Cart ground-engaging device for conveyor assembly

Abstract

Various embodiments relate to trolley grounding devices for conveyor assemblies and methods of using them. In various embodiments, a trolley grounding device for a conveyor assembly may include: a frame engagement element configured to attach to at least a portion of the conveyor assembly; an arm assembly including arm elements hinged to the frame engagement element; and a trolley interface component configured to physically engage a plurality of connected conveyor trolleys of the conveyor assembly to provide a grounding path from these trolleys to the ground, the trolley interface component including one or more grounding wheels configured to physically contact the conveyor trolleys and rotate about a respective central axle based on the physical contact with the conveyor trolleys, wherein the arm assembly defines an offset configuration of the trolley interface component biased in a direction toward the conveyor trolleys.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The various embodiments described herein relate generally to a material handling system including a sorting conveyor for sorting discrete articles to one of a plurality of destinations, and more specifically to a trolley grounding device for grounding a dynamic sorting machine trolley queue. Background Technology

[0002] The applicant has recognized the numerous technical challenges and difficulties associated with establishing a grounding path between the ground and the dynamic conveyor trolley chain during the operation of the sorting conveyor. Through exerted effort, ingenuity, and innovation, the applicant has solved the problems associated with these material handling systems by developing solutions embodied in this disclosure, which are described in detail below. Summary of the Invention

[0003] Various embodiments relate to trolley grounding devices for conveyor assemblies and methods of using them. In various embodiments, a trolley grounding device for a conveyor assembly may include: a frame engaging element configured to attach to at least a portion of the conveyor assembly; an arm assembly including an arm element defined by an arm length extending from a proximal arm end to a distal arm end, the arm element being hingedly grounded relative to the frame engaging element at the proximal arm end; and a trolley interface member connected to the distal arm end of the arm element and configured to physically engage at least a portion of a plurality of connected conveyor trolleys of the conveyor assembly to provide a grounding path from the plurality of connected conveyor trolleys to the ground. The trolley interface component includes one or more grounding wheels configured to physically contact at least a portion of the connected plurality of conveyor trolleys to define at least a portion of the grounding path. Each of the one or more grounding wheels is configured to rotate about a corresponding central wheel axle based on one or more forces applied to the grounding wheel by the connected at least a portion of the plurality of conveyor trolleys that are in physical contact with these grounding wheels. The arm assembly defines an offset configuration defined by a biasing force that biases the trolley interface component at least partially toward one or more directions of the connected plurality of conveyor trolleys.

[0004] In various embodiments, the trolley interface component is pivotally connected to the arm element at one or more distal hinges located at the distal arm end of the arm element. In various embodiments, the trolley interface component may be configured to rotate freely about the one or more distal hinges, independent of the angular configuration of the arm element. In various embodiments, the trolley interface component may be configured such that its center of gravity is located at least substantially directly below the axis of rotation defined by the distal hinge. In various embodiments, the one or more ground wheels of the trolley interface component may be defined by a plurality of ground wheels. In some embodiments, the plurality of ground wheels may be arranged such that each of the respective central axles extends in a direction perpendicular to the arm length of the arm element, such that rotation of each ground wheel is defined in a direction at least substantially parallel to the rotational direction of the trolley travel path along which a chain of multiple conveyor trolleys travels over the entire conveyor assembly. In various embodiments, the plurality of ground wheels may include three ground wheels. In some embodiments, the three ground wheels may be distributed along the length of the trolley interface component defined by the trolley interface component, such that the three ground wheels define a continuous arrangement as measured in a direction parallel to the trolley travel path defined by the conveying device assembly.

[0005] In various embodiments, the cart interface component may further include one or more connecting rods that physically engage with each of the one or more grounding wheels to operatively connect each of the one or more grounding wheels to the ground, wherein each of the one or more connecting rods defines at least a portion of the grounding path. In various embodiments, the cart interface component may further include a housing element that engages with each of the one or more grounding wheels and is configured to facilitate a fixed linear arrangement of each of the one or more grounding wheels along the length of the cart interface component. In various embodiments, each of the one or more grounding wheels may include a plurality of conductive bristles extending radially outward from the respective central axle, the plurality of conductive bristles being distributed across an outer surface defined by the central axle. In some embodiments, the plurality of conductive bristles may be made of a conductive material that is at least substantially non-rigid.

[0006] In various embodiments, the biasing configuration of the arm assembly may be at least partially defined by a spring element configured to apply one or more biasing forces to the arm element to bias the arm element in a first rotational direction defined relative to a rotational axis defined by a base hinge, the base hinge being configured to define an articulated connection between the arm element and the frame engaging element; wherein the first rotational direction is defined such that the arm element is biased to rotate at least partially away from the top surface of the frame engaging element. In various embodiments, the trolley grounding device may be configured such that biasing the arm element to rotate at least partially away from the top surface of the frame engaging element in the first rotational direction causes the trolley interface component to be biased to move in a first linear direction defined as at least partially vertically upward. In various embodiments, the frame engaging element may be configured to engage the conveyor frame of the conveyor assembly to define the positioning of the trolley grounding device along a trolley travel path along which a chain of multiple conveyor trolleys travels over the entire conveyor assembly. In some embodiments, the positioning of the cart grounding device is defined by an arrangement in which the cart grounding device is positioned directly below at least a portion of the cart's travel path.

[0007] In various embodiments, the cart grounding device may further include a grounding wire operatively connected to both ground and the one or more grounding wheels of the cart interface component. In various embodiments, the cart interface component may be configured such that the grounding path defined upon physical engagement with at least a portion of the connected plurality of conveyor carts is established through contact between the at least a portion of the connected plurality of conveyor carts and any one of the one or more grounding wheels. In various embodiments, the one or more grounding wheels may include a rotatable configuration that minimizes the effect of engagement between the conveyor cart and the cart interface component, such that the grounding wheel configuration can be defined by a plurality of conductive bristles made of a material having increased capacitance; wherein the increased capacitance of these conductive bristles of the grounding wheels corresponds to the grounding path defined by increased electrical load capacity.

[0008] Various embodiments relate to a method of operating a trolley grounding device for a conveyor assembly, the method comprising: arranging the trolley grounding device relative to the conveyor assembly such that, as the conveyor trolley moves along a trolley travel path defined by the conveyor assembly, each of a plurality of connected conveyor trolleys physically engages the trolley grounding device, the trolley grounding device comprising: a frame engaging element configured to attach to at least a portion of the conveyor assembly; an arm assembly including an arm element defined by an arm length extending from a proximal arm end to a distal arm end, the arm element being hingedly grounded relative to the frame engaging element at the proximal arm end; and a trolley interface member connected to the distal arm end of the arm element and configured to physically engage the plurality of connected conveyor trolleys to provide access from the plurality of connected conveyor trolleys to the ground. The at least one grounding path, the trolley interface component includes one or more grounding wheels configured to physically contact a plurality of connected conveyor trolleys to define at least a portion of the at least one grounding path, each of the one or more grounding wheels being configured to rotate about a corresponding central axle based on one or more forces applied to the grounding wheel from the plurality of connected conveyor trolleys in physical contact with these grounding wheels, wherein the arm assembly defines an offset configuration defined by a offset force that offsets the trolley interface component at least partially toward one or more directions of the plurality of connected conveyor trolleys; and wherein the trolley interface component of the grounding device is configured to maintain continuous physical contact between at least a portion of the one or more grounding wheels and the plurality of connected conveyor trolleys as the plurality of connected conveyor trolleys move along the trolley travel path. Attached Figure Description

[0009] Now refer to the accompanying drawings, which may not be drawn to scale, and in which:

[0010] Figure 1 An incomplete partially exploded perspective view of a material handling system including a sorting conveyor according to one or more embodiments is shown, the sorting conveyor including a cart grounding device configured to engage with a plurality of conveyor carts.

