Cargo Loading Stacker with Buffer Conveyor for Uninterrupted Operation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cargo loading apparatuses are inefficient, particularly for open-top cargo spaces, as they require special constructions, lengthen loading time due to stepwise loading, and are not suitable for intermodal containers, leading to unstable loads and reduced operational efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A conveyor and stacker system with a buffer conveyor and transfer conveyor, where the stacker operates before the conveyor, allowing uninterrupted operation, enabling continuous loading and supporting various cargo spaces without special structures, and allowing loading from any open end.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a conveyor and stacker system is used for loading cargo spaces, then loading efficiency is improved, but the apparatus requires special constructions and sturdy support structures
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus is designed to be universally applicable to different cargo space types (open-top, intermodal containers, enclosed spaces) without requiring special constructions. The conveyor and stacker system can adapt to various loading scenarios through programmable control, eliminating the need for dedicated support structures for each cargo space configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The conveyor system incorporates dynamic positioning capabilities, allowing the conveyor to move in multiple directions (longitudinally, laterally, vertically) to adapt to different cargo space configurations. This dynamic flexibility replaces the need for fixed special constructions and sturdy support structures.
2Productivity
If stepwise loading is used in open-top cargo spaces, then loading can be completed, but loading time is lengthened and operational efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The buffer conveyor maintains continuous operation by decoupling the stacking operation from the loading operation. While the stacker continuously forms stacks on the buffer conveyor, the main conveyor can simultaneously prepare the next stack or move to a new position, eliminating idle time and enabling uninterrupted loading throughout the process.
Solution Approach 2:
The buffer conveyor allows stacks to be pre-formed and staged before final loading into the cargo space. This preliminary stacking action separates the time-consuming stacking operation from the loading operation, allowing both to occur in parallel and significantly reducing total loading time.
3Productivity
If the apparatus stops when changing cargo spaces, then the next cargo space can be positioned, but loading time increases and efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The buffer conveyor enables continuous stacking operation even during cargo space transitions. While the main conveyor stops to reposition for the next cargo space, the stacker continues forming stacks on the buffer conveyor, ensuring that useful action (stacking) continues without interruption and minimizing overall downtime.
4Stability of the object's composition
If stacks are loaded at different times, then cargo spaces can be filled, but gaps remain between stacks making the load unstable
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus merges multiple stacks into a single continuous load by using the conveyor system to position and join stacks together. The buffer conveyor holds stacks in sequence, and the main conveyor transports them into the cargo space in a coordinated manner that eliminates gaps, creating a stable, continuous load while maintaining efficient loading speed.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for loading a cargo space includes a conveyor and a stacker for stacking goods in the cargo space. The stacker is before the conveyor. In addition, a buffer conveyor is between the stacker and the conveyor to permit the uninterrupted operation of the stacker. A transfer conveyor is between the buffer conveyor and the conveyor for moving a stack from the buffer conveyor to the conveyor.