Tensioning and conveying device and method of use thereof

Abstract

The invention relates to a tensioning and conveying device and a method of using the same. Tensioning devices, methods, and the like are provided. In some embodiments, the tensioning device may include a base, where the base defines one or more slots; a tension roller operably engaged to the base and configured to contact the synchronous belt, where the tension roller is disposed through one of the one or more slots; and a weldment configured to be attached to a conveyor comprising a synchronous belt, where the weldment defines a pivot point about which one or more tensions acting on the synchronous belt can be measured.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to tensioning devices. In particular, the present disclosure relates to a tensioning device for a conveyor system, such as a cross-belt cart. Background Art

[0002] Timing belts can be used for transmission of cross-belt vehicles driven by external motors. Timing belts may need to be tensioned according to specified values ​​to ensure longer service life and stable, efficient energy transmission. In addition, proper tensioning may be required to ensure that the timing belt functions consistently. Direct tensioning (e.g., via a drive pulley) may have poor tensioning consistency, while indirect tensioning (e.g., via a device external to the cross-belt vehicle) may require additional space.

[0003] Through expended effort, ingenuity and innovation, applicants have solved the problems associated with tensioning devices by developing the technical solutions embodied in the present disclosure, which are described in detail below. Summary of the invention

[0004] Generally speaking, embodiments of the present disclosure provide tensioning devices, delivery devices, systems, methods, and the like.

[0005] According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, there is provided a tensioning device comprising a base, wherein the base defines one or more grooves; a tensioning roller operably coupled to the base and configured to contact a timing belt, wherein the tensioning roller is arranged to pass through one of the one or more grooves; and a weldment configured to be attached to a conveying device including the timing belt, wherein the weldment defines a pivot point around which one or more tension forces acting on the timing belt can be measured.

[0006] In some embodiments, the weldment is a one-piece weldment.

[0007] In some embodiments, the weldment is a hexagonal bar.

[0008] In some embodiments, the conveying device is a cross-belt cart.

[0009] In some embodiments, the tensioning device includes one or more fasteners configured to secure the tensioning roller to the base.

[0010] In some embodiments, the tensioning device includes one or more bearings disposed on the first end and the second end of the tensioning roller.

[0011] In some embodiments, the conveying device is a cross-belt cart.

[0012] In some embodiments, the conveyor further comprises one or more motors configured to drive the one or more rollers.

[0013] According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, a tensioning device is provided, which includes a base, wherein the base defines one or more grooves; a tensioning roller, which is operably engaged to the base and configured to contact a synchronous belt, wherein the tensioning roller is arranged to pass through one of the one or more grooves; a weldment, which is configured to be attached to a conveying device, including a synchronous belt, wherein the weldment defines a pivot point, and one or more tension forces acting on the synchronous belt can be measured around the pivot point, and the conveying device includes a frame; a track, which is fixedly attached to the frame; one or more rollers, which are configured to drive the track relative to the frame; and a synchronous belt, which is operably engaged with the one or more rollers, wherein the tensioning device is operably engaged with the conveying device so that the tensioning roller is operably engaged with the one or more rollers via the synchronous belt.

[0014] In some embodiments, the weldment is a one-piece weldment.

[0015] In some embodiments, the weldment is a hexagonal bar.

[0016] In some embodiments, the conveying device is a cross-belt cart.

[0017] In some embodiments, the conveyor further comprises one or more fasteners configured to secure the tensioning roller to the base.

[0018] In some embodiments, the conveyor further comprises one or more motors configured to drive the one or more rollers.

[0019] According to various embodiments, a method for tensioning a timing belt is provided, the method comprising: operably engaging a measuring device with a weldment of a base of a tensioning device; measuring a torque of a timing belt of a conveyor device by the measuring device; and adjusting tension of the timing belt based in part on the measured torque.

[0020] The above overview is provided only to summarize some example embodiments to provide a basic understanding of some embodiments of the present disclosure. Therefore, it should be understood that the above embodiments are merely examples. It should be understood that in addition to those embodiments summarized herein, the scope of the present disclosure also includes many potential embodiments, some of which will be further described below. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0021] Having described the present disclosure in general terms, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, and in which:

[0022] Figure 1A is an angled top view of an example tensioning device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0023] Figure 1B is an angled exploded top view of an example tensioner according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0024] Figure 2A is an angled top view of an example delivery device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0025] Figure 2B is an angled detailed top view of an example tensioner according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0026] Figure 2C is an angled detailed exploded top view of an example tensioner according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0027] Figure 3A is an angled top view of an example tensioning system according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0028] Figure 3B is an angled top view of an example timing belt according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0029] Figure 3C is an angled top view of an example tensioning system according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0030] Figure 3D is an angled top view of an example timing belt according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0031] Figure 4A are elevational and example force diagrams of example tensioning systems according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0032] Figure 4B is a representative view of an example force diagram of an example tensioning system according to various embodiments of the present disclosure; and

