US20040035811A1 - Torque limiting method for a mechanical assist mobile storage system - Google Patents
Torque limiting method for a mechanical assist mobile storage system Download PDFInfo
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- US20040035811A1 US20040035811A1 US10/649,848 US64984803A US2004035811A1 US 20040035811 A1 US20040035811 A1 US 20040035811A1 US 64984803 A US64984803 A US 64984803A US 2004035811 A1 US2004035811 A1 US 2004035811A1
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- 230000000670 limiting effect Effects 0.000 title claims abstract description 42
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 title claims description 6
- 230000007246 mechanism Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 43
- 230000004044 response Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 10
- 230000002411 adverse Effects 0.000 abstract description 4
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- 230000008878 coupling Effects 0.000 description 6
- 238000010168 coupling process Methods 0.000 description 6
- 238000005859 coupling reaction Methods 0.000 description 6
- 230000036961 partial effect Effects 0.000 description 3
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 2
- 230000005540 biological transmission Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000002783 friction material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000007257 malfunction Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000002829 reductive effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000000717 retained effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000003466 welding Methods 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47B—TABLES; DESKS; OFFICE FURNITURE; CABINETS; DRAWERS; GENERAL DETAILS OF FURNITURE
- A47B53/00—Cabinets or racks having several sections one behind the other
- A47B53/02—Cabinet systems, e.g. consisting of cabinets arranged in a row with means to open or close passages between adjacent cabinets
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16D—COUPLINGS FOR TRANSMITTING ROTATION; CLUTCHES; BRAKES
- F16D7/00—Slip couplings, e.g. slipping on overload, for absorbing shock
- F16D7/04—Slip couplings, e.g. slipping on overload, for absorbing shock of the ratchet type
- F16D7/06—Slip couplings, e.g. slipping on overload, for absorbing shock of the ratchet type with intermediate balls or rollers
- F16D7/08—Slip couplings, e.g. slipping on overload, for absorbing shock of the ratchet type with intermediate balls or rollers moving axially between engagement and disengagement
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- G—PHYSICS
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- H—ELECTRICITY
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- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N1/00—Scanning, transmission or reproduction of documents or the like, e.g. facsimile transmission; Details thereof
- H04N1/46—Colour picture communication systems
- H04N1/56—Processing of colour picture signals
- H04N1/58—Edge or detail enhancement; Noise or error suppression, e.g. colour misregistration correction
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N9/00—Details of colour television systems
- H04N9/64—Circuits for processing colour signals
- H04N9/646—Circuits for processing colour signals for image enhancement, e.g. vertical detail restoration, cross-colour elimination, contour correction, chrominance trapping filters
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16D—COUPLINGS FOR TRANSMITTING ROTATION; CLUTCHES; BRAKES
- F16D7/00—Slip couplings, e.g. slipping on overload, for absorbing shock
- F16D7/04—Slip couplings, e.g. slipping on overload, for absorbing shock of the ratchet type
- F16D7/042—Slip couplings, e.g. slipping on overload, for absorbing shock of the ratchet type with at least one part moving axially between engagement and disengagement
- F16D7/044—Slip couplings, e.g. slipping on overload, for absorbing shock of the ratchet type with at least one part moving axially between engagement and disengagement the axially moving part being coaxial with the rotation, e.g. a gear with face teeth
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- G06T2207/20192—Edge enhancement; Edge preservation
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- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T74/00—Machine element or mechanism
- Y10T74/20—Control lever and linkage systems
- Y10T74/20576—Elements
- Y10T74/20582—Levers
- Y10T74/2063—Stops
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- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
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- Y10T74/20—Control lever and linkage systems
- Y10T74/20576—Elements
- Y10T74/20636—Detents
Definitions
- This invention relates to a high density mobile storage system, and more particularly to an actuator mechanism for a mechanical assist mobile storage system.
- a mechanical assist mobile storage system typically includes a series of storage units movable on a transversely extending rail arrangement. Each storage unit includes a chain-driven assist mechanism which moves the storage unit on the rail arrangement in response to manual operation of a rotatable actuating handle. Rotation of the handle results in rotation of a drive sprocket.
- a chain is trained about the drive sprocket as well as the remaining components of the drive system, such that rotation of the handle and drive sprocket provides movement of the chain to operate the components of the drive system.
- the chain is engaged with a sprocket mounted to an adjustable tensioning arm, which is operable to maintain an appropriate amount of tension in the chain.
- the handle is mounted to a rotatable hub which is mounted to the outer end of a shaft.
- the drive sprocket is mounted to the inner end of the shaft, such that rotation of the handle imparts rotation to the drive sprocket through the hub and the shaft.
- an actuating arrangement for a mobile storage system includes an actuator handle rotatably mounted to a storage unit and a drive arrangement located within the storage unit for moving the storage unit in response to operation of the actuator handle.
- a torque limiting mechanism is interposed between the handle and the drive arrangement.
- the torque limiting mechanism is operable to transmit torque to an input or drive shaft of the drive arrangement upon manual rotation of the handle by an operator, to provide movement of the storage unit.
- the torque limiting mechanism is further operable to prevent transmission of torque to the input shaft exceeding a predetermined threshold, so as to isolate the input shaft from excessive torque resulting from application of a force to the actuator handle beyond that required to move the storage unit at its maximum speed of movement.
- the torque limiting mechanism includes a hub member operatively connected to the actuator handle.
- An input member is mounted to the input shaft such that an end portion of the input shaft extends from the input member.
- the hub member includes a passage within which the end portion of the input shaft is received.
- a retainer member is secured to the end of the input shaft and engaged with the hub member, so as to retain the hub member in position on the end portion of the input shaft.
- the hub member and the input member define facing surfaces, which are preferably spaced slightly apart from each other.
- a torque limiting coupling arrangement is interposed between the facing surfaces of the hub member and the input member, and is operable to isolate the input shaft from excessive forces applied to the actuator handle.
- the torque limiting coupling arrangement is in the form of a series of spherical engagement members, each of which is received within a passage which is preferably formed in the hub member.
- the hub member passages open onto the surface of the hub member which faces the input member, and the engagement members protrude from the surface of the hub member.
- Engagement structure is formed in the facing surface of the input member, and the engagement members are selectively received within the engagement structure of the input member for coupling the hub member to the input member, and thereby the actuator handle to the input shaft.
- a spring is received within each passage of the hub member, and urges each engagement member outwardly from the surface of the hub member toward the input member, so as to bias the engagement members toward an engaged position in which the engagement members couple the hub member and the input member together.
