Dynamic Gapping Conveyor With Independently Driven Flights
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conveyor systems face challenges in maintaining consistent spacing of objects of varying sizes, especially when non-regular packages like envelopes and bags are conveyed, as existing systems struggle to operate effectively with different sizes and shapes.
Innovation Solution
A dynamic gapping conveyor system with independently driven flights that use a linear transport system to control the spacing between conveyed objects, allowing for adjustable and variable separation distances, and pivotally mounted flight bodies that can adjust their position relative to the conveying surface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional flights are used to space conveyed objects, then spacing control is simple, but the system cannot effectively handle objects of varying sizes and shapes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the flight position adjustable along the conveying surface. The flight can be dynamically repositioned to accommodate different object sizes and shapes, transforming a static spacing system into a dynamic one that adapts to varying conveyance requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the conveying system by separating the flight mechanism from the conveying surface. The flight is mounted on a movable carrier that can be independently positioned, allowing the spacing function to be decoupled from the conveyance function and optimized separately
2Productivity
If fixed spacing is maintained to ensure one package per section, then downstream processing is simplified, but throughput is reduced due to larger gaps
Solution Approach 1:
The flight position is dynamically adjustable to optimize spacing based on object dimensions. This allows the system to maintain precise spacing control while minimizing gaps, thereby increasing throughput without sacrificing spacing consistency
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates sensors that detect object presence and dimensions, providing feedback to the control system. This feedback enables real-time adjustment of flight positions to maintain optimal spacing and maximize throughput
3Productivity
If flights are positioned close to convey non-regular packages, then spacing is minimized, but packages may get caught between flights and conveyor belt
Solution Approach 1:
The flight mounting carrier can be dynamically adjusted to optimize the distance between the flight and conveying surface. This dynamic adjustment allows the system to minimize spacing for efficiency while maintaining sufficient clearance to prevent package entrapment
Solution Approach 2:
The flight design incorporates specific geometric features and positioning that create local quality variations in the spacing profile. This allows different regions of the flight-conveyor interface to have different clearance characteristics, preventing package entrapment while maintaining overall spacing efficiency
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 consistent spacing of objects regardless of size, increasing throughput by ensuring only one package is on a section at a time, while maintaining minimal gaps, and preventing packages from getting caught between flights and the conveyor belt.
Implementation Method 1
The linear transport system comprises an endless rail extending along a first side edge of the conveying surface and a plurality of movers. The endless rail houses a plurality of inducers that interact with the movers to move the movers along the endless rail.
Implementation Method 2
a pivot mechanism for selectively pivoting the flight body relative to the mover
Data Source
AI summary
A conveying system employs independently controlled flights. The flights are controlled separately from a conveying surface using a linear transport system. The linear transport system allow the position of the flights to be controlled based on a parameter, such as the length of a conveyed object. The flights are pivotally mounted to a mover of the linear transport system and can pivot relative to the conveying surface to allow the flights to fit in a space between an end of carryway and a receptacle.