Linear Motor Turnaround for 180-Degree Transport Reorientation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional continuous conveyors lack flexibility in transporting individual units over long distances and cannot change the orientation of transport units to accommodate different work stations' requirements, limiting their utility in modern production facilities.
Innovation Solution
A long-stator linear motor system with a turnaround portion in the transport route, allowing a 180° orientation change of transport units by connecting entrance and exit portions of the turnaround portion to form a closed or open loop, enabling flexible reorientation of transport units along the route.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional continuous conveyors are used to transport units over long distances, then transport capability is provided, but flexibility to change orientation of transport units is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The transport route is divided into multiple segments including straight sections and a turnaround portion. The turnaround portion is further segmented into a first curve portion and a second curve portion with different radii. This segmentation allows the transport unit to change orientation in a controlled manner without requiring complex overall route guidance, as each segment performs a specific function (transport or orientation change).
Solution Approach 2:
The long-stator linear motor provides dynamic control of the transport unit by independently controlling propelling coils at different positions. This enables the system to adapt to different operational requirements (transport vs. orientation change) along the route without mechanical complexity, as the control system dynamically adjusts the magnetic field to guide the transport unit through the turnaround portion.
2Productivity
If conventional continuous conveyors are used, then simple structure is maintained, but individual transport units cannot be transported separately
Solution Approach 1:
The long-stator linear motor is divided into multiple independent propelling coil segments along the transport route. Each propelling coil can be controlled independently, allowing individual transport units to be accelerated, decelerated, or stopped at different positions. This segmentation enables separate control of multiple transport units without requiring complex mechanical coupling or synchronization mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical coupling mechanisms (chains, belts, gears) with an electromagnetic control system. Instead of mechanically linking transport units to ensure synchronized movement, the system uses independently controllable propelling coils to achieve precise control of each unit's position and speed, enabling individual transport while maintaining system coordination.
3Adaptability or versatility
If turnaround portion with different curve radii is used, then orientation change is achieved, but structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The turnaround portion is segmented into a first curve portion with a first radius and a second curve portion with a second radius. This segmentation allows each curve portion to be manufactured as a separate module with optimized geometry, simplifying the manufacturing process while achieving the required orientation change. The different radii can be tailored to specific operational requirements without redesigning the entire turnaround structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The turnaround portion structure serves multiple functions: it changes the orientation of the transport unit from one direction to another, provides a transition between different straight sections of the transport route, and can be designed with different radius combinations to accommodate various space constraints and operational requirements. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional specialized components.
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
Enhances flexibility and efficiency by allowing precise orientation changes of transport units, enabling processing on different sides of products at various work stations without requiring complex route guides, thus improving product flow and reducing maintenance costs.
Implementation Method 1
The magnetic or electromagnetic fields of the propelling magnets and propelling coils interact in order to generate a propelling force on the transport unit, moving the transport unit forwards.
Implementation Method 2
The magnetic or electromagnetic fields of the propelling magnets and propelling coils interact in order to generate a propelling force on the transport unit
Implementation Method 3
a plurality of electrical propelling coils, which form the stator, are arranged in a stationary manner next to one another along a transport route. A number of propelling magnets... interact with the propelling coils. The magnetic or electromagnetic fields of the propelling magnets and propelling coils interact in order to generate a propelling force
Data Source
AI summary
Transport device having a transport route, with a turnaround portion to change orientation of a transport unit by 180° in the longitudinal direction along the transport route, including a turnaround portion with an entrance connected to a first transport route portion by a first entrance end and a second, open entrance end, and an exit connected to a second transport route portion by a first exit end and a second, open exit end. A common movement path is formed at least in some portions in a region of a first transfer position, and the transport unit is movable along the path. To be turned around, the transport unit is moved to the entrance of the turnaround portion, transferred from the entrance to the exit of the turnaround portion, and moved from the exit of the turnaround portion.