Rotating Shuttle Diverter With Switchable Magnet for Track Transfer
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Diverting shuttles between different tracks or track sections in linear motor conveyor systems requires detaching and reattaching the shuttle, which is cumbersome and can complicate system installation and alignment.
Innovation Solution
A diverter mechanism with a rotating assembly and a switchable magnet that allows for seamless transfer of shuttles between tracks, utilizing a cam profile and compliant mounts for precise alignment and a rotatable diverter arm with a switchable magnet to retain or release the shuttle.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional shuttle diversion methods are used, then shuttles can be diverted between tracks, but the process requires detaching and reattaching the shuttle which is cumbersome and complicates system installation and alignment
Solution Approach 1:
A magnetic connector serves as an intermediary component that temporarily holds the shuttle during track transitions. The connector uses magnetic fields to attach and detach shuttles without mechanical fastening, simplifying the diversion process and reducing alignment requirements during installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical attachment and detachment mechanisms with a magnetic field-based system. The switchable magnet eliminates the need for mechanical fasteners, clips, or complex locking mechanisms, thereby simplifying both the diversion operation and the overall system structure.
2Strength
If a magnetic connector is used to retain the shuttle, then the shuttle can be held securely, but the magnet must be switchable to allow for release and transfer
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic connector incorporates a switchable magnet that can dynamically change its magnetic field state between active and inactive. This allows the connector to transition from a strong retention state to a release state, enabling secure shuttle holding during transport and easy release at destination without complex mechanical switching mechanisms.
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
Facilitates efficient and precise shuttle diversion between tracks, simplifying system installation and alignment, and ensuring smooth operation of linear motor conveyor systems.
Implementation Method 1
the switchable magnet comprises at least one rotatable magnet that is rotatable between a first orientation and a second orientation, wherein in the first orientation, a magnetic force provided by the switchable magnet is sufficient to retain the shuttle on the diverter head
Implementation Method 2
a rotating assembly rotatably mounted within the stationary frame, the rotating assembly comprising: a diverter arm rotatably mounted within the rotating assembly to allow an angle of the diverter head relative to the rotating assembly to change as the rotating assembly rotates within the stationary frame
Data Source
AI summary
Shuttles moving on a linear motor conveyor track can be diverted to another track by a rotating diverter. The rotating diverter has a stationary frame that is coupled to the track. A rotating assembly is rotatably mounted within the stationary frame and comprises a diverter arm rotatably mounted within the rotating assembly to allow an angle of the diverter head relative to the rotating assembly to change as the rotating assembly rotates within the stationary frame and a diverter head comprising a switchable magnet engageable with a shuttle on the track, the diverter head arranged at a first end of the diverter arm.