Pivotable Telescopic Arm for Robotic Lane Diversion
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for diverting articles from a single lane to multiple parallel lanes are not robust enough and lack adjustability to accommodate articles of different shapes and sizes, limiting their effectiveness and versatility.
Innovation Solution
A lane forming apparatus comprising a first arm, a second arm, a moving device, and supporting devices, where the first arm is pivotable, the second arm is telescopically engaged, and the moving device, such as a six-axis robotic arm, adjusts the position of the guide assembly to divert articles into various parallel lanes, with supporting devices reducing friction during movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If existing devices are used for diverting articles, then the basic lane diversion function is achieved, but the robustness and adjustability are insufficient for articles of different shapes and sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a robotic arm with multiple degrees of freedom that can dynamically adjust its position and orientation to accommodate articles of different shapes and sizes. The arm can pivot at multiple joints and extend to different lengths, providing the adaptability needed for diverse article geometries while maintaining a relatively simple overall device structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The robotic arm assembly serves multiple functions: it can position guide assemblies, adjust lane configurations, and adapt to various article types. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for multiple specialized devices, thereby improving adaptability without proportionally increasing device complexity.
2Manufacturing precision
If a robust and adjustable lane forming apparatus is implemented, then accuracy and versatility are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical linkage systems with a robotic arm controlled by motors and sensors. This substitution enables more precise positioning and easier adjustment of lane configurations, improving diverting accuracy while the modular control system keeps the overall complexity manageable through software-based coordination.
Solution Approach 2:
The robotic arm acts as an intermediary between the control system and the guide assemblies. It translates control signals into precise physical movements, achieving high positioning accuracy while isolating the complexity of motion control from the guide assembly design itself.
3Ease of operation
If supporting devices are added to reduce friction during movement, then movement smoothness is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates pneumatic or hydraulic supporting devices that use fluid pressure to reduce friction during the movement of guide assemblies. These devices provide smooth, controlled motion with minimal friction while maintaining a relatively simple structural design through the use of off-the-shelf pneumatic/hydraulic components.
Data Source
AI summary
A lane forming apparatus can include a first arm, a second arm, a moving device, and at least one supporting device. The first arm can be disposed for lateral, pivoting movement about a pivot axis and across a rectilinear path. The second arm can be telescopically engaged with the first arm and extend between a proximal end and a distal end. The moving device can be engaged with the distal end and configured to move the distal end in at least two dimensions relative to the pivot axis. The supporting device can be positioned on an underside of one of the first arm and the second arm and can be configured to bear at least a portion of a weight of at least one of the first arm and the second arm during the lateral, pivoting movement.