[0033] Figure 5 is an example flow chart illustrating an example method of use for an example tensioning system. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0034] Various embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described more fully below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some, but not all, embodiments of the present disclosure are shown. In fact, the present disclosure can be implemented in many different forms and should not be construed as being limited to the embodiments set forth herein; on the contrary, these embodiments are provided so that the present disclosure meets applicable legal requirements. Unless otherwise specified, the term "or" (also designated as " / ") is used in this article in both substitution and connection. The terms "illustrative" and "exemplary" are used as examples and do not represent quality levels. Similar numbers may refer to similar elements throughout. The phrase "in one embodiment", "according to one embodiment", etc. generally means that the specific features, structures, or characteristics following the phrase may be included in at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, and may be included in more than one embodiment of the present disclosure (importantly, this phrase may not necessarily refer to the same embodiment).

[0035] Overview

[0036] According to various exemplary embodiments, a tensioning roller and associated tensioning device can be used to effectively, efficiently and conveniently control the tensioning of a timing belt in a conveying system, such as a cross-belt cart. In some embodiments, the tensioning device can be coupled to a tensioning roller, which in turn can contact an outer surface of the timing belt.

[0037] In some embodiments, the tensioner can be aligned with one or more components of the conveyor system (e.g., a frame). In some embodiments, a weldment (e.g., a hexagonal bar) can be inserted into the tensioner and one or more components of the conveyor system and can be used as a pivot point. In some embodiments, a measuring device (e.g., a torque meter) can be operably engaged with the weldment and determine the tension of the timing belt. In some embodiments, the tensioner can then be adjusted as needed based at least in part on the tension detected by the measuring device.

[0038] Example tensioner

[0039] According to various embodiments, Figure 1A An angled top view of an example tensioning device 100 is shown, and Figure 1B An exploded view of the tensioning device 100 is shown. In some embodiments, the tensioning device 100 can be attached to a conveying device 200 (eg, a cross-belt conveyor), as will be discussed later in this disclosure.

[0040] In some embodiments, the tensioning device 100 can include a base 102. In some embodiments, the base 102 can be a thin, substantially planar, substantially triangular-shaped piece. In some embodiments, the base 102 can have rounded corners. In some embodiments, the base 102 can be flush with or otherwise contact the delivery device 200 or a component of the delivery device 200. In some embodiments, the base 102 can be a single piece configured to conform to the delivery device 200. In some embodiments, the base 102 can be a substantially metal or plastic component configured to secure one or more components of the delivery device 200 or to the delivery device 200.

[0041] In some embodiments, the base 102 may include one or more weldments 103, which may be arranged at various locations on the base 102. In some embodiments, the one or more weldments 103 may include one or more integrated bolts, nuts, and / or protrusions integrated with the base 102. In some embodiments, the one or more weldments 103 may be a polygonal rod (e.g., a hexagonal rod). In some embodiments, the one or more weldments 103 may be configured to fit to or receive one or more components of the conveying device 200 described above when the tensioning device 100 is attached to the conveyor. In some embodiments, the one or more weldments 103 may be positioned at one or more pivot points at which the tensioning device 100 is attached to the conveyor. In some embodiments, the width of the base 102 may be less than 15 mm, including one or more weldments.

[0042] In some embodiments, the base 102 may include one or more slots 105A-D, which may be disposed on or throughout the base 102. In some embodiments, the one or more slots 105A-D may be in the form of holes or cutouts on or in the base 102. In some embodiments, when the tensioning device 100 is attached to the conveyor, one or more components of the conveyor 200 described above may be disposed through the one or more slots 105A-D, and may further help secure the tensioning device 100 to the conveyor 200. In some embodiments, the one or more slots 105A-D may be created during the manufacturing process of the base 102. In some embodiments, the one or more slots 105A-D may be cut out of the base 102 after the base 102 is manufactured.

[0043] In some embodiments, the tensioning device 100 may include a tensioning roller 106. In some embodiments, the tensioning roller 106 may be mounted to the tensioning device 100. In some embodiments, the tensioning roller 106 may be configured to operably engage the tensioning device 100 with the conveying device 200. In some embodiments, the tensioning roller 106 may be a machined part composed of steel. In some embodiments, the tensioning roller 106 may include one or more internal bearings. In some embodiments, the tensioning roller 106 may have an outer diameter of 20 mm and a length of 36 mm.

