Compact Cam-Actuated Object Justification for Jam-Safe Conveyors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional conveyor systems lack the ability to precisely position objects for accurate inspection or processing without requiring structural modifications or causing damage due to uncontrolled movement or jams.
Innovation Solution
A transverse-mounted cam-actuated justification system with biasing elements and a pivotable arm, utilizing a brushless DC motor and springs to precisely position objects on a conveyor bed, minimizing space usage and preventing damage by mediating force.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If conventional conveyor systems are used without additional positioning mechanisms, then the system structure remains simple, but the ability to precisely position objects for inspection or processing is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The conveyor system is segmented into independent functional units: the main conveyor belt for transport and a separate justification system with pushers for precise positioning. This allows the positioning function to be added without redesigning the entire conveyor system, maintaining simplicity while achieving precision.
Solution Approach 2:
Pushers act as intermediary elements between the conveyor belt and the objects. These pushers transfer motion from the conveyor to the objects, enabling precise positioning without direct mechanical coupling that would complicate the system structure.
2Reliability
If uncontrolled movement is allowed on the conveyor system, then the system operation is simple, but damage occurs due to jams or unexpected forces
Solution Approach 1:
Spring elements are incorporated into the pusher mechanism to provide cushioning before damage can occur. When an object jams or unexpected forces arise, the springs compress to absorb the impact, preventing damage to the conveyor system and its components.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-based pusher mechanism provides mechanical feedback about the forces being applied to objects. When resistance exceeds a certain threshold, the springs compress, automatically reducing the applied force and preventing damage without requiring complex sensors or control systems.
3Manufacturing precision
If a justification system is added to the conveyor, then object positioning precision is improved, but the space occupied by the system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The justification system is designed to operate in the vertical dimension through the use of spring compression and extension, rather than requiring additional horizontal space. The pushers move vertically to contact and position objects on the conveyor belt, minimizing the horizontal footprint of the positioning 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
Enables precise positioning of objects on a conveyor system with minimal space occupation and safety features, preventing damage from jams or unexpected forces.
Implementation Method 1
The driver is a brushless DC motor
Implementation Method 2
a biasing element coupled between the housing and the pivotable arm
Data Source
AI summary
A system includes a housing, a pivotable arm pivotably attached to the housing; a driver coupled to the pivotable arm, a biasing element coupled between the housing and the pivotable arm; a cam rotatably coupled with the driver; a cam follower associated with the cam; and a pusher coupled to the cam follower such that the pusher is configured to translate when the cam is rotated by the driver.