RINSE AND DRY CONVEYOR FOR GOLF BALL SUBASSEMBLIES

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present disclosure relates to a conveyor, and more particularly, to a rinse and dry conveyor for golf ball subassemblies.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The process of making golf balls includes manufacturing steps that occur at different locations. These steps include the manufacturing of golf ball subassemblies such as single or multi-layered cores that make up part of the golf ball. The golf ball subassemblies move around to different stations within a manufacturing facility to eventually produce a finished golf ball. One such manufacturing step is a grinding operation to prepare a golf ball core for molding of a cover layer. After grinding, the golf ball cores are rinsed, dried, and delivered to the molding station. Golf ball cores may be rinsed at one station, moved to another station for drying, and then blown through a delivery system toward the molding area. There is a need for an efficient system to complete these steps.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to an embodiment, the present disclosure describes a system for transporting golf ball subassemblies. The system includes a conveyor system, a rinsing system, and a drying system. The conveyor system includes an inlet, an outlet, a tubular conduit between the inlet and the outlet, a drive system, and a lift mechanism disposed in the tubular conduit and configured to move the golf ball subassemblies through the tubular conduit toward the outlet by the drive system. The rinsing system includes at least one sprayer attached to the tubular conduit and configured to spray a fluid to rinse the golf ball subassemblies inside of the tubular conduit and a collection tank near the inlet for receiving the fluid that drains from the tubular conduit. The drying system includes at least one blower attached to the tubular conduit and configured to dry the golf ball assemblies inside of the tubular conduit after they have been rinsed.

In some embodiments, the tubular conduit is elongated in a longitudinal direction, and the tubular conduit is positioned such that the outlet is above the inlet. The longitudinal direction may be tilted upward by more than 60° relative to horizontal. In other embodiments, the longitudinal direction is approximately vertically-positioned.

In some embodiments, the rinsing system includes a plurality of sprayers attached to the tubular conduit. The plurality of sprayers may include at least two sprayers positioned on opposing sides of the tubular conduit. The plurality of sprayers may include at last four sprayers positioned around the tubular conduit. The plurality of sprayers may include at least two sprayers positioned at different locations along a longitudinal extent of the tubular conduit. The at least one sprayer may be configured to spray a fluid jet in a spray direction, wherein the spray direction is perpendicular to a longitudinal direction of the tubular conduit. In other embodiments, the at least one sprayer may be configured to spray a fluid jet in a spray direction, wherein the spray direction is 20-70° relative to a longitudinal direction of the tubular conduit.

In some embodiments, the at least one blower includes a plurality of blowers attached to the tubular conduit. The plurality of blowers may be each positioned on a top side of the tubular conduit.

In some embodiments, the lift mechanism is an auger disposed in the tubular conduit and configured to rotate to move the golf ball subassemblies through the tubular conduit toward the outlet.

According to another embodiment, the present disclosure describes a method of transporting golf ball subassemblies. The method includes receiving a plurality of golf ball subassemblies at an inlet, moving the plurality of golf ball subassemblies through a tubular conduit by a lift mechanism, spraying the plurality of golf ball subassemblies in a lower portion of the tubular conduit with a fluid to rinse debris off of the golf ball subassemblies, blowing the plurality of golf ball subassemblies in an upper portion of the tubular conduit with an air jet to dry the golf ball subassemblies, and expelling the plurality of golf ball subassemblies from the tubular conduit at an outlet that is positioned above the inlet. The method may also include draining the fluid from the tubular conduit to a collection tank.

According to at least some embodiments, the plurality of golf ball subassemblies are golf ball cores. In some embodiments, receiving the plurality of golf ball subassemblies includes receiving a plurality of golf ball cores from a grinding machine. In some embodiments, the plurality of golf ball cores include a casing layer.

In some embodiments, the outlet is connected to a rail system and the method further includes the golf ball subassemblies rolling on the rail system.

In some embodiments, the lift mechanism is an auger disposed in the tubular conduit and moving the plurality of golf ball subassemblies through the tubular conduit comprises rotating the auger.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The foregoing and other aspects of the present invention are best understood from the following detailed description when read in connection with the accompanying drawings. For the purpose of illustrating the invention, there are shown in the drawings embodiments that are presently preferred, it being understood, however, that the invention is not limited to the specific instrumentalities disclosed. Included in the drawings are the following Figures:

FIG. 1 is a diagram of a transport system for golf ball subassemblies;

FIG. 2 is top view into a tubular conduit of the transport system of FIG. 1, according to an embodiment;

FIG. 3A is a top view into a tubular conduit of the transport system of FIG. 1, according to another embodiment;