- Each spring is retained in position by means of an adjustment member, which enables an operator to adjust the biasing force exerted by the spring on its respective engagement member.
- each engagement member Upon application of a force exceeding the predetermined threshold, each engagement member is movable away from its engaged position against the force of its respective spring, so as to de-couple the hub member from the input member. When this occurs, the hub member spins on the end portion of the input shaft without transfer of force from the input handle to the input shaft, and the engagement members ride on the surface of the input member.
- each engagement member When the force applied to the actuator handle falls below the predetermined threshold, each engagement member returns to its engaged position in which the engagement member is seated within the engagement structure formed in the surface of the input member, to couple the hub member to the input member and to thereby enable rotation of the input shaft in response to rotation of the handle.
- the torque limiting coupling arrangement is in the form of a slip disc engaged between the facing surfaces of the hub member and the input member.
- the hub member and the input member are pressed tightly together and are engaged in a friction engagement fit through of the slip disc.
- the frictional engagement provided by the slip disc is overcome and the hub member spins on the end portion of the input shaft without transfer of force from the input handle to the input shaft, so as to de-couple the hub member from the input member.
- the slip disc is once again operable to couple the hub member to the input member through friction and thereby enables rotation of the input shaft in response to rotation of the handle.
- an adjustable pressure member such as a Belleville spring, is interconnected between the hub member and the input member for varying the frictional engagement provided by the slip disc and thereby the threshold force which de-couples the hub member and the input member.
- the invention also contemplates a method of actuating a drive arrangement associated with a mobile storage unit, substantially in accordance with the foregoing summary.
- FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a mechanical assist mobile storage system in which the mobile storage units incorporate the torque limiting mechanism of the present invention
- FIG. 2 is an isometric view of the components of the torque limiting mechanism incorporated into each mobile storage unit of FIG. 1;
- FIG. 3 is a partial section view taken along line 3 - 3 of FIG. 1;
- FIG. 4 is a partial section view taken along line 4 - 4 of FIG. 3, showing the engagement members of the torque limiting mechanism in an engaged position;
- FIG. 5 is a view similar to FIG. 4, showing movement of the engagement members to a disengaged position for preventing application of an excessive force to the drive system;
- FIG. 6 is an isometric view of the components of another embodiment of the torque limiting mechanism incorporated into each mobile storage unit of FIG. 1;
- FIG. 7 is a partial section view similar to FIGS. 4 and 5, showing the embodiment of the torque limiting mechanism of FIG. 6; and.
- FIGS. 8 a and 8 b are schematic side elevation views showing operation of mobile storage units incorporated into the mobile storage system of FIG. 1.
- a mobile storage system 10 includes a series of mobile storage units 12 , each of which is mounted to a pair of tracks, one of which is shown at 14 .
- Mobile storage system 10 is of the type generally known as a mechanical assist system, such as is available from Spacesaver Corporation of Fort Atkinson, Wis. under its Model Nos. DF MA, RG MA, or CF MA.
- Each mobile storage unit 12 includes an internal drive mechanism which is operable in response to rotation of an external actuator handle 16 for moving the storage unit 12 on tracks 14 , in a manner as is known.
- each mobile storage unit 12 includes an input shaft 18 which is mounted at its inner end to an input sprocket (not shown) or other input drive member.
- a torque limiting coupling or mechanism 20 is interposed between input shaft 18 and actuator handle 16 .
- torque limiting mechanism 20 selectively couples actuator handle 16 to input shaft 18 for operating the drive system of mobile storage unit 12 for movement on tracks 14 .
- Torque limiting mechanism 20 also selectively disengages actuator handle 16 from input shaft 18 upon application of an excessive force to actuator handle 16 , such as a force exceeding the force required to move mobile storage unit 12 on tracks 14 at a maximum rate of movement or a force applied to handle 16 after storage unit 12 has reached the limit of its travel.
- Torque limiting mechanism 20 generally includes a hub member 22 to which actuator handle 16 is mounted, an input member 24 mounted to input shaft 18 , and a series of engagement members 26 interposed between hub member 22 and input member 24 .
- input shaft 18 is mounted at its inner end to an input or drive sprocket 28 with which a flexible drive element such as a chain 30 is engaged.
- Input member 24 is mounted to input shaft 18 toward the outer end of input shaft 18 , such that an outer end portion 32 of input shaft 18 extends outwardly from an outer surface 34 defined by input member 24 .
- Input shaft 18 terminates in an outer end 36 , and a threaded passage 38 is formed in outer end portion 32 of input shaft 18 , extending inwardly from outer end 36 .
- Input member 24 has a disc-like shape, although it is understood that any other satisfactory shape could be employed.
- Input member 24 is rigidly mounted to input shaft 18 in any satisfactory manner, such as by welding.
- Outer surface 34 of input member 24 is substantially flat, and a series of radially spaced recesses 40 are formed in outer surface 34 .
- Recesses 40 are spaced an equal distance outwardly from the center of input shaft 18 and input member 24 .
- recesses 40 are in the form of passages which extend throughout the thickness of input member 24 .
- Recesses 40 may also be formed so as to extend inwardly from outer surface 34 throughout only a portion of the thickness of input member 24 .
- Hub member 22 defines a central passage 44 within which outer end portion 32 of input shaft 18 is received.
- a recess 46 is formed in hub member 22 outwardly of central passage 44 , and a shoulder 48 is formed between recess 46 and central passage 44 .
- Hub member 22 further includes an annular outer surface 50 and a flat, annular inner surface 52 .
- a series of threaded actuator mounting passages 54 extend into hub member 22 from outer surface 50 .
- Actuator handle 16 includes a series of mounting bosses 56 , each of which is adapted for placement over one of actuator mounting passages 54 .
- An opening 58 is formed in each mounting boss 56 , and is located in alignment with one of actuator mounting passages 54 .
- a threaded fastener such as a screw 60 , extends through passage 58 in each mounting boss 56 and into engagement with threads formed in the aligned actuator mounting passage 54 , so as to securely and removably engage actuator handle 16 with hub member 22 .
- Hub member 22 further includes a series of passages 61 which extend outwardly from inner surface 52 .
- Each passage 61 defines a reduced diameter inner section 62 which opens onto inner surface 52 , and an enlarged diameter threaded outer section 64 which opens onto outer surface 50 .
- Inner section 62 is sized so as to receive one of spherical engagement members 26 therein, such that engagement member 26 is capable of movement within inner section 62 .
