MXPA98008721A - Method and apparatus to transfer impu - Google Patents

Abstract

This invention relates to an impulse transfer apparatus having a restriction guide carrying a plurality of interconnected pulse transfer members in compressible form. Booster members urge transfer members around the restriction guide. One or more elongated openings, such as slots, allow access to the pulse transfer members for the connection of additional members thereto and for reading data carried by the pulse transfer members or by members connected to them.

Description

METHOD AND APPARATUS TO TRANSFER IMPULSE DESCRIPTIVE MEMORY This invention relates to a method and apparatus for transferring momentum. For many years, impulse transfer has been known by means of permanent mechanical direct interconnections. An example of such an interconnection occurs when an output rod of the motor is directly coupled to the member that the motor is to drive. However, in many branches of industry it is commonly required to transfer objects over large distances comparatively and apply transfer to remote locations for example from motor. Therefore, the use of pulse transfer devices such as belts, chains and gear trains is well known in order to achieve these purposes. However, all known technologies of transfer of. momentum are associated with significant disadvantages. For example, the bands and chains are based on the application of tension forces in order to transfer the impulse. In the bands, the use of such forces causes a gradual stretching of the bands. Similar effects are observed in the impulse chains over time.

Prolonged use of belts and chains leads to failure, as a result of friction and wear on the members of the belts / chains. Failure in a band commonly requires replacement of the entire band; or in the best case, a repair that significantly reduces the execution of the band. Some faults of bands and chains are dangerous, especially when the fragments of such members of a device are thrown with speed. It is possible to replace individual unions in a chain, but this is commonly a time-consuming process. Until now it has not been possible to automate the repair of broken joints in an impulse chain. Gear trains do not suffer from the same disadvantages as bands and chains; however, they are used in support bases; they are expensive to manufacture; and generally require a permanent installation including secured supports at fixed points. Also, gear trains generally employ only rigid members and hence lack any of the usual versatilities for bands and chains, which employ flexible members. According to the invention, an impulse transfer apparatus is provided in a broad aspect, comprising: a first restriction guide defining an impulse transfer path; and a plurality of movable and confinable pulse transfer members in the restriction guide, further characterized in that: (i) the first restriction guide includes one or more openings that allow the engagement of one or more of the pulse transfer members with one or more members in the form of impulse transfer; and (ii) the pulse transfer members are capable of transferring momentum between discrete portions of the restriction guide by means of compressive interconnections, characterized in that one or more of the pulse transfer members include a radio frequency identification transmitter, a bar code and / or other means for transmitting information encoded in optical audible form or otherwise. This apparatus overcomes at least some of the disadvantages of the prior art. In particular, the transfer of impulse by compressive interconnection means that voltage faults of the members of the apparatus would not tend to happen. Moreover, the use of compressive interconnections means that the impulse transfer members do not need to be permanently connected to each other. This in turn means that individual impulse transfer members can easily be repaired or replaced in the apparatus, thereby obviating the difficulties associated with the repair of the belts and chains. The forms of failure of the apparatuses according to the invention are safer than in the prior art. This is partly because the restriction guide can be designed substantially to enclose all moving parts of the device. A) Yes, member failure can be contained safely within the restriction guide, even when the device is operating at high speed. Additionally, the use of compressive interconnections means that the parts of the apparatus have a lower tendency to be thrown out of the apparatus during a failure. The use of a compressive interconnection also means that the elements of the impulse transfer can be made of materials and shapes inherently resistant to wear and damage even though they are also associated with low friction forces, whereby the efficiency of the apparatus is improved. Particularly suitable shapes of the impulse transfer members are spherical or in spheroidal shapes. All members of the apparatus of the invention, if desired, can be manufactured with rigid materials. Thus, it is possible to produce an impulse transfer apparatus that is versatile in terms of the sites between which the driver can be transferred; even if it does not suffer from the known disadvantages of flexible impulse transfer members such as bands and chains. Another possibility is for example that the restriction guide is flexible. This confers versatility on the apparatus of the invention. A preference of the flexible restriction guide is a hose-like construction that can be formed into a variety of shapes while allowing movement in the impulse transfer members in the manner defined above. Still further, the advantageous features of the invention are set forth in claims 2-91 appended here. In another broad aspect, the invention is incorporated to encompass an impulse transfer method comprising imparting movement to one or more of the plurality of impulse transfer members contained loosely in a restriction guide, thereby causing a compressive interconnection of a plurality of said members and thereby transfer momentum in the restriction guide. Now a description of the preferred embodiment of the invention continues, by way of example, with references made to the accompanying drawings in which: Figure 1 is a schematic representation of the first embodiment of the invention; Figure 2 shows an optional branch in the restriction guide visible in Figure 1; Figure 3 shows part of the embodiment of Figure 1 in more detail; Figure 4 is a variant of the arrangement on Figure 3; Figure 5 shows a multiple branching form of the restriction guide visible, for example, in Figure 1; Figure 6 shows an arrangement for lubricating part of the embodiment of Figure 1; Figure 7 is a variant of the arrangement of Figure 6; Figure 8 shows some additional optional features of the invention; Figure 9 shows the apparatus of the invention configured for the distribution of garments; Figures 10A-10F show various modalities of the restriction guidance; Figure 11 shows an apparatus for controlling the pulse transfer members in a joint; Lae figure 12a and 12b show an alternative form of a restriction guide; Figure 13 shows a three-dimensional arrangement of restriction guides installed in a hold; Figures 14a, 14b, 14c and 14d show provisions of the restriction guides in vehicles; Figures 15a and 15b show a possible reservation of pulse transfer members; Figures 16 and 17 show a flat bed conveyor that modalizes the principles of the invention; Figures 18 and 19 show a typical display of the transporters according to the invention; Figures 20a and 20b show an additional vehicle including a three-dimensional arrangement of the restriction guides; Lae figures 21a and 21b show an engine according to the invention; Figure 22 shows an optional feature of the restriction guide; Figure 23 shows an embodiment of the pulse transfer member; and Figure 24 shows a further embodiment of the pulse transfer member. Referring to the drawings, a restriction guide 10 in the form of a tubular member is shown here. The tubular member 10 has a hollow interior, elongated subetancial filling with a line of contiguous impinging member in the form of an indexer 11. A transfer member schematically shown in 13 is overaged through the wall of a re-routing guide 10 e It imparts momentum to member successors of the impulse transfer.

