Modular Magnetic Shuttle Conveying for Space-Constrained Clean Rooms
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing conveying systems for shuttles in assembly or manufacturing processes, particularly in clean room environments, face challenges in efficiently utilizing limited and expensive space while requiring flexibility for different configurations and scenarios.
Innovation Solution
A conveying system with a conveying line comprising modules, each with a circumferentially closed belt and counter-magnetic members, where shuttles are coupled via ferromagnetic forces, allowing seamless transfer between modules and synchronized operation with assembly lines, including shiftable end modules for efficient space utilization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If shuttles are returned in a cyclic manner using traditional conveying systems, then reliability of shuttle return is improved, but floor space consumption increases which is problematic in clean room environments
Solution Approach 1:
The conveying system transitions from a traditional horizontal floor-based layout to a vertical three-dimensional configuration. Shuttles are conveyed horizontally along the assembly line, then returned vertically above or below the assembly line using overhead conveying modules. This dimensional change allows the return path to occupy vertical space rather than additional floor space, resolving the contradiction between reliable cyclic shuttle return and minimal floor space consumption in clean room environments.
2Device complexity
If traditional conveying systems are used for shuttle return, then system simplicity is maintained, but flexibility for different assembly system configurations is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The conveying system is divided into functionally independent modules: assembly line conveying modules that move shuttles horizontally through assembly stations, and overhead return conveying modules that transport shuttles back to the start. These modular units can be independently configured, positioned, and controlled, enabling flexible adaptation to different assembly system layouts and requirements while maintaining operational simplicity through standardized module design.
3Productivity
If shuttles are conveyed along a linear path, then conveying efficiency is improved, but space utilization in limited clean room environments deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system maintains efficient linear horizontal conveying for assembly operations while introducing a vertical dimension for the return path. Overhead conveying modules operate in the vertical space above or below the assembly line, allowing shuttles to be returned without occupying additional horizontal floor space. This preserves conveying efficiency while optimizing space utilization in constrained clean room environments.
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
The system enables reliable, cost-effective, and flexible shuttle conveyance, optimizing space usage and synchronizing with assembly processes, especially beneficial in clean room settings.
Implementation Method 1
releasably coupling the shuttle to the conveying belt via the counter-magnetic member interacting with the magnetic member by way of ferromagnetic forces
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4
AI summary
Disclosed is a conveying system with a conveying line (1 ) and a number of shuttles (3). The conveying line (1 ) includes a number of conveying modules (11, 12, 13), wherein each conveying module (11, 12, 13) includes a c conveying belt (111), the conveying belt generally extending in parallel with a longitudinal conveying line axis (1c). The conveying belt (111) includes a counter-magnetic member that substantially along the whole circumference of the conveying belt (111). Each shuttle (3) includes a product interface for operatively coupling with a product to be conveyed and a magnetic member (32). Each shuttle (3) and each conveying module (11, 12, 13) may be temporarily associated with each other to establish a shuttle conveying module combination. In a shuttle conveying module combination, the magnetic member (32) of the shuttle (3) and the counter- magnetic member (1112) of the conveying belt (111 ) of the conveying module (11, 12, 13) interact byway of ferromagnetic forces, thereby releasably coupling the shuttle (3) to the conveying belt (111) of the conveying module (11, 12, 13).