- a screw 66 is engaged with the threads of outer section 64 , and a spring 68 bears between screw 66 and engagement member 26 . This arrangement functions to urge engagement member 26 outwardly relative to inner surface 52 of hub member 22 .
- outer end portion 32 of input shaft 18 is received within central passage 44 of hub member 22 .
- a washer 70 is engaged with outer end 36 of input shaft 18 , and overlies shoulder 48 defined by hub member 22 .
- a screw 72 is engaged with threaded passage 38 extending inwardly from outer end 36 of input shaft 18 , so as to maintain washer 70 in engagement with outer end 36 of input shaft 18 .
- torque limiting mechanism 20 functions as follows to prevent transfer of a force exceeding a predetermined threshold from actuator handle 16 to input shaft 18 , to thereby isolate the drive system of mobile storage unit 12 from application of such a force and the resultant adverse effects.
- Engagement members 26 are normally positioned as illustrated in FIG. 4, in an engaged position in which each engagement member 26 is seated against the outer edge of one of recesses 40 in input member 24 , i.e. in engagement with the edge defined between outer surface 34 and the wall of recess 40 .
- Recess 40 has a diameter less than that of engagement member 26 , so as to prevent engagement member 26 from moving into recess 40 .
- each engagement member 26 engages the edge of recess 40 outwardly of the center of engagement member 26 .
- Spring 68 and set screw 72 function to bias engagement member 26 against the engagement structure defined by passage 40 in input member 24 , and engagement members 26 are thus operable to couple hub member 22 to input member 24 .
- rotation of handle 16 results in rotation of hub member 22
- engagement members 26 function to rotate input member 24 along with hub member 22 .
- Such rotation of input member 24 results in rotation of input shaft 18 , to provide input power to the drive system of mobile storage unit 12 and to thereby move mobile storage unit 12 in a conventional manner.
- the threshold force for moving engagement members 26 to the disengaged position of FIG. 5 may be selected according to the maximum force required to move mobile storage unit 12 at its maximum rate of movement, or by the amount of force otherwise known to damage or cause malfunction of the components of mobile storage unit 12 , such as the chain tensioning mechanism, e.g. when a force is applied to handle 16 after mobile storage unit 12 has reached the limit of its travel.
- each spring 68 on its respective engagement member 26 can be adjusted by moving set screw 72 within outer section 64 of passage 61 .
- Set screw 72 is turned into passage 61 to increase the threshold, and is moved out of passage 61 to decrease the threshold. Adjustments can easily be made after removing actuator handle 16 by disengaging screws 60 from passages 61 .
- torque limiting coupling or mechanism 20 is in the form of a slip disc 76 located between hub member 22 and input member 24 .
- recesses 40 in input member outer surface 34 are eliminated, as are passages 51 in hub member 22 .
- Slip disc 76 is positioned between and engaged with input member outer surface 34 and hub member inner surface 52 , and is operable to selectively couple hub member 22 and input member 24 .
- slip disc 76 is constructed of a friction washer material such as is available from Friction Material Corporation of Huntington, Ind. under its designation NA- 104 , although it is understood that other similar types of materials may be employed.
- Slip disc 76 is formed with a central opening 78 , which is located in alignment with central passage 44 of hub member 22 and through which outer end portion 32 of input shaft 18 extends. Slip disc 76 is constructed so as to cover substantially the entirety of input member outer surface 34 and the facing hub member inner surface 52 .
- outer end 36 of input shaft 18 includes threaded passage 38 , which is adapted to receive the threaded shank of screw 72 for securing hub member 22 and input member 24 together.
- a pair of Belleville-type spring washers 80 are placed between the head of screw 72 and outer end 36 of input shaft 18 .
- Spring washers 80 bear on an annular outwardly facing surface 82 defined by hub member 22 and located outwardly of input shaft outer end portion 32 .
- Spring washers 80 function in a known manner to urge hub member 22 into engagement with input member 24 .
- hub member 22 In normal operation, hub member 22 is rotated in response to application of a manual force to actuator handle 16 , and rotation of hub member 22 is transferred to input member 24 through the frictional engagement of slip disc 76 between hub member 22 and input member 24 .
- a predetermined threshold as determined by the characteristics of slip disc 76 and the degree of biasing force applied to slip disc 76 by spring washers 80 .
- the frictional engagement provided by slip disc 76 is overcome such that hub member 22 spins freely relative to input member 24 and torque is not transferred from hub member 22 to input member 24 .
- slip disc 76 once again functions to couple hub member 22 and input member 24 , to transfer rotational input force from hub member 22 to input member 24 .
- the user adjusts the degree of advancement of the shank of screw 72 within passage 38 , to adjust the biasing force exerted by spring washers 80 on hub member 22 .
- a greater degree of advancement increases the biasing force applied by spring washers 80 so as to increase the degree of frictional engagement of hub member 22 within input member 24 through slip disc 76 , to increase the threshold beyond which slip disc 76 ceases to transfer torque from hub member 22 to input member 24 .
- slip disc 76 provides the same torque transferring and limiting function as the embodiment of FIGS. 2 - 5 , without the need for engagement members 26 and the associated recesses 40 , passages 62 , springs 68 and screws 66 .
- This embodiment reduces the cost and labor associated with torque limiting mechanism 20 .
- FIGS. 8 a and 8 b illustrate movement of mobile storage units 12 on tracks 14 .
- drive chain 30 is engaged with input sprocket 28 at its upper end and with a driven sprocket, shown at 74 , at its lower end.
- Driven sprocket 74 in turn is engaged with a drive shaft 76 , which imparts rotation to the drive system components which move mobile storage unit 12 on tracks 14 in a conventional manner.
- a torque limiting mechanism 20 functions to couple the actuator handle 16 to the input shaft 18 when an actuating force below a certain threshold is applied to the actuator handle 16 .
- the torque limiting mechanism 20 functions to de-couple the actuator handle 16 from the input shaft 18 when an excessive force is applied to the actuator handle 16 to isolate the components of the drive system from excessive force.
- Torque limiting mechanism 20 is relatively simple in its construction and operation, yet provides a highly effective means for protecting the components of the mobile storage unit drive system.
- a torque limiting mechanism 20 may be a component of original manufacture or may be retrofitted in the field to existing, previously installed mobile storage units 12 .
- torque limiting mechanism 20 is therefore not limited to the specific location shown and described.