This causes the impulse to be transferred along the restriction guide 10 in a compressive manner. The guide member 13 protrudes through an opening in the wall of the restriction guide 10. A similar opening can be provided at a remote site for the member of the impeller 13, whereby the pumping can be taken from the apparatus if you want The apertures can be formed in the wall of the restriction guide 10 to virtually any desired location. The openings may, if desired, be closed, for example, by means of occluding operation automatically or manually. One form of occlusion is described below in relation to the ejection apparatus of the impulse transfer members. Even the thrust member 13 can be a star wheel as shown schematically in Figure 1, or it can be a driving screw. Numerous other equivalent dispositions may also be used to impart a linear movement to the members 11 of the pulse transfer. However, a member of the impeller 13 is preferred which converts the rotary movement (for example of an electric motor) to a linear movement. As is evident in Figures 3 and 4, the restriction guide 10 may include an elongated slit 13. This allows access to one or more of the impulse transfer members 11 along an elongated portion of the restriction guide 10. This in turn allows one or more subsequent members to be engaged with the line of the contiguous members 11. , so that a transport device emerges. In the embodiment of Figure 3, the guide restriction 10 is generally rectangular in cross section, with an elongated slit 13 formed in one of the vertical sides of the guide 10. This allows a member such as a rod 14 to connect to the member 11 to project generally horizontally from the apparatus. This in turn allows articles to be transported in the apparatus by means of suspension of a rod 14. If desired, a secondary restriction guide 10 which is a mirror image of the restriction guide 10 shown in Figure 3 can be arranged to provide support to each end of the rod 14. It is believed that it is desirable, although not essential, that the The mirror image of the restriction guide 10 contains a plurality of mrs such as the transfer mrs of pule 11. However, tale mrs do not necessarily need to be driven as in the diment of figure 1, and may under some circumstances be completely distributed so that the back restriction guide functions simply as support for the other free end of the rod 14. In the diment of Figure 4, the elongated slit 13 extends along the bottom of a restriction guide 10 in transvereal section generally circular. This makes it possible to carry a plurality of hooks 16. This version of the invention can be useful in the manufacture of garments and / or warehousing industries. As is evident from Figures 1, 3 and 4, the impulse transfer mrs are in spheroidal form.

Thus, they are well suited for impulse transfer by means of compressive interactions. Moreover, the members 11 easily rotate within the guide 10, thereby minimizing wear and friction. However, the members 11 may be of other forms that include full sphericity; cylindrical and even polygonal. In the modalities of Figs. 1, 3 and 4 a plurality or actually all the members 11 include an opening and a retainer to secure the rear members such as rod 14 or hook 16. Figures 2 and 5 show that of the restriction guide 10 can be branched in a number of ways, whereby the impulse can be transferred to different sites simultaneously. If necessary, the branching lines of the restriction guide may include subsequent conduction members such as the member 13a shown schematically in Figure 1. The additional pulse members may, in common with the driving member 13, adopt a variety of forms according to the arrangement of the device. Figure 1 shows rear branches 17 in the guide 10, to refill the guide 10 with members 11. The branch 17 can be constituted as a storage loaded with springs in the members 11 separated during normal use of the apparatus of the rest of the guide 10 by a movable wall shown schematically at 18 in Figure 1. If necessary, increase the number of members 11 within the guide 10, the wall 18 can be removed either by an automatic or manual mechanism in order to allow one or more additional members 11 and being distributed from the branch 17 within the main part of the guide 10. Figure 1 also shows an occlusible opening 19 which can be used to selectively remove members 11 from the main part of the guide 10. This It may be required, for example when a member lia comes to be damaged or broken. In the embodiments shown, the opening 19 includes a slidable cover 20 that can be folded to one side to allow the damaged member to fall into the receptacle 22 affixed to the underside of that of the restriction guide 10. Instead of a In the receptacle, the damaged member can enter a conveyor to remove it to a waste receptacle or repair area. Figure 6 shows an optional portion of the guide formed as a downwardly extending curve 10a. This portion of the restriction guide 10 contains a lubricant reservoir 23. Thus, the members of the transfer pulse 11 pass through the portion of the guide 10 shown in Figure 6 automatically receive a layer of lubricant. The portion of the curve 10a need not be present if the materials that are chosen for the members do not require lubrication by immersion in a liquid. For example, the materials of the mutually engaging parts of the impulse transfer members and the restriction guide can be chosen to have a low coefficient of friction. Another possibility is for impulse transfer members, and / or the relevant parts of the restriction guide that will be impregnated, covered or otherwise treated with a lubricant. Downwardly directed curves 10a can be located at appropriate points along the guide 10 in order to provide lubrication for the members 11 through the apparatus. If desired, the portion 10a can be automatically or manually refillable with lubricant, for example by means of suitable openings. The driving members 11 can be manufactured from any of the variety of materials. However, it is contemplated that rigid copolymers generally may be the most appropriate in terms of cost and durability. The material of the driving members 11 can be chosen to have a low coefficient of friction with a restriction guide 10. The guide 10 can typically be extracted for example from aluminum or an aluminum alloy; however, a number of other materials, including flexible materials, can also be used. The sliding cover 20 shown in the opening ratio 19 (which can also be used in other openings in the apparatus) can be motorized for example by means of a solenoid actuator operated by itself under the control of an optical eensor or other kind. The restriction guide 10 is shown in the drawings as an elongated device open at the ends. However, it is more likely that in the practical embodiments of the invention the construction guide 10 may constitute a closed circle thereby avoiding the need to constantly replenish the members 11. However, in applications where the impulse to the transfer is In a reciprocal manner, it may be economically desirable to employ an open end of the construction guide 10 as shown. As shown in Figure 7, the restriction guide 10 can be formed in a variety of ways to accumulate obstacles, etc. in a warehouse or factory. The restriction guide 10 may be supported at intervals, for example by means of euepensors 24 extending downwards from the roof or the building. The lubrication trough or reservoir 23 of FIG. 6 is also visible in FIG. 7. There is, in addition, a deflection path of the restriction guide 10 so that the pulse transfer members need only enter the trough of Lubrication 23 as necessary. The controlled entrances (examples of which are described below) can be employed electively to diverge the impulse transfer members through the lubrication trough 23 as desired. Figure 8 shows some later forms in which the restriction guide 10 can be formed. As shown in 25a and 25b, the restriction guide can be formed in patterns to wrap a back member, for example, a sensor for detecting the presence of a pulse transfer member 11. The guide member 13a is shown schematically by going through of the wall of the restriction guide 10 in Figure 8. Figure 8 also shows a branch 27 in the constraint guide, included for the purpose of restocking the restriction guide 10 with the pulse transfer members 11. as necessary. The gate members 28 that exit through the wall of the restriction guide 10 in the vicinity of the joint 27 are selectively and laterally slidable to open and close the joint 27 and thereby allow one or more new transfer members. of impulse 11 to fall within the restriction guide 10. Similar gate members may be installed in the posterior junction 29 for the purpose of selectively removing the impulse transfer members 11 from the constraint guide 10.

