Article Carousel with Movable Plate for Track Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing track systems lack an efficient method for optimizing the storage and movement of articles, particularly in functional training systems, where versatility and performance are crucial.
Innovation Solution
A carousel system integrated with a track system, featuring a frame, a movable plate, and carriers with trolleys that align with the track system, allowing for seamless transfer of trolleys between the carousel and the track system, enhancing article movement and storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a traditional track system is used for moving articles, then the system structure is simple, but the storage and movement efficiency of articles is low
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines a carousel mechanism with a track system to create an integrated article transfer system. The carousel assembly, containing multiple carriers, merges with the linear track to provide both rotational storage positions and linear transfer paths, thereby improving storage and movement efficiency while maintaining reasonable structural complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The track system is designed to serve multiple functions: it acts as both a transfer path for moving carriers between positions and as a structural support for the carousel assembly. The same track infrastructure enables both storage (via carousel rotation) and movement (via trolley translation), increasing productivity without proportionally increasing complexity
2Adaptability or versatility
If a carousel system with multiple carriers is introduced to optimize storage, then the storage capacity and versatility improve, but the alignment and transfer operation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs gravity-fed mechanisms and self-aligning features where carriers automatically position themselves during the transfer process. The carousel rotation and trolley movement are designed to work together such that alignment occurs naturally through the mechanical interaction of components rather than requiring complex external control systems
Solution Approach 2:
The trolley acts as an intermediary component between the carousel carriers and the track system. It facilitates the transfer by engaging with both the carrier during rotation and the track during translation, simplifying the interface between the two subsystems and making alignment and transfer operations more manageable
3Quantity of substance
If carriers are designed to receive multiple trolleys for increased storage density, then the storage density improves, but the transfer time and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The carousel rotates periodically to bring different carriers into alignment with the track system at scheduled intervals. This periodic rotation allows multiple trolleys to be transferred in sequence rather than simultaneously, maintaining high storage density while managing transfer time through rhythmic, predictable operations
Solution Approach 2:
The carousel is divided into multiple independent carriers, each capable of holding one or more trolleys. This segmentation allows the system to handle multiple articles in parallel during rotation, increasing storage density without proportionally increasing the time required for individual transfer operations
Data Source
AI summary
An article carousel may be configured for use with a track system. The article carousel may include a frame and a plate configured for movement with respect to the frame. The plate may include one or more carriers configured to receive one or more trolleys. Movement of the plate may enable each carrier to be aligned with the track system. During alignment, one or more trolleys may be transferred between each carrier and the track system.