#hopper
#Parts_feeder
#selector
#Feed_track
#Escapement_Device

Fundamentals of Automated Assembly Systems

Hopper, this is the container into which the components are loaded at the workstation. A separate hopper is used for each component type. The components are usually loaded into the hopper in bulk. This means that the part are initially randomly oriented in the hopper.

Parts Feeder, this is the mechanism that removes the components from the hopper one at a time for delivery to the assembly workhead.

Selector and/or orientor. These elements of the delivery system establish the proper orientation of the components for the assembly workhead. A selector acts as a filter, permitting only parts in the correct orientation to pass through. Incorrectly oriented parts are rejected back into the hopper and orientor is a device that allows properly oriented parts to pass through

Feed Track, used to move the components from the hopper and parts feeder to the location of the assembly workhead.

Escapement device, remove component from the feed track at time intervals that are consistent with the cycle time of the assembly workhead