[0011] Figure 2 A perspective view of an exemplary cart grounding device is shown, representing the arrangement of various components relative to an exemplary sorting conveyor according to various embodiments described herein;

[0012] Figure 3 A perspective view of an exemplary cart grounding device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure is shown;

[0013] Figure 4A side view of an exemplary trolley grounding device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure is shown; and

[0014] Figures 5A to 5C Various schematic side views of exemplary trolley grounding devices engaging with multiple conveyor trolleys of a material handling system, as described in the various documents herein, are shown; and

[0015] Figures 6A to 6B Various schematic side views of exemplary trolley grounding devices that engage with multiple conveyor trolleys of a material handling system, as described in the various documents herein, are shown. Detailed Implementation

[0016] This disclosure describes various embodiments more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that some, but not all, of the embodiments are shown and described herein. In fact, embodiments may take many different forms, and therefore this disclosure should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided to enable this disclosure to meet applicable legal requirements. Throughout the document, similar reference numerals refer to similar elements.

[0017] First, it should be understood that although exemplary embodiments of one or more aspects are shown below, the disclosed components, systems, and methods can be implemented using any number of techniques, whether currently known or not yet available. This disclosure should in no way be limited to the exemplary embodiments, drawings, and techniques shown below, but modifications can be made within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents. While dimensional values ​​for various elements are disclosed, the drawings may not be drawn to scale.

[0018] The terms “example” or “exemplary” as used herein are intended to mean “served as an example, instance, or illustration.” Any implementation described herein as an “example” or “exemplary” is not necessarily more preferred or advantageous than other implementations.

[0019] Figure 1A material handling system 10 is shown, comprising a sorting conveyor 12 that provides the introduction of articles (e.g., articles, cartons, parcels, boxes, products, etc.) from different source locations and the unloading of articles to destination locations. According to the various embodiments shown herein, the sorting conveyor 12 can be any of the following: a cross-belt (CB) loop sorter, a tilting disc sorter, or a pusher tray, or any other sorting machine type conventionally known in the art. As shown herein, one or more inbound conveyors 20 can deliver articles 11 to corresponding locations on the sorting conveyor 12, such as in the inbound direction indicated by arrow 21. In this respect, the sorting conveyor 12 may include a plurality of trolleys that run along a conveyor frame 14, such as a conveyor frame or sorter frame, via tracks. In this respect, a plurality of trolley frames (referred to herein and throughout the following description as trolleys) are covered with movable trays or movable carrier trolleys, such as trolleys 15 that run with the trolleys, via tracks engaged along the conveyor frame 14 and associated with the trolleys. Therefore, in order to transport products from a source (e.g., a storage location) to a destination (e.g., a ramp, container, downstream conveyor, etc.), product 11 is positioned on a cross-belt tray 13, such as, but not limited to, a mobile carrier trolley, such as a trolley 15 that is continuously transported along the trolley travel path indicated by arrow 17 on a conveyor frame 14. Exemplarily, a tag reader 30 may also be provided along the sorting conveyor 12 to read the coded information placed on product 11 as product 11 is transported on the sorting conveyor 12.

[0020] Exemplarily, as these articles 11 move along the length of the sorting conveyor 12, the sorting conveyor 12 can sort the articles 11 in addition to transporting them. In this respect, the sorting conveyor can transport articles 16 to various downstream channels, for example, via conveyor chute 31 to different pick-up units 32. As shown, different adjacent trolleys along the cross belt carrier 13 can be connected together via one or more trolley coupling assemblies through engagement devices 16 of the respective trolleys 15. In various embodiments, the sorting conveyor 12 of the material handling system 10 may include a trolley grounding device 100, which is firmly fixed relative to at least a portion of the conveyor frame 14 and configured to continuously engage at least a portion of a plurality of conductive conveyor trolleys 15 as the conveyor trolleys 15 move relative to the trolley grounding device 100, so as to ground the plurality of conveyor trolleys 15 as they move dynamically throughout the material handling system 10. For example, the trolley grounding device 100 may be configured to engage at least a portion of a plurality of conductive conveyor trolleys 15 along a circulating sorting system such as Figure 1The sorting conveyor 12 shown dynamically grounds the multiple conveyor trolleys 15 within the circulating sorting system by maintaining contact between the trolley grounding device 100 (e.g., a trolley interface component defined by a plurality of grounding wheels electrically connected to a grounding wire) and at least one of the multiple conveyor trolleys 15 when the conveyor transport trolleys 15 are transported. For example, the multiple conveyor trolleys 15 may include a chain of conveyor trolleys 15 physically connected to each other to facilitate collective movement of each of the multiple conveyor trolleys 15 along a conveyor travel path defined by the conveyor frame 14 during operation of the sorting system. In various embodiments, the multiple conveyor trolleys 15 may be electrically connected to each other (e.g., via a daisy-chain configuration) such that the trolley grounding device 100, which physically engages one of the trolleys 15 to establish a high-load grounding path from the trolley 15 to the ground (e.g., via the grounding wire of the trolley grounding device 100), can effectively ground each of the multiple trolleys 15 within the material handling system 10. References below Figures 2 to 5C Various embodiments describe further details of a cart grounding device 100 for establishing a high-load grounding path between the ground and a dynamic multiple-transfer cart, such as... Figure 1 The sorting conveyor 12 shown is used in the sorting machine system.

[0021] Figure 2 Various embodiments according to this disclosure are shown relative to Figure 1 A perspective view of an exemplary trolley grounding device 100, showing the arrangement of various components of an exemplary sorting and conveying apparatus. For example, as... Figure 2As shown, in various embodiments, an exemplary trolley grounding device 100 may be fixed in a position relative to at least a portion of the conveyor frame 14 of an exemplary sorting conveyor 12, positioned along a conveyor travel path, wherein the trolley interface component 130 of the grounding device 100 physically contacts at least a portion of each of a plurality of conveyor trolleys 15 traveling along guide rails 14a of the conveyor frame 14 (e.g., along the conveyor travel path). In various embodiments, the sorting conveyor 12 may include a conveyor frame 14 at least partially defined by one or more guide rails 14a, each conveyor trolley 15 engaging with a trolley carrier assembly along the one or more guide rails as it moves through a trolley travel path defined by the sorting conveyor. For example, the guide rails 14a may define a conveyor travel path along which a plurality of trolleys 15 travel in a loop configuration throughout the sorting conveyor 12. In various embodiments, the exemplary trolley grounding device 100 may be rigidly fixed relative to at least a portion of the conveyor frame 14 (e.g., at least one of the transverse sidewalls and / or guide rails 14a) in a position along the conveyor travel path defined by the guide rails 14a and below the portion of the trolley 15 of the conveyor frame 14 along which it moves (e.g., the guide rails 14a), such that at least a portion of each of the plurality of trolleys 15 passes over the trolley grounding device 100 as the trolley travels along the conveyor travel path.

[0022] In various embodiments, the cart grounding device 100 may include a grounding wire 101 operatively connected between ground (e.g., the ground surface) and the cart interface component 130 of the cart grounding device 100. For example, a plurality of carts 15 may be configured such that a high electrical load can be carried by the plurality of carts 15 during operation of the sorting conveyor 12. The cart grounding device 100 may be configured such that physical contact between at least a portion of the cart interface component 130 (e.g., one of a plurality of grounding wheels) and a conductive surface of one of the plurality of carts 15 as the carts 15 pass over the cart grounding device 100 (e.g., along the conveyor travel path) defines a low-resistance, high-load-capacity grounding path between the plurality of chain conveyor carts 15 and the ground via the grounding wire 101.