A detector of fractures or other faults in the pulse transfer members 11 may be operative to the point F in FIG. 8 to cause an opening of the junction 29 and the injection of the pulse transfer members when the faults in the members of pulse transfer 11 are detected. The mobile members 28 movable for selective interposition in the paths of the impulse transfer members 11 may also be provided in ramae each time as 30. A computer control of the gate means allows guiding the pulse transfer members. along the selected branches of the restriction guide 10. Figure 9 shows a specific example of this form of the invention, in a clothing distribution warehouse. A plurality of vest hooks 32 are secured to the impulse transfer members 11 through elongated slots 13. A joint such as 27 of FIG. 8 makes it possible to again supply pulse transfer members as necessary. A later union such as allows the divergence of clothing to a predetermined destination. If desired, the pulse transfer members can be coded as described in detail below to predetermine their route along the construction guide 10.

In Figures 10, various shapes of the restriction guide 10 and impulse transfer members 11 are shown. In Figure 10a, the restriction guide 10 is a square section member, elongated hollow having an elongated slit in its underside . In Figure 10b, the restriction guide 10 comprises a hollow and tubular elongated internal member 33 surrounded by such an external member 34. The elongated slit 13 passes through both tubular members 33 and 34. Thus, it is possible to employ a transfer member. of impulse as shown having one or more portions projecting downwardly 35. In the preferred embodiment, the inner tubular member 33 has a low coefficient of friction with the parts of the impulse transfer members 11 with which it is in contact . An outer tubular member 34 is preferably of a rigid material, as shown in Figure 13 and may be in the frame or otherwise reinforced. The pulse transfer members 11 can in this embodiment comprise a pair of rollers 37 spaced apart from one another and mounted on a common shaft 38. A central member 39 of a rectangular shape approximately occupies the space between the rollers 37. The shaft 38 passes through an opening in the central member 39. A downwardly projecting member 35 can be released but a portion of a central member 39 extending a short distance in front of the slit 13 is secured. A member projecting downwardly includes an opening for receiving for example the hook carrying a garment 32. A downwardly projecting member 35 is encoded for example by means of a bar code 40, by implanting an identification mark with radio frequency or in another optical, audible or any other transmissible way. This embodiment of the invention is of particular use during the manufacture or distribution of the product. In the manufacture of a garment, it hangs on a hook 32 and this is inserted into an opening of a member 35. This member 35 can remain associated solely with the product on the hook 32 during its transport by way of an apparatus of agreement. to the invention for example to the interior of a truck, for a subsequent distribution to a warehouse or a retail unit. During this procedure, the bar code or other code 40 may be read periodically to correctly secure the path of the pulse transfer member to which the downward projection member 35 is secured. Such a route can be achieved through an operation of the gate means 28 described above in the apparatus of the invention.

When the garment reaches the final or intermediate destination, the downward projecting member 35 can be removed from the impulse transfer member. In the embodiment shown this is achieved through the use of a sliding dovetail joint, but other methods of release and securing for the member projecting downwards may also be employed. After the removal of the down projecting member 35, the impulse transfer member 11 to which it was previously fixed can be recycled within the restriction guide to receive another downwardly projecting member 35; alternatively the pulse transfer member 11 can be passed to a reservation before its subsequent use. FIGS. 10 and 10 show alternative profiles for the construction guide 10. FIG. 10F also shows a spherical seal 35a for the connection of the downwardly projecting member 35. Such a union allows rotation about a vertical axis. This may be of benefit in some manufacturing and distribution environment. In the embodiment of Fig. 10b each impule transfer member 11 includes a radio frequency identification mark 42 which remains attached to the impinging rafter member 11 after the removal of the bar code from the projecting member downwardly. as shown. Such an arrangement allows a controlled recirculation of the impulse transfer members 11. Figure 11 shows an alternative form of the gate members 28 for controlling the flow of the impulse transfer members in the restriction guide. In this arrangement, the slide 28 comprises a sliding blade 43 mounted via an elongated slot 44 on a pillar 45 rigidly secured by itself in relation to the restriction guide 10. A connecting member 46 interconnects the blade 43 and the slit 44. A bar code reader 47 is mounted on the front of a pillar 45 to read the bar codes associated with each pulse transfer member 11. In this case, the pulse transfer members are all spherical and have a code of bars I get printed on their bodies. The electronic members can be weighted to ensure that the bar codes are oriented correctly. The blade 43 may be interposed under the action of a solenoid and other movement artifact when the bar code reader determines that the branch 10 of figure 11 must be closed, and that the impulse transfer members must travel under the influence of some driving member 13 along branch 10b.

The bar code reader 47 can of course be connected to a suitable control device such as a microprocessor. In Figures 12a and 12b, an alternative form of the constraint guide is shown. The constraint guide comprises (in the embodiment shown) four rod-shaped members 50 extending parallel to each other in a square guide, to define a comparatively open box for constraining the pulse transfer members 11 which are again in a spherical modality. In this embodiment, the pulse transfer members can respectively be insured to a support load 51 that engages the associated impulse traneference members via the space between two adjacent members in the form of a rod 50. In such mode, the suspensor 24 of the restriction guide 10 may wrap the member in the form of a rod 50 like the other and may include one or more openings 24a, 24b allowing the passage therefrom through the support members 51 and any merchandise 52 supported thereby. An alternative support member, projecting downwards 51a is also shown in Figure 12a and 12b. The opening 24b in the suspeneor 24 accommodates the travel of such member. In Figure 13, ee shows a three-dimensional die-off in the restriction guides 10, installed within a hold 54.

