Card Data Carrier Sorting via Variable Speed Drive
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing output devices for card-shaped data carriers require complex and space-consuming sorting mechanisms with multiple conveyor sections and switch mechanisms, which are prone to errors and maintenance issues.
Innovation Solution
A sorting device that uses a drive means to forward error-free data carriers at a first speed and faulty ones at a second speed, eliminating the need for a switch mechanism and multiple conveyor sections, with data carriers sorted into separate receptacles based on speed and gravity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a sorting system with multiple conveyor sections and a controllable switching mechanism is used, then data carriers can be sorted into different receiving areas, but the device occupies considerable space and the mechanism becomes complex and prone to failure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the complex switching mechanism from the sorting system. Instead of using a controllable diverter mechanism with multiple moving parts, the invention uses a single conveyor that directly transports data carriers to different receiving areas based on their destination, removing the problematic switching component entirely while maintaining sorting functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the conveyor system into multiple fixed conveyor sections (first conveyor, second conveyor, third conveyor) that operate independently without requiring a switching mechanism. Each conveyor section is dedicated to transporting data carriers to a specific receiving area, eliminating the need for a complex controllable diverter while achieving the same sorting result
2Reliability
If a sorting system with multiple conveyor sections and a switching mechanism is used, then data carriers can be sorted, but the available installation space is limited and the structure must be adapted to unfavorable dimensions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the sorting function into multiple fixed conveyor sections that operate in parallel. Each conveyor section is optimized for its specific route, allowing the system to achieve comprehensive sorting coverage while maintaining a compact overall structure that adapts better to limited installation spaces compared to a single large switching mechanism
3Adaptability or versatility
If a controllable switching mechanism with many moving parts is used, then data carriers can be directed to different conveyor lines, but operational errors occur more frequently
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the controllable switching mechanism entirely from the system. Instead of directing data carriers through a single switching point with many moving parts, the invention uses multiple fixed conveyor sections that provide direct routes to different receiving areas, eliminating the source of operational errors while maintaining the ability to sort to multiple destinations
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 simplifies the sorting process, reduces space requirements, and ensures reliable operation by separating error-free and faulty data carriers without the complexity of switch mechanisms, enhancing the reliability and efficiency of the output device.
Implementation Method 1
the first and second intakes are arranged such that the fault-free data carrier is fed into the first intake and the faulty data carrier is fed into the second intake
Data Source
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AI summary
The application relates to an output device (100, 200, 300) for outputting card-shaped data carriers (114, 214, 314), comprising at least one encoding device (122, 222, 322) configured for encoding a data carrier (114, 214, 314) with at least one data record, and at least one detection device (102, 202, 302) configured for detecting the functionality of the encoded data carrier (114, 214, 314), wherein the output device (100, 200, 300) comprises at least one sorting device (107, 207, 307) with at least one drive means (108, 208, 308) configured for forwarding the data carrier (114, 214, 314), wherein the drive means (108, 208, 308) upon detection of a fault-free data carrier (114, 214, 314) is configured such that the data carrier (114, 214, 314) is forwarded at a first speed, wherein the drive means (108, 208, 308) upon detection of a faulty data carrier (114, 214,314) is set up such that the data carrier (114, 214, 314) is forwarded at a second speed, wherein the first speed differs from the second speed.