Cross Slide Sequencing for Loading Unit Palletization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems fail to efficiently sequence loading units in a predetermined order for palletization, leading to inefficiencies in the handling and storage of products like fresh produce, which requires precise stacking for optimal storage and transportation.
Innovation Solution
A device with a sequencing zone featuring multiple belts, a feed device, a separating device, and a cross slide transfer mechanism that distributes and rearranges loading units into a predetermined order using cross slides with pivotable arms, enabling high throughput and precise placement on pallets or roll containers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional feed device is used to transport loading units, then the loading units can be delivered to the sequencing device, but they arrive in an order not suitable for palletizing
Solution Approach 1:
The sequencing device divides the stream of loading units into multiple parallel belts, each handling a subset of units. This segmentation allows independent sorting and sequencing of units on different belts, enabling the system to reorder units into palletizing-appropriate sequences while maintaining high throughput
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a single-dimensional linear feed to a multi-dimensional arrangement with multiple parallel belts and transverse cross slides. Loading units are moved between belts in the transverse direction, adding a dimensional aspect that enables complex reordering without increasing linear path length, thus improving both sequencing capability and handling efficiency
2Manufacturing precision
If a sequencing device with multiple belts is used to arrange loading units in the correct sequence, then palletizing can be optimized, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each belt serves multiple functions: it receives loading units from the feed device, transports them through the sequencing zone, and delivers them to the singling device. The cross slides also perform dual functions by both distributing units to different belts and collecting them for the singling device. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional dedicated components, managing device complexity while maintaining sequencing accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The cross slides act as intermediary devices between the feed device and the singling device, mediating the distribution and collection of loading units. This intermediary mechanism simplifies the overall system architecture by providing a centralized control point for sequencing operations, reducing the complexity that would otherwise arise from direct point-to-point connections between all components
3Productivity
If a transverse slider is used for distribution and transfer, then the sequencing performance increases to at least 800 containers per hour, but the mechanism complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The distribution device and transfer device are merged into a single cross slide mechanism. The same cross slides that distribute loading units to different belts during the sequencing process also collect and transfer them to the singling device. This merging eliminates the need for separate distribution and transfer mechanisms, achieving high sequencing performance of at least 800 containers per hour while managing mechanism complexity through functional integration
Data Source
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AI summary
The device (1) is provided for sequencing loading units (2) in a predetermined order, comprising a sequencing zone (6) with a plurality of belts (7) for receiving loading units (2) to be sequenced, a feeding device (3) for loading units (2) upstream of the sequencing zone (6), a singulation device (23) with receptacles (24) for loading units (2) downstream of the sequencing zone (6), a distribution device (26) distributing the loading units (2) onto the belts (7), and a transfer device (28) conveying the singulated loading units (2) in the direction of a conveying device (5) downstream of the device, wherein the distribution device (26) and/or the transfer device (28) is designed as a transverse slide (17, 20) which displaces the loading units (2) transversely to the belts (7) or receptacles (24).