Transfer Table Cam Mechanism for Compact Direction Change
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automatic storage and retrieval systems face issues with the complexity, weight, and reliability of transfer tables used for changing the direction of conveyed articles, particularly due to heavy and bulky mechanisms requiring precise alignment.
Innovation Solution
A transfer table design featuring a cam with a track and pair of rollers, where one roller is borne by each chassis, allowing for compact, simple, and lightweight raising-lowering mechanisms with angular end-of-range stops for precise positioning without sensors or control loops, and optionally using an electric motor for compactness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional raising-lowering mechanism with multiple cams is used, then the transfer table can change direction, but the mechanism becomes heavy, bulky, and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple cam mechanisms into a single integrated cam structure. Instead of using eight separate cams as in traditional designs, the invention employs one cam with multiple lobes or contours that simultaneously control the vertical movement of multiple conveyor assemblies, thereby reducing mechanical complexity while maintaining the transfer function
Solution Approach 2:
The single cam structure serves multiple functions: it controls the raising and lowering of both conveyor assemblies, ensures synchronized movement, and provides precise positioning through its geometric profile. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate control mechanisms for each conveyor assembly
2Reliability
If a traditional raising-lowering mechanism with multiple cams is used, then the transfer table can change direction, but the mechanism requires precise alignment
Solution Approach 1:
By merging multiple alignment-critical cam mechanisms into a single cam structure, the patent reduces the number of alignment interfaces. The single cam is mounted on a fixed support structure that provides inherent alignment, eliminating the need for precise alignment between multiple cam assemblies
3Reliability
If a traditional raising-lowering mechanism with multiple cams is used, then the transfer table can change direction, but the mechanism becomes heavy and uneconomical
Solution Approach 1:
The patent consolidates the mass of multiple cam mechanisms into a single cam structure supported by a fixed support. This reduction in the number of moving components directly decreases the weight of the raising-lowering mechanism while maintaining the structural integrity needed for reliable operation
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 solution provides a more reliable, economical, and versatile transfer table system that ensures precise and efficient article handling with reduced risk of damage, enabling rapid and smooth changes in conveyor direction without the need for complex alignment or heavy components.
Implementation Method 1
comprising a cam (61) having a track (611) and a pair of rollers (62, 64) engaging with the track of the cam (61)
Data Source
AI summary
A transfer table including a first conveyor assembly defining a first plane for conveying articles; a second conveyor assembly defining a second plane for conveying articles; and a raising-lowering mechanism for the first and/or second assemblies, the raising-lowering mechanism including a cam having a track and a pair of rollers respective to the conveyor assemblies and engaging with the track, and the cam is mobile by a pivoting motion between: a first position, in which the first plane is arranged above the second plane; and a second position, in which the second plane is arranged above the first plane.