Dynamic Conveyor Zone Control for Variable Item Flow
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conveyor systems face challenges in efficiently adapting zones to accommodate varying sizes and types of funding goods, leading to potential delays and inefficiencies in processing.
Innovation Solution
A funding system that includes a conveyor facility, image recording devices, evaluation devices, and control devices, which work together to divide the funding route into zones that can be dynamically adjusted based on the size, number, and speed of the funding goods.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conveyor zones are fixed in size and configuration, then system structure is simple and reliable, but the system cannot efficiently adapt to varying sizes and types of conveyed goods
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic zone adjustment where zone boundaries and conveying speeds are no longer fixed but can be continuously modified based on real-time detection of conveyed goods characteristics. The control device receives information from image acquisition devices and automatically adjusts zone parameters, transforming a static conveyor system into a dynamic one that adapts to varying goods sizes and types.
Solution Approach 2:
The conveying path is divided into multiple adjustable zones that can be independently controlled. Each zone can have its own speed and boundary positions, allowing the system to segment the conveying path according to the specific requirements of different goods being transported, thereby improving adaptability while maintaining manageable system complexity through modular zone control.
2Productivity
If conveyor zones are dynamically adjusted based on goods characteristics, then processing efficiency improves, but system complexity and control difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs feedback control where image acquisition devices continuously monitor conveyed goods and provide information to the control device. The control device processes this information and automatically adjusts zone boundaries and speeds accordingly, creating a closed-loop control system that improves processing efficiency while managing complexity through automated feedback-based adjustment rather than manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical adjustment mechanisms with electronic and optical systems. Image acquisition devices (cameras or sensors) detect goods characteristics, and electronic control signals adjust zone parameters, substituting potential mechanical adjustment devices with more precise and easier-to-control electronic systems that reduce overall control complexity.
3Measurement precision
If multiple image acquisition devices are used to capture conveying path sections, then zone adjustment precision improves, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the image acquisition devices to serve multiple functions: they not only detect goods characteristics for zone adjustment but also monitor goods position, size, and movement throughout the conveying path. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate detection devices and minimizes overall system complexity while maintaining high measurement precision.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The invention relates to a conveying system (100) for transporting a conveyed good (11 ... 16), comprising a conveying device (21 ... 26) which is configured to transport the conveyed good (11 ... 16) along a conveying path (30), wherein the conveying path (30) is divided into several zones (31 ... 36).