Linear Motor Conveyor Coupler for Moving Element Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional conveyor systems, particularly linear motor conveyor systems, face challenges with curved track sections due to the difficulty in arranging and configuring moving elements, which limits configuration options and makes it hard to remove elements from the track, especially in vertical setups where magnetic forces are used for both driving and holding.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a rotatable element with a coupler and a motor, controlled by a controller, that engages with the moving element to remove it from one track and place it on another, utilizing a cam system or magnetic coupling for efficient transfer, allowing for smoother transitions and more flexible path configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional conveyor systems use curved track sections with smaller radii, then the configuration flexibility is improved, but the moving elements cannot adapt to the curved shape due to their predetermined rigid structure
Solution Approach 1:
The moving element is divided into multiple segments that can articulate relative to each other, allowing the element to bend and adapt to curved track sections while maintaining structural integrity. The segmentation enables the element to change its shape from rigid to flexible configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The moving element incorporates dynamic joints or articulation points that allow it to change its configuration from straight to curved. This dynamic capability enables the element to adapt its shape in real-time to match the track curvature, solving the problem of rigid elements on curved tracks.
2Device complexity
If linear motor conveyor systems use magnetic fields to hold moving elements on the track, then the driving mechanism is simplified, but it becomes difficult to remove the moving element from the track
Solution Approach 1:
The holding function is extracted from the linear motor's magnetic field and assigned to a separate mechanical retention mechanism. This allows the magnetic field to be used solely for driving while a distinct mechanism handles element retention and release, solving the conflict between simplified driving and ease of removal.
Solution Approach 2:
An intermediary mechanical retention mechanism is introduced between the moving element and the track. This intermediary component provides the holding function independently from the magnetic drive field, allowing elements to be easily removed by disengaging the retention mechanism without interfering with the simplified magnetic driving system.
3Reliability
If conventional conveyor systems use larger radius curved track sections, then the moving elements can traverse the curves, but the configuration options are limited and the system footprint increases
Solution Approach 1:
The moving element is segmented to allow articulation, enabling it to navigate tight curved track sections without requiring large radius curves. This segmentation allows the system to achieve reliable curve traversal while maintaining compact configurations and diverse layout options.
Solution Approach 2:
The element's shape parameter is changed from fixed to variable through articulation mechanisms. This allows the element to adapt its curvature radius to match different track configurations, enabling reliable traversal of various curve radii while maintaining flexibility in system design and configuration options.
4Device complexity
If vertical linear motor conveyors use magnetic forces for both driving and holding, then the system is more compact, but the moving element cannot be easily stripped from the track
Solution Approach 1:
The holding function is extracted from the magnetic force system and assigned to a separate mechanical retention mechanism in vertical conveyors. This allows the magnetic field to provide driving force while the retention mechanism independently handles element holding and release, enabling easy stripping without compromising system compactness.
Solution Approach 2:
An intermediary retention mechanism is introduced between the moving element and the vertical track. This intermediary component provides mechanical holding independent from the magnetic drive, allowing elements to be easily stripped by disengaging the retention mechanism while maintaining the compact vertical configuration.
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 the efficient transfer of moving elements between different tracks, including curved and straight sections, providing flexibility and overcoming the limitations of conventional systems by allowing movement through inside curves and varied orientations, thus enhancing the overall functionality of conveyor systems.
Implementation Method 1
A particular type of conveyor, generally referred to as a linear motor conveyor system, makes use of magnetic fields to move moving elements along a track
Implementation Method 2
the moving element is typically held on the track via the same magnetic forces that are used to drive the moving element along the track
Data Source
AI summary
A transporting system and method for a linear motor conveyor system, wherein the conveyor system includes at least one moving element and at least one track on which the moving element moves, the transporting system including: a rotatable element; a motor for rotating the rotatable element; a coupler connected to the rotatable element, wherein the coupler is configured to engage with the moving element when the coupler is positioned in a predetermined relationship with the moving element; and a controller configured to: operatively connect with the linear motor conveyor system; and control at least one of the moving element and the rotatable element so that the coupler is positioned in the predetermined relationship with the moving element on the track such that the coupler strips the moving element off the track.