Variable Path Object Transport Apparatus for Spacing Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modern manufacturing processes require discrete objects to be transported at a predetermined spacing, but existing technologies fail to consistently maintain this spacing during object transport between unit operations.
Innovation Solution
An object transport apparatus with variable path flights and a transfer element, controlled by a sensor and controller, adjusts the number of interfering flights along a conveyor to maintain even spacing of objects, ensuring consistent delivery without gaps or overcrowding.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a fixed path is used for object capture elements, then the structure is simple, but the object spacing cannot be adjusted to maintain predetermined spacing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the path length variable through the first transfer element that can move along the variable path. This allows the path length adjacent to the transport conveyor to be adjusted dynamically, enabling the object capture elements to occupy different portions of the object space and thereby maintain predetermined object spacing under varying conditions.
2Manufacturing precision
If the number of object capture elements is increased to maintain spacing, then spacing consistency improves, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of increasing the number of object capture elements, the patent uses a dynamic approach where the first transfer element moves along a variable path to adjust the path length. This allows the existing object capture elements to be repositioned dynamically, achieving spacing consistency without adding more elements or increasing device complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the transfer element position is fixed, then the system is simpler to control, but it cannot accommodate varying object populations and maintain consistent spacing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback control by using an object sensor to detect objects upstream of the transfer element and a controller that receives sensor output. The controller adjusts the transfer element position based on this feedback, enabling the system to accommodate varying object populations and maintain consistent predetermined spacing through automatic closed-loop control.
Data Source
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AI summary
An object transport apparatus comprises a transport conveyor (100). Objects (20) are compelled to move through an object space adjacent to the transport conveyor (100). A plurality of flights (210) is disposed along a variable path and constrained to move along that path. The flights (210) disposed along the adjacent portion occupy a portion of the object space of the transport conveyor (100). A first transfer element (300) is disposed along the variable path. The motion of the first transfer element (300) varies the length of the variable path adjacent to the transport conveyor. An object sensor (400) is disposed to detect objects (20) upstream of the transfer element (300) in the object space of the transport element. The apparatus comprises a second transfer element (300) moving in opposition to the motion of the first transfer element (300).