FIG. 3B is a side view of the tubular conduit of the embodiment of FIG. 3A;

FIG. 4A is a side view of a tubular conduit of the system of FIG. 1, further depicting a rinsing system, according to an embodiment; and

FIG. 4B is a top view of the tubular conduit of FIG. 4A, according to an embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Disclosed embodiments include a conveyor for transporting parts from one location to another. The conveyor may include a lift mechanism housed in a tubular conduit. The conveyor is particularly adapted to transport golf ball subassemblies while rinsing and drying the golf ball subassemblies during transport. For example, in an embodiment, the disclosed conveyor is configured to receive a plurality of golf ball cores from a grinding machine, transport the golf ball cores from an inlet to an outlet, rinse debris off of the golf ball cores and then dry them while they are moving through the conveyor.

In an exemplary embodiment, the main assemblies of the disclosed system include a conveyor system, rinsing system, and drying system. The conveyor system may include a tubular conduit, a lift mechanism, and drive system. The tubular conduit is an enclosure that houses the lift mechanism and provides the pathway for the subassemblies. The tubular conduit may be made from durable materials such as stainless steel or high-strength plastic, which offer resistance to wear and corrosion. The tube's size and length are designed to accommodate the size and weight of the golf ball subassemblies, ensuring smooth and efficient transport.

In some embodiments, the lift mechanism includes a plurality of belt-driven holders that each support a golf ball subassembly. In other embodiments, the lift mechanism includes a screw blade (i.e., an auger) as part of a screw-type conveyor. The screw blade is the helical component that rotates within the tube, creating a pushing force that moves the subassemblies from the lower inlet to the higher outlet. The screw blade may be made from stainless steel or other robust materials to withstand the mechanical stresses of operation. The pitch and diameter of the screw blade may be selected to determine the conveyor's capacity and efficiency. The blade's helical design ensures continuous movement of the subassemblies, preventing backflow and clogging. Further, the blades rotational motion causes the golf ball subassemblies to rotate and move around while being conveyed, thereby helping to assist in the rinse and drying operations that occur during transport.

The drive system is responsible for causing the lift mechanism to move the golf ball subassemblies. For example, the drive system may include a motor to drive a belt. In another example, the motor may be configured to rotate a screw blade. In an exemplary embodiment, the drive system includes one or more of an electric motor, a gearbox, and a coupling mechanism. The motor provides the necessary power, while the gearbox adjusts the rotational speed to match the desired transport rate. The coupling mechanism connects the motor to the lift mechanism (i.e., drive belt or screw blade), ensuring smooth and reliable operation. Options for the drive system include different motor types (such as AC or DC motors), variable speed drives for precise control, and various gearbox configurations to suit specific application requirements.

The rinsing system may include a plurality of sprayers to spray the golf ball subassemblies in the conveyor system. Rinsing ports are strategically placed along the lower portion of the conveyor tube to introduce cleaning fluids (e.g., water and/or other fluids). The ports are equipped with nozzles that spray the fluid onto the subassemblies and the interior surfaces of the tube. The rinsing action removes debris, dust, and other contaminants, ensuring that the subassemblies remain clean. In some embodiments, the lift mechanism ensures even distribution of the sprayed fluids, providing thorough coverage. For example, the rotation of the screw blade helps to distribute the rinsing fluid and help remove debris. Options for the rinsing ports include different nozzle types (such as spray or jet nozzles), adjustable flow rates, and various cleaning solutions.

Drying ports are installed along the upper portion of the tubular conduit to blow pressurized air onto the subassemblies. The high-velocity air effectively removes any residual moisture, thereby preparing the golf ball subassemblies for the next operation (e.g., cover layer molding). In some embodiments, the placement of the air ports ensures that the drying air is directed downward, maximizing efficiency. In some embodiments, a screw blade's rotation helps to evenly distribute the air flow, ensuring thorough drying. Options for the drying ports include different air nozzle designs, adjustable air pressure settings, and various configurations to optimize drying performance.

The interaction between the rinsing ports and the drying ports creates a seamless process for cleaning and drying the golf ball subassemblies. As the subassemblies enter the conveyor, they are first subjected to the rinsing action, which removes dust and debris. Once rinsed, the subassemblies continue to move upward, encountering the pressurized air from the drying ports. This integrated system ensures that the subassemblies are both clean and dry by the time they reach the higher outlet.

In some embodiments, the outlet of the conveyor system is connected to a rail system. The golf ball subassemblies may be configured to roll along the rail system to a subsequent manufacturing station, such as a hopper of a buffing station. The outlet of the conveyor system is above the inlet, thereby allowing the golf ball subassemblies to roll along the rail system using gravity. The golf ball subassemblies may continue to completely dry while rolling along the rail system.