The portions 10 ^, IO2, 103, IO4, etc. of the restriction guide 10 are open ends on one side of the three-dimensional arrangement of the restriction guides, to receive for example garments or other goods carried by the apparatus of the invention. . Such merchandise can be brought for example by a truck or other vehicle of the factory or some other distribution center. The merchandise transported on the apparatus supplied in the structure via the open end portions can be transported to any suitable storage point within the three-dimensional array as indicated schematically. If desired, the spiral portions 10 '' of the restriction guide can be used to raise or lower the merchandise as desired. The use of such spiral portions bring the merchandise into contact with a plurality of backs of the structure. The crossing of the portions of the restriction guide 10 may include links such as 27, 29 or 30 previously described, in order to provide the route for the individual merchandise of any preferred location within the structure depending on the coding of such merchandise. Moreover, the portions of the open ends of the restriction guide 10, etc. they can be provided in a dispatch area preferably located on the opposite side of the structure in three dimensions. The merchandise to be distributed may be transported in vehicles such as those shown in Figure 13 for subsequent delivery to subsequent distribution centers, retail units or other locations. A subject of computer control can be employed to secure the route of the merchandise within the structure in three dimensions, according to the coding of either the members of the transfer pulse 11 or members set here. This will allow a significant reduction in the levels of employment in the warehouses. Referring now to Figure 14a, the vehicle 55 as shown in Figure 13 is shown in great detail. The vehicle 55 includes the formation therein within a three-dimensional structure of the restriction guide 10. In the embodiment shown, the restriction guides allow a vertical movement of interconnected intermediate bars 56 and horizontal movements of such bars throughout inside the vehicle, as desired. Two portions 110a and 110b are hinges secured in a three dimensional structure formed within the truck. The hinge portions 110a and 110b can be folded out from an initial leveling position to protrude from the rear of the vehicle to engage with the outer portions of the open ends 10, 10'2, 10'3, 10 'of the three-dimensional structure in the building of the warehouse 54. If desired, the folding portions 110a, 110b can be secured to or formed within the rear doors of the vehicle. Alternatively the portions 110a, 110b may be slidable inside and outside the vehicle. In such cases the portions 110a, 110b retain the orientation shown through their movements. The free ends of the portions 10 'lf 10'2. etc. include damper means 57 which in the embodiment shown are the inerted pleat belt through aligned holes formed in opposite sides of the restriction guide 10, to prevent the fall of the limbs 11 of the impulse transfer from the outside of the aperture. of the ends of the portions of the restriction guide 10 '^, 10'2, etc. If desired, the flexible portions can be included in such portions of the restriction guide to ensure the pairing of the collapsible portions 110a, 110b with the corresponding connections defined in the free ends of the restriction guide. The folding portion and / or the free ends 10 'i, '2! > etc. it may be necessary to include insurance or other means of securing it for the portions of the restriction guide which it joins with them in the maneuver of the vehicle 55 to the loading or deepening position.

Although the structure shown in Figure 14a concerns the loading of the goods within the vehicle, it will be appreciated that a similar structure can be used to unload the vehicle when it reaches its destination. The vehicle 55 may include a microprocessor or other control device for the routine of clothing, for example as it was supported on the bars 56, within the vehicle depending on the coding of the impulse transfer members 11 and rear members secured here . Such structuring can allow the organization of the merchandise within the vehicle as it travels, thereby accelerating the unloading of the merchandise from the destination of the vehicle. An alternative structure for the restrictive guides in the vehicle 54 are shown in Figure 14b. In this structuring the vehicle platform contains a grid-like arrangement of the interconnected restriction guides 10, the interconnections include connections as needed such as the joints 27, 29 and 30 of Figure 8. Figure 14d shows the plane of the floor of the vehicle, which optionally includes side doors that allow a quick unloading of the vehicle. The side doors minimize the movement of the necessary merchandise within the vehicle to achieve rapid discharge. This arrangement attempts to support the pallet such as the pallet 58 of Figure 14c. The pallet 58 includes a plurality of selectively movable down members 59 for engagement with the selected pulse transfer members 11 in the array of the restriction guide 10. Depending on the coding of either the pallet or the limb members'. With the transfer of momentum, the vane can engage in a driving manner to a predetermined momentum transfer member 11 in order to move the vane inside the vehicle. If desired, one or more grid frames of the arrangement shown in Figure 14b may be left empty to provide room for maneuverability of the pallets within the vehicle. Alternatively, a grating extension 60 (optionally supported on the structure 61) of the restriction guide member 10 that can be projected from eg the rear of the vehicle to provide such space for maneuverability. Figure 14b also shows an equivalent arrangement of the restriction guide 10 '' 'and at the upper level within the body of the vehicle 54, for maneuvering the vanes 58 in a second row within the vehicle.

If desired, the entire structure of the upper restraint guide 10 '' 'may be adjusted at the height for eg suitable davits within the vehicle 54. The computer control may be desired to be operable on the upper row of the members impulse transfer too. Moreover, suitable extensions of 60"may be provided to permit the maneuverability of the vanes 58 in the upper row. According to the embodiment of Figure 14a, the restriction guides 10 of Figures 14b and 14c may if desired be connected to for example the free ends 10 'ls 10'2, 10'3 as shown in Figure 14a. Referring now to FIGS. 15a and 15b, a reservoir 63 of encoded pulse transfer members 11 is shown for use in a hold, factory or vehicles based on environments such as those of FIGS. 13 to 14. As shown in FIG. In Figure 15b, the reservoir 63 is subdivided into a plurality of compartments. Each compartment contains a plurality of impulse transfer members 11 encoded in a predetermined manner, for example to indicate to a control device that controls the operation of the apparatus of the invention the fate of the merchandise carried by the apparatus. This is shown schematically in Figure 15a.

A plurality of gate members such as gate means such as those described above, can selectively control the delivery of impulse transfer members within a restriction guide 10. This can be achieved for example depending on the intervention of the operator of a garment factory or a finishing machine can on the completion of each garment. indicate the kind of impulse transfer member 11 (in terms of its coding) to be added to the restriction guide 10, before putting on the clothes hook 32 for the most recently completed clothing. In this way, in seconds of its manufacture or termination the garments are associated with a pulse transfer member of the apparatus of the invention which are encoded according to their destinations. Such coding can be carried with the pledges through their journeys to their final destinations, such trips possibly comprising journeys through warehouse-based systems as shown in figure 13 and in vehicles such as those of figures 14. Referring Now to Figure 16 there is shown a flat bed conveyor driven by a restriction guide pair 10 according to the invention. The flat bed conveyors 63 include a plurality of horizontal strips or plates 64 secured one adjacent to the other on a pair of mutually spaced parallel restriction guides 10 according to the invention.

