Closed Chain Transport Modules for Fruit Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current fruit and vegetable harvesting systems using conveyor belts in cascade often cause bruising and waste due to the transfer of fruits from one belt to another, and they require operators to rotate their bodies excessively, leading to inefficiencies and ergonomic issues.
Innovation Solution
A closed chain transport system comprising multiple transport modules connected to form a flexible chain that can curve and change elevation, allowing for direct transfer of fruits from the harvesting point to the conveyor without intermediate transfers, and featuring support means to hold fruits stably throughout the transfer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If several conveyor belts are arranged in cascade to transfer fruits from harvesting point to conveyor, then the rigid structure allows stable transport, but the intermediate transfers cause fruit bruising and waste
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate conveyor belts into a single continuous flexible chain structure with multiple support points. This allows the chain to simultaneously provide stable support for fruits while eliminating intermediate transfer points, thus combining the reliability of rigid structure with the benefit of continuous transport without bruising.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible chain is segmented into multiple transport modules, each capable of supporting individual fruits or vegetables. This segmentation allows the chain to adapt its shape while maintaining stable support at multiple points, resolving the contradiction between rigid structure and continuous transport.
2Adaptability or versatility
If several separate conveyor belts are used to accommodate different harvesting points, then the system can receive fruit from multiple sources, but the complex arrangement requires operators to rotate their bodies excessively
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic flexible chain that can change its configuration to accommodate different harvesting points and conveyor positions. This dynamic adaptability allows the system to serve multiple harvesting points while maintaining a simpler, more ergonomic arrangement that minimizes operator rotation requirements.
3Device complexity
If a rigid conveyor belt structure is used, then the transport system is simple and reliable, but it cannot accommodate curves or jumps in elevation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a flexible chain structure composed of multiple connected transport modules. This flexible structure can naturally accommodate curves and elevation changes while maintaining the simplicity and reliability of a modular design, eliminating the need for complex rigid mechanisms to achieve directional changes.
Data Source
Figure 1~1a
Figure 1b~1c
Figure 2~2a
AI summary
A fruit or vegetable transport system for transferring fruits or vegetables from a harvesting point to an unloading point in a conveyor comprises a plurality of transport modules connected together in a manner to form a closed chain, motorized movement means, and means for guiding the chain along a predetermined loop path. The transport modules are connected to each other so that the chain can make changes in direction and elevation.