial slots to the axial
recessed protrusion-receiving portions to secure the spool on the
spool-supporting shaft. Wherein the pair of opposed spool sides is
axially compressed between the first radial protrusion and the
second radial protrusion when the first radial protrusion and the
second radial protrusion are engaged with the axial recessed
protrusion-receiving portions.
[0110] While the invention has been described in connection with
what is presently considered to be the most practical and preferred
embodiments, it is to be understood that the invention is not to be
limited to the disclosed embodiments and elements, but, to the
contrary, is intended to cover various modifications, combinations
of features, equivalent arrangements, and equivalent elements
included within the spirit and scope of the appended claims.
Furthermore, the dimensions of limiting, and the size of the
components therein can vary from the size that may be portrayed in
the figures herein. Thus, it is intended that the present invention
covers the modifications and variations of the invention, provided
they come within the scope of the appended claims and their
equivalents.
* * * * *