Rotary Table Transfer Device for 90-Degree Workpiece Handling

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional conveyor systems, particularly turning belt conveyors, are limited in transferring workpieces between directions that are not longitudinally aligned, especially when dealing with larger workpieces in confined spaces.

Innovation Solution

A transfer device comprising a rotary table, drive motor, fixing seat, and supporting member, which can rotate and lift workpieces between two conveyors forming a 90-degree angle, allowing for efficient transfer of workpieces of varying sizes by rotating and positioning them between two conveyors.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If turning belt conveyors are used to transport workpieces between different directions, then the workpieces can be conveyed along different directions, but the conveyors are only adapted to workpieces having a small size

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to different workpiece sizesVSAvoidconveyor system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a rotary table that can rotate to different positions and a supporting member that can move between extended and retracted positions. This dynamic configuration allows the transfer device to adapt to workpieces of varying sizes and orientations, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and device complexity by using controlled motion rather than multiple fixed conveyor systems

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The transfer device integrates multiple functions into a single compact unit: the rotary table provides rotational positioning, the supporting member provides lifting and extending functions, and the drive mechanism coordinates these actions. This multi-functional design allows one device to handle various workpiece sizes and transfer angles, eliminating the need for separate conveyor systems for different workpiece types

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If specialized turning belt conveyors are used for directional transfer, then workpieces can be conveyed along different directions, but the system is limited to small workpieces and lacks flexibility for larger pieces

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveflexibility in workpiece handlingVSAvoidworkpiece size limitation
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSWeight of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent adds vertical movement capability through the supporting member that can extend and retract, and rotational capability through the rotary table. This transforms a planar conveyor limitation into a three-dimensional transfer system, enabling handling of larger and variously oriented workpieces by utilizing vertical and rotational dimensions rather than being constrained to horizontal belt movement

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Adaptability or versatility

If a rotary table with supporting member is used to transfer workpieces, then workpieces of varying sizes can be transferred, but the system requires precise coordination of multiple components

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecapability to handle varying workpiece sizesVSAvoidnumber of coordinated components
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the rotary table, supporting member, and drive mechanism into an integrated transfer device. The drive motor simultaneously controls the rotation of the rotary table and the movement of the supporting member through mechanical coupling, reducing the need for separate control systems and simplifying the coordination of multiple components while maintaining the ability to handle varying workpiece sizes

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS10384887B2Transfer device with two tensioning wheels
Publication Date: 2019.08.20 HONGFUJIN PRECISION ELECTRONICS ZHENGZHOU
  • US10384887B2 patent drawing
  • US10384887B2 patent drawing
  • US10384887B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A transfer device configured to transfer a workpiece includes a rotary table, a fixing seat, and a supporting member. The rotary table is capable of rotating a predetermined angle. The fixing seat is mounted on the rotary table. The supporting member is slidably mounted on the fixing seat and configured to support the workpiece. The supporting member raises or lowers the workpiece when sliding on the fixing seat, and the supporting member rotates with the rotary table.