Case Study
Vibratory Bowl Feeder for Multiple Part Numbers in Automotive Assembly
Automotive vibratory bowl feeder designed for knob parts. Multi-part flexibility and robot-ready integration from Bellco Feeders.
The Challenge
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.
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 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.
Robotic Efficiency and Multi-Part Flexibility
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.
Full System Overview
- Escapement: Side-shuttle with pull-back design
See It Running
The Build
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