Accumulating Device Mass-Flow to Single-File Orientation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing accumulator devices for articles in systems, such as those filling liquid containers, lack the high capacity and efficient floor space benefits of horizontal mass-flow systems while also failing to provide secure handling and reduced floor space like helical single-file systems.
Innovation Solution
A device with a frame supporting a mass-flow infeed conveyor, a mass-flow outfeed conveyor, and a transfer device, featuring at least two endless loops that can operate independently, with the outermost loop running faster to achieve single-file orientation, and a pivotable frame to optimize flow and space usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If horizontal mass-flow conveyors are used for accumulation, then high capacity and efficient floor space utilization are achieved, but secure handling and reduced floor space like helical single-file systems are not provided
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the horizontal mass-flow conveyor system with a single-file output mechanism into one integrated device. The mass-flow conveyors provide high-capacity accumulation while the single-file output section efficiently manages article release, merging the advantages of both systems in a single device structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The conveyor system is segmented into distinct functional zones: accumulation zones using mass-flow conveyors and a single-file output zone. This segmentation allows different parts of the device to optimize for different functions - bulk storage versus controlled dispensing - thereby achieving both high capacity and space efficiency.
2Ease of operation
If the outermost endless loop runs at higher speed to achieve single-file orientation, then article flow control is improved, but conveyor speed synchronization complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs dynamic speed control where the outermost endless loop operates at a higher variable speed compared to inner loops. This dynamic speed differentiation enables the transformation of multi-file article flow into single-file orientation, providing superior flow control adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the speed parameter of the outermost endless loop relative to other loops to achieve single-file article orientation. By adjusting this speed parameter, the system controls article flow characteristics and maintains operational ease despite the added complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the transfer device moves to accommodate flow variations, then system adaptability is improved, but transfer device stability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The transfer device incorporates feedback mechanisms that detect flow variations in the system and automatically adjust its position or operation accordingly. This feedback control enables the device to adapt to changing flow conditions while maintaining operational stability through continuous monitoring and adjustment.
Solution Approach 2:
The transfer device is designed with dynamic capabilities allowing it to move and adjust its position to accommodate flow variations. This dynamic design provides adaptability to different operating conditions while the control system maintains stability during these adjustments.
Data Source
AI summary
A device for accumulating articles within a system may include a frame, a mass-flow infeed conveyor supported by the frame for receiving articles from the system, and a mass-flow outfeed conveyor supported by the frame for receiving articles from the infeed conveyor and returning the articles to the system. A single-filing device is supported by the frame and includes a plurality of parallel endless loop conveyors. The endless loop conveyors each have an upstream end located laterally from and between upstream and downstream ends of the infeed conveyor.