Each of the strips or plates 64 are slidably engaged on their underside with one or more of the pulse transfer members 11 of one or both of the restriction guides 10 shown in Figure 16. Lae tirae or plate 64 they can be joined, for example, by sliding joints, or they can be mutually connected to one another. The key advantage of using the restraint guide according to the invention of the embodiment in Figure 16 is that the restraint guide can be driven at different speeds from one another when it is required to drive the flat bed conveyor 63 around the a curve as shown. A branch 10a of the restriction guide is raised in the internal supply of the mentioned curve by means of the external restriction guide. The branch of the restriction guide 10a supplies additional members of the impulse transfer 11 within the restriction guide, in order to allow a faster travel to the external part of the flat bed conveyor in the vicinity of the curve. At the termination of the curve, a rear branch 10b of the restriction guide 10 can remove the excess restriction guide in order to allow the two restriction guides 10 to have the same speed in a straight line route.

For the avoidance of doubt, the embodiment of Figure 16, the flat bed traneporter 63 travels in the direction of the arrow C. Appropriate outlets such as the gate means 28 can be employed at the junctions between the portions of the branches 10a and 10b and the main restriction guide forming the outer part of the curve. As shown in Figure 17, tables or plates 64 can be constructed in two portions 64a, 64b. One of the two portions 64a can be hollow to receive the free end of the other portion 64b of the table 64. An elastic connection indicated schematically by the spring 65 can allow an elastic compression and / or an extension of an elongated length of each table or plate 64. This allows the boards or plate to accommodate the changes in the spaces between the two restriction guides 10 visible in figure 17. Thus, the apparatus of the invention allows a restriction first of a conveyor that is able to overcome curves through the use of conductors of variable speeds as shown in figure 16; and second, the restriction of a conductor in which the width may vary depending on the space between the pair of restriction guides 10. Until now it has not been possible to design a conveyor with movement whose width varies at different points in its journey.

Figure 18 shows a plan view of a typical display conveyor for use for example in a packing area or in an area of the finished product of a factory or warehouse. The restriction guides 10 are shown schematically, as are the branches 10a and 10b of Figure 16. The tables or plates 64 of the conductor are omitted from Figure 18 for clarity. A further display of the members of the restriction guide 10 is shown in Figure 19. In this figure there is a main loop of the restriction guide 10 driven by a main driving member 13 driven by a motor (not visible in the figure). 19). A loop of the ring 10c can selectively diverge the impulse transfer members 11 from the main ring 10 and can pass through for example a protective wall 66 within a hazardous area, a clean room, or another processing area 67 a which human access is normally denied. In the embodiment shown, there is a single restriction guide (as compared to the parallel pair of restriction guides of the example of Figure 18), which in the processing area 67 passes around the periphery of a rotating table or stand 68. The contact of the members the momentum transfer of the branched ring of the restriction guide 10c with a suitable surface formed at the periphery of the rotation shaft 68 can cause a driven rotation thereof. If required, a driven member later represented schematically at 13c can provide the force to the members of the impulse transfer around the branched ring 10c to accomplish this. The pulse transfer members 11 can transfer their directions in other ways as desired within the processing area 67. Referring now to FIG. 20a, a vehicle is shown comprising a structure 70 constituted predominantly of restriction guides 10 of the apparatus of according to the invention. The restriction guides 10 of the structure 70 are in the embodiment shown each formed in parallel, mutually emptied in polygonal shapes rigidly interconnected by support 71 arranged at intervals around the periphery of the polygonal shape visible in Figure 20a. Each restriction guide 10 includes a joint 72 which may be similar to those of the example on the collapsible portions of the restriction guides of Figure 14, for connection with rear portions of the restriction guides 10 transporting merchandise from for example a factory or a cellar. In the shown embodiment such restriction guides extend in parallel, and pairs of the impinging transfer members 11 in the respective parallel retraction guide "are interconnected by rigid rods 72 each suspended for the same trays of merchandise 73. It will be it appears that by the connection of the restriction guides 10 constituting the thickness of the structure 70 of the vehicle of Figure 20a, the trays of the goods 73 can be transported inside the vehicle by rotation either by the means of an engine or by hand around the periphery of the structure 70. This allows for example that a worker shown schematically at 74 fill or empty the trays as desired.Figure 20 demonstrates a manner in which the rods 72 can be received at the transfer members of In Figure 20 an elongated slot 13 of the restriction guide 10 is shown horizontally to receive the rod horizontally extending 72. If necessary, a retainer can be employed to retain the end of the rod 72 in an opening formed in the impulse transfer member 11 which in the embodiment shown is formed as a spherical element. In the embodiment of Fig. 20b, the portion of the rod 72 interconnecting the two impulse transfer members is distributed with this. The interconnection of the impeleo traneference member 11 is achieved through the rigidity of the tray 73.

In figure 20a it also shows a cover 76 which can be used to close the free end of the restriction guides 10 when the vehicle moves out of the position shown. The vehicle includes wheels for this purpose. Figures 21a and 21b show the apparatus of the invention configured as a motor 80. In this embodiment, a plurality of restriction guides 10 extend parallel to each other and are each respectively ringed, on separate rollers 81, 82. As shown in Figure 21b, in this embodiment the slit 13 is omitted from the restriction guide 10. In contrast, the wall of the restriction guide 10 is made of a material in the form of an open mesh to allow contact between the pulse transfer members 11 and outer members exposed outside the restriction guide 10. * It will then be appreciated that the roller 81 is * For example, by means of an electric motor 83, the rotation of the roller 81 tends to a linear movement of the impulse transfer members 11. Since the pulse transfer members travel from the roller 81 to the roller 82, as they pass over the roller 82 their conduction is transferred to the roller 82 in such a way as to cause their rotation.

