Overhead Conveyor Bag with Radio-Controlled Base Opening
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing overhead conveyor pocket systems require fixed-location unloading stations for opening, limiting flexibility in unloading locations.
Innovation Solution
The system incorporates a remotely controllable actuating mechanism with a position-determining unit and control unit that allows the pocket to be opened and closed at any position along the conveyor system, using radio signals to activate actuators like solenoids for flexible unloading.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If fixed-location unloading stations are used to open pockets, then the opening mechanism is simple and reliable, but the flexibility in unloading locations is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the pocket opening mechanism controllable at any position along the conveyor line rather than at fixed locations. The actuating means can be triggered at variable positions based on delivery requirements, transforming a static fixed-location opening system into a dynamic flexible-opening system. This resolves the contradiction by enabling adaptability in unloading locations while managing device complexity through controlled actuation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical fixed-location opening mechanism with an electronically controlled actuating system. Instead of relying on fixed mechanical triggers at specific conveyor stations, the system uses actuators (such as solenoids or motors) that can be remotely controlled to open pockets at any desired position. This substitution enables flexible unloading locations while the electronic control system manages the complexity of the actuating mechanism.
2Adaptability or versatility
If remote control capability is added to open pockets at any position, then flexibility in unloading locations is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the universality principle by designing the actuating means to perform multiple functions: it can open pockets at any position along the conveyor line, accommodate different control methods (manual or automated), and work with various pocket types. This multi-functional design enables flexible unloading locations while consolidating control capabilities into a universal system that manages complexity through versatility rather than multiple specialized systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a control unit as an intermediary between the remote control signal and the actuator. This intermediary processes control signals, determines the appropriate opening position, and activates the actuator accordingly. The control unit acts as a mediator that manages the complexity of the remote control system by centralizing the decision-making logic and separating the control signal reception from the physical actuation, thereby enabling flexibility while organizing system complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the pocket can be opened during travel at any position, then unloading flexibility is improved, but the reliability of the opening mechanism may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the preliminary action principle by preparing the pocket opening mechanism in advance during the loading phase. The actuating means is pre-configured and tested before the pocket enters service, ensuring that when opening is required at any position during travel, the mechanism is already ready to execute reliably. This preliminary preparation maintains reliability while enabling flexible unloading locations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements the self-service principle by designing the actuating means to automatically execute the opening action once triggered, without requiring manual intervention during the opening process. The control unit receives the opening signal and automatically activates the actuator to open the pocket at the desired position. This automated self-service mechanism maintains reliability by eliminating human error during operation while enabling flexible unloading at any position along the conveyor line.
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
Enables flexible unloading of items into containers during travel, allowing for efficient sequencing and delivery to various destinations without fixed unloading stations.
Implementation Method 1
The actuating means has an actuator for actuating the at least one adjusting mechanism
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 2a~2b
AI summary
The invention relates to a bag (1) for an overhead conveyor (100), which has two bag walls (2) that are detachably connected to each other at a bag base (3), wherein the bag (1) has at least one actuating mechanism (10) for releasing the bag walls (2) connected at the bag base (3) from each other to form a discharge opening, and wherein the bag (1) has an actuating means (20) which is configured to actuate the at least one actuating mechanism (10) in response to a corresponding radio signal, so that the bag base (3) is opened. The invention further relates to a corresponding overhead conveyor (100).