[0023] Figure 3 A perspective view of an exemplary cart grounding device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. Specifically, Figure 3 It shows Figure 1 and Figure 2The exemplary embodiment illustrates a cart grounding device 100. As shown, in various embodiments, the exemplary cart grounding device 100, configured for at least substantially continuous engagement with a dynamic plurality of carts in a material handling system, may include a frame engagement element 110, an arm assembly 120, and a cart engagement assembly operatively connected to a grounding wire 101 of the cart grounding device 100, such that the plurality of carts are grounded upon physical contact with a cart interface component 130. For example, Figure 3 The exemplary cart grounding device 100 shown includes a frame engagement element 110 configured to be securely fixed to a portion of the conveyor frame to define a fixed position of the cart grounding device 100 within the material handling system along a conveyor track path defined by the sorting conveyor of the material handling system 10 (e.g., vertically below a guard rail defining the conveyor travel path). For example, the frame engagement element 110 may be rigidly fixed to the conveyor frame (e.g., sidewalls, guard rails, bottom frame surfaces, etc.) to establish the positioning of the cart grounding device 100 along the cart travel path of the sorting conveyor. As shown, in various embodiments, the frame engagement element 110 may include at least a substantially flat rigid member arranged relative to the conveyor frame to be positioned in at least a portion of the lateral direction along the width of the sorting conveyor between opposing lateral sides of the frame (e.g., in a...). Figure 3 (Extended in the z-direction defined by the exemplary orientation shown in the figure).

[0024] As shown, the frame engagement element 110 may include one or more fastening devices 111 configured to facilitate attachment of the frame engagement element 110 to the conveyor frame. As a non-limiting example, in various embodiments, the fastening device 111 may include bolts, pins, latches, hooks, and / or any other suitable mechanical fastening device configured to fasten the frame engagement element 110 relative to at least a portion of the conveyor frame. In various embodiments, the frame engagement element 110 may be at least partially defined by a top surface along which at least a portion of the arm assembly 120 of the exemplary trolley grounding device 100 may be arranged, as described in further detail herein.

[0025] In various embodiments, the exemplary trolley grounding device may further include an arm assembly 120 connected to both the frame engagement element 110 and the trolley interface component 130 and configured to bias the trolley interface component 130 in an extended positioning above the frame engagement element 110, such that multiple trolleys of the material handling system physically contact at least a portion (e.g., multiple grounding wheels) of the trolley interface component 130 as they travel along the trolley travel path on the trolley grounding device 100. As shown, the arm assembly 120 may be rigidly fixed relative to the top surface 110a of the frame engagement element 110. For example, in various embodiments, the arm assembly 120 may include a frame attachment component 120a configured to facilitate engagement of the arm assembly 120 relative to the top surface 110a of the frame engagement element 110. In various embodiments, the arm assembly 120 may include an arm element 123 hingedly grounded relative to the frame engagement element 110 via one or more base hinges 122. The arm element 123 may be at least partially defined by an arm length that extends from the proximal arm end where the arm element 123 is hinged to one or more base hinges 122 to the distal arm end where the arm element 123 is connected (e.g., via one or more distal hinges 124) to the trolley interface component 130.

[0026] In various embodiments, one or more base hinges 122 may be fixed relative to the frame attachment member 120a, such that an arm element 123 that rotates (e.g., pivots) about an axis of rotation (e.g., by a range of rotational movement) defined by the base hinge 122 may correspond to an arm element that rotates relative to the frame engagement member 110. For example, as shown, the axis of rotation defined by the base hinge 122 is in a lateral direction at least substantially parallel to the width of the frame engagement member 110 (e.g., in the direction between opposite lateral sides of the conveyor frame, such as, for example, in...). Figure 3 (Extended in the z-direction defined in the exemplary orientation shown). In this exemplary case, the range of rotational movement of the arm element 123 can be defined in a plane that is at least substantially perpendicular to the top surface 110a of the frame engagement element 110 and / or at least substantially parallel to the direction of the conveyor travel path as defined by the sorting machine conveyor (e.g., in the direction defined by the sorting machine conveyor). Figure 3 (in the exemplary orientation defined in the xy plane shown). For example, as described further in detail herein, the arm assembly 120 may be configured such that the range of rotational movement of the arm element 123 about the base hinge 122 is defined at least in part by a variable separation angle between the arm length of the arm element 123 and the plane along which the axis of rotation defining the base hinge 122 is located, such as, for example, the separation angle between the arm length of the arm element 123 and the top surface 110a of the frame engagement element 110 (e.g., as shown in the figure). Figure 3 (The exemplary orientation shown is defined by the angle in the xy plane).

[0027] In various embodiments, the arm assembly 120 may further include a spring element 121 configured to apply one or more biasing forces to the arm element 123 to bias its rotation about the base hinge 122 in a direction at least substantially away from the top surface 110a of the frame engagement element 110, such that in a direction at least partially vertically upward (e.g., in a direction such as...). Figure 3 The exemplary orientation shown (in the positive y-direction) of the trolley interface component 130 is biased at the distal end of the arm element 123. For example, a spring element 121 may engage with the arm element 123 such that the arm assembly 120 is defined by a bias configuration in which the arm element 123 is biased by a spring force causing the arm element 123 to rotate in a rotational direction corresponding to an increased separation angle between the arm element 123 and the top surface 110a (e.g., about the base hinge 122) (e.g., towards a configuration in which the separation angle is close to 90 degrees). For example, the force from the spring element 121 may cause the arm element to rotate about the base hinge 122, raising the vertical positioning of the trolley interface component 130 relative to the conveyor frame of the sorting machine conveyor. For example, in Figure 3 In the exemplary trolley grounding device 100 shown, the bias configuration of the arm assembly 120 may be defined by one or more spring forces acting on the arm element 123 from the spring element 121 to cause the arm element to rotate clockwise about the base hinge 122, thereby increasing the vertical separation distance between the frame engagement element 110 and the trolley interface component 130 (e.g., as in the vertical direction, such as in...). Figure 3 (The exemplary orientation shown is defined in the y-direction). Therefore, the offset configuration of the arm assembly 120 may correspond to the trolley interface component 130 in the upward vertical direction (e.g., in the case of...). Figure 3 The exemplary orientation shown is biased in the positive y direction to facilitate physical engagement of the trolley interface component 130 with the plurality of trolleys as they travel along the trolley travel path defined by the sorting machine conveyor over the trolley grounding device 100.

[0028] In various embodiments, the cart grounding device 100 may include a cart interface component 130 operatively connected (e.g., electrically connected) to a grounding wire 101 of the cart grounding device 100 and configured to physically contact multiple carts as the carts (e.g., along a cart travel path defined by the conveyor frame) move across the sorting machine conveyor to ground the dynamically moving multiple carts throughout the operation of the material handling system. As shown, the cart interface component 130 is connected to the arm assembly 120 at the distal arm end of the arm element 123, such that the cart interface component 130 is configured to move relative to the frame engagement element 110 (e.g., in at least a partially vertical direction) as the arm element 123 rotates about the base hinge 122. In various embodiments, the cart interface component 130 may be defined by a cart interface component width and a cart interface component length. The width of the trolley interface component 130 may be defined in a lateral direction that is at least substantially parallel to the width of the frame engaging element 110, such as, for example, in the direction between opposite lateral sides of the conveyor frame (e.g., in the direction between opposite lateral sides of the conveyor frame). Figure 3 (The exemplary orientation shown is defined in the z-direction). Furthermore, the length of the trolley interface component 130 may be defined in a longitudinal direction perpendicular to the width of the trolley interface component, such as, for example, in a direction at least substantially parallel to the arm length of the frame engaging element 110 and parallel to the opposite lateral side of the conveyor frame (e.g., in a direction such as...). Figure 3 (The exemplary orientation shown is defined in the x-direction). For example, the cart grounding device 100 may be configured such that the length of the cart interface component 130 is defined in a direction at least substantially parallel to the direction of the cart travel path, as defined along a portion of the sorting machine conveyor corresponding to the positioning of the cart grounding device 100. In various embodiments, the cart interface component 130 may be configured such that the length of the cart interface component is greater than the distance defining the gap between adjacent conveyor carts of the material handling system. As a non-limiting example, the length of the cart interface component 130 may be greater than at least approximately twice the distance defining the gap between adjacent conveyor carts of the material handling system (e.g., in the case of...). Figure 3 The exemplary orientation shown is defined in the x-direction.