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Abstract
A mobile storage unit includes a drive system which is operable in response to rotation of an actuator handle mounted to the mobile storage unit. A torque limiting mechanism is interposed between the actuator handle and the drive system, for rotating an input member of the drive system in response to rotation of the actuator handle. The torque limiting mechanism is operable to de-couple the actuator handle from the drive system input member when an excessive force is applied to the actuator handle, to prevent adverse effects which can result from application of an excessive force to the components of the drive system. The torque limiting mechanism includes a hub mounted to the actuator handle and an input member mounted to an input shaft associated with the mobile storage unit drive system. In one form, the torque limiting mechanism includes one or more engagement members interposed between the hub and the input member, which are biased toward an engaged position in which the engagement members couple the hub and the input member together so as to transfer rotary force from the actuator handle to the input shaft. When a force exceeding a predetermined threshold is applied to the actuator handle, the engagement members move to a disengaged position to de-couple the hub member from the input member, and to thereby prevent transfer of such force to the input shaft. The engagement members may be in the form of spherical members which are received within passages formed in the hub member and are seated in passages or recesses formed in the input member. In another form, the torque limiting mechanism includes a friction disc between the actuator handle and the input member for transferring a force below a predetermined threshold, and for preventing the transfer of force above the predetermined threshold.
Description
- This application is a continuation-in-part of application Ser. No. 09/514,490 filed Feb. 29, 2000, now abandoned.
- This invention relates to a high density mobile storage system, and more particularly to an actuator mechanism for a mechanical assist mobile storage system.
- A mechanical assist mobile storage system typically includes a series of storage units movable on a transversely extending rail arrangement. Each storage unit includes a chain-driven assist mechanism which moves the storage unit on the rail arrangement in response to manual operation of a rotatable actuating handle. Rotation of the handle results in rotation of a drive sprocket. A chain is trained about the drive sprocket as well as the remaining components of the drive system, such that rotation of the handle and drive sprocket provides movement of the chain to operate the components of the drive system. The chain is engaged with a sprocket mounted to an adjustable tensioning arm, which is operable to maintain an appropriate amount of tension in the chain.
- In an existing assembly, the handle is mounted to a rotatable hub which is mounted to the outer end of a shaft. The drive sprocket is mounted to the inner end of the shaft, such that rotation of the handle imparts rotation to the drive sprocket through the hub and the shaft. While this arrangement operates satisfactorily, problems can arise when an excessive amount of torque is applied to the handle, such as when the storage unit has reached the full limit of its travel and force is still applied to the handle, or when an operator attempts to crank the handle with a force beyond that required to attain maximum speed of movement of the storage unit. In such situations, the excess force applied to the handle can result in excessive wear or stretching of the chain, or can cause movement of the chain tensioning mechanism out of position. In either case, a service call is typically required to return the unit to an operative condition, typically by adjustment of the chain tensioning mechanism.
- It is an object of the present invention to provide a mechanical assist mobile storage system which eliminates the adverse effects experienced by the components of the drive system upon application of excessive force to the handle beyond that required to move the storage unit at its maximum speed. It is a further object of the invention to provide an actuator arrangement which isolates the handle from the components of the drive system when an excessive force is applied to the handle. A still further object of the invention is to provide such an actuator arrangement which is simple in its design and construction, yet which functions effectively to prevent the drive sprocket from experiencing excessive forces. A still further object of the invention is to provide such an actuator arrangement which is inexpensive to incorporate into the drive system and which substantially reduces or eliminates the need for service calls resulting from application of excessive forces to the actuator handle of a mechanical assist mobile storage system.
- In accordance with the invention, an actuating arrangement for a mobile storage system includes an actuator handle rotatably mounted to a storage unit and a drive arrangement located within the storage unit for moving the storage unit in response to operation of the actuator handle. A torque limiting mechanism is interposed between the handle and the drive arrangement. The torque limiting mechanism is operable to transmit torque to an input or drive shaft of the drive arrangement upon manual rotation of the handle by an operator, to provide movement of the storage unit. The torque limiting mechanism is further operable to prevent transmission of torque to the input shaft exceeding a predetermined threshold, so as to isolate the input shaft from excessive torque resulting from application of a force to the actuator handle beyond that required to move the storage unit at its maximum speed of movement.
- The torque limiting mechanism includes a hub member operatively connected to the actuator handle. An input member is mounted to the input shaft such that an end portion of the input shaft extends from the input member. The hub member includes a passage within which the end portion of the input shaft is received. A retainer member is secured to the end of the input shaft and engaged with the hub member, so as to retain the hub member in position on the end portion of the input shaft. The hub member and the input member define facing surfaces, which are preferably spaced slightly apart from each other.
- A torque limiting coupling arrangement is interposed between the facing surfaces of the hub member and the input member, and is operable to isolate the input shaft from excessive forces applied to the actuator handle. In one version, the torque limiting coupling arrangement is in the form of a series of spherical engagement members, each of which is received within a passage which is preferably formed in the hub member. The hub member passages open onto the surface of the hub member which faces the input member, and the engagement members protrude from the surface of the hub member. Engagement structure is formed in the facing surface of the input member, and the engagement members are selectively received within the engagement structure of the input member for coupling the hub member to the input member, and thereby the actuator handle to the input shaft.
- A spring is received within each passage of the hub member, and urges each engagement member outwardly from the surface of the hub member toward the input member, so as to bias the engagement members toward an engaged position in which the engagement members couple the hub member and the input member together. Each spring is retained in position by means of an adjustment member, which enables an operator to adjust the biasing force exerted by the spring on its respective engagement member. Upon application of a force exceeding the predetermined threshold, each engagement member is movable away from its engaged position against the force of its respective spring, so as to de-couple the hub member from the input member. When this occurs, the hub member spins on the end portion of the input shaft without transfer of force from the input handle to the input shaft, and the engagement members ride on the surface of the input member. When the force applied to the actuator handle falls below the predetermined threshold, each engagement member returns to its engaged position in which the engagement member is seated within the engagement structure formed in the surface of the input member, to couple the hub member to the input member and to thereby enable rotation of the input shaft in response to rotation of the handle.
