Rollerless multi-level elevator for temporary storage and sequencing of glass sheets.

Description

/ 9 Rollerless multi-level elevator for temporary storage and sequencing of glass sheets. Field of invention

[001] This patent application is aimed at the industrial sector, preferably in the processing of glass sheets, and refers to material handling systems, specifically buffers / temporary storage for sheets (e.g., glass, acrylic, thin metal), with multiple levels and vertical movement of the elevator or buffer itself, eliminating the use of rollers at the levels and operating with only one fixed transfer drive conveyor. Fundamentals of the invention and state of the art

[002] In the glass sheet and other flat materials industry, the use of multi-level buffers is a well-established practice for the temporary storage of parts at different heights, ensuring flexibility in the production flow. One of the most representative examples of this category of equipment is the so-called Multi-Level Buffer System with Liftl (http: / / northglass.com / video-level-buffer-system1.html).

[003] The operation of this equipment is based on a fixed structure with several levels or floors composed of parallel rollers that support and move the sheet. To use the levels as temporary storage, a lifting module with drive rollers in front of the fixed structure, called a lift, moves vertically to the desired level and transfers the sheet to that level. As each level is formed by a group of parallel rollers, each roller has a male fitting (usually hexagonal or grooved) at its end. The motorized module (side carriage) moves vertically to the desired level, and this module has female fittings that align and connect to the male fittings of the parallel rollers of a given level, thus moving the sheet that is in the lifting module. Petition 870250077609, dated 01 / 09 / 2025, page 7 / 35 / 9 drive rollers for the chosen level on the fixed structure. After movement, the lift disengages and can move up or down again to activate another level.

[004] Although it operates efficiently, this type of system presents a number of practical problems. The first is its high mechanical complexity. Each level contains multiple rollers, bearings, and auxiliary transmission systems that need to be precisely synchronized. In addition, the motorized module depends on a constant coupling and uncoupling process, which increases the likelihood of misalignment, play, and premature wear. This multiplicity of components, associated with the reciprocating motion of the elevator, significantly increases manufacturing, installation, and maintenance costs. The typical environment of a glass production line, full of dust and fragments, further intensifies the problem, as solid particles can compromise the bearings and interfere with the correct engagement of the system.

[005] Another critical point concerns operational performance. Because the lift needs to move to each level whenever an operation is required, the work cycle is slower compared to simpler, more direct solutions. The number of moving parts also generates noise, vibrations, and the need for frequent lubrication.

[006] Another problem detected in the Multi-Level Buffer System with Lift is the use of two distinct lift elevators: an infeed elevator and an outfeed elevator. This configuration generates a significant increase in the mechanical and structural complexity of the machine. As two elevators are needed to ensure the movement of the plates, the design requires a greater number of components, alignment and synchronization systems, and demands a more robust architecture to support the operation of the assembly. This duplication of mechanisms implies a more expensive piece of equipment to manufacture and more costly in terms of preventive and corrective maintenance, since each elevator represents an additional point of wear, adjustment and possibility of Petition 870250077609, dated 01 / 09 / 2025, page 8 / 35 3 / 9 failure.

[007] Thus, the state of the art represented by the Multi-Level Buffer System with Lift shows a functional system, but one that presents significant disadvantages, such as the need for two independent elevators, greater control complexity, higher production and maintenance costs, limited reliability, and slower operation due to the repetitive vertical displacement of the elevators and the numerous mechanical parts involved, in addition to higher energy consumption. These points justify the search for simpler, more efficient, and economical solutions, such as the one proposed in this application.

[008] A second prior art constitutes an industrial automation system designed for the handling, transport and pre-processing of glass sheets. This is a solution developed to enable factories or processing industries in general to achieve high levels of productivity through intensive automation and optimization of factory space (https: / / www.youtube.com / watch?v=Pb7VJcDlooU&t=18s).

[009] The equipment in question integrates automatic handling and storage modules, with an emphasis on vertical glass transport systems capable of interconnecting different levels of the factory. The main concept lies in the use of a lifting system and multiple buffers, in which glass sheets are transferred vertically between sectors of the production line, such as cutting, grinding, tempering or lamination, without the need for manual intervention. This integration provides fluidity to the process and reduces setup time between stages.

[010] The MAC Glastech system uses complex transport structures with multiple elevators that work in sync to move the sheets to the desired level. This solution, while efficient, involves a high degree of mechanical and electronic complexity. Several modules are required. Petition 870250077609, dated 01 / 09 / 2025, page 9 / 35 / 9 of movement, motors and control systems to ensure the precision and safety of transport. In addition, the actuation method used in elevators (up and down) is performed by dedicated electric actuators, which need to be installed on each elevator support chain. This means that for each chain responsible for vertical displacement, an independent electric actuator is required, increasing not only the cost of acquiring components, but also energy consumption, the physical space occupied, and the probability of failures. Furthermore, the need for multiple actuators requires more sophisticated control systems to ensure the synchronization of movement, which further increases the electronic complexity of the assembly. In addition, the use of multiple elevators increases installation costs, raises maintenance costs, and demands more factory space.

