Maglev Mover-Receptacle Snap Lock for High-Acceleration Conveying
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing conveying systems using magnetic levitation technology face high purchase costs and the need for detachable receptacles that can accommodate various object sizes and types, while ensuring secure attachment during high accelerations and speeds.
Innovation Solution
A conveying device with a locking unit and counter-locking unit that engage in a form-fitting manner, utilizing a snap-in connection with multiple form-fitting directions and rotational symmetry to stabilize the receptacle, and incorporating undercuts and guide projections to prevent unwanted disengagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a screw connection is used to attach the receptacle to the mover, then the connection is secure, but the attachment and disengagement process is time-consuming and requires additional tools
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional screw connection mechanism with a snap-in connection system. The locking unit features a resilient locking element that can be deflected to disengage from the counter-locking unit, eliminating the need for screwdrivers or other tools while maintaining secure attachment during high-acceleration transport
Solution Approach 2:
The locking element is designed as a resilient component that can be manually deflected by the user to release the locking engagement. This self-service mechanism allows quick disengagement without requiring external tools, enabling users to rapidly attach and detach receptacles based on their specific needs
2Adaptability or versatility
If the receptacle is detachably attached to the mover, then versatility and cost-effectiveness are improved, but the risk of unwanted disengagement during high acceleration increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element is designed as a resilient, curved component that can be deflected to disengage from the counter-locking unit. This curved geometry provides a spring-like effect that maintains constant contact pressure, ensuring secure attachment during high-acceleration magnetic levitation transport while still allowing manual release when needed
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates multiple form-fitting directions beyond the primary locking direction. The locking unit and counter-locking unit engage in a form-fitting manner in at least one form-fitting direction different from the locking direction, creating multi-dimensional constraints that prevent unwanted disengagement during transport
3Device complexity
If the locking direction extends only in the connecting direction, then the locking mechanism is simple, but the available distance for establishing locking engagement is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extends the locking direction beyond the primary connecting direction by incorporating form-fitting engagement in at least one additional direction. This multi-directional approach increases the effective locking engagement distance without significantly complicating the overall mechanism, as the form-fitting surfaces naturally guide the engagement process
4Speed
If conventional magnetic levitation conveying systems are used, then high conveying speeds and accelerations are achieved, but the risk of receptacle disengagement due to acceleration forces increases
Solution Approach 1:
The resilient locking element is designed with a curved geometry that provides spring-like properties, maintaining constant contact pressure between the locking unit and counter-locking unit. This elastic deformation capability allows the connection to absorb and withstand the high acceleration forces (up to 30 m/s²) generated by magnetic levitation conveying systems
Solution Approach 2:
The locking element is pre-loaded in a deflected state, storing elastic energy that continuously exerts a holding force on the counter-locking unit. This preliminary action ensures that the connection is actively maintained throughout the conveying process, counteracting the disruptive effects of high-speed acceleration and deceleration
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
Ensures secure attachment of receptacles at high speeds and accelerations, allowing for efficient use of magnetic levitation technology without additional tools and minimizing material fatigue.
Implementation Method 1
the locking unit and the counter-locking unit being arranged to be in locking engagement with one another in a locking direction with the mover and receptacle in a connected state, and the locking unit comprising at least one contact surface and the counter-locking unit comprising at least one counter-contact surface which, in the connected state, lie against one another in a form-fitting manner
Implementation Method 2
a mover of a conveying system designed using magnetic levitation technology and not belonging to the conveying device, the mover being movable relative to a movement surface of the conveying system
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a conveying device for an object and to a conveying system designed using magnetic levitation technology with such a conveying device. The conveying device comprises a mover, which is movable relative to a movement surface of the conveying system, and a receptacle which can be connected to the mover. According to the invention, the mover comprises a locking unit and the receptacle comprises a counter-locking unit, which are arranged to be in locking engagement with one another in a locking direction. The locking unit further comprises at least one contact surface and the counter-locking unit comprises at least one counter-contact surface, which in the connected state are in form-fitting contact with one another in at least one form-fitting direction which is different from the locking direction.