- In another version, the torque limiting coupling arrangement is in the form of a slip disc engaged between the facing surfaces of the hub member and the input member. The hub member and the input member are pressed tightly together and are engaged in a friction engagement fit through of the slip disc. Upon application of a force exceeding the predetermined threshold, the frictional engagement provided by the slip disc is overcome and the hub member spins on the end portion of the input shaft without transfer of force from the input handle to the input shaft, so as to de-couple the hub member from the input member. When the force applied to the actuator handle falls below the predetermined threshold, the slip disc is once again operable to couple the hub member to the input member through friction and thereby enables rotation of the input shaft in response to rotation of the handle. In a preferred form, an adjustable pressure member, such as a Belleville spring, is interconnected between the hub member and the input member for varying the frictional engagement provided by the slip disc and thereby the threshold force which de-couples the hub member and the input member.
- The invention also contemplates a method of actuating a drive arrangement associated with a mobile storage unit, substantially in accordance with the foregoing summary.
- Various other features, objects and advantages of the invention will be made apparent from the following description taken together with the drawings.
- The drawings illustrate the best mode presently contemplated of carrying out the invention.
- In the drawings:
- FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a mechanical assist mobile storage system in which the mobile storage units incorporate the torque limiting mechanism of the present invention;
- FIG. 2 is an isometric view of the components of the torque limiting mechanism incorporated into each mobile storage unit of FIG. 1;
- FIG. 3 is a partial section view taken along line3-3 of FIG. 1;
- FIG. 4 is a partial section view taken along line4-4 of FIG. 3, showing the engagement members of the torque limiting mechanism in an engaged position;
- FIG. 5 is a view similar to FIG. 4, showing movement of the engagement members to a disengaged position for preventing application of an excessive force to the drive system;
- FIG. 6 is an isometric view of the components of another embodiment of the torque limiting mechanism incorporated into each mobile storage unit of FIG. 1; and
- FIG. 7 is a partial section view similar to FIGS. 4 and 5, showing the embodiment of the torque limiting mechanism of FIG. 6; and.
- FIGS. 8a and 8 b are schematic side elevation views showing operation of mobile storage units incorporated into the mobile storage system of FIG. 1.
- Referring to FIG. 1, a
mobile storage system 10 includes a series ofmobile storage units 12, each of which is mounted to a pair of tracks, one of which is shown at 14.Mobile storage system 10 is of the type generally known as a mechanical assist system, such as is available from Spacesaver Corporation of Fort Atkinson, Wis. under its Model Nos. DF MA, RG MA, or CF MA. Eachmobile storage unit 12 includes an internal drive mechanism which is operable in response to rotation of anexternal actuator handle 16 for moving thestorage unit 12 ontracks 14, in a manner as is known. - Referring to FIG. 2, the internal drive system of each
mobile storage unit 12 includes aninput shaft 18 which is mounted at its inner end to an input sprocket (not shown) or other input drive member. In accordance with the invention, a torque limiting coupling ormechanism 20 is interposed betweeninput shaft 18 andactuator handle 16. In a manner to be explained,torque limiting mechanism 20 selectively couples actuator handle 16 to inputshaft 18 for operating the drive system ofmobile storage unit 12 for movement ontracks 14.Torque limiting mechanism 20 also selectively disengagesactuator handle 16 frominput shaft 18 upon application of an excessive force toactuator handle 16, such as a force exceeding the force required to movemobile storage unit 12 ontracks 14 at a maximum rate of movement or a force applied to handle 16 afterstorage unit 12 has reached the limit of its travel. -
Torque limiting mechanism 20 generally includes ahub member 22 to whichactuator handle 16 is mounted, aninput member 24 mounted toinput shaft 18, and a series ofengagement members 26 interposed betweenhub member 22 andinput member 24. - Referring to FIGS.2-4,
input shaft 18 is mounted at its inner end to an input or drivesprocket 28 with which a flexible drive element such as achain 30 is engaged.Input member 24 is mounted to inputshaft 18 toward the outer end ofinput shaft 18, such that anouter end portion 32 ofinput shaft 18 extends outwardly from anouter surface 34 defined byinput member 24.Input shaft 18 terminates in anouter end 36, and a threadedpassage 38 is formed inouter end portion 32 ofinput shaft 18, extending inwardly fromouter end 36.Input member 24 has a disc-like shape, although it is understood that any other satisfactory shape could be employed.Input member 24 is rigidly mounted to inputshaft 18 in any satisfactory manner, such as by welding. -
Outer surface 34 ofinput member 24 is substantially flat, and a series of radially spacedrecesses 40 are formed inouter surface 34.Recesses 40 are spaced an equal distance outwardly from the center ofinput shaft 18 andinput member 24. In the illustrated embodiment, recesses 40 are in the form of passages which extend throughout the thickness ofinput member 24.Recesses 40 may also be formed so as to extend inwardly fromouter surface 34 throughout only a portion of the thickness ofinput member 24. -
Hub member 22 defines acentral passage 44 within whichouter end portion 32 ofinput shaft 18 is received. Arecess 46 is formed inhub member 22 outwardly ofcentral passage 44, and ashoulder 48 is formed betweenrecess 46 andcentral passage 44.Hub member 22 further includes an annularouter surface 50 and a flat, annularinner surface 52. - A series of threaded
actuator mounting passages 54 extend intohub member 22 fromouter surface 50. Actuator handle 16 includes a series of mountingbosses 56, each of which is adapted for placement over one ofactuator mounting passages 54. Anopening 58 is formed in each mountingboss 56, and is located in alignment with one ofactuator mounting passages 54. A threaded fastener, such as ascrew 60, extends throughpassage 58 in each mountingboss 56 and into engagement with threads formed in the alignedactuator mounting passage 54, so as to securely and removably engage actuator handle 16 withhub member 22. -
Hub member 22 further includes a series of passages 61 which extend outwardly frominner surface 52. Each passage 61 defines a reduced diameter inner section 62 which opens ontoinner surface 52, and an enlarged diameter threadedouter section 64 which opens ontoouter surface 50. Inner section 62 is sized so as to receive one ofspherical engagement members 26 therein, such thatengagement member 26 is capable of movement within inner section 62. Ascrew 66 is engaged with the threads ofouter section 64, and aspring 68 bears betweenscrew 66 andengagement member 26. This arrangement functions to urgeengagement member 26 outwardly relative toinner surface 52 ofhub member 22. - As noted previously,
outer end portion 32 ofinput shaft 18 is received withincentral passage 44 ofhub member 22. Awasher 70 is engaged withouter end 36 ofinput shaft 18, and overliesshoulder 48 defined byhub member 22. Ascrew 72 is engaged with threadedpassage 38 extending inwardly fromouter end 36 ofinput shaft 18, so as to maintainwasher 70 in engagement withouter end 36 ofinput shaft 18. - In operation,