[0029] Figure 4A side perspective view of an exemplary trolley grounding device 100 according to various embodiments described herein is shown. As shown, the proximal arm end 123a of the arm element 123 is hinged to the base hinge 122, and the distal arm end 123b of the arm element 123 is pivotally connected to a trolley interface component 130 at one or more distal hinges 124. In various embodiments, the exemplary trolley grounding device 100 may include a trolley interface component 130 configured to rotate freely about one or more distal hinges 124 independently of the angular configuration defined by the arm element 123 (e.g., relative to the frame engagement element 110). For example, the trolley interface component 130 may be configured to rotate at least partially based on one or more forces of gravity acting on the trolley interface component 130 about an axis of rotation defined by one or more distal hinges 124. As shown in the figure, the axis of rotation defined by one or more distal hinges 124 is in a lateral direction at least substantially parallel to the axis of rotation defined by the base hinge 122 (e.g., in the direction between opposite lateral sides of the transmission device frame, such as, for example, in...). Figure 3 (Extended in the z-direction defined by the exemplary orientation shown). In this exemplary case, the range of relative rotational movement of the trolley interface component 130 relative to the arm element 123 can be defined in a plane that is at least substantially perpendicular to the top surface 110a of the frame engagement element 110 and / or at least substantially parallel to the direction of the conveyor travel path as defined by the sorting machine conveyor (e.g., in the direction defined by the sorting machine conveyor). Figure 4 (In the xy plane defined by the exemplary orientation shown).

[0030] As described herein, the cart grounding device 100 may be configured such that rotation of the cart interface component 130 about a distal hinge 124 disposed at the distal arm end 123b of the arm element 123 is at least substantially independent of rotation of the arm element 123 about a base hinge 122 disposed at the proximal arm end 123a of the arm element 123. In various embodiments, the distal hinge 124 may be configured such that the cart interface component 130 is linearly movable together with the distal arm end 123b of the arm element 123, and the cart interface component 130 is freely rotatable about the distal hinge 124. For example, the cart interface component 130 may be configured to maintain at least substantially flush (e.g., at least substantially level with respect to the ground on which the conveyor frame on which the sorting conveyor is positioned) in an exemplary case where the cart interface component 130 is not subjected to any external forces from the plurality of conveyor carts 200. In an exemplary case, where the torque acting on the trolley interface component 130 as a result of physical contact with multiple conveyor trolleys, as described herein, is defined by a magnitude that is at least substantially zero, the trolley interface component 130 may rotate about the base hinge 122 on the arm element 123 (e.g., in accordance with...). Figure 4Throughout the process of the exemplary orientation shown in the clockwise direction, the configuration is maintained at least substantially flush (e.g., at least substantially horizontal).

[0031] In various embodiments, one or more distal hinges 124 may be connected to the housing element 135 of the trolley interface component 130. In various embodiments, as shown, the housing element 135 of the trolley interface component 130 is operatively connected to each of a plurality of ground wheels 131 of the trolley interface component 130 as described herein, to fix the positioning of each ground wheel 131 relative to each other and / or relative to the distal arm end 123b of the arm element 123. For example, in various embodiments, the trolley interface component 130 may be configured such that rotation of the trolley interface component 130 about the distal hinge 124 can be defined by rotation of the housing element 135 about a rotation axis defined by the distal hinge 124 and corresponding linear movement of each of the plurality of ground wheels 131 attached thereto.

[0032] In various embodiments, an exemplary trolley interface component 130 may include a plurality of grounding wheels 131 configured to physically contact a plurality of high-speed trolleys traveling throughout the material handling system to define a high-load grounding path between a conductive trolley and a grounding wire, via which a trolley grounding device 100 can continuously ground the trolley as it moves along the trolley travel path. For example, the trolley interface component 130 is configured to maintain at least substantially continuous physical engagement with the plurality of trolleys based on at least one of the grounding wheels 131 physically contacting at least a portion of the plurality of trolleys (e.g., trolleys in the plurality of trolleys and / or trolleys in trolley carrier assemblies engaged therewith) throughout the trolley's movement around a circular track defining the trolley travel path.

[0033] In various embodiments, each of the plurality of grounding wheels 131 may be configured to rotate about a corresponding axle 132, which may be connected to a connecting rod 134 of the housing element 135 and / or the trolley interface component 130. The trolley interface component 130 may be configured such that each of the plurality of axles 132 defining the axis of rotation of the respective grounding wheel of the plurality of grounding wheels 131 may be arranged to extend laterally along the width of the trolley interface component, as described herein. For example, each of the plurality of axles 132 may extend between opposing lateral sides of the housing element 135 and be linearly fixed relative to the housing element 135, such that the plurality of grounding wheels 131 define a configuration that is linearly fixed relative to the housing element 135 and / or the distal arm end 123b of the arm element 123. Furthermore, in various embodiments, as shown, the trolley interface component 130 may include one or more connecting rods 134 that are physically engaged with the housing element 135 and each of the plurality of grounding wheels 131 (e.g., each of the plurality of axles 132) to secure the plurality of grounding wheels 131 relative to the housing element 135 and operatively connect the plurality of grounding wheels 131 between them (e.g., to achieve a conductive connection). For example, the connecting rods 134 may be made of a suitable material capable of maintaining a high-load grounding path between each of the plurality of grounding wheels 131 and the housing element 135 (e.g., and further through the arm assembly and to the grounding wire 101). For example, in various embodiments, the trolley grounding device 100 may include a second grounding wire 102 connected between the connecting rod 134 and the arm assembly base plate and configured to form a current path from the connecting rod 134 to the arm assembly base plate to facilitate current conduction between the trolley interface component 130 (e.g., the connecting rod 134) and the arm assembly 120 (e.g., the arm assembly base plate). For example, the second grounding wire 102 can be connected at one end to the same arm assembly base plate connected to the grounding wire 101, so that the current conducted from the trolley interface component 130 to the arm assembly base plate via the second grounding wire 102 can be further conducted from the arm assembly base plate to the ground via the grounding wire 101.

[0034] In various embodiments, the connecting rod 134 may be defined by the length of each of the plurality of grounding wheels 131 (e.g., each of the corresponding plurality of axles 132) extending along the length of the trolley interface component, such that each of the plurality of grounding wheels 131 defines at least a portion of a high-load grounding path capable of grounding the plurality of trolleys when one of the trolleys physically contacts the grounding wheel 131. That is, in this exemplary configuration, the dynamic plurality of trolleys moving along a trolley travel path defined by the high-speed sorting conveyor of the material handling system may be grounded by the trolley grounding device 100 when physical contact occurs between the conductive portions of the plurality of trolleys (e.g., the metal surface along the bottom of any of the plurality of daisy-chain trolleys) and any of the grounding wheels 131.

