Roller Conveyor Load Transfer Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current solutions for transferring and handling loading units in production plants are limited by their inability to accommodate multiple layers of packages, varying weights and dimensions, and are prone to jolts and instability during handling.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a roller conveyor with alternating rollers and pulleys, driven by motors, which allows for the transfer and deposition of loading units onto any type of support, minimizing jolts and instability through controlled rotation and movement, enabling the handling of loading units with multiple layers and diverse package characteristics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If machines are made capable of treating all types of supports, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases and performance is penalized
Solution Approach 1:
The roller conveyor is designed with universal applicability to handle multiple types of loading units including palletized loads, loose packages, and different package configurations. The system uses a standardized roller mechanism that can accommodate various load types without requiring machine reconfiguration, thus achieving adaptability while maintaining relatively simple device structure
Solution Approach 2:
The roller conveyor incorporates variable speed control and adjustable roller rotation directions to dynamically adapt to different loading unit types. The system can change operational parameters such as roller speed and rotation direction based on the specific load being handled, enabling versatility without permanent structural modifications
2Device complexity
If loading units are moved without pallets, then device complexity is reduced, but stability deteriorates due to jolts and interlocking risks
Solution Approach 1:
The roller conveyor acts as an intermediary support system that temporarily supports loading units during transfer operations. The rollers provide a stable, controlled surface that prevents direct contact between loading units and potentially unstable surfaces, reducing jolts and preventing package interlocking while maintaining handling simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the roller conveyor to cushion and absorb shocks during the transfer of loading units before they are deposited on their final support. The rollers provide a compliant surface that mitigates impact forces and prevents stability issues before they occur
3Ease of operation
If a table structure is used for transfer, then ease of operation is improved, but load-bearing capacity deteriorates limiting it to one layer
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional table-based mechanical transfer system with a roller conveyor system. This substitution allows the load to be distributed across multiple rollers rather than concentrated on a table structure, enabling the system to handle multi-layer heavy loads while maintaining ease of operation through the same basic transfer mechanism
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 effectively transfers and deposits loading units of varying weights and dimensions without limitations, reducing jolts and instability, and allows for flexible handling of different package configurations, enhancing operational efficiency and safety.
Implementation Method 1
the rollers (4a, 4b) having ends supported rotatably each by a respective side (3a, 3b) of the frame (3) so that, under the plurality of rollers (4a, 4b) and between the two sides (3a, 3b), a lower tunnel (LT) is delimited which can pass through
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
A group (1) for transferring loads comprises a first support structure (2) with a main frame (3) with a roller conveyor (4) with a plurality of rollers (4a, 4b) substantially parallel to each other and with an axis (x-x) of predetermined main development, the rollers (4a, 4b) having ends supported rotatable by the frame (3), so that a lower tunnel (LT) is delimited under the plurality of rollers (4a, 4b), a device for driving the rollers comprises at least one motor (5) kinematically connected to the rollers (4a, 4b), a second structure (6) or a pallet or a support (PA) for the loads, and a control group (7) for the drive means (5), the first support structure (2) and/or the pallet or support (PA) comprise a first moving apparatus (15) for moving the first supporting structure (2) and/or a second moving apparatus (15a) to move the second support structure (6), or said pallet or support (PA), whereby the first structure of support (2) and/or the second support structure (6), or the pallet or support (PA), can be moved relative to each other so as to determine the insertion or extraction of the second support structure (6), or of the pallet or support (PA), in or from the lower tunnel (LT) for the transfer of loads between them (2, 6, PA).