Conveyor Alignment Station Using Optical Detection and Segmented Orientation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing alignment stations for conveyor systems are complex and prone to errors, making precise alignment of conveyed goods challenging.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising a feed device with optical detection, a pre-orientation device with independently driven belt-shaped conveying means, and a main orientation device with a lateral guide unit, allowing for precise rotational and positional alignment of goods using a combination of optical detection and controlled conveying speeds.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing alignment station designs are used, then alignment function is provided, but the structure becomes complex and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment station is divided into two functional segments: a pre-orientation device with multiple independently driven conveying means for rough alignment, and a main orientation device with lateral guide unit for final precise alignment. This segmentation allows each part to perform its specific function efficiently, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining high reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The pre-orientation device performs preliminary alignment by rotating conveyed goods to their target position using independently driven conveying means with different feed speeds. This preliminary action prepares the goods for the main orientation device, which then performs the final precise alignment, thereby simplifying the main device's task and improving overall reliability.
2Manufacturing precision
If conventional alignment methods are used, then alignment is achieved, but precise alignment of conveyed goods is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses optical detection means to detect the position of conveyed goods on the feed device and provides feedback to the control unit. The control unit processes this information and adjusts the feed speeds of individual conveying means accordingly, enabling precise rotational alignment. This closed-loop feedback control ensures high alignment precision while simplifying operation through automated control.
Solution Approach 2:
The conveying means in both the pre-orientation and main orientation devices can be driven at different, dynamically adjustable feed speeds. This dynamic speed control allows the system to adapt to different alignment requirements and maintain precise alignment control throughout the conveying process, making the system both precise and easy to operate.
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 alignment of conveyed goods, ensuring they can be further processed effectively with high cycle times and accommodating various shapes and sizes, reducing susceptibility to errors and maintenance needs.
Implementation Method 1
An optical detection means for detecting the position of the material conveyed on the feed device
Implementation Method 2
the material to be conveyed, which rests on at least two of the conveying means, is rotated towards its target position
Implementation Method 3
a side surface of the material to be conveyed is against during the conveying process the lateral guide unit is pressed
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to an alignment station (1) for aligning conveyed goods (3), preferably items of luggage, transported in a conveyor system (2), said alignment station (1) comprising: a conveyor device (6) for conveying the conveyed goods (3); an optical detection means (13) for detecting the position of the conveyed goods (3) conveyed on the conveyor device (6); a pre-orientation device (8) for aligning the conveyed goods (3), said pre-orientation device (8) having at least two, preferably band-like revolving conveyor means (20), when viewed over the width (21) thereof, which can be driven independently of one another; a main orientation device (30) for aligning the ends of the conveyed goods (3), said main orientation device (30) having a lateral guide unit (34) as well as at least one, preferably band-like revolving conveyor means (31), which is arranged at an angle (36) to the lateral guide unit (34) when viewed in the conveying direction, such that a lateral surface (14) of the conveyed goods (3) is pressed against a guide surface (35) of the lateral guide unit (34) during the conveying process.