Novel design and development of an active feeder

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to focus on the novel design and development of an automatic feeding system which is capable of feeding cylindrical parts which are fragile and powdery in nature and possess asymmetrical features such as a groove near to one end.

Design/methodology/approach

It is an active feeder, performing its task without having to reject any feeding part by performing active orientation of feeding parts that are in the undesired orientation. This design incorporating active orientating capability is aimed at 100 percent feeding efficiency. The system is controlled and driven by a programmable logic controller and electropneumatics.

Findings

System evaluation results showed that the average jam rate is below 5 percent and the percentage of correctly orientated parts is above 95 percent. With enhancement and fine tuning, the system could become a very useful feeder for industry in the future.

Research limitations/implications

The scope of this paper focuses on presentation of the design concept, development and evaluation of the feeder only and design calculations are not included.

Originality/value

This paper is of value to those who are involved in the manufacturing of small delicate and powdery engineering parts such as those providing performs to the semiconductor industry for encapsulation of integrated circuit chips.

Citation

Chua, P.S.K. (2007), "Novel design and development of an active feeder", Assembly Automation, Vol. 27 No. 1, pp. 31-37. https://doi.org/10.1108/01445150710724685