The materials used for transport system and its components are selected based on durability, resistance to wear, and compatibility with the cleaning and drying processes. Stainless steel may be selected due to its strength and corrosion resistance. High-strength plastics may also be used for certain components to reduce weight and cost. The tubular conduit's size and length, as well as the lift mechanism's specifications (e.g., a screw blade's pitch and diameter), are designed to match the specific requirements of the golf ball subassemblies, ensuring efficient transport and handling.

Different types of lift mechanisms are disclosed, including belt-driven holders and screw-type conveyors. In other embodiments, pneumatic conveyors, which use air pressure to move materials through tubes, can also be used.

FIG. 1 is a diagram of an exemplary system 100 for transporting golf ball subassemblies 102. In an exemplary embodiment, the system 100 includes a conveyor system, a rinsing system, and a drying system. The conveyor system is configured to move golf ball subassemblies 102 from an inlet 104 to an outlet 106. The conveyor system includes a tubular conduit 108 between the inlet 104 and the outlet 106. The conveyor system further includes a lift mechanism 110 within the tubular conduit 108. The lift mechanism is configured to move the golf ball subassemblies 102 within the tubular conduit 108 toward the outlet 106.

The rinsing system includes at least one sprayer 112. The sprayer 112 is attached to the tubular conduit 108 and configured to spray a fluid to rinse the golf ball subassemblies 102 inside of the tubular conduit 108. Each sprayer 112 is configured to spray the golf ball subassemblies 102 while they are being moved by the lift mechanism 110 toward the outlet 106.

The rinsing system also includes a collection tank 114 near the inlet 106 for receiving the fluid that drains from the tubular conduit 108. The rinsing system may include a plurality of sprayers 112 that are positioned around the tubular conduit 108 and configured to spray into the interior of the tubular conduit 108. The fluid may drain down through the tubular conduit 108, toward the inlet 108, and into the collection tank 114. The rinsing system may include a recirculation component to reuse the fluid from the collection tank 114. For example, the rinsing system may include a pump attached to the collection tank 114. Other embodiments may include a different tank or source for the fluid to be sprayed into the tubular conduit 108.

The drying system includes at least one blower 116 attached to the tubular conduit and configured to dry the golf ball subassemblies 102 inside of the tubular conduit 108 after they have passed through the rinsing system. In some embodiments, the drying system may include a plurality of blowers 116 positioned to blow air and dry golf ball subassemblies 102 as they are moved by the lift mechanism 110. For example, the drying system may include two blowers 116 positioned on one or more sides of the tubular conduit 108. In some embodiments, the blowers 116 may be positioned on a top side of the tubular conduit 108 to effectively blow air downward over the golf balls subassemblies 102.

In some embodiments, the system 100 includes a control system configured to manage the conveyor system, rinsing system, and/or drying system. For example, the system 100 further includes a drive system configured to operate the lift mechanism 110. The drive system may include, for example, a motor 118. The motor 118 may be configured to drive a belt or blade to thereby move the golf ball subassemblies 102 within the tubular conduit 108. In some embodiments, the control system may include processing components configured to control one or more features of the system 100. For instance, the control system may include on/off control, speed control, pressure control (e.g., of sprayers and/or blowers), etc.

The system 100 is a device configured to move golf ball subassemblies 102 within a manufacturing space from one station to another. In disclosed embodiments, the golf ball subassemblies may be any conventional golf ball component, such as a core assembly or golf ball with a cover layer. In some embodiments, the disclosed system 100 may be used to convey finished golf balls. In one example, the system 100 may be configured to receive golf ball subassemblies from a station associated with a first operation and deliver the golf ball subassemblies to a next station associated with a second operation. For instance, the system 100 may receive golf ball subassemblies from a grinding machine and help deliver the golf ball subassemblies to a buffing station or cover layer molding station.

According to an embodiment, the system 100 is configured to receive golf ball subassemblies from a grinding machine. During golf ball manufacturing, a golf ball subassembly consisting of one or more core layers undergoes a grinding operation to remove any uneven surface features. For instance, a golf ball subassembly having a core layer and a casing layer may undergo a grinding operation to prepare the golf ball subassembly to have a cover layer formed around the casing layer. The golf ball subassemblies after the grinding operation may have debris or dust that is removed by the integral rinsing and drying systems associated with the system 100.