[0035] In various embodiments, each of the plurality of grounding wheels 131 may include a wheel component configured to rotate about a central axle in response to forces applied to the grounding wheel by a dynamic conveyor trolley of the material handling system. For example, as the conveyor trolley travels along a trolley travel path in a first direction 150 through a portion of the trolley grounding device 100 on which a conveyor frame is rigidly mounted, at least a portion of the conveyor trolley (e.g., a surface defined at least near the bottom of the conveyor trolley) may physically engage at least the top portion of the grounding wheel to cause rotation of the grounding wheel about its central axle. The trolley interface component 130 may be configured such that each of the grounding wheels 131 is configured to rotate independently of each other. Furthermore, the grounding wheels 131 of the exemplary trolley interface component 130 may each be configured to rotate freely about their respective central axle 132, at least partially independently of rotation of the trolley interface component 130 (e.g., housing element 135) about a distal hinge 124. For example, each of the plurality of grounding wheels 131 may be configured to rotate at least in part about a respective axis of rotation defined by its central wheel axle 132 based on one or more forces applied to the grounding wheel from a plurality of conveyor trolleys of the material handling system. For example, the linear force applied to the grounding wheel as a result of physical contact with the conveyor trolley may be at least in part defined by at least a partial delivery of momentum from the conveyor trolley to the grounding wheel, which at least partially delivers momentum resulting in the application of non-lateral torque and moment to the grounding wheel, such as, for example, in a counterclockwise direction defined in the xy plane, as in Figure 4 The exemplary orientation shown is defined in the diagram.

[0036] In various embodiments, the grounding wheel of the exemplary trolley grounding device 100 may be embodied as a rotatable grounding brush having a central axle and a plurality of bristles extending radially outward from a portion of the central wheel (e.g., the outer surface of the axle), the plurality of bristles being distributed along at least substantially the entire circumference of the central wheel portion (e.g., along the entire outer surface of the axle). In various embodiments, the plurality of bristles of the exemplary grounding wheel may be made of a material that is at least substantially conductive such that the plurality of bristles define a plurality of conductive fibers configured to establish a high-load grounding path between the trolley grounding device 100 and a conveying trolley having a conductive surface in physical contact with one or more of the conductive bristles. For example, the plurality of radially conductive bristles may collectively define the outer surface of the exemplary grounding wheel such that the radius of the grounding wheel may be defined at least partially by the length of the conductive bristles (e.g., as measured in the radially outward direction). As a non-limiting example, in various embodiments, the plurality of conductive bristles of the exemplary grounding wheel may be configured such that the radius of the grounding wheel is at least between approximately 5 mm and 150 mm (e.g., between 45 mm and 55 mm). In various embodiments, the configuration of the grounding wheel of the exemplary cart grounding device 100 may depend on the available space and / or the desired maximum rotational speed. For example, in various cases where the exemplary sorting machine conveyor exhibits the same sorting machine / conveyor speed, a grounding wheel with a larger radius will rotate at a slower speed than a grounding wheel with a smaller radius, which may result in a longer component life for the larger grounding wheel relative to the smaller grounding wheel.

[0037] In various embodiments, the conductive bristles of the exemplary grounding wheel may be made of a material that is at least substantially non-rigid, which is configured to facilitate at least substantially continuous physical contact with the conveyor trolley as the length of the conveyor trolley passes through the grounding wheel, while minimizing the resistance exerted on the conveyor trolley by the conductive bristles of the grounding wheel as a result of the physical contact therebetween. (For example, as the trolley moves past the grounding wheel, a conductive surface near the bottom portion of the conveyor trolley physically engages with the grounding wheel at its highest position. As described herein, an exemplary grounding wheel may be defined by a plurality of conductive bristles made of a plurality of conductive low-resistance carbon fibers and / or metals such as, for example, brass, copper, steel, etc., for conducting electricity. Alternatively and / or additionally, various grounding wheels of the trolley interface component of the exemplary trolley grounding device may be embodied as solid wheels made of conductive low-resistance materials such as, for example, carbon-impregnated polymers, metal-impregnated polymers, etc. In various embodiments, specific materials and / or materials used to constitute the exemplary grounding wheel may be based on the material of the conveyor trolley surface to which the grounding wheel is configured to physically contact, for example, to optimize the compatibility of the grounding wheel with the trolley material of the conveyor trolley.)

[0038] Furthermore, in various embodiments, the rotatable configuration of each of the plurality of grounding wheels 131 in the direction of rotation can further minimize the physical resistance generated in response to the engagement of the conveyor trolley with the trolley interface component 130, the direction of rotation being at least substantially aligned with the trolley travel path along which the plurality of conveyor trolleys move relative to the trolley grounding device 100. For example, the rotatable configuration of each of the plurality of grounding wheels 131 can at least substantially reduce the magnitude of the force generated when the conveyor trolley makes physical contact with the trolley interface component 130, thereby effectively attenuating the impact of the contact of the conveyor trolley at the trolley interface component 130. In various embodiments, exemplary trolley interface components 130 configured to promote such low-impact interaction during grounding can enable the use of grounding wheels 131 having a plurality of conductive bristles made of a conductive material more suitable for grounding high-capacity conveyor systems. For example, the rotatable configuration of each of the plurality of grounding wheels 131 allows for the use of multiple conductive bristles made of a material known to have lower strength properties but higher conductivity, thereby increasing the capacitance of the cart grounding device 100 and enabling the use of such exemplary cart grounding devices 100 in systems limited by high electrical load conditions. As a non-limiting example, the cart interface component 130 with the grounding wheels 131 having a defined rotatable configuration, as described herein, may be defined by multiple conductive bristles made of brass or carbon fiber.

[0039] In various embodiments, the plurality of grounding wheels 131 of the trolley interface component 130 may include three grounding wheels that are along the length of the trolley interface component 130 (e.g., in the case of...). Figure 4 The exemplary orientations shown (defined in the x-direction) are distributed one after another, such that the conveyor trolley traveling in the first direction 150 (e.g., along the trolley travel path) sequentially engages and subsequently disengages from the plurality of grounding wheels 131 as the trolley passes the trolley grounding device 100. For example, as Figure 4As shown in the exemplary trolley grounding device 100, the trolley interface component 130 may include a plurality of grounding wheels 131 comprising three grounding wheels, including a first grounding wheel 131a, a second grounding wheel 131b, and a third grounding wheel 131c configured to rotate about a first wheel axle 132a, a second wheel axle 132b, and a third wheel axle 132c, respectively. In this exemplary configuration, as the trolley moves in a first direction 150, the conveyor trolley may physically contact the top portion of each grounding wheel 131a, 131b, 131c such that a corresponding force is applied in a direction corresponding to (e.g., at least substantially parallel to) the first direction 150 to each of the first grounding wheels 131a, the second grounding wheel 131b, and the third grounding wheel 131c. The linear force achieved by each grounding wheel 131a, 131b, 131c can be defined at least partially by the delivery of momentum from the conveyor trolley to the grounding wheels 131a, 131b, 131c, and can result in the application of non-lateral torque and moment to each of the grounding wheels 131a, 131b, 131c. This can cause each of the grounding wheels 131a, 131b, 131c to rotate about their respective axles 132a, 132b, 132c, for example, in a counterclockwise direction defined in the xy plane, as in Figure 4 The exemplary orientation shown is defined in the diagram.

[0040] In various embodiments, the linear distance between the first wheel axle 132a and the second wheel axle 132b, such as along the length of the trolley interface component (e.g., in accordance with...), is... Figure 4 The exemplary orientation shown in the diagram (defined in the x-direction) defines a linear distance that may be at least substantially equal to the linear distance between the second axle 132b and the third axle 132c. As a non-limiting example, in various embodiments, adjacent axles of the plurality of axles 132 defined by the plurality of grounding wheels 131 may be separated by a linear distance at least approximately between 12 mm and 320 mm (e.g., between 52.5 mm and 64 mm). Furthermore, in various embodiments, the trolley interface component 130 of the exemplary trolley grounding device 100 may be configured such that the center of gravity (e.g., centroid) of the trolley interface component 130 is at least substantially located on the axis of rotation defined by the distal hinge 124 (e.g., as in the vertical direction, such as in...). Figure 4(Measured in the negative y direction as defined by the exemplary orientation shown in the figure) directly below. In various embodiments, the center of mass (e.g., the axis of rotation thus defined) of the trolley interface component 130, defined directly below the distal hinge 124, allows the rotation (e.g., angular configuration) of the trolley interface component 130 about the distal hinge 124 to be independent of and / or unaffected by the angular configuration of the arm assembly 120, such that when the arm assembly rotates toward an offset configuration away from the horizontal plane defined by the top surface 110a of the frame engagement element 110, the trolley interface component 130 exhibits a minimal amount of rotational movement about the distal hinge 124.

