Modular Guide Module for Precise Object Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sorting systems for objects in the transport and logistics sector lack precise control over positioning and movement parameters, and are not easily scalable or adaptable to different sizes and types of objects.
Innovation Solution
A modular guide module with a rotatable outer containment body, a ball mechanism, and actuator system that allows precise control of object movement, enabling scalable and adaptable sorting solutions by coordinating multiple guide modules to form a modular movement plane.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional sorting systems use fixed conveyor configurations with lateral rollers or movable units, then basic pack sorting is achieved, but precise control over positioning and movement parameters is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into modular guide modules that can be independently controlled and positioned. Each module contains segmented functional components (outer body, rotation unit, ball mechanism, actuation unit) that work together to provide precise positioning control while maintaining manageable system complexity through standardized modular architecture
Solution Approach 2:
The guide modules incorporate dynamic elements including rotatable outer bodies, movable balls within the rotation unit, and actuation mechanisms that enable real-time adjustment of positioning parameters. This dynamic capability allows precise control of pack movement while the modular design prevents excessive system complexity
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional sorting systems use fixed configurations, then initial setup is simple, but adaptability to different object sizes and system scaling is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The sorting system consists of multiple identical guide modules that can be manufactured using the same processes and then assembled in varying quantities and configurations. This segmentation enables easy scaling from small to large systems while maintaining adaptability to different object sizes through modular arrangement
Solution Approach 2:
Each guide module is designed as a universal unit capable of handling various object sizes and types. The modules can be configured in different arrangements to create sorting systems of varying capacities, providing both adaptability to different objects and ease of manufacturing through standardized components
3Measurement precision
If traditional systems use lateral rollers or movable units for pack diversion, then basic sorting functionality is provided, but complete control of movement parameters is not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The guide modules incorporate dynamic elements including rotatable outer bodies, movable balls within the rotation unit, and actuation mechanisms that enable real-time adjustment of positioning parameters. This dynamic capability allows precise control of pack movement while maintaining operational simplicity through automated actuation
Solution Approach 2:
The ball mechanism acts as an intermediary element between the actuation unit and the pack diversion function. The ball's position within the rotation unit mediates the translation of actuation commands into precise movement parameter adjustments, enabling complete control while simplifying operation
Data Source
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AI summary
Described is a guide module (1) for making a movement plane comprising: a rotation unit (20) rotatable about a longitudinal axis (Z); a ball (30) mounted on the rotation unit (20) by means of a respective actuation pin (31) rotatable relative to the rotation unit (20) about a transversal axis (X), perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (Z), the transversal axis (X) being fixed relative to the rotation unit (20); a first actuator (52) acting on the rotation unit (20) for moving in an adjustable fashion the rotation unit (20) about the longitudinal axis (Z); and a second actuator (54) acting on the actuation pin (31) of the ball (30) for moving the ball (30) about the transversal axis (X).