Articulating Conveyor Frame Segmentation for Footprint Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional conveyor systems are immobile and require a large facility footprint, limiting flexibility and efficiency in handling differently sized articles or accommodating various manufacturing and packaging processes.
Innovation Solution
An articulating frame with overlapping links and fasteners that support a continuous belt, allowing for rotational movement and reconfiguration to accommodate various article sizes and processes, combined with retention members that secure the belt and guide assembly for efficient article handling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional conveyor arrangements are used, then articles can be conveyed between manufacturing stations, but the system requires a sizable facility footprint and cannot be reconfigured for differently sized articles
Solution Approach 1:
The conveyor system is divided into multiple modular link segments that can be independently positioned and configured. Each link contains fasteners and engagement features that allow individual segments to be connected, disconnected, or repositioned, enabling the conveyor to be reconfigured for different article sizes without requiring complete system replacement or large facility space.
Solution Approach 2:
The conveyor system transitions from a static, fixed configuration to a dynamic, reconfigurable structure. The links are designed with rotational capabilities and adjustable engagement features that allow the conveyor to change its geometry and layout adaptively, enabling it to accommodate varying production needs within the same facility footprint.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional immobile conveyor arrangements are used, then the structure is simple and stable, but the system cannot be re-routed for different processing requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The conveyor is segmented into modular links with standardized engagement features, allowing flexible reconfiguration through simple connection and disconnection of segments rather than complex mechanical adjustments.
Solution Approach 2:
Each link segment is designed with universal engagement features and fasteners that can connect to multiple different configurations, allowing the same component to serve multiple routing functions and reducing overall system complexity despite increased adaptability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If an articulating frame with overlapping links is used, then the conveyor becomes flexible and reconfigurable, but the structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The complex articulating function is segmented into individual link components, each handling a portion of the overall flexibility requirement. This modular approach distributes the complexity across multiple simple, identical units rather than requiring a single complex mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple functional features (fasteners, engagement features, rotational joints) are merged into integrated link components, reducing the total number of separate parts and simplifying assembly while maintaining the articulating flexibility of the conveyor system.
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
The articulating frame enables cost-effective and operationally efficient flexible conveyance systems, allowing for multipurpose arrangements and efficient handling of articles by supporting a continuous belt and guiding articles through reconfigurable conveyor systems.
Implementation Method 1
A first link of a plurality of first links is provided, the first link having a first end and a second end, the first end configured to rotatably receive a fastener of the plurality of fasteners
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to an apparatus having an articulating frame for conveying articles, as well as self-propelled articulating frames.