Pallet Conveyor With Electromagnetic Induction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional transport systems, including conveyor systems, face limitations such as restricted speed, inability to vary pallet position or acceleration, and complex pallet tracking, particularly in linear motor systems, which hinder precise control and efficient power delivery to moving elements.
Innovation Solution
A modular conveyor system with independently controlled moving elements and a drive system that uses a plurality of coils to modulate electromagnetic fields for both movement and power transfer, allowing for variable frequency control and precise positioning, enabling power delivery to moving elements and motors on pallets for adjusting work plate positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If conventional belt conveyors are used to transport pallets, then the system structure is simple, but the speed is limited and it is not possible to vary the position or acceleration of individual pallets
Solution Approach 1:
The conveyor system is segmented into multiple independent moving elements (carts) that can be individually controlled along the track. Each cart operates independently with its own motor control, allowing variable speed and position control for each pallet without requiring a complex centralized mechanism throughout the entire conveyor system.
Solution Approach 2:
The conventional mechanical belt-driven system is replaced with an electromagnetic linear motor system. The linear motors mounted on each cart provide propulsion through electromagnetic fields generated by track-mounted coils, eliminating the need for continuous mechanical contact and enabling precise, independent control of each pallet's speed and position.
2Measurement precision
If linear motors are used to provide independent control of multiple pallets, then pallet position control is improved, but the system becomes complex with complex pallet tracking systems and limitations on the number of moving elements
Solution Approach 1:
Each moving element (cart) is equipped with its own linear motor and control system, making it self-propelled and self-controlled. This eliminates the need for complex centralized tracking and control systems, as each cart independently manages its own position and movement along the track.
Solution Approach 2:
The linear motor system serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides propulsion for movement, enables precise position control, and allows for easy tracking through the electromagnetic field interactions. The same electromagnetic infrastructure that drives the carts also facilitates their control and positioning without requiring separate dedicated tracking mechanisms.
3Power
If inductive power transfer systems use a high frequency alternate current primary conductor, then power transfer capability is improved, but electromagnetic radiation causes power leakage and potential damage to electronic equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The primary conductor is energized with periodic alternating current at high frequency, creating electromagnetic fields that transfer power inductively to the moving elements. The periodic nature of the AC current allows for controlled power transfer while the system can be designed to minimize harmful radiation through proper frequency selection and shielding.
Solution Approach 2:
The electromagnetic field acts as an intermediary between the stationary primary conductor and the moving secondary conductor on the carts. This field-based power transfer eliminates the need for physical electrical contacts, reducing wear and contamination, while the field can be confined and controlled to minimize harmful radiation to surrounding electronics.
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 achieves flexible and precise control of moving elements, enabling efficient power transfer and accurate positioning of pallets, reducing power leakage and improving operational safety and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a drive system that is controlled by the control system and that is configured to provide power through a first electromagnetic field
Implementation Method 2
a pick-up unit that is adapted to receive power wirelessly through electromagnetic induction from the drive system
Data Source
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AI summary
A conveyor system that includes a track section including a control system, a drive system that is controlled by the control system and that is configured to provide power through a first electromagnetic field and through an alternating second electromagnetic field, a plurality of moving elements that are driven by the drive system and that are configured to receive power through the first electromagnetic field, where at least one of the plurality of moving elements includes a pick-up unit configured to receive power through the alternating second electromagnetic field, a pallet support apparatus, and a plurality of pallets that are configured to engage with the plurality of moving elements and move on the pallet support apparatus.