Automated Pallet Transfer System for Panel-Cutting Machines
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing systems for managing and moving pallets towards and from panel-cutting machines are complex, impractical, and costly, particularly due to the need for handlers in unloading stations, which increases operational expenses.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising first and second conveyor means and support means that allow for the vertical movement of pallets between positions, enabling efficient transfer of panels onto and off the working plane, with third conveyor means facilitating direct transfer of empty pallets from the loading station to the unloading station, eliminating the need for handlers and simplifying pallet management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If handlers are used to transfer empty pallets between loading and unloading stations, then pallet management can be performed, but the system becomes complex and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of pallet transfer and panel transfer into a single integrated conveyor system. The conveyor means performs both operations sequentially, eliminating the need for separate handler devices and reducing system complexity while maintaining full pallet management capability
Solution Approach 2:
The conveyor means is designed with multi-functionality, serving both to transfer empty pallets between stations and to transfer cut panels from the working plane to pallets. This universal device replaces multiple specialized devices, reducing overall system complexity and cost
2Ease of operation
If handlers are used to transfer empty pallets, then pallet movement is achieved, but operational expenses increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses automated conveyor means that operate autonomously to transfer both pallets and panels, eliminating the need for manual handlers or expensive automated handling robots. The conveyor serves itself by performing multiple functions in sequence, reducing operational expenses while maintaining efficient pallet movement
3Reliability
If separate devices are used for pallet transfer and panel transfer, then each function is performed dedicatedly, but the system becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines separate dedicated devices for pallet transfer and panel transfer into a single conveyor means that performs both functions. The conveyor first transfers the empty pallet to the unloading station, then transfers cut panels to the pallet, achieving both functions with one reliable integrated device rather than multiple separate devices
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4
AI summary
A movement and managing system (1) of pallets (P) towards/from a panel-cutting machine (M), comprising: a working plane (2) which: develops between a loading station (C) and an unloading station (S) so as to restingly receive a panel (F) to be cut; first conveyor means (3) which: develop from an inlet station (I) to the unloading station (C) so as to convey a pallet (P) on which a stack of panels (F) to be cut is positioned from the inlet station (I) to the loading station (C); second conveyor means (4) which: develop from the unloading station (S) to an outlet station (U) so as to convey a pallet (P) on which a stack of cut panels (P) is positioned from the unloading station (S) to the outlet station (U); first support means (5), actuable such that a pallet (P) can be vertically moved upwards so as to enable transfer of a head panel of the stack of panels (F) onto the working plane (2); second support means (6), actuable such that an empty pallet (P) positioned in the unloading station (S) can be moved vertically upwards so as to enable transfer of a cut panel (F) onto the working plane (2) on the pallet (P), so as to form a stack of panels (F) on the pallet (P); third conveyor means (7) which develop from the loading station (C) to the unloading station (S), and are predisposed to convey an empty pallet (P) from the loading station (C) to the unloading station (S).