torque limiting mechanism 20 functions as follows to prevent transfer of a force exceeding a predetermined threshold from actuator handle 16 to inputshaft 18, to thereby isolate the drive system ofmobile storage unit 12 from application of such a force and the resultant adverse effects. -
Engagement members 26 are normally positioned as illustrated in FIG. 4, in an engaged position in which eachengagement member 26 is seated against the outer edge of one ofrecesses 40 ininput member 24, i.e. in engagement with the edge defined betweenouter surface 34 and the wall ofrecess 40.Recess 40 has a diameter less than that ofengagement member 26, so as to preventengagement member 26 from moving intorecess 40. With this arrangement, eachengagement member 26 engages the edge ofrecess 40 outwardly of the center ofengagement member 26.Spring 68 and setscrew 72 function to biasengagement member 26 against the engagement structure defined bypassage 40 ininput member 24, andengagement members 26 are thus operable tocouple hub member 22 to inputmember 24. In normal operation, rotation ofhandle 16 results in rotation ofhub member 22, andengagement members 26 function to rotateinput member 24 along withhub member 22. Such rotation ofinput member 24 results in rotation ofinput shaft 18, to provide input power to the drive system ofmobile storage unit 12 and to thereby movemobile storage unit 12 in a conventional manner. - When a force exceeding a predetermined threshold is applied to actuator handle16 and thereby to
hub member 22, such force is transferred toengagement members 26 which unseatsengagement members 26 fromrecesses 40 due to the curvature of the portion ofengagement members 26 received withinrecesses 40.Engagement members 26 are thus moved to the disengaged position of FIG. 5 whenengagement members 26 are unseated fromrecesses 40 ininput member 24, to decouplehub member 22 frominput member 24. Wheninput member 24 andhub member 22 are de-coupled in this manner,hub member 22 spins on theouter end portion 32 ofinput shaft 18 while the force applied to handle 16 remains above the predetermined threshold. In this manner, the excessive force is not transferred to inputshaft 18, and thus does not adversely impact the components ofmobile storage unit 12. The threshold force for movingengagement members 26 to the disengaged position of FIG. 5 may be selected according to the maximum force required to movemobile storage unit 12 at its maximum rate of movement, or by the amount of force otherwise known to damage or cause malfunction of the components ofmobile storage unit 12, such as the chain tensioning mechanism, e.g. when a force is applied to handle 16 aftermobile storage unit 12 has reached the limit of its travel. - To return
engagement members 26 to the engaged position as shown in FIG. 4, the operator continues rotation of actuator handle 16 in either a clockwise or a counterclockwise direction, untilengagement members 26 are once again seated inrecesses 40, and the applied force falls below the threshold. As can be appreciated, recesses 40 are spaced relatively close together, such that a relatively small amount of travel of actuator handle 16 relative to inputshaft 18 is required to seatengagement members 26 inrecesses 40. The operator then again applies a force to actuator handle 16 less than the threshold force engagement to maintainmembers 26 in the engaged position, to impart movement tomobile storage unit 12. - The amount of biasing force exerted by each
spring 68 on itsrespective engagement member 26 can be adjusted by moving setscrew 72 withinouter section 64 of passage 61. Setscrew 72 is turned into passage 61 to increase the threshold, and is moved out of passage 61 to decrease the threshold. Adjustments can easily be made after removingactuator handle 16 by disengagingscrews 60 from passages 61. - In another embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7, torque limiting coupling or
mechanism 20 is in the form of aslip disc 76 located betweenhub member 22 andinput member 24. In this version, recesses 40 in input memberouter surface 34 are eliminated, as are passages 51 inhub member 22.Slip disc 76 is positioned between and engaged with input memberouter surface 34 and hub memberinner surface 52, and is operable to selectively couplehub member 22 andinput member 24. In a preferred form,slip disc 76 is constructed of a friction washer material such as is available from Friction Material Corporation of Huntington, Ind. under its designation NA-104, although it is understood that other similar types of materials may be employed.Slip disc 76 is formed with acentral opening 78, which is located in alignment withcentral passage 44 ofhub member 22 and through whichouter end portion 32 ofinput shaft 18 extends.Slip disc 76 is constructed so as to cover substantially the entirety of input memberouter surface 34 and the facing hub memberinner surface 52. - As in the embodiment of FIGS.2-5,
outer end 36 ofinput shaft 18 includes threadedpassage 38, which is adapted to receive the threaded shank ofscrew 72 for securinghub member 22 andinput member 24 together. In this version, a pair of Belleville-type spring washers 80 are placed between the head ofscrew 72 andouter end 36 ofinput shaft 18.Spring washers 80 bear on an annular outwardly facingsurface 82 defined byhub member 22 and located outwardly of input shaftouter end portion 32.Spring washers 80 function in a known manner to urgehub member 22 into engagement withinput member 24. When the threaded shank ofscrew 72 is advanced into threadedpassage 38, the head ofscrew 72 engagesspring washers 80, and the degree of advancement ofscrew 72 relative to inputshaft 18 controls the amount of biasing force exerted byspring washers 80 onhub member 22. Withslip disc 76 located betweenhub member 22 andinput member 24, the biasing force applied byspring washers 80 urgesinner surface 52 ofhub member 22 into engagement with the outer surface ofslip disc 76, and in turn urges the inner surface ofslip disc 76 againstouter surface 34 ofhub member 24. - In normal operation,
hub member 22 is rotated in response to application of a manual force to actuator handle 16, and rotation ofhub member 22 is transferred to inputmember 24 through the frictional engagement ofslip disc 76 betweenhub member 22 andinput member 24. When the torque applied to actuator handle 16 exceeds a predetermined threshold, as determined by the characteristics ofslip disc 76 and the degree of biasing force applied to slipdisc 76 byspring washers 80, the frictional engagement provided byslip disc 76 is overcome such thathub member 22 spins freely relative toinput member 24 and torque is not transferred fromhub member 22 to inputmember 24. When the torque applied to actuator handle 16 falls below the predetermined threshold,slip disc 76 once again functions to couplehub member 22 andinput member 24, to transfer rotational input force fromhub member 22 to inputmember 24. - To adjust the threshold at which frictional engagement of
hub member 22 withinput member 24 throughslip disc 76 is overcome, the user adjusts the degree of advancement of the shank ofscrew 72 withinpassage 38, to adjust the biasing force exerted byspring washers 80 onhub member 22. A greater degree of advancement increases the biasing force applied byspring washers 80 so as to increase the degree of frictional engagement ofhub member 22 withininput member 24 throughslip disc 76, to increase the threshold beyond which slipdisc 76 ceases to transfer torque fromhub member 22 to inputmember 24. Conversely, a lesser degree of advancement of the threaded shank ofscrew 72 withinpassage 38 results in a lessening of the biasing force applied tohub member 22 byspring washers 80, to lower the threshold beyond which slipdisc 76 does not transfer torque fromhub member 22 to inputmember 24. - It can thus be appreciated that