In the system 100, the golf ball subassemblies 102 move within the tubular conduit 108 from the inlet 104 to the outlet 106. According to disclosed embodiments, the tubular conduit 108 is arranged such that the outlet 106 is positioned above the inlet 104. A discharge chute 120 is connected near the outlet 106 to expel golf ball subassemblies 102 from the system 100. The discharge chute 120 may be angled downward to allow the golf ball subassemblies 102 to begin rolling. The lift mechanism 110 thereby moves the golf ball subassemblies 102 at least partially upward. This achieves several advantages, including enabling the use of gravity to drain rinsing fluid and for positioning the golf ball subassemblies at a higher position the allow the golf balls to roll along a rail system to a further station.

The tubular conduit 108 includes a longitudinal dimension that extends from the inlet 104 to the outlet 106. The longitudinal dimension of the tubular conduit 108 is angled relative to a horizontal direction by an angle θ. In some embodiments, θ is more than 30°. In other embodiments, θ is more than 60°. In still other embodiments, θ is more than 75°. In some embodiments, the tubular conduit 108 is approximately vertical, i.e., perpendicular to the horizontal direction (θ =90°). By arranging the tubular conduit 108 at an angle and placing the outlet 106 above the inlet 104, the system 100 may be configured to move golf ball subassemblies in a relatively small footprint of space within a manufacturing area.

According to an embodiment, the tubular conduit 108 may be approximately 10-15 ft. long in the longitudinal dimension and is positioned at an angle θ of approximately 80°. As a result, the discharge chute 120 may be positioned at least 12 ft. above the ground. The discharge chute 120 may then expel golf ball subassemblies to a rail system for rolling delivery to a subsequent manufacturing station. Further, the near-vertical incline of the tubular conduit 108 provides a small footprint area for the system 100. For example, the footprint of the system 100 may be less than 18 ft².

FIG. 2 is a top cross-sectional view showing an interior of the tubular conduit 108. The tubular conduit 108 is shown having a rectangular cross section, but other shapes (e.g., circular) are possible. In the embodiment, the conveyor system includes a belt-driven holder 122. The holder 122 includes a pair of supports 124 configured to support the golf ball subassembly 102. In some embodiments, the holder 122 only provides support to the golf ball subassembly 102. In other embodiments, the holder 122 may apply force to hold the golf ball subassembly 102. The holder 122 is configured to move upwardly through the tubular conduit 108 toward the outlet 106 to deliver the golf ball subassemblies 102 to the outlet 106.

FIG. 3A is a side view diagram and FIG. 3B is a top cross-sectional diagram of a lower portion of the tubular conduit 108 and the lift mechanism 110. The rinsing system includes a plurality of sprayers 112. The plurality of sprayers 112 may include at last four sprayers positioned around the tubular conduit 108. The plurality of sprayers may include at least two sprayers positioned at different locations along a longitudinal extent of the tubular conduit 108. The sprayers 112 may be configured to spray a fluid jet in a spray direction. In some embodiments, the spray direction is perpendicular to a longitudinal direction of the tubular conduit 108. In other embodiments, the spray direction is 20-70° relative to a longitudinal direction of the tubular conduit.

FIG. 4A is a top cross-sectional diagram and FIG. 4B is a side view diagram of another embodiment of a tubular conduit 126 that may be used in conjunction with a disclosed transportation system 100 for golf ball subassemblies 102. In this embodiment, the tubular conduit 126 is a housing for a screw blade 128 (also referred to herein as an auger). The tubular conduit 126 and screw blade 128 create a screw-type conveyor that is configured to move golf ball assemblies through the tubular conduit 126 and toward an outlet. The screw blade 128 may include dimensions particularly suited for moving golf ball subassemblies 102. For example, the pitch P and helix angle α may be selected to effectively move golf ball subassemblies 102 toward the outlet. For instance, the pitch P may be at least 2 in. and the helix angle α may be less than 45 °. Moreover, a gap G between the tubular conduit 126 and the edge of the screw blade 128 may be sized to keep golf ball subassemblies 102 from slipping back down toward the inlet. For instance, the gap G may be between 0.25-1.5 in.

When numerical lower limits and numerical upper limits are set forth herein, it is contemplated that any combination of these values may be used. All patents, publications, test procedures, and other references cited herein, including priority documents, are fully incorporated by reference to the extent such disclosure is not inconsistent with this invention and for all jurisdictions in which such incorporation is permitted.

While the illustrative embodiments of the invention have been described with particularity, it will be understood that various other modifications will be apparent to and can be readily made by those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, it is not intended that the scope of the claims appended hereto be limited to the examples and descriptions set forth herein, but rather that the claims be construed as encompassing all of the features of patentable novelty which reside in the present invention, including all features which would be treated as equivalents thereof by those of ordinary skill in the art to which the invention pertains.