[0041] Figures 5A to 5C Various schematic side views of exemplary trolley grounding devices engaging with multiple trolleys of a material handling system, according to various documents described herein, are shown. Specifically, Figures 5A to 5C This is a schematic diagram of a material handling system including multiple conveyor trolleys traveling along a conveyor travel path defined by a circular sorting machine conveyor, and an exemplary trolley grounding device configured to continuously engage with dynamic chain conveyor trolleys such that each of the multiple dynamic trolleys remains grounded during operation of the sorting machine conveyor. Figure 5AAs shown, the material handling system 10 may include a plurality of trolleys 200, which are embodied as a conveyor trolley chain including a first conveyor trolley 201 and a second conveyor trolley 202. As described herein, in various embodiments, each of the plurality of trolleys 200 of the material handling system 10 may move one after another along a conveyor travel path defined by a conveyor frame in a sorting machine trolley queue manner. As shown, the first conveyor trolley 201 and the second conveyor trolley 202 may be adjacent conveyor trolleys of the plurality of trolleys fixed relative to each other by a trolley coupling assembly configured to maintain the plurality of trolleys 200 as a conveyor trolley chain configured to move within the entire circular configuration of the sorting machine conveyor (e.g., along the trolley travel path). As shown, adjacent trolleys, such as, for example, the first conveyor trolley 201 and the second conveyor trolley 202 of the plurality of conveyor trolleys 200, may be arranged relative to each other such that a gap 203 is defined therebetween. For example, in this exemplary case, the gap 203 between the first conveyor trolley 201 and the second conveyor trolley 202 may define a discontinuous configuration of adjacent trolleys within a chain of trolleys 200. That is, the material handling system 10 may be configured such that the trolleys 200 do not include at least substantially continuous surfaces at which the trolley grounding device 100 engages the trolleys 200 and maintains a fully engaged connection throughout the movement of the trolley chain along the sorting machine conveyor. As a non-limiting example, in various embodiments, adjacent conveyor trolleys of the trolleys 200 may be arranged relative to each other such that the gap 203 defined therebetween comprises a linear distance of at least approximately between 12 mm and 75 mm (e.g., between 47.5 mm and 52.5 mm).

[0042] In various embodiments, the exemplary trolley grounding device 100 may be configured to facilitate at least substantially continuous engagement of a plurality of trolleys 200 based at least in part on the configuration of the three grounding wheels 131 of the trolley interface component 130 and the bias configuration of the arm assembly 120, the bias configuration subjecting the trolley interface component 130 to a constant upward thrust in a vertically upward linear direction (e.g., at least in part in such a direction as...). Figures 5A to 5CThe exemplary orientation shown in the diagram defines a plurality of grounding wheels 131 of the trolley interface component 130 in the positive y-direction. As described herein, the trolley grounding device 100 is configured in a position directly below at least a portion of the trolley travel path relative to the transport frame of the sorting machine transport, along which a plurality of chain transport trolleys 200 travel over the entire sorting machine transport. In this arrangement, an offset configuration that constantly forces the arm assembly 120 of the trolley interface component 130 (e.g., the plurality of grounding wheels 131) in at least a partially upward direction forces the plurality of grounding wheels 131 to be pressed into the surface (e.g., the bottom surface) of each of the plurality of transport trolleys 200 as they pass over the trolley grounding device 100.

[0043] For example, such as Figure 5A As shown, in an exemplary configuration in which a plurality of grounding wheels 131 are arranged continuously along the length of the trolley interface component and a third grounding wheel 131c is positioned at the downstream end of the plurality of grounding wheels 131 as defined by a first direction 150 relative to the travel path of the conveyor, the biased configuration of the arm assembly 120 as described herein causes the plurality of grounding wheels 131 to be pushed in an upward vertical direction, such that a conveyor trolley traveling in the first direction 150 defined by the trolley travel path can first engage the first grounding wheel 131a, and then sequentially engage the second grounding wheel 131b and the third grounding wheel 131c. In various embodiments, for example in Figure 5A In the exemplary case shown, the first conveyor trolley 201 may continue to travel in the first direction 150 such that the first conveyor trolley 201 passes over and / or disengages from the first ground wheel 131a while maintaining physical contact with both the second ground wheel 131b and the third ground wheel 131c located downstream of the first ground wheel 131a.

[0044] Furthermore, in various embodiments, the cart grounding device 100 may be configured such that when the first conveyor cart 201 continues to travel in the first direction 150, the first conveyor cart 201 passes over and / or disengages from the second grounding wheel 131b when the second conveyor cart 202 physically contacts the first grounding wheel 131a positioned at the uppermost position of the plurality of grounding wheels 131 (e.g., at least substantially immediately thereafter), such that the plurality of conveyor carts 200 (e.g., adjacent first conveyor carts 201 and second conveyor carts 202) are in continuous contact with at least two of the plurality of grounding wheels 131 throughout the entire operation of the material handling system 10. For example, the cart interface component 130 of the exemplary cart grounding device 100 may be configured such that both the third grounding wheel 131c and the second grounding wheel 131b remain in physical contact with the first conveyor cart 201 until the first grounding wheel 131a engages the second conveyor cart 202 (e.g., at least substantially simultaneously). In this exemplary configuration, as shown in the figure, the engagement of the bottom surface of the first conveyor trolley 201 with the third grounding wheel 131c and the second grounding wheel 131b generates a vertical force F1 that is at least substantially downward, acting on each of the third grounding wheel 131c and the second grounding wheel 131b. Furthermore, the engagement of the bottom surface of the second conveyor trolley 202 with the first grounding wheel 131a generates a vertical force F2 that is at least substantially downward acting on the first grounding wheel 131a.

[0045] For example, in various embodiments, the configuration of the cart interface component 130 (e.g., the configuration and / or distribution of the plurality of grounding wheels 131) may at least partially correspond to the distance defined by the gap 203 between adjacent carts of the plurality of conveyor carts 200 moving throughout the sorting machine conveyor, such that the plurality of grounding wheels 131 are configured to span the gap 203 to maintain continuous physical contact between the plurality of carts 200 and the cart interface component 130. As a non-limiting example, the diameter of the grounding wheels 131, the separation distance between the first grounding wheel 131a and the third grounding wheel 131c, etc., may be configured to facilitate continuous physical contact between the plurality of grounding wheels 131 and at least one of the adjacent conveyor carts 201, 202 when the gap 203 defined between the plurality of grounding wheels 131 and the cart grounding device 100 extends over it. For example, the cart interface component 130 may be configured such that two or more of the plurality of grounding wheels 131 are in physical contact with the plurality of carts 200 at any given time.