A series of brake members 84 can be read selectively in contact with the restraining guides 10 shown in Figure 21b. The lowermost brake member 84e can be arranged to contact only the end of the left hand of the restriction guide visible in Figure 21b; the next one in the uppermost part can be arranged only to contemplate the immediate restriction guide to the right of this, and so on, so by lowering the brake members in the direction of arrow b in Figure 21 the Restriction guides can be produced at your speed successively haeta estore. These changes reduce the transfer energy of the roller 82 in a progressive manner, in a way that is reduced or stopped if desired. The members of the brakes 84a can be mounted on a lever or can be actuated by means of for example an eolenoid or other motor, if necessary depending on control signals generated in for example a microprocessor or other controller. Each brake member may include a brake stopper 86 (best shown in FIG. 21b) outside the lateral axis of the brake stopper in a proximity brake member whereby a given brake member 84 is dedicated to the reduction or the arrest of members of the impulse transfer in a predetermined restriction guide 10.

As shown in Figure 21b, the pulse transfer members 11 preferably have a rigid central area surrounded by a deformable outer layer. The mesh-like outer cover of the restriction guides 10 are shown in Figures 21 and may for example provide a safety purpose on the rods 50 of Figure 12, thereby providing articles that come to be arrested or trapped. in the restriction guide. In such an arrangement, the mesh may be of a closed fabric whereby access for example of human fingers is provided to the pulse transfer members 11. Referring now to Figure 22, a window 88 formed in a portion of the screen is shown. restriction guide 10 according to the invention. The window 88, which can be covered, for example, with a methyl acrylate material, allows the optical reading of the coded information carried directly on the impulse traneference member 11 visible in FIG. 22. Such coded information (FIG. which may be in the form of bar codes or other optical codes) may be impree directly on the impulse transfer member, or an adherent secured to the pulse transfer member may be carried for example.

The window 88 may also allow for example the reading of the radio frequency identification markings secured to the pulse transfer member 10. The readers for the bar codes and / or radio frequency or other identification marks, may they wish to be closed within the spiral 25 of the restriction guide 10 as shown in Figure 8. Thus the code reading apparatus can be protected from damage and contamination, and the windows 88 can also be protected from damage. When the windows 88 do not include a cover such as a sheet of methyl acrylate or glass, their position on the inner face of a spiral such as a spiral 25 or 25a prevents inadvertent contact of other objects with the members of the impulse transfer. 11. Thus the security of the device is ensured. Figure 23 shows an alternative design of the impulse transfer member 11 shown for example in Figure 10. In this embodiment the rollers 37 have a closed or rough outer periphery, for the interior of the restriction guide 10. Figure 23 it also shows a possible location for the identification of the frequency radio mark 42. As the mark is shown, it is located in the center of the axis 38. In figure 24, an arrangement is shown by which the order bars 46 of Figure 14a can be supported in relation to the member of the transfer member 11. As shown, each member of the impulse transfer 11 has an outward projection for the same cup 89 that protrudes forward of the guide slot 13 of restriction 10 in a horizontal direction. Each bar 56 has a reduced diameter portion 56a at each end where it can be received under the action of gravity in the cup 89, whereby the bar 56 is supported at each end. When the members of the impulse transfer 11 are controlled by computer, it is possible to keep the 56 horizontal bars throughout their journey. Any of the optional embodiments described herein in relation to Figs. 1 to 24 may be employed properly, in conjunction with other of the optional modes as desired. The members of this invention can be manufactured from a variety of materials, which are appropriate. For example, members can be manufactured from materials suitable for use in different industries such as the food industry, such as the chemical process industry and the pharmaceutical industry. Corrosion-free materials (eg non-metallic) can be used as appropriate. Restriction guides can be manufactured from flexible materials or rigid materials as desired. Self-lubricating materials can also be used as appropriate. For example, concreted materials that provide lubricants as used when being used for the interior of the restriction guide 10 and, optionally, for the transfer members 11. The windows 88 can also be used to indicate the term of the actions for example , in a process plant. For example, the presence of a coded transfer member in a selected window 88 may indicate the period of a predetermined amount of time for the completion of a privial process, by virtue of the travel of the members of the impulse transfer 11 at a distance predetermined along restriction guidelines 10. Deposits to receive members of impulse transfer 11 from where the members of the momentum transfer of restriction guidelines 10 are provided can be operatively connected to the restriction guidelines 10 to suitable sites, as desired, in the case of the vehicles of Figures 14, the reservoirs can be located for example under the floor of the vehicle, where there is conventionally a significant dead space.

Claims (95)

NOVELTY OF THE INVENTION CLAIMS

1. - An impulse transfer apparatus, comprising: a first restriction guide defined by a pulse transfer path; and a plurality of movable momentum transfer members limited in the restriction guide, further characterized in that: (i) the first restriction guide includes one or more openings allowing one or more of the members of the pulse transfer to be engaged with one or more posterior members in the form of the impulse transfer: (ii) the members of the impulse transfer are capable of transferring conduction between discrete portions of the restriction guide by means of compressive interconnections, characterized in that one or more The members of the pulse transfer include a radio frequency transmitter identification, a bar code and / or other means for transmitting audible, optical or other encoded information.

2. An impulse transfer apparatus according to claim 1, further characterized in that the first restriction guides define an endless ring.

3. - An impulse traneference apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, further characterized in that the first restriction guide is elongated.

4. An apparatus according to claim 3, further characterized in that an opening in the first restriction guide is elongate and generally parallel to the axis of elongation of the first retraction guide.

5. An apparatus according to claim 4, characterized in that in the first restriction guide there is a member of the channel section.

6. An apparatus according to any preceding claim further characterized in that the plurality of the members of the impulse traneference are substantially contiguous with each other in the first restriction guide when the apparatus is at rest.

7. An apparatus according to claim 6, further characterized in that said plurality of the members of the impulse transfer form a contiguous line substantially of such members in the restriction guide.

8- An apparatus according to any preceding claim further characterized in that each member of the pulse transfer carries encoded data.

9. An apparatus according to claim 8, further characterized in that each member of the pulse transfer includes an optical code.

10. - An apparatus according to claim 9, further characterized in that the optical code is a code bar.

11. An apparatus according to claim 9 and 10, further characterized in that the bar code is secured in the member of the pulse transfer.

12. An apparatus according to any of claims 8 to 11, further characterized in that the restriction guide includes an opening allowing the detection of the optical code.

13. An apparatus according to any of claims 8 to 12, further characterized in that the members of the pulse transfer include a back member that supports encoded data.

14. An apparatus in accordance with the claim 13, further characterized in that a rear member is removable and secured to the member of the impulse transfer.

15. An apparatus according to any preceding claim further characterized in that each member of the impulse transfer is in a manner generally complementary to the cross-sectional shape of the first retraction guide, thereby facilitating movement of the limb of the limb. impulse transfer to the first restriction guide.

