Multi-Element Tooling Plate Support on Curved Linear Motor Tracks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing linear motor conveyor systems struggle to efficiently handle large or heavy payloads while maintaining stability and ease of handling, particularly in manufacturing environments where space and cost are critical, and curved tracks are necessary.
Innovation Solution
A linear motor conveyor system utilizing two or more moving elements with pivot assemblies that allow a tooling plate to move in at least two degrees of freedom, including pitch and yaw, to support heavier payloads, and optionally a third degree of freedom in roll, enabling stable movement around curves and handling larger payloads.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If a single moving element is used to carry the payload, then the structure is simple, but the payload capacity is limited and stability is poor for heavy/large payloads
Solution Approach 1:
The payload support function is segmented across multiple moving elements (primary and secondary) that work together. Each moving element carries a portion of the payload through the pivot assembly mechanism, distributing the weight load and enabling heavy payload capacity without requiring a single oversized moving element.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple moving elements are merged into a coordinated system where the primary and secondary moving elements function together as a unified payload support structure. The pivot assemblies connect these elements to the tooling plate, creating a combined system that handles heavy payloads more effectively than a single element could alone.
2Productivity
If high acceleration forces are applied to move elements quickly, then productivity increases, but stress on moving elements and conveyor track increases
Solution Approach 1:
The acceleration force is segmented and distributed across multiple moving elements and pivot assemblies. Instead of one element bearing the full inertial load during acceleration, the force is distributed through the multi-element system, reducing stress on individual components while maintaining high overall acceleration capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The pivot assemblies provide dynamic movement capability, allowing the tooling plate to adjust its orientation (pitch, yaw, roll) during acceleration and deceleration. This dynamic adaptation reduces mechanical stress by allowing controlled movement rather than rigid constraint during high-force events.
3Area of stationary object
If curved tracks are used to save floor space, then space utilization improves, but additional forces are encountered requiring smaller moving elements
Solution Approach 1:
The pivot assemblies enable the tooling plate to dynamically adapt to curved track geometry by rotating about pitch, yaw, and roll axes. This dynamic orientation capability allows the system to navigate curves without requiring oversized moving elements, as the pivot mechanism absorbs and accommodates the additional forces and geometric constraints of curved motion.
Solution Approach 2:
The curved track navigation function is segmented between the moving elements and the pivot assemblies. The moving elements follow the track path while the pivot assemblies handle the orientation adjustments required for curves, separating the translational and rotational functions and allowing compact moving element design.
4Reliability
If multiple pivot assemblies are used to support the tooling plate, then payload capacity and stability improve, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The stability function is segmented across multiple pivot assemblies that independently support different aspects of the tooling plate. Each pivot assembly handles specific degrees of freedom (pitch, yaw, roll), distributing the stability function across multiple specialized components rather than requiring a single complex mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The pivot assemblies are designed with multi-functionality, each capable of providing rotation about multiple axes (pitch, yaw, and optionally roll). This universal capability means that while there are multiple assemblies, each one performs multiple functions, reducing the need for even more specialized components and justifying the complexity through functional consolidation.
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 supports heavier payloads by enhancing stability and ease of handling, allowing for efficient movement in both straight and curved tracks, while maintaining performance and reducing the size and cost of the conveyor system.
Implementation Method 1
moving elements are moved by electromotive forces acting on the moving elements
Implementation Method 2
ball bearings supporting the T-shaped member in relation to the body to allow the T-shaped member to provide rotation about a yaw axis and a pitch axis
Data Source
AI summary
A linear motor conveyor system including: a track; at least two moving elements configured to move on the track, wherein the at least two moving elements may include a primary moving element and a secondary moving element; a tooling plate mounted on the at least two moving elements, the tooling plate mounted to the at least two moving elements by a support apparatus including: a first pivot assembly provided to the primary moving element; and a second pivot assembly provided to the secondary moving element, wherein the first pivot assembly and the second pivot assembly support the tooling plate such that the tooling plate can move in relation to the at least two moving elements through at least two degrees of freedom. A method for carrying a heavy/large payload on a linear motor conveyor system using the above concepts.