slip disc 76 provides the same torque transferring and limiting function as the embodiment of FIGS. 2-5, without the need forengagement members 26 and the associated recesses 40, passages 62, springs 68 and screws 66. This embodiment reduces the cost and labor associated withtorque limiting mechanism 20. - FIGS. 8a and 8 b illustrate movement of
mobile storage units 12 ontracks 14. In a manner as is known,drive chain 30 is engaged withinput sprocket 28 at its upper end and with a driven sprocket, shown at 74, at its lower end. Driven sprocket 74 in turn is engaged with adrive shaft 76, which imparts rotation to the drive system components which movemobile storage unit 12 ontracks 14 in a conventional manner. - It can thus be appreciated that a
torque limiting mechanism 20 functions to couple the actuator handle 16 to theinput shaft 18 when an actuating force below a certain threshold is applied to theactuator handle 16. Thetorque limiting mechanism 20 functions to de-couple the actuator handle 16 from theinput shaft 18 when an excessive force is applied to the actuator handle 16 to isolate the components of the drive system from excessive force.Torque limiting mechanism 20 is relatively simple in its construction and operation, yet provides a highly effective means for protecting the components of the mobile storage unit drive system. Atorque limiting mechanism 20 may be a component of original manufacture or may be retrofitted in the field to existing, previously installedmobile storage units 12. - It should be understood that the specific embodiments of the present invention shown are representative of the types of torque limiting mechanisms which may be employed for preventing application of an excessive force to the components of the drive system driven by
input shaft 18. For example, another type of torque limiting mechanism, e.g. an overrunning clutch, may be used, and the torque limiting mechanism may be located at any position in the drive system ofmobile storage system 10, such as betweeninput shaft 18 and drivesprocket 28.Torque limiting mechanism 20 is therefore not limited to the specific location shown and described. - Various alternatives and embodiments are contemplated as being within the scope of the following claims particularly pointing out and distinctly claiming the subject matter regarded as the invention.
Claims (24)
1. In a mobile storage system including one or more movable storage units and a drive arrangement associated with each storage unit for moving the storage unit in response to manual operation of an actuator, the improvement comprising a torque limiting mechanism interposed between the actuator and the drive arrangement, wherein the torque limiting mechanism is operable to prevent application of an actuating force to the drive arrangement exceeding a predetermined threshold.
2. The improvement of claim 1 , wherein the actuator includes a manually operable handle interconnected with the drive arrangement by means of an input shaft.
3. The improvement of claim 2 , wherein the drive arrangement further includes a flexible drive element engaged with an input drive member and an output driven member, wherein the input shaft is mounted to the drive member such that rotation of the input shaft by manual operation of the handle results in rotation of the driven member through the drive member and the flexible drive element.
4. The improvement of claim 2 , wherein the torque limiting mechanism includes an input member interconnected with the input shaft, and a force-transferring arrangement interposed between the handle and the input member for transferring an actuating force below the predetermined threshold from the handle to the input member and for preventing transfer of force above the predetermined threshold from the handle to the input member.
5. The improvement of claim 4 , wherein the force-transferring arrangement comprises one or more selective engagement members engaged with the handle and with the input member.
6. The improvement of claim 5 , further comprising a biasing element for urging each engagement member toward an engaged position in which each engagement member engages the handle with the input member, wherein application of a force to the handle above the predetermined threshold is operable to move each engagement member away from its engaged position against the force of the biasing element.
7. The improvement of claim 6 , further comprising an adjustment arrangement associated with the biasing element for varying the force applied to the engagement member so as to adjust the predetermined threshold of force which moves the engagement member away from the engaged position.
8. The improvement of claim 5 , wherein the one or more selective engagement members comprise one or more spherical engagement members engaged with the handle and with the input member by means of engagement structure associated with the input member and with the handle, wherein each engagement member is normally in an engaged position in which the engagement member is engaged with the engagement structure of the input member and the handle.
9. The improvement of claim 8 , further comprising a biasing element for urging each engagement member toward its engaged position.
10. The improvement of claim 8 , wherein the handle is removably mounted to a hub and wherein the engagement structure associated with the handle is formed on the hub.
11. The improvement of claim 10 , wherein the hub defines a passage within which the input shaft is received.
12. The improvement of claim 11 , further comprising a retainer arrangement for retaining the hub on the input shaft, wherein the hub and the input member define spaced, facing surfaces within which are formed the engagement structure associated with the input member and the engagement structure associated with the handle.
13. The improvement of claim 4 , wherein the input member is rigidly mounted to the input shaft and wherein the hub defines a passage within which the input shaft is received, and further comprising a retainer member engageable with the input shaft for maintaining the hub in engagement with the input shaft, and wherein the force-transferring arrangement is operable to selectively couple the hub to the input member.
14. The improvement of claim 4 , wherein the force-transferring arrangement comprises a friction disc interposed between the handle and the input member.
15. The improvement of claim 14 , further comprising biasing means for biasing the handle toward the input member so as to couple the handle to the input member through the friction disc.
16. The improvement of claim 15 , wherein the handle is engaged with the input member through a threaded member engageable with the input member, and wherein the biasing means comprises a spring washer arrangement enable with the threaded member and with the handle, wherein adjustment of the threaded member relative to the input member functions to adjust the biasing force applied by the spring washer arrangement for varying the frictional engagement of the handle with the input member through the friction disc.
17. A drive arrangement for a mobile storage unit, comprising:
a drive member;
a driven member;
a flexible drive element engaged with the drive member and the driven member;
a manually operable actuator mounted to the mobile storage unit; and
a torque limiting mechanism interposed between the actuator and the drive member, wherein the torque limiting mechanism is operable to prevent transfer of force to the drive member from the actuator exceeding a predetermined threshold.
18. The drive arrangement of claim 17 , wherein the drive member is interconnected with a rotatable input member and wherein the manually operable actuator is interconnected with a hub, and wherein the torque limiting mechanism is operable to selectively couple the hub with the input member.
