Pivoting Barrier Assembly for Conveyor Ergonomic Loading
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conveyor systems for medical washers require manual repositioning of side barriers for loading and unloading heavy baskets, leading to ergonomic issues and increased risk of back and neck injuries for operators.
Innovation Solution
A movable barrier assembly that automatically adjusts its position in response to a transfer cart, allowing for ergonomic loading and unloading of baskets without requiring operators to manually move the barrier, thereby reducing the number of steps and unnatural movements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual repositioning of side barriers is used for loading and unloading baskets, then the barrier can be moved out of the way to allow basket access, but the operator experiences ergonomic issues and increased risk of back and neck injuries
Solution Approach 1:
The barrier is designed to be dynamically repositionable through pivotal movement about a horizontal axis. The barrier can rotate between a first position (blocking the gap) and a second position (clear of the gap), allowing automatic adaptation to loading/unloading operations without manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The barrier repositioning system is self-actuating through engagement with the transfer cart. When the transfer cart approaches the conveyor, it automatically triggers the barrier to pivot open via mechanical engagement, eliminating the need for manual operation and reducing operator strain.
2Reliability
If the barrier is positioned to block the gap for safety, then operator safety is improved, but loading and unloading operations require additional manual intervention
Solution Approach 1:
The barrier dynamically transitions between closed (safety) and open (access) positions based on the presence of the transfer cart. This dynamic positioning maintains safety during normal operation while enabling efficient loading/unloading when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The barrier is positioned in the closed state before the transfer cart arrives, ensuring safety is maintained. Upon cart arrival, the barrier automatically opens in advance of the loading/unloading operation, streamlining the process without compromising safety.
3Ease of operation
If the barrier is manually repositioned during loading and unloading, then access to the conveyor is achieved, but the process requires additional steps and time
Solution Approach 1:
The barrier repositioning action is performed automatically by the transfer cart itself through mechanical engagement. The cart's movement triggers the barrier to pivot open, eliminating separate manual repositioning steps and reducing the time required for loading/unloading operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The barrier repositioning function is merged with the transfer cart's approach and positioning actions. The cart's natural movement during loading/unloading operations simultaneously triggers the barrier opening, combining multiple functions into a single coordinated action.
Data Source
AI summary
A conveyor for moving objects along a path is comprised of a plurality of spaced-apart rollers that define the path of the conveyor. The upper edges of the rollers are aligned to define the surface of the path. Two spaced-apart side rails having inward-facing surfaces define two side boundaries of the path. A barrier assembly is disposed within a gap in one of the side rails for facilitating loading and unloading of objects onto the conveyor from one side of the conveyor. The barrier assembly is comprised of a mounting plate mounted to the conveyor and a barrier pivotally mounted to the mounting plate. The barrier has a wall section generally aligned with the inward-facing surface on one of the side rails. The barrier is movable between a first position wherein the wall section is elevated relative to the upper edges of the roller and a second position wherein the wall section is disposed below the upper edge of the rollers.