Spring-Loaded Dolly Synchronization for Conveyor Coupling Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing dolly apparatuses lack effective synchronization with conveyors, which is necessary for efficient assembly line operations.

Innovation Solution

A synchronization device with a first and second pole body assembly, each equipped with a spring, biases the pole bodies in opposite directions to synchronize and desynchronize the dolly apparatus with a conveyor, using spring-loaded mechanisms for ergonomic control.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If a dolly apparatus is used on an assembly line without synchronization, then the dolly can move independently, but it cannot move synchronously with the conveyor which is necessary for efficient assembly operations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveassembly line efficiencyVSAvoidsynchronization capability
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The synchronization device uses spring-loaded pole bodies that can dynamically adjust between synchronized and unsynchronized states. The springs allow the pole bodies to move relative to each other, enabling the dolly to transition between moving with the conveyor and moving independently, thus providing both productivity and adaptability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If a synchronization device is added to the dolly apparatus, then synchronous movement with conveyor is achieved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesynchronization capabilityVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The synchronization device is segmented into separate pole body assemblies (first and second pole bodies) with individual springs. This segmentation allows each component to function independently while working together to achieve synchronization, reducing overall complexity compared to a monolithic design

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Ease of operation

If spring-loaded mechanisms are used for synchronization control, then ergonomic control is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveergonomic controlVSAvoidmechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The spring-loaded mechanisms are designed to automatically engage and disengage the synchronization function based on the relative movement between the dolly and conveyor. The springs self-regulate the force applied to the pole bodies, eliminating the need for complex control systems while maintaining ease of operation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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

Facilitates synchronized movement of dolly apparatuses with conveyors, enabling efficient assembly processes and easy uncoupling when needed, reducing ergonomic concerns during assembly.

Implementation Method 1

a first spring that is configured to bias the first pole body in a first direction

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSpring: Spring

Implementation Method 2

a second spring that is configured to bias the second pole body in a second direction opposite the first direction

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSpring: Spring

Data Source

PatentUS12509307B2Synchronization apparatuses and methods of use
Publication Date: 2025.12.30 TOYOTA MOTOR ENG & MFG NORTH AMERICA INC
  • US12509307B2 patent drawing
  • US12509307B2 patent drawing
  • US12509307B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A synchronization device for synchronizing a hanging dolly assembly to a conveyor includes a first pole body assembly comprising a first pole body and a first spring that is configured to bias the first pole body in a first direction and a second pole body assembly with a second pole body slidably connected to the first pole body and a second spring that is configured to bias the second pole body in a second direction opposite the first direction.