Case Study: Custom Vibratory Bowl Feeder for Multiple Knob Parts

Custom vibratory feeder system for multiple part numbers.

Project Overview

Bellco Feeders developed a custom vibratory bowl feeder system for an automotive assembly application. The system was designed to orient and deliver a family of knob parts (multiple part numbers) for precise robotic pick-up at a consistent rate of 10 PPM. With a side-shuttle pull-back escapement, a Keyence sensor, PNP digital controllers, and a welded steel frame, this part feeding system provides dependable part presentation in a compact, automation-ready package.

The Challenge: Feeding Multiple Knob Parts in an Automotive Assembly Line

The customer needed a feeder system that could:

• Handle multiple part numbers within the same knob family
• Orient parts consistently for robotic pick-up
• Isolate one part at a time to prevent mis-picks
• Integrate easily into an existing robotic automation cell using EtherNet/IP
  
  

The Bellco Solution: Custom Vibratory Feeding System for Multi-Part Flexibility

Our engineering team developed a vibratory feeding system optimized for multi-part orientation and robotic integration. This system includes:

• Custom 600–700mm Stainless Steel Vibratory Feeder Bowl: Accommodates multiple knob part numbers with a simple tooling swap, offering flexibility and cost savings.
  
  
• Side-Shuttle Pull-Back Escapement: Isolates one part at a time and presents it cleanly for robotic picking, minimizing vibration and protecting fragile components.
  
  
• End-of-Track Sensor: Provides real-time part presence feedback to coordinate robot timing. This sensor is a critical yet often overlooked component in automated feeding.
  
  
• Fully Wired Controls and Integration: Includes an SMC air manifold, PNP digital controllers, and a lockable control box wired with EtherNet/IP for plug-and-play automation.
  
  
• SolidWorks Modeling: CAD files were provided to the customer before production, allowing for footprint confirmation, feedback, and design approvals.
  

Take a peek 👀 :

Custom-tooled vibratory bowl feeder for multiple part numbers.

Custom-made to handle several part numbers in the same knob family.

Side-shuttle escapement with pull-back design, ideal for delicate/lightweight parts.

End-of-track sensor controls part flow and ensures accurate spacing for robotic pick-up.

The Result: Robotic Efficiency and Multi-Part Flexibility

The customer received a complete, automation-ready system that delivered reliable knob orientation and spacing. The system achieved a consistent 10 parts-per-minute feed rate. With the ability to handle multiple part numbers and robust integration features, this feeder system helped streamline the pick-and-place process and minimize manual adjustments.

Our approach ensured that:

✅ Each part was oriented consistently for robotic pick-up
✅ The system handled multiple part sizes with ease
✅ Integration into the automation cell was fast and smooth

This project highlights Bellco’s expertise in robotic-ready vibratory feeder systems. From orientation control to escapement design, every component was built around production reliability and flexibility.

Have a challenging part to feed?

We’ll design a system that works: tested with your actual parts, built to your spec, and ready to plug into your line.

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