[011] Thus, the present invention proposes a multi-level elevator that moves vertically as a single unit without the use of rollers, consisting basically of levels formed by metal profiles on which the sheet slides. The vertical movement of the elevator is generated by an electric motor that drives geared motors positioned at the top of the elevator, transmitting torque to belts or chains connected to the fixed structure (6), raising or lowering the entire assembly. Description of the figures

[012] The present inventive activity will be described in greater detail below, by way of non-limiting example, with reference to its preferred embodiment illustrated in the drawings below, in which: Figure 1 illustrates, in an isometric view, the preferred configuration of the rollerless multi-level elevator for temporary storage and sequencing of glass sheets. Figure 2 shows an isometric view of the elevator formed by a structure that Petition 870250077609, dated 01 / 09 / 2025, p. 10 / 35 / 9 supports lines of profiles positioned transversely and spaced apart horizontally and vertically. Figure 3 shows a front view of the same elevator with the structure that supports the lines of profiles. Figure 4 depicts, in isometric view and detail, the metal frame and track of the assembly. Figure 5 shows an isometric view of the junction of the elevator with the metal frame and conveyor belt. Figure 6 illustrates, in perspective view and detail, the guides used in the elevator. Figure 7 illustrates, in a side view and detail, the insertion of the revolution counter at one end of a given shaft driven by the geared motor group. Figure 8 shows a perspective view and details of the limit switches installed on the metal frame of the equipment. Detailed description of the invention

[013] According to Figures 1, 2 and 3, the multi-level rollerless elevator for temporary storage and sequencing of glass sheets (1), known as a buffer, is defined by the elevator (2) itself, which is formed by a structure (2.1) that supports lines of profiles (2.2) positioned transversely and spaced horizontally and vertically, with each profile having interspersed rubber or polymeric material devices (3) that provide cushioning and prevent surface damage, such as scratches on the glass sheets. The number of levels can vary according to the need or space available at the equipment installation site, and the elevator can have the volume shown in Figure 2 for a conventional installation (ground level) or double its volume by lowering the floor at the equipment installation site. Petition 870250077609, dated 01 / 09 / 2025, page 11 / 35 / 9

[014] As shown in Figures 4 and 5, the structure (2.1) is coupled to supports (4) (detail A of Figure 4) linked to belts, chains (5) or any other similar means capable of supporting up to 550 kg of load each, and vertical movement occurs through the assembly formed by geared motor (6) and reducer (7) installed on the upper part of the metal frame (8) positioned on the conveyor belt formed by drive rollers (9). The geared motor (6) moves two lateral shafts (6.1) that are responsible for vertically displacing at least four belts or chains (5) and simultaneously transmits the rotational movement to the reducer (7) installed on the opposite side of the metal frame, which moves another two shafts (7.1) that also vertically displace four more belts or chains synchronously, giving rise to the upward and downward movement of the elevator (2) and its structure (2.1) with the levels, the said elevator (2) remaining inserted between the existing spaces in the drive rollers (9) that form the conveyor belt.

[015] To stabilize the upward and downward movement of the elevator made by the belts or chains (5), column-shaped guides (10) are used at the four corners of the structure, sliding in sliding bushings (11) fixed to the metal frame (8) (shown in Detail B of Figure 6). The guides (10) prevent lateral oscillations and ensure precision in the path, as they slide smoothly in the sliding bushings (11), allowing the assembly to maintain alignment. This configuration provides greater robustness to the system, in addition to minimizing irregular stresses on the belts or chains, extending the service life of the mechanism and ensuring reliable and safe operation.

[016] At the end of one of the shafts (6.1) of the geared motor (6) (Detail C of Figure 7) is installed a sensor or revolution counter (12), which functions as a precise control system for the vertical movement of the elevator (2). The principle is relatively simple, but essential to ensure that the elevator stops exactly at the desired level, where it will receive the glass plate. Petition 870250077609, dated 01 / 09 / 2025, page 12 / 35 / 9

[017] When the geared motor (6) is activated, it transmits rotation to the output shaft (6.1), which in turn moves the belts or chains (5) responsible for raising or lowering the elevator (2). A sensor or revolution counter (12) (usually a rotary encoder or pulse counter) is installed on this shaft, which registers each complete rotation or fraction of a rotation performed by its respective shaft (6.1). Each rotation corresponds to a specific linear displacement of the elevator, previously calibrated according to the diameter of the pulley or gear that winds the chain. Thus, when starting the movement, the electronic control system monitors the pulses emitted by the revolution counter (12). When the accumulated count reaches the value corresponding to the displacement necessary to align the elevator to the selected level, the controller sends the stop command to the geared motor (6).This ensures that the elevator stops at the exact point, without relying solely on the activation time or imprecise mechanical sensors.