[0044] In some embodiments, and at least as Figure 1B As shown in , the tensioning roller 106 may include a tensioning shaft 108. In some embodiments, the tensioning shaft 108 may be a generally cylindrical rigid shaft configured to rotate axially. In some embodiments, the tensioning shaft 108 may be driven by a motor 210. In some embodiments, the motor 210 may be a component of the conveying device 200, which may also drive one or more components of the conveying device 200 (e.g., one or more rollers).

[0045] In some embodiments, the tensioning roller 106 may include a roller tube 110. In some embodiments, the roller tube 110 may be generally cylindrical and concentric with the tensioning shaft 108. In some embodiments, the tensioning shaft 108 may be inserted into the roller tube 110. In some embodiments, the roller tube 110 may be configured to protect the tensioning shaft 108 and one or more additional components of the tensioning roller 106 as desired.

[0046] In some embodiments, the tensioning roller 106 may include one or more bearings 112A and 112B. In some embodiments, the one or more bearings 112A, 112B may be configured to constrain and / or secure one or more components of the tensioning device 100. In some embodiments, the one or more bearings 112A, 112B may be placed on opposite ends of the tensioning shaft 108. In some embodiments, the one or more bearings 112A, 112B may be disposed on a first end and a second end of the tensioning shaft 108. In some embodiments, the one or more bearings 112A, 112B may be configured to secure the tensioning shaft 108 within the roller tube 110 and / or secure the tensioning shaft 108 to the tensioning device 100 and the conveying device 200 as desired. In some embodiments, the one or more bearings 112A, 112B may similarly prevent wear and other physical damage to the tensioning shaft 108 and other components of the tensioning device 100.

[0047] In some embodiments, the tensioning device 100 may include one or more fasteners 114. In some embodiments, the one or more fasteners 114 may be configured to operably connect the tensioning shaft 108 to the base 102 of the tensioning device 100. In some embodiments, the one or more fasteners 114 may include one or more bolts, one or more nuts, and / or one or more washers. In some embodiments, the tensioning shaft 108 and / or the one or more fasteners 114 may be secured through one or more slots 105A-D of the base 102 of the tensioning device 100.

[0048] Figure 2A An angled top view of an example conveyor 200 is shown. In some embodiments, the conveyor 200 can be configured to support and / or transport one or more objects. In some embodiments, the conveyor 200 can be used in a warehouse, distribution center, or similar industrial environment.

[0049] In some embodiments, the conveyor 200 may include a track 202. In some embodiments, the conveyor 200 may be a cross-belt conveyor and / or a cross-belt cart. In some embodiments, the conveyor 200 may include a frame 204 to which the track 202 is attached. In some embodiments, the conveyor 200 may be configured to surround the frame 204 of the conveyor 200.

[0050] In some embodiments, the conveyor 200 may include one or more drive rollers 206A and 206B. In some embodiments, the drive rollers 206A-B may be configured to drive the track 202 of the conveyor 200 around the frame 204, thereby supporting and / or transporting one or more objects disposed on the conveyor 200. In some embodiments, the drive rollers 206A-B may be active rollers. In some embodiments, the drive rollers 206A-B may be coupled to one or more motors and configured to drive the drive rollers 206A-B.

[0051] In some embodiments, the conveyor 200 can include a timing belt 208. In some embodiments, the timing belt 208 can be of fixed length with a fiberglass core such that it does not substantially extend or contract during normal operation.

[0052] In some embodiments, and at least as Figure 2B and Figure 2C As shown in FIG. 1 , the tensioning device 100 can be attached to the delivery device 200. In some embodiments, and at least as Figure 2CAs shown in , one or more fasteners 114 (e.g., nuts and bolts) can be used to attach the tensioning device 100 to the conveyor 200. In some embodiments, the tensioning device 100 can be used to determine the tension of the timing belt 208 of the conveyor. In some embodiments, the point at which the weldment 103 is attached to the conveyor 200 can define an axis of rotation (represented by a dashed line) about which the tensioning device 100 can be adjusted as needed to properly calibrate the tension of the timing belt 208. In some embodiments, the tensioning device 100 can be adjusted by removing one or more fasteners 114, reorienting the tensioning device 100, and then re-securing the tensioning device 100 to the conveyor 200 via the fasteners 114.

