Conveyor Belt Lateral Extension via Curve Guides
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing conveyor systems lack the flexibility and efficiency for safe and precise handling of items, especially when picking and transferring items from an endless belt conveyor.
Innovation Solution
A conveyor system with curve guide elements that allow the upper run of the endless conveyor belt to extend laterally from one side of the support structure, enabling more flexible positioning and integration with other handling equipment, along with a cantilever construction for supporting the conveyor belt.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the conveyor belt extends straight between support structure ends, then the structure is simple and stable, but the positioning flexibility and integration with other equipment is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The conveyor system is divided into modular components including support structures, curve guide elements, and straight conveyor sections. This segmentation allows flexible assembly and positioning while maintaining structural stability, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
Curve guide elements are introduced to guide the conveyor belt in lateral curves, adding a dimensional aspect to the conveyor path. This enables the belt to reach further laterally and integrate with equipment positioned at angles, enhancing positioning flexibility without requiring complex reconfiguration of the entire system.
2Productivity
If the conveyor belt reaches further laterally over other equipment, then the operational range is increased, but the risk of item misplacement and safety issues increases
Solution Approach 1:
Curve guide elements act as intermediary components that smoothly guide items around curves. These intermediaries prevent items from becoming dislodged or misplaced during lateral transitions, maintaining reliability while extending operational range over other equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The curve guide elements are designed to provide gradual, controlled guidance through curved paths rather than sharp transitions. This beforehand cushioning of lateral movements prevents items from being thrown off or misplaced, ensuring safe handling even when the conveyor extends significantly over other equipment.
3Adaptability or versatility
If curve guide elements are added to enable lateral extension, then the positioning options increase, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The conveyor system uses segmented, modular components including standardized curve guide elements that can be independently manufactured and assembled. This segmentation simplifies manufacturing by allowing each component to be produced separately using standard processes, reducing overall complexity despite increased positioning options.
Solution Approach 2:
The curve guide elements are designed as universal components that can be applied to various conveyor configurations and positions. This multi-functionality allows the same basic component design to provide lateral extension in different locations and orientations, increasing positioning options without proportionally increasing manufacturing complexity.
Data Source
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Figure 3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
A conveyor system comprising an endless belt conveyor with an endless belt (4) and one or more curve guide elements (8) arranged for guiding at least a part of a stretch of the upper run (6) of the endless conveyor belt (4) to extend laterally from one side of the support structure (1) and the lower run (7) of the endless conveyor belt (4).