[018] Limit switches (13) (Details D and E of Figure 8) installed at the top and bottom of the elevator travel (2), exactly on the metal frame (8), act as an additional safety system to the revolution counter (12). While the revolution counter ensures stopping accuracy at each operating level, the limit switches (13) function as physical movement limiters, preventing the elevator (2) from exceeding its mechanical limits. These devices are generally electrically operated switches that are mechanically activated when the elevator reaches its extreme position, either at the highest or lowest point of the travel. As soon as they are pressed, they automatically interrupt the electrical power supply to the geared motor (6), causing the system to stop moving.These switches serve a twofold purpose: on the one hand, they prevent malfunctions in the revolution counter, programming errors, or electrical failures from causing the elevator to collide with the structure; on the other hand, they protect both the mechanical components (chains, guides, and motor) and the transported load, which in this case are glass panels, extremely sensitive to impacts. Petition 870250077609, dated 01 / 09 / 2025, page 13 / 35 / 9

[019] In terms of advantages, the elimination of rollers at all levels significantly reduces the mechanical complexity of the equipment. Since there is no need for multiple motorized shafts, gears, or couplings at each level, the design becomes simpler, more compact, and less susceptible to failures resulting from wear of rotating parts. This simplification also implies lower manufacturing costs and reduced maintenance, as the number of parts subject to friction and periodic lubrication is drastically reduced. Furthermore, the vertical movement of the entire set of levels covered by soft, non-abrasive material (such as rubber or polymer) provides a continuous and stable surface so that the glass sheets do not suffer scratches and remain stable on the levels. Another relevant point is the use of only one fixed motorized conveyor belt next to the elevator.This feature eliminates the need for multiple motorized transfer points, resulting in greater process reliability and optimized sheet flow, since only the elevator moves vertically to the appropriate level for loading or unloading.

[020] From a control and automation standpoint, the system incorporates a revolution counter coupled to one of the shafts of the geared motor responsible for vertical movement. This counter allows the elevator to position itself precisely at the desired level, ensuring that each sheet of glass is accumulated or released at the exact programmed point. This feature not only ensures precision but also enables greater operational flexibility, since the operator or the automated system can define different stopping points according to the sequencing logic of the production line.

[021] Complementing the positioning system, the elevator also has upper and lower limit switches, which act as redundant safety barriers. These switches automatically interrupt the power supply to the geared motor if the assembly exceeds its operating limits, preventing collisions, overloads and damage to the structure. Thus, the Petition 870250077609, dated 01 / 09 / 2025, page 14 / 35 / 9 The combination of precision control of the revolution counter and the safety of the limit switches ensures reliable, safe operation suitable for the demands of modern industrial lines.

[022] Finally, the overall advantages of the multi-level elevator for temporary storage and sequencing of glass sheets can be summarized as greater robustness, operational safety, constructive simplicity, low maintenance and efficient protection of the glass sheets, ensuring superior performance compared to conventional buffer systems with multiple drive rollers.

[023] It is worth noting that the inventive activity in question should be understood as representative and not limiting, capable of undergoing convenient modifications and updates, provided that such modifications do not deviate from the essence of the proposal. Petition 870250077609, dated 01 / 09 / 2025, page 15 / 35

Claims

CLAIMS 1. MULTI-LEVEL ELEVATOR WITHOUT ROLLERS FOR TEMPORARY STORAGE AND SEQUENCING OF GLASS SHEETS, CHARACTERIZED by the elevator (2) itself being formed by a structure (2.1) that supports lines of profiles (2.2) positioned transversely and spaced horizontally and vertically, with each profile having interspersed insertions of rubber or polymeric material devices (3), said structure (2.1) being coupled to supports (4) linked to belts or chains (5) to allow vertical movement through the assembly formed by a geared motor (6) and reducer (7) installed on the upper part of the metal frame (8) positioned on the conveyor belt formed by drive rollers (9), the geared motor (6) moving two lateral shafts (6.1) that vertically displace the belts or chains (5) and simultaneously transmitting the rotational movement to the reducer (7) installed on the side opposite the metal frame (8), which moves two other axes (7.1) which also move more belts or chains (5) vertically in a synchronous manner, with the aforementioned elevator (2) remaining inserted between the spaces existing in the drive rollers (9) that form the conveyor belt.

2. MULTI-LEVEL ELEVATOR WITHOUT ROLLERS FOR TEMPORARY STORAGE AND SEQUENCING OF GLASS SHEETS, according to claim 1, CHARACTERIZED by employing column-shaped guides (10) at the four corners of the elevator structure (2.1) that slide in sliding bushings (11) fixed to the metal frame (8), also having at the end of one of the shafts (6.1) of the geared motor (6) a sensor or revolution counter (12) and limit switches (13) at the top and bottom of the elevator travel (2), exactly on the metal frame (8). Petition 870250077609, dated 01 / 09 / 2025, page 16 / 35

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