[0046] Figure 5B Schematic illustration of in which relative Figure 5A The exemplary configuration shown in the example case Figure 5AIn an exemplary material handling system 10, a plurality of trolleys 200 move further along a trolley travel path in a first direction 150 such that when the front end of a second conveyor trolley 202, which is in physical contact with a first ground wheel 131a, approaches a second ground wheel 131b, the rear end of the first conveyor trolley 201 has moved past and / or disengaged from the second ground wheel 131b. As shown, in various embodiments, the trolley interface component 130 may be configured such that the plurality of trolleys 200 maintain physical contact with two of the plurality of ground wheels 131—the first ground wheel 131a and the third ground wheel 131c, which are in contact with the second conveyor trolley 202 and the first conveyor trolley 201, respectively—while the second ground wheel 131b of the trolley interface component 130 is temporarily positioned in a straight line with the gap 203 between adjacent conveyor trolleys 201, 202. In this exemplary configuration, as shown, the engagement of the bottom surface of the first conveyor trolley 201 with the third ground wheel 131c (e.g., and the biased configuration of the arm assembly 120) can generate a vertical force F1 acting on the third ground wheel 131c at least substantially downward, and the engagement of the bottom surface of the second conveyor trolley 202 with the first ground wheel 131a (e.g., and the biased configuration of the arm assembly 120) can generate a vertical force F2 acting on the first ground wheel 131a at least substantially downward. The cart grounding device 100 can be configured such that a first vertical force F1 applies a non-lateral torque and moment to the cart interface member 130 in a first rotational direction (e.g., counterclockwise around the distal hinge 124, as shown), and a second vertical force F2 applies a non-lateral torque and moment to the cart interface member 130 in the opposite second rotational direction (e.g., clockwise around the distal hinge 124, as shown), at least substantially counteracting the resultant force defined at the third grounding wheel 131c. For example, in this exemplary case, the net torque acting on the cart interface member 130 can be at least substantially zero (e.g., having a negligible value), such that the cart interface member 130 can define a configuration that is at least substantially flush (e.g., at least substantially level with respect to the ground on which the conveyor frame on which the sorting machine conveyor is positioned).

[0047] Figure 5C Schematic illustration of in which relative Figure 5B The exemplary configuration shown in the example case Figure 5A and Figure 5B In the exemplary material handling system 10, a plurality of trolleys 200 move further along a trolley travel path in a first direction 150 such that when the front end of the second conveyor trolley 202, which is in physical contact with the first ground wheel 131a, has moved onto the second ground wheel 131b, the rear end of the first conveyor trolley 201 has moved past and / or disengaged from the second ground wheel 131b.

[0048] like Figure 5C As shown, in various embodiments, the cart grounding device 100 may be configured such that when the first conveyor cart 201 continues to travel in the first direction 150, the first conveyor cart 201 may pass over and / or disengage from the third grounding wheel 131b after the second conveyor cart 202 has physically contacted the second grounding wheel 131b (e.g., at least substantially immediately thereafter), in order to maintain continuous contact between the plurality of conveyor carts 200 and at least two of the plurality of grounding wheels 131. For example, the cart interface component 130 of the exemplary cart grounding device 100 may be configured such that the third grounding wheel 131c remains in physical contact with the first conveyor cart 201 until after the second grounding wheel 131b engages the second conveyor cart 202 (e.g., at least substantially simultaneously), such that the second conveyor cart is in physical contact with both the first grounding wheel 131a and the second grounding wheel 131b. In this exemplary configuration, as shown in the figure, before the third grounding wheel 131c disengages from the first conveyor trolley 201, the engagement of the bottom surface of the first conveyor trolley 201 with the third grounding wheel 131c generates a vertical force F1 acting on the third grounding wheel 131c, at least substantially downward. Furthermore, the engagement of the bottom surface of the second conveyor trolley 202 with the second grounding wheel 131b and the first grounding wheel 131a generates vertical forces F2 acting on the second grounding wheel 131b and the first grounding wheel 131a, respectively.

[0049] In various implementations, the exemplary trolley grounding device 100 may be configured to facilitate reconfiguration in a flush configuration (e.g., ...) in response to one or more forces from a plurality of conveyor trolleys 200. Figures 5A to 5C The trolley interface component 130, which is freely rotatable between an exemplary embodiment shown in the diagram and one or more angled configurations (e.g., a first angled configuration defined by a first tilt angle 161), allows the trolley grounding device 100 to accommodate misalignment of one or more adjacent conveyor trolleys of the plurality of conveyor trolleys 200 while maintaining continuous and efficient operation of the sorting machine conveyor. The trolley interface component 130 rotates about a distal hinge 124 independently of the rotation of the arm assembly 120, ensuring that at least a portion of one of the misaligned adjacent conveyor trolleys remains physically connected to the trolley interface component 130 as the misaligned adjacent trolley travels along the trolley travel path above the trolley grounding device 100. For reference Figure 6AThe exemplary embodiment described in the illustration, such an exemplary configuration of the trolley interface component 130, ensures that the first grounding wheel 131a physically contacts the misaligned second conveyor trolley 202 before the first conveyor trolley 201 disengages from the third grounding wheel 131c, thereby avoiding the interruption of the high-load grounding path defined between the plurality of trolleys 200 and the trolley grounding device 100 due to the misalignment of the conveyor trolley.

[0050] For example, in various embodiments, the biased configuration of the arm assembly 120 and the articulated connection of the trolley interface component 130 to the arm element 123 at the distal hinge 124 can be configured such that physical contact with the ground wheel 131 of the plurality of ground wheels of the trolley interface component 130 can cause a thrust to be applied from the conveyor trolley engaged therewith onto the ground wheel. For example, as Figure 6A As shown, the engagement of the bottom surface of the first conveyor trolley 201 with the third ground wheel 131c can generate at least substantially downward vertical force F1 (e.g., in situations such as...). Figure 6A and Figure 6B (In the exemplary orientation shown, defined in the negative y direction), the vertical force acts on the third ground wheel 131c and applies a non-lateral torque and moment to the trolley interface component 130. Figure 6A In the misaligned stroller configuration shown in the exemplary embodiment illustrated, the torque generated by the force F1 applied to the stroller interface component 130 (e.g., the third ground wheel 131c) causes the stroller interface component 130 to rotate counterclockwise about the axis of rotation defined by the distal hinge 124 (e.g., as shown in...). Figure 6A and Figure 6B The second conveyor trolley 202 rotates relative to the arm element 123 (as defined in the exemplary orientation shown) until the first grounding wheel 131a physically contacts the second conveyor trolley 202. As shown, the engagement of the bottom surface of the second conveyor trolley 202 with the first grounding wheel 131a generates at least a substantially downward vertical force F2 (e.g., in a configuration where...). Figure 6A and Figure 6B In the exemplary orientation shown (defined in the negative y direction), the vertical force acts on the first ground wheel 131a and applies a non-lateral torque and moment to the trolley interface component 130, which is opposite to the reciprocating torque applied by the first downward force F1 acting on at least the third ground wheel 131c (and / or the second ground wheel 131b). For example, such rotation of the trolley interface component 130 can be defined by the third ground wheel 131c being pressed down in at least a partially downward direction and the first ground wheel 131a, positioned at the opposite end of the distal hinge 124, being raised in at least a partially upward vertical direction, so as to position the trolley interface component 130 in an angled configuration defined by the tilt angle 161.

[0051] also, Figure 6BSchematic illustration of in which relative Figure 6A The exemplary case of the configuration shown in the figure Figure 6A In an exemplary material handling system 10, multiple misaligned adjacent trolleys move along a trolley travel path in a first direction 150 such that a first conveyor trolley 201 is about to pass a third grounding wheel 131c. For example, when the first conveyor trolley 201 disengages from the conductive bristles of the third grounding wheel 131c, a high-load grounding path defined between the first conveyor trolley 201 and the grounding wire of the trolley grounding device 100 can be eliminated (e.g., as achieved by contacting one of the first conveyor trolley 201 and the multiple grounding wheels 131). For example, as shown, the trolley interface component 130 of the exemplary trolley grounding device 100 can be configured such that before and / or at least substantially simultaneously with the first conveyor trolley 201 disengages from the third grounding wheel 131c, a second conveyor trolley 202 that has already contacted the first grounding wheel 131a can establish physical contact with the second grounding wheel 131b to further facilitate the continuous engagement of the trolley interface component 130 with the multiple trolleys 200, as described herein.

