Design and application of a novel linkage-type feeding mechanism for sub-packaging of double materials
In order to enable the feeding mechanism to achieve the release and subsequent sub-packaging of double materials in a natural,smooth and steady manner,a novel linkage-type feeding mechanism was proposed. Specifically,a four-bar linkage mechanism that can generate a symmetric and self-tangent coupler curve with a Ball's point drives the two valve stems to perform a straight-line reciprocating motion with dwell,allowing the two valves to open and close alternately. In the four-bar linkage mechanism,the length ratio of the crank,coupler,rocker and frame is 1:1.8371:1.8371:2,and the length of the connecting rod is equal to that of the coupler,with an angle of 109.47°. The simulation result of the sub-packaging process shows that during the opening/closing phase of the cone-shaped valve,its movement position controls the discharge area,achieving a smooth change in the particle flow rate. Moreover,due to the sub-packaging of double materials within a movement cycle of the mechanism,the loading efficiency can be improved. The present study also provides new insights into the design of other feeding mechanisms in packaging equipment.