[0053] Figures 3A-3D An example process for adjusting a tensioning device 100 associated with a delivery device 200 is shown in accordance with various embodiments. Figure 3A As shown in FIG. 1 , in some embodiments, motor 210 is operably engaged with tension roller 106. In some embodiments, tension roller 106 is also in contact with timing belt 208. In some embodiments, timing belt 208 is also coupled to one or more rollers (in this case, roller 206A) of conveyor 200. The view of the "unadjusted" timing belt 208 is shown in FIG. Figure 3B In some embodiments, at least Figure 3C As shown in , the measuring device 212 can be used to measure the tension of the synchronous belt 208. In some embodiments, the measuring device 310 can be a torque meter. In some embodiments, the measuring device 212 can be operably engaged with one or more weldments 103 of the tensioning device 100 to measure the tension in the synchronous belt 208. In some embodiments, once the tension is measured, the synchronous belt 208 can be adjusted as needed until the desired tension is achieved.

[0054] like Figure 4A As shown in , tension can also be calculated using the force diagram shown in conjunction with the tensioning device 100 that has been fixed to the conveyor 200. As shown in the figure, the tension required for the timing belt 208 can be measured by F1, which is equal to F2. The tension can be calculated using the angle θ and the distance L between the fastener 114B and the weldment 103. Figure 4B An expanded view is shown in . In some embodiments, the torque T may be calculated by first calculating Fs as twice F1 (or F2) multiplied by the cosine of half the angle θ; ie:

[0055]

[0056] In some embodiments, the second step of calculating torque T can be calculated by dividing Fs by the cosine of angle α and then multiplying the quotient by distance L; that is:

[0057] T=(F S ÷Cosα)xL

[0058] Example usage

[0059] Figure 5 An example flow chart is shown that illustrates an example method 300 for an example tensioning device for use with an example delivery system. In some embodiments, the example tensioning device and delivery system can be a tensioning device and delivery system as previously described. However, it should be understood that the method 300 can be used with any suitable device and system as desired.

[0060] In some embodiments, method 300 may include step 302 of operably engaging a measuring device with a weldment of a base of a tensioning device attached to a conveying device. In some embodiments, method 300 may include step 304 of measuring a torque of a timing belt of the conveying device by the measuring device. In some embodiments, method 300 may include step 306 of adjusting the tension of the timing belt based in part on the measured torque.

[0061] Many modifications and other embodiments of the disclosure set forth herein will occur to those skilled in the art who have the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing description and the associated drawings. Therefore, it should be understood that the disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed, and modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. Although specific terms are employed herein, they are used only in a general and descriptive sense and not for limiting purposes.

Claims

1. A tensioning device, comprising: Base, wherein the base defines one or more slots; a tensioning roller operably engaged to the base and configured to contact the timing belt, wherein the tensioning roller is arranged to pass through one of the one or more slots; and a weldment configured to be attached to a conveying device including the timing belt, Wherein the weldment defines a pivot point about which one or more tension forces acting on the timing belt can be measured.

2. The tensioning device according to claim 1, wherein: The weldment is a one-piece weldment.

3. The tensioning device according to claim 2, wherein: The weldment is a hexagonal bar.

4. The tensioning device according to claim 1, wherein: The conveying device is a cross-belt cart.

5. The tensioning device of claim 1, further comprising one or more fasteners configured to secure the tensioning roller to the base.

6. The tensioning device of claim 1, further comprising one or more bearings disposed on the first and second ends of the tensioning roller.

7. The tensioning device according to claim 1, wherein: The conveying device is a cross-belt cart.

8. The tensioning device according to claim 7, wherein: The conveyor further includes one or more motors configured to drive the one or more rollers.

9. A system comprising: The tensioning device comprises: Base, wherein the base defines one or more slots; a tensioning roller operably engaged to the base and configured to contact the timing belt, wherein the tensioning roller is arranged to pass through one of the one or more slots; a weldment configured to be attached to a conveying device including the timing belt, wherein the weldment defines a pivot point about which one or more tension forces acting on the timing belt can be measured, A conveying device comprising: frame; a track fixedly attached to the frame; one or more rollers configured to drive the track relative to the frame; and a timing belt operatively engaged with the one or more rollers, Wherein, the tensioning device is operably engaged with the conveying device, so that the tensioning roller is operably engaged with the one or more rollers via the timing belt.

10. The system of claim 9, wherein: The weldment is a one-piece weldment.

11. The system of claim 10, wherein: The weldment is a hexagonal bar.

12. The system of claim 9, wherein: The conveying device is a cross-belt cart.

13. The system of claim 9, wherein: The tensioning device further includes one or more fasteners configured to secure the tensioning roller to the base.

14. The system of claim 9, wherein: The conveyor further includes one or more motors configured to drive the one or more rollers.

15. A method for tensioning a synchronous belt, the method comprising: operably engaging the measuring device with a weldment of a base of the tensioning device; Measuring the torque of the synchronous belt of the conveying device by the measuring device; and The tension of the timing belt is adjusted based in part on the measured torque.

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