16. - An apparatus according to claim 15, further characterized in that the members of the pulse transfer are generally spherical or spheroidal.

17. An apparatus according to any preceding claim further characterized in that one more of the members of the impulse transfer are engageable, by way of an opening in the first restriction guide, with one or more posterior members whereby the subsequent movement is caused.

18. An apparatus according to claim 17, further characterized in that one or more of the members of the pulse transfer includes a catch, accecible via an opening in the first restriction guide, for a rear member.

19. An apparatus according to claim 17 or 18, further characterized in that said rear member is a rod or a hanger capable of eoportar the goods for transportation on the apparatus.

20. An apparatus according to any conformance with claim 17 or 19, including a support, for one or more said rear members, including a movable member for engaging said rear member and member of the momentum transfer.

21. An apparatus in accordance with the claim 20, further characterized in that the movable member is resilient and biased toward the restriction, whereby to engage said back member on said impulse transfer member, the apparatus includes a controllable retainer for retaining the selected moving member to maintain a separation of the movable member and the member of the momentum transfer.

22. An apparatus according to claim 20 or 21, further characterized in that the support includes means for supporting a plurality of said rear members, and means for selecting the engagement of one or more said rear members and movable member with each other. .

23. An apparatus according to any preceding claim including a source of lubricant for the members of the impulse transfer.

24.- An appliance in accordance with the claim 23, further characterized in that the restriction guide includes a reservoir of lubricant disposed in such a way that a plurality of pulse transfer members contact the lubricant there during movement in the first restriction guide.

25.- An appliance in accordance with the claim 24, further characterized in that the reeervorio of the lubricant recide at the lower level than the adjacent lengths of the first restriction guide, the lubricant being a liquid in the reservoir and the members of the impulse transfer passing through reeervorio ascending within a lubricant liquid from one of the contiguous portions.

26. An apparatus according to any preceding claim including a conductor for the members of the impulse transfer.

27.- An appliance in accordance with the claim 26, further characterized in that the conductor includes a member with the energy capable of imparting movement to a plurality of members of the impinging device in succession.

28.- An appliance in accordance with the claim 27, further characterized in that the energized member protrudes via an opening in the first restriction guide to direct contact with the members of the pulse transfer.

29.- An appliance in accordance with the claim 27 or 28, further characterized in that the energized member includes a rotatable conductive star wheel having points engageable with the impinging traverse member.

30.- An appliance in accordance with the claim 27 or 28, further characterized in that the energized member includes a catarina drive-in drive engageable with the pulse transfer members.

31. An apparatus according to any of claims 26 to 30 including a plurality of said conductors.

32. - An apparatus according to any preceding claim, further characterized in that the constraint guide is ramified.

33.- An apparatus according to claim 32 including one or more movable barriers to control the movement of the impulse transfer members of said branch.

34.- An appliance in accordance with the claim 33, further characterized in that said movable barrier includes a member secured in the restriction guide and movable between the first position preventing entry of any impulse transfer member to the branch of the restriction guide; a second position allowing entry of the transfer impeller members within said branch.

35.- An appliance in accordance with the claim 34, further characterized in that when it occupies its second position the member prevents entry of the transfer driver members into a second branch of the constraint guide.

36. An apparatus according to any claim number 32 to 35 including a motor for an operation with energy for the movable barrier.

37.- An apparatus according to claim 36, including a controller for the controlled movement of the movable bank.

38. - An apparatus in accordance with the claim 37, including a code reader and characterized in that the pulse transfer member is encoded in a manner that is readable by the code reader, the operation of the movable barrier depends upon the encoding of the pulse transfer members read by the code reader.

39.- An appliance in accordance with the claim 38, further characterized in that the code reader is a bar code reader, a code detector in audible, magnetic or optical signals or a radio and frequency code reader.

40. An apparatus according to any preceding claim includes one or more sources of the pulse transfer members for adding pulse transfer members to the restriction guide.

41.- An appliance in accordance with the claim 40 further characterized in that said source of the pulse transfer members comprises a posterior restriction guide that supports one or more of the pulse transfer members in an inner portion communicating with the interior of the first restriction guide.

42. An apparatus according to any of the preceding claims further characterized in that the first restriction guide includes one or more openings allowing the removal of the trance-shaft members from the re-routing guide.

43.- An appliance in accordance with the claim 42 characterized in that each opening allows the removal of the impinging transfer member and may close.

44.- An appliance in accordance with the claim 43 further characterized in that each opening that can be closed resides in a path of the impulse transfer members in the first restriction guide.

45. An apparatus according to any of claims 42 to 44 includes a posterior restriction guide connected to said opening for removal of the impulse transfer members.

46. An apparatus according to any of claims 43 to 45 including a receptacle for the pulse transfer members that were removed from the restriction guide.

47. An apparatus according to any of the preceding claims and including a detector or fracturer of the impinging traneference member.

48.- An apparatus in accordance with the claim 47, further characterized in that the detector is operatively connected to an aperture that can be closed open or closed in the first restriction guide, because which allows controlled removal of the fractured tramp limbs from the first retraction guide.

49. An apparatus according to any of the preceding claim, characterized in that when a portion of the restriction guide is rigid.

50. An apparatus according to any of the preceding claims, further characterized in that at least a portion of the restriction guide is flexible.

51.- A restriction guide for the apparatus according to any of the preceding claims, comprises 3 or more parallel rods spaced one from the other and supported on one or more supports, the route of the rods defining a recess for movable retention there inside the impulse transfer member.

52.- A restriction guide according to claim 51 including a fence to the rods.

53. A restriction guide according to claim 52, further characterized by the enclosure includes an opening that communicates between the inside and the outside of the restriction guide.

54.- A restriction guide according to any of claims 51 and 53 further characterized in that the rods are flexible.

55. A re-routing guide for an apparatus according to any of claims 1 to 50, comprising an elongated tube of a first material surrounded by a posterior elongate tube of a protective material, said tubes having a mutual alignment, respective grooves formed in the mieme.

56.- A restriction guide according to claim 55, further characterized in that the material of the first, an elongated tube and a pulse transfer member of the apparatus have a coefficient of friction of less than 0.5.

57.- A structure of two or three dimensions of interconnected pulse transfer devices each according to claims 1 to 50.

