Opposing Disk Separators for Conveyor Adapter Singulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional separating devices in conveyor systems for hanging objects face issues with process reliability and efficiency, particularly due to the need for linear movement and pneumatic operation, which can lead to disruptions and maintenance challenges.
Innovation Solution
A separating device with two disk-shaped separating elements, each equipped with pinion teeth, that rotate in opposite directions and are arranged to hold and release holding adapters without the need for pneumatics, allowing for continuous operation and increased throughput.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a linearly movable singulation element is used, then the holding adapter can be singulated, but the singulation element must be returned to its starting position after each operation, reducing productivity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic action through the oscillating movement of the bar-shaped singulation element. The element performs a regular back-and-forth motion along the conveyor track, continuously engaging and releasing holding adapters in a rhythmic cycle. This periodic operation eliminates the need for returning to a starting position, as the oscillation itself constitutes the complete working cycle, thereby maintaining high productivity while ensuring reliable singulation.
Solution Approach 2:
The oscillating singulation element enables continuous useful action by maintaining constant engagement with the conveyor stream. Unlike linearly movable elements that require reset positions, the oscillating element continuously interacts with passing holding adapters throughout its motion range. The element is always in a position to engage the next holding adapter, eliminating idle return trips and ensuring uninterrupted singulation operation.
2Ease of operation
If a pneumatically operated singulation device is used, then the holding adapter can be moved, but pneumatics are no longer permitted in conveyor systems for transporting suspended objects
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the prohibited pneumatic system with a purely mechanical oscillating mechanism. The bar-shaped singulation element is driven by mechanical means (such as a crank mechanism, cam, or direct motor drive) to perform its oscillating motion along the conveyor track. This mechanical substitution eliminates pneumatic components entirely, ensuring compliance with conveyor regulations for suspended objects while maintaining simple and reliable operation through direct mechanical actuation.
3Device complexity
If a single singulation element is used, then the device structure is simple, but the holding adapter may remain stationary within the singulation mechanism, disrupting the process
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transforming the static or linearly movable singulation element into an oscillating element. The bar-shaped element dynamically moves back and forth along the conveyor track, creating a time-varying engagement pattern with passing holding adapters. This dynamic oscillation ensures that the singulation element continuously progresses through its work cycle, preventing any single holding adapter from remaining stationary within the mechanism and disrupting the rhythmic, reliable flow of the conveying process.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 1a
Figure 2~3
AI summary
Singulation device (1) for singulating holding adapters (20) in a conveying device for transporting hanging objects, wherein the singulation device (1) has two singulation elements (2), each of which is designed as a disk with several drive elements designed as pinion teeth (4) and which are rotatably mounted in a plane in opposite directions and spaced apart from each other such that holding adapters (20) can be conveyed through the singulation elements (2), wherein in a possible rotational position of the singulation elements (2) on an imaginary line between an axis of rotation (D) of a first singulation element (2') and an axis of rotation (D) of a second singulation element (2"), a pinion tooth (4) of the first singulation element (2') and a pinion tooth (4) of the second singulation element (2") are opposite each other with their end faces (4c).