19. The drive arrangement of claim 18 , wherein the torque limiting mechanism comprises one or more engagement members movable between a normally engaged position in which the engagement members engage the input member with the hub, and a disengaged position in response to application of a force exceeding the predetermined threshold to the handle to disengage the input member and the hub.
20. The drive arrangement of claim 18 , wherein the torque limiting mechanism comprises a friction engagement member interposed between the input member and the hub, wherein the frictional engagement member is operable to transfer force from the hub to the input member below a predetermined threshold, and wherein the frictional engagement member is operable to provide slippage of the hub relative to the input member upon application of a force to the actuator exceeding the predetermined threshold.
21. A method of actuating a mechanical drive system interconnected with a mobile storage unit which includes a drive system and an actuator member, comprising the steps of:
selectively engaging the actuator member with the drive system when the actuator handle is subjected to a force below a predetermined threshold; and
disengaging the actuator member from the drive system when the force on the actuator member exceeds the predetermined threshold.
22. The method of claim 21 , wherein the step of selectively engaging the actuator member with the drive system is carried out by releasably engaging one or more engagement members with an input member interconnected with the drive system and with a hub member interconnected with the actuator member.
23. The method of claim 22 , further comprising the step of biasing each engagement member toward an engaged position in which the engagement member couples the hub to the input member, and wherein the step of selectively releasing engagement of the actuator member with the drive system is carried out by moving the one or more engagement members to a disengaged position to de-couple the hub and the input member while the one or more engagement members are biased toward the engaged position.
24. The method of claim 21 , wherein the step of selectively engaging the actuator member with the drive system is carried out by operation of a frictional engagement member interconnected between the drive system and the actuator member, wherein the frictional engagement member is operable to transfer a rotational force from the actuator member to the drive system below a predetermined threshold, and for preventing transfer force from the actuator member to the drive system above the predetermined threshold.
Priority Applications (1)
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US10/649,848 US20040035811A1 (en) | 2000-02-29 | 2003-08-26 | Torque limiting method for a mechanical assist mobile storage system |
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US10/649,848 US20040035811A1 (en) | 2000-02-29 | 2003-08-26 | Torque limiting method for a mechanical assist mobile storage system |
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US20080116351A1 (en) * | 2006-11-22 | 2008-05-22 | General Electric Company | Gantry system for imaging device |
CN111703276A (en) * | 2019-03-18 | 2020-09-25 | 费希尔汽车系统有限责任两合公司 | Rotary operating element for operating a ventilation nozzle in the interior of a motor vehicle |
US11103061B2 (en) * | 2017-11-24 | 2021-08-31 | Antonello Briosi | Modular framework for shelving |
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ITMI20030335U1 (en) * | 2003-07-17 | 2005-01-18 | Elesa Spa | CONTROL HANDWHEEL INCORPORATING MEANS OF BLOCK |
GB0405142D0 (en) | 2004-03-06 | 2004-04-07 | Brookes Gordon R | Improvements to motorised mobile shelving systems |
AU2005200825B2 (en) * | 2004-03-19 | 2006-08-17 | Nairan Pty. Ltd. | Improvements in mobile storage furniture |
US20100319479A1 (en) * | 2009-06-19 | 2010-12-23 | Elkhart Brass Manufacturing Company, Inc. | Surface mount rotary control |
ES2394267T3 (en) * | 2010-02-11 | 2013-01-30 | Siemens Aktiengesellschaft | Actuating valve regulator with overload coupling |
ITMI20100441A1 (en) * | 2010-03-18 | 2011-09-19 | Addicalco Concessionaria S R L | DEVICE FOR THE MOVEMENT OF AN ARCHIVE FILE WITH MOBILE WARDROBES AND FURNITURE ARCHIVE |
US11104545B2 (en) * | 2018-12-10 | 2021-08-31 | Otis Elevator Company | Elevator safety actuator systems |
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US4138173A (en) * | 1976-02-23 | 1979-02-06 | Kongo Co., Ltd. | Device for anchoring movable box-shaped shelf assembly |
US4153312A (en) * | 1976-08-12 | 1979-05-08 | Kongo Co., Ltd. | Mobile rack system |
US4256355A (en) * | 1976-12-22 | 1981-03-17 | Elecompack Company Ltd. | Locking and unlocking device for manually movable wheeled storage rack or the like |
US4746320A (en) * | 1979-12-14 | 1988-05-24 | Unidynamics Corporation | Torque limiting clutch |
US4368857A (en) * | 1981-01-09 | 1983-01-18 | Cool Spool, Inc. | Fishing reel drag |
US4559027A (en) * | 1982-05-21 | 1985-12-17 | Spacesaver Corporation | Chain tightener for drive chain |
US4619437A (en) * | 1984-02-17 | 1986-10-28 | Williams William J | Adjustable torque limiting valve handle |
US4840083A (en) * | 1988-03-14 | 1989-06-20 | Elco Industries, Inc. | Device for dampening rotary motion |
US5139318A (en) * | 1988-08-01 | 1992-08-18 | The Secretary Of State For Defence In Her Britannic Majesty's Government Of The United Kingdom Of Great Britain And Northern Ireland | Transfer arrangement for sealable enclosure |
US5148754A (en) * | 1991-03-11 | 1992-09-22 | Tab Products Company | Carriage lock for a mobile storage system with rotatable actuator knob |
US5256335A (en) * | 1992-11-09 | 1993-10-26 | Shell Oil Company | Conductive polyketone polymers |
US6073512A (en) * | 1998-12-14 | 2000-06-13 | Delaware Capital Formation, Inc. | Manual quick change tool changer |
Cited By (3)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20080116351A1 (en) * | 2006-11-22 | 2008-05-22 | General Electric Company | Gantry system for imaging device |
US11103061B2 (en) * | 2017-11-24 | 2021-08-31 | Antonello Briosi | Modular framework for shelving |
CN111703276A (en) * | 2019-03-18 | 2020-09-25 | 费希尔汽车系统有限责任两合公司 | Rotary operating element for operating a ventilation nozzle in the interior of a motor vehicle |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
US6763742B1 (en) | 2004-07-20 |
MXPA01001717A (en) | 2003-05-14 |
GB0103631D0 (en) | 2001-03-28 |
GB2360071A (en) | 2001-09-12 |
CA2333810A1 (en) | 2001-08-29 |
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Legal Events
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STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |