Oscillating Conveyor Control Device Decentralized Wiring
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing control systems for oscillating conveyors face high wiring complexity when multiple units are used in complex applications, limiting flexibility in controlling and synchronizing oscillation parameters, and requiring central control devices and extensive wiring for sensor data transmission.
Innovation Solution
Integrating a control device with a communication interface into the oscillating conveyor base, enabling communication with external devices and allowing for decentralized control through network protocols like EtherCat or Profinet, which reduces the need for central control and simplifies wiring by allowing local control and data transfer within a network.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a central control device is used to control multiple oscillating conveyors, then centralized control capability is provided, but wiring complexity increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the control system into decentralized control units, with each oscillating conveyor having its own integrated control device. This segmentation eliminates the need for complex star-shaped wiring to a central controller, as each unit operates independently while still being controllable through the network interface.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the physical wiring system with a communication network system. Instead of using extensive electrical wiring to connect multiple conveyors to a central controller, the invention uses digital communication interfaces (EtherCat, Profinet, or wireless) to transmit control signals and sensor data, significantly reducing physical wiring complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If control devices are distributed across multiple oscillating conveyors, then control flexibility improves, but wiring complexity increases due to star-shaped connections
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the star-shaped physical wiring architecture with a logical network topology. Control units communicate through digital protocols over communication cables or wireless connections, maintaining control flexibility while eliminating the wiring complexity associated with traditional distributed control systems.
3Reliability
If sensor signals are routed to a central controller, then comprehensive monitoring is achieved, but additional wiring complexity is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces separate sensor wiring to a central controller with integrated sensor connections to the control unit's communication interface. Temperature sensors, vibration sensors, and other monitoring devices connect to the local control unit, which then transmits data through the existing communication network, eliminating additional sensor wiring while maintaining comprehensive monitoring capability.
4Ease of operation
If control devices are arranged in grouped fashion for parameter adjustment, then parameter setting capability is provided, but wiring complexity increases further
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces physical grouping of control devices for parameter adjustment with a software-based configuration system. Parameters such as oscillation amplitude and frequency can be adjusted remotely through the communication network using standard programming devices or operator interfaces, eliminating the need for physical control device grouping and associated wiring.
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
This approach reduces wiring complexity, enhances control flexibility, and allows for efficient synchronization of oscillation phases among multiple conveyors, improving the overall efficiency and ease of maintenance by enabling local control and data sharing within the network.
Implementation Method 1
A standard approach to driving oscillating conveyors is to periodically attract a yoke attached to the conveying apparatus thereof, for example to an oscillating rail, by means of an electromagnet to which current is periodically supplied, in order to excite oscillations of the conveying apparatus for the purpose of transporting the supported objects.
Data Source
AI summary
An oscillating conveyor having a conveying apparatus and a drive device that, upon actuation by a control device, excites an oscillation of the conveying apparatus with respect to a base of the oscillating conveyor to convey objects supported by a conveying surface of the conveying apparatus. The control device includes a communication interface for communication with an external communication device. The control device is designed so as, upon receiving a communication message including address and control information, to use the communication interface to check an addressing condition, the meeting of which is dependent on the address information, and only if the addressing condition is met to alter the actuation of the drive device based on the control information and/or to set an internal control parameter on which at least one chronologically subsequent actuation of the drive device by the control device is dependent to a value that is dependent on the control information.