Adjustable Conveyor Manipulator for Jam-Free Object Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing manipulators for warehouse storage systems face issues with objects jamming due to high velocities and sticking in humid environments, and malfunctions occur when objects of different sizes or shapes are handled, leading to overcrowding and sticking at transfer points, requiring operator intervention.
Innovation Solution
The manipulator features an adjustable first conveyor belt that presses objects against a second conveyor belt or guide surface, ensuring orderly transfer and gripping, with guide devices to prevent tilting and accommodate various sizes, and a common drive system for synchronized operation, allowing for automatic correction of malfunctions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If objects are transferred at high velocity, then productivity is improved, but objects can shift and jam on the carrying surface
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by adjusting the inclination angle of the support surface and controlling the speed of the conveyor belt to match the sliding speed of objects. This ensures objects are transferred at optimal velocities that prevent jamming while maintaining high productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback through sensors that monitor the number of objects on the support surface and their positions. This feedback system allows the controller to adjust the conveyor belt speed and stopper positioning dynamically, preventing jamming while maintaining efficient transfer rates.
2Reliability
If a stopper is used to prevent objects from slipping off, then reliability is improved, but objects may stick to the wing in humid environments requiring operator intervention
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical stopper system with a conveyor belt-based object holding mechanism. The conveyor belt's motion and friction replace the static stopper function, preventing objects from slipping off without the sticking issues that plague mechanical stoppers in humid environments.
Solution Approach 2:
The system achieves self-service through automated sensor detection and controller-based adjustment of the conveyor belt and stopper positioning. The system automatically detects object positions, adjusts parameters to prevent jamming, and releases objects at the correct timing without operator intervention.
3Quantity of substance
If the storage space is overcrowded, then quantity of stored objects is improved, but objects get stuck at the transfer point
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses sensors to continuously monitor the number of objects on the support surface and in the storage location. This feedback enables the controller to adjust the transfer process dynamically, allowing maximum storage capacity while preventing overcrowding-induced jamming at the transfer point.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies partial action by transferring objects one at a time or in controlled small batches rather than all at once. The stopper is positioned to hold only the necessary number of objects for the current transfer operation, preventing overcrowding while maintaining high storage capacity utilization.
4Adaptability or versatility
If objects of different sizes and shapes are handled, then adaptability is improved, but malfunctions occur leading to overcrowding
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the support surface inclination angle adjustable and the stopper position variable. This allows the system to adapt to objects of different sizes and shapes dynamically, maintaining reliable operation across diverse object types by optimizing the transfer geometry for each object.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent achieves universality through a standardized conveyor belt and sensor system that can handle various object types. The adjustable stopper and controllable conveyor speed make the system versatile for different object sizes and shapes while maintaining consistent reliability through automated control.
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 solution ensures reliable, automatic transfer of objects to storage locations, preventing jamming and sticking, and adapting to different sizes and shapes, reducing operator intervention and improving efficiency in warehouse storage systems.
Implementation Method 1
a first conveyor belt (21) which is adjustable and can be placed against the objects (19), by means of which the objects (19) can be conveyed in an orderly manner at the output end (7) of the support carriage (3)
Implementation Method 2
the second conveyor belt (17), on which the objects (19) rest and/or against which they can be pressed
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
In the case of a manipulator (1) for a store, having at least one bearing surface on which articles (19) can be arranged in a row, it being possible for the manipulator (1) to serve an input end of the bearing surface, having at least one load-bearing carriage (3) with an output end (7) for the articles (19), and having a load-bearing surface (9) for accommodating the articles (19), it is provided that the load-bearing carriage (3) has a first conveying belt (21), which is adjustable and can be positioned against the articles (19), wherein the first conveying belt (21) can push the articles (19) against a second conveying belt (17), which is arranged on the load-bearing surface (9) and against which the articles (19) butt, and/or against a guide surface.