Abutment Module Horizontal Drive Conversion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional abutment modules in automatic processing and conveying systems have substantial overall dimensions and height, leading to high friction and force effort required for lowering the abutment member due to vertical movement, which is inefficient.
Innovation Solution
The abutment module employs a drive element for linear motion parallel to the plane of motion, converting it into upward and downward movement using force transmission means like lever systems, allowing for a reduction in overall dimensions and height, and utilizing electrical or fluid power drives with damping mechanisms for controlled movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the abutment member is lowered by vertical movement of the setting piston, then the abutment member can be shifted out of and into the path of motion, but the overall height of the abutment module becomes substantial and friction during lowering is high
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the direction of the drive element's motion from vertical (parallel to the stroke direction of the setting piston) to horizontal (parallel to the plane of motion of the abutted object). This dimensional change allows the drive element to move in a direction that does not contribute to the overall height of the module, thereby reducing the required vertical space while still achieving the necessary abutment member positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces conversion means (such as a lever system or crank mechanism) as an intermediary between the drive element and the abutment member. This intermediary converts the horizontal linear motion of the drive element into the vertical motion required to position the abutment member, thereby decoupling the drive direction from the motion direction and reducing friction during operation.
2Reliability
If the abutment member is lowered vertically against pressing force from abutting objects, then the abutment member can return to the plane of motion, but substantial friction and force effort are required
Solution Approach 1:
The conversion means acts as a mechanical advantage intermediary, transforming the drive force applied horizontally to the drive element into a more efficient vertical force component that acts on the abutment member. This mechanical transformation reduces the total force effort required by the setting member while maintaining reliable lowering operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces the direct vertical mechanical push-pull system with a converted motion system that uses horizontal drive motion transformed through mechanical means. This substitution reduces the direct frictional resistance that the setting member must overcome, as the drive force is applied in a direction more favorable to the mechanical system's efficiency.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This design enables reliable and efficient lowering of the abutment member with reduced overall dimensions and force requirements, allowing for smoother operation and reduced friction during object conveyance.
Implementation Method 1
the converting means are in the form of a force transmission means for transmission of a drive force produced by the setting member into a greater force available at the abutment member. Preferably the force transmission means are constituted by a lever transmission system.
Implementation Method 2
a damping means connected with the abutment member is provided for damped movement of the abutment member from a preabutment position lying short of the abutment position in the working movement direction as far as the abutment position.
Data Source
AI summary
An abutment module, in particular for automatic processing and conveying systems, comprising an abutment member arranged on a main unit for objects moving in a plane of motion in a current working movement direction, such abutment member being able to be shifted by means of a setting member between an abutment position located in the plane of motion and a release position lying underneath the plane of motion, and the setting member has a drive element for producing a linear drive movement directed in parallelism to the plane of motion, which may be converted by way of a conversion device into an upward and downward movement taking place between the abutment position and the release position of the abutment member.