58.- A structure of three dimensions according to claim 57 that includes a controller to control an operation of a member with energy capable of imparting movement to a plurality of impulse transfer member.

59.- A dieposition in three dimensions according to claim 58, including a plurality of interchangeable unions between the portions of the branched restriction guides, in the controller controlling operations of the interchangeable joints to cause a selective direction of the transfer members of impulse around said disposition.

60.- A structure according to claim 57, further characterized in that the restriction guides include one or more inputs and / or one or more outputs for the pulse transfer members.

61.- An arrangement according to claim 60 or any dependent claim therefore, further characterized in that one or more of said outputs or inputs are operably connectable to a subsequent restriction guide.

62.- A generally surrounding restriction on an arrangement according to any of claims 57 to 61.

63.- A restriction according to claim 62, characterized in that the arrangement ee according to claim 60 and one or more of said entrance and / or departures ends in a vehicle loading area.

64.- A vehicle generally containing an arrangement according to any of claims 57 to 61.

65.- A vehicle in accordance with the claim * 64, further characterized because the portion of the guide »Restriction is foldable or otherwise movable in relation to the rest of the structure, the portion of the restriction guide being operatively connectable to the rest of the structure.

66. - A vehicle in accordance with the claim 65, further characterized in that the array is according to claim 60, said portion of the restriction guide includes one or more of the inputs and / or outputs.

67. - A vehicle according to any of claims 64 to 66 further characterized in that said portion of the restriction guide is secured to a folding vehicle mounted door.

68. A vehicle according to any of claims 65 to 67 including a stop of said portions of the collapsible restriction guide, and each pair of portions being collapsible each of the first substantial position being paired with the remainder of the arrangement and of the rear position protruding for the same, the position of the restriction guide in its second position receiving from one another to support an elongate member secured to the respective impulse transfer member in the portions of the respective restriction guide, further characterized because the pair of the portions of the restriction guide define a winch for the elongated member.

69. A pulse transfer member of an apparatus, structure, building or vehicle according to the preceding claim. '

70. An impulse transfer member according to claim 69 further characterized in that the transmitter of the radio frequency identification or other means is supported on the axis of the pulse transfer member.

71. An apparatus according to any of claims 1 to 50, comprises a source of the pulse transfer members, the source including means for releasing and / or receiving the pulse transfer members within a restriction guide in dependence. with the encoding of the impulse transfer member.

72. An apparatus in accordance with the claim 71 further characterized in that the source includes a subdivided reservoir, each subdivision therefore contains one or more encoded pulse transfer member in a predetermined manner; and means for selectively opening a release gate of the impulse transfer members of the subdivisions.

73. A conveyor comprising a plurality of interconnected pivoting support members supported at spaced locations in respective pairs of the restriction guides in space of an apparatus according to any of claims 1 to 50.

74. A conveyor of according to claim 73 further characterized in that said restriction guide generally follows generally spaced and concentric curves whereby transport is allowed to follow a curve path, and in the longer part of the restriction guides in the vicinity of the path includes means to add here and remove the impulse transfer members.

75. A conveyor according to claim 73 or claim 74 characterized in that the length of each support member is adjustable.

A conveyor according to claim 75 characterized in that each support member comprises a subcomponent pair, one of which is hollow to receive the other subcomponent.

77. A conveyor according to claim 76 includes an elastic deformable member that interconnects with the subcomponents.

78. An apparatus according to any of claims 1 to 50 including a horizontal arrangement for said restriction guides operatively interconnected in a lattice pattern.

79. A support comprising a base member including a plurality of engageable members secured above it projectably eelectively therefor for engaging a selected plurality of pulse transfer members in a horizontal arrangement of an apparatus in accordance with claim 78.

80. An engine that includes a pulse transfer apparatus according to any of claims 1 to 50 and extending around the periphery of a member that can be broken., the restriction guide of the impulse transfer apparatus being perforated to allow engagement between the impulse transfer members and the rotatable member, such that it causes a rotation with energy of the member that can rotate about the movement of the members. Impulse transfer members.

81. An engine according to claim 80 comprising a plurality of pulse transfer apparatuses extending around the periphery of the rotatable member.

82. An engine according to claim 81 including one or more brake members acting via perforations in the respective restriction guides engage the members the pulse transfer in the pulse transfer apparatus, thereby varying the speed of the member that can rotate.

83. A pulse transfer member for use in the apparatus according to any of claims 1 to 50, the pulse transfer member including one or more members having the shape for a turning movement in said restriction guide. , characterized in that the inclusion of a radio frequency identification transmieor, a bar code and / or another means for transmitting encoded information in an audible, optical or other form.

84. An impulse transfer member according to claim 83 including a pair of rollers secured on a common axis that resides on each side of the support member, further characterized in that the rollers rotate in relation to the support member so that on the movement of the impulse transfer member in said restriction guide the rotating rollers engage the restriction guide and the support member occupies a constant subetanial orientation.

85. An impinging transfer member according to claim 83 or claim 84 includes a portion for protruding via an opening in said restriction guide.

86. An impulse transfer member according to claim 84 further characterized in that said carrier portion is coded.

87. An impulse traneference member according to claim 85 or claim 86 characterized in that said portion includes a detachable affixed part.

88. A member of the impoleo traneferencia of a. in accordance with any of claims 85 to 87 * further characterized in that said portion includes means for supporting rear members.

89. A method for transferring the pulse comprises imparting movement to one or more of the plurality of pulse transfer members, one more of which includes a radio frequency identification transmitter, a bar code and / or other means for transmitting coded information in an audible, optical or other way, contained olgadamente in a restriction guide, also characterized in that the compireive interconnection channel of a plurality of said impinging traneference member and thereby driving the conduit 5 in a retry guide.

90. A vehicle according to any one of claims 64 to 68 for supporting the plurality of load support on the arrangement, the arrangement includes at least one region within which the load carriers are selectively movable to allow the deviation of the load. the load support in the structure.

91. A vehicle according to claim 90 characterized in that said region is inside the vehicle. 5

92. A vehicle in accordance with the claim 90 or claim 91 further characterized in that said region is external to the vehicle. *%

93. A vehicle according to claim 90 to 92 including a movable region between a retracted position 0 relative to the vehicle and an external operative position of the vehicle.

94. A vehicle according to claim 92 or claim 93 including one or more supports for said region of the structure.

95. A vehicle according to claim 65 or claim 94 further characterized in that said portion of the restriction guide includes said region. *% • '