[0052] like Figure 6B As shown, the engagement of the bottom surface of the second conveyor trolley 202 with the first ground wheel 131a can generate at least substantially downward vertical force F2 (e.g., in situations such as...). Figure 6A and Figure 6B (in the negative y-direction defined by the exemplary orientation shown in the figure), the vertical force acts on the first ground wheel 131a and applies a non-lateral torque and moment to the trolley interface component 130. As shown, this moment generated by the force F2 applied to the trolley interface component 130 (e.g., the first ground wheel 131a) allows the trolley interface component 130 to rotate clockwise (e.g., as shown in the figure) about the axis of rotation defined by the distal hinge 124, at least in part, based on the misaligned configuration of the adjacent conveyor trolleys 201, 202. Figure 6A and Figure 6B The exemplary orientation shown in the diagram is defined by rotation relative to the arm element 123. For example, such rotation of the trolley interface component 130 may be defined by the first ground wheel 131a being pressed down in at least a partially downward direction to position the trolley interface component 130 in an angled configuration defined by the tilt angle 162.

[0053] Many modifications and other embodiments will occur to those skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains, which have the benefits of the teachings presented in the foregoing description and associated drawings. Therefore, it should be understood that this disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed, and that modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. Although specific terminology is used herein, it is used only in a general and descriptive sense and not for purposes of limitation.

Claims

1. A trolley grounding device for a conveying device assembly, the trolley grounding device comprising: A frame engagement element configured to attach to at least a portion of a conveying device assembly; An arm assembly comprising an arm element defined by an arm length extending from a proximal arm end to a distal arm end, the arm element being hingedly connected relative to the frame engagement element at the proximal arm end. and A trolley interface component, connected to the distal arm end of the arm element and configured to physically engage at least a portion of a plurality of connected conveyor trolleys of the conveyor assembly to provide a grounding path from the plurality of connected conveyor trolleys to the ground, the trolley interface component including one or more grounding wheels configured to physically contact at least a portion of the plurality of connected conveyor trolleys to define at least a portion of the grounding path, each of the one or more grounding wheels being configured to rotate about a respective central wheel axle based on one or more forces applied to the grounding wheel from at least a portion of the plurality of connected conveyor trolleys physically in contact with the grounding wheel. The arm assembly defines a bias configuration defined by a biasing force that biases the cart interface component at least partially in one or more directions toward the connected plurality of conveyor carts, and The trolley interface component of the trolley grounding device is configured to maintain continuous physical contact between at least a portion of the one or more grounding wheels and the one or more connected conveyor trolleys as the connected multiple conveyor trolleys move along the trolley travel path.

2. The trolley grounding device according to claim 1, wherein the trolley interface component is pivotally connected to the arm element at one or more distal hinges located at the distal arm end of the arm element.

3. The trolley grounding device according to claim 2, wherein the trolley interface component is configured to rotate freely about the one or more distal hinges, independent of the angular configuration of the arm element.

4. The trolley grounding device according to claim 3, wherein the trolley interface component is configured such that the center of gravity of the trolley interface component is located directly below the axis of rotation defined by the distal hinge.

5. The trolley grounding device according to claim 1, wherein the one or more grounding wheels of the trolley interface component are defined by a plurality of grounding wheels.

6. The trolley grounding device of claim 5, wherein the plurality of grounding wheels are arranged such that each of the respective central wheel axles extends in a direction perpendicular to the arm length of the arm element, such that the rotation of each grounding wheel is limited in a rotation direction parallel to the trolley travel path, and the chain-like plurality of conveyor trolleys travel along the trolley travel path over the entire conveyor assembly.

7. The trolley grounding device according to claim 5, wherein the plurality of grounding wheels includes three grounding wheels.

8. The trolley grounding device of claim 7, wherein the three grounding wheels are distributed along the length of the trolley interface component defined by the trolley interface component, such that the three grounding wheels are defined in a continuous arrangement measured in a direction parallel to the trolley travel path defined by the conveying device assembly.

9. The trolley grounding device of claim 1, wherein the trolley interface component further comprises one or more connecting rods, the one or more connecting rods physically engaging with each of the one or more grounding wheels to operatively connect each of the one or more grounding wheels to the ground, wherein each of the one or more connecting rods defines at least a portion of the grounding path.

10. The trolley grounding device of claim 1, wherein the trolley interface component further comprises a housing element that engages with each of the one or more grounding wheels and is configured to facilitate a fixed linear arrangement of each of the one or more grounding wheels along the length of the trolley interface component.

11. The trolley grounding device of claim 1, wherein each of the one or more grounding wheels includes a plurality of conductive bristles extending radially outward from the respective central wheel axle, the plurality of conductive bristles being distributed across the outer surface defined by the central wheel axle.

12. The trolley grounding device according to claim 11, wherein the plurality of conductive bristles are made of a non-rigid conductive material.

13. The trolley grounding device of claim 1, wherein the biasing configuration of the arm assembly is at least partially defined by a spring element configured to apply one or more biasing forces to the arm element to bias the arm element in a first rotational direction defined relative to a rotation axis defined by a base hinge, the base hinge being configured to define an articulated connection between the arm element and the frame engagement element; wherein the first rotational direction is defined such that the arm element is biased to rotate at least partially away from the top surface of the frame engagement element.

14. The trolley grounding device of claim 13, wherein the trolley grounding device is configured such that biasing the arm element to rotate at least partially away from the top surface of the frame engaging element in the first rotational direction causes the trolley interface component to be biased to move in a first linear direction defined in at least a partially vertically upward direction.

15. The trolley grounding device of claim 1, wherein the frame engaging element is configured to engage the conveyor frame of the conveyor assembly to define the positioning of the trolley grounding device along the trolley travel path, wherein a chain of multiple conveyor trolleys travels along the trolley travel path over the entire conveyor assembly.

16. The cart grounding device of claim 15, wherein the positioning of the cart grounding device is defined by an arrangement in which the cart grounding device is positioned directly below at least a portion of the cart's travel path.

17. The trolley grounding device of claim 1, further comprising a grounding wire operatively connected to both the ground and the one or more grounding wheels of the trolley interface component.

18. The trolley grounding device of claim 1, wherein the trolley interface component is configured such that the grounding path defined when physically engaged with at least a portion of the connected plurality of conveyor trolleys is established through contact between at least a portion of the connected plurality of conveyor trolleys and any one of the one or more grounding wheels.

19. The trolley grounding device of claim 1, wherein the one or more grounding wheels include a rotatable configuration that minimizes the effect of the engagement between the conveyor trolley and the trolley interface component, such that the grounding wheel configuration can be defined by a plurality of conductive bristles made of a material having increased capacitance; wherein the increased capacitance of the conductive bristles of the grounding wheel corresponds to the grounding path defined by an increased electrical load capacity.

20. A method of operating a trolley grounding device for a conveying device assembly, the method comprising: The trolley grounding device is arranged relative to the conveying device assembly such that when the conveying device trolley moves along the trolley travel path defined by the conveying device assembly, each of the plurality of connected conveying device trolleys physically engages the trolley grounding device, the trolley grounding device comprising: A frame joining element, configured to be attached to at least a portion of the conveying device assembly; An arm assembly comprising an arm element defined by an arm length extending from a proximal arm end to a distal arm end, the arm element being hingedly connected relative to the frame engagement element at the proximal arm end; and A trolley interface component, connected to the distal arm end of the arm element and configured to physically engage a plurality of connected conveyor trolleys to provide at least one grounding path from the connected plurality of conveyor trolleys to the ground, the trolley interface component including one or more grounding wheels configured to physically contact the connected plurality of conveyor trolleys to define at least a portion of the at least one grounding path, each of the one or more grounding wheels being configured to rotate about a respective central axle based on one or more forces applied to the grounding wheel from the connected plurality of conveyor trolleys physically in contact with the grounding wheel. The arm assembly defines a bias configuration defined by a biasing force that biases the cart interface component at least partially in one or more directions toward the connected plurality of conveyor carts; and The trolley interface component of the trolley grounding device is configured to maintain continuous physical contact between at least a portion of the one or more grounding wheels and the one or more connected conveyor trolleys as the connected multiple conveyor trolleys move along the trolley travel path.

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