Abstract: A platform for processing a workpiece includes a transmission mechanism, a plurality of workstations and a plurality of movable vehicles. The transmission mechanism transports the workpiece to be processed to one of the plurality of workstations. Each movable vehicle includes a processing module and a docking interface adapted to connect with a docking station of each workstation. The movable vehicles are each adapted to move in and out of each workstation, and each processing module is adapted to process the workpiece transmitted to the workstation after the movable vehicle is moved in and positioned in the workstation.

Abstract: A revolving shelf system including first and second side plates configured to be mounted on opposite side walls of a cabinet, a drive track configured to extend from an inner front face to an outer back face of each of the first and second side plates, at least one shelf member having first and second ends connected to the drive track, and a drive mechanism located on the outer back face of at least one of the first and second side plates, the drive mechanism configured to move with a rotation motion the at least one shelf member about the drive track.

Abstract: A system and method for a rotary drive for a curved track section of a conveyor. The system includes: a rotary motor; a wheel provided to the curved track section and driven by the rotary motor, the wheel includes an engagement mechanism configured to engage with a moving element; and a control system configured to control the wheel/rotary motor, such that the engagement mechanism engages a moving element adjacent a beginning of the curved track section and controls the moving element through the curved track section and releases the moving element adjacent an end of the curved track section. The method includes: moving a moving element toward the curved track section; controlling at least one of the moving element and a wheel such that the moving element and the wheel engage; controlling the moving element on the curved track section; and releasing the moving element.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device and a method for controlling a steep conveyor, comprising a control unit (15), a conveyor drive system (5) for driving a conveyor belt (2), and a sensor unit for determining a weight G1-n of the material to be conveyed (4) assigned to a predetermined section T1-n of the conveyor belt (2), wherein the sensor unit is adapted to transmit information about the weight to the control unit (15), wherein the control unit (15) is adapted to determine from the information about the weight G1-n a length L1-n assigned to the predetermined section T1-n in a steep conveyor region S of the conveyor belt (2) and to adjust a strain of a drive belt (2) of the conveyor drive system (5) based on the determined lengths L1-n assigned to the predetermined sections T1-n.

Abstract: A line is disclosed for producing logs of web material provided with a system for controlling, in real time, one or more parameters of the logs produced by the line and for facilitating any corrective actions. The line includes a rewinder, a feed path for the logs from the rewinder towards at least one station arranged downstream of the rewinder; and a measurement station. The measurement station includes at least a measurement device for measuring at least one parameter of logs randomly selected from the feed path and held in the measurement station, for example a device for measuring the firmness of the logs. The measurement station further includes first transferring members for transferring selected logs from the feed path to the measurement station, and second transferring members for transferring selected logs from the measurement station to the feed path.

Abstract: A revolving shelf system including side plates to be mounted on opposite side walls of a cabinet, a drive track on a face of each of the side plates, a plurality of guide tracks on the faces of the side plates, a plurality of shelves, a drive pin arranged on each end of the shelves, and configured to extend respectively into each of the drive tracks, a plurality of guide pins arranged on each end of the shelves, and configured to extend respectively into corresponding ones of the guide tracks, a drive chain arranged in each of the side plates to respectively drive the drive pins, and a motor to transmit driving power to the drive chains, wherein the shelves move with a rotation of the drive chains, and the drive and guide pins remain extended into the respective drive and guide pin tracks at any position of the shelves.

Abstract: The temporary store has circulating continuous chains on both sides of the product conveyor section, said continuous chains running through vertical chain loops via upper and lower deflections. Product carrier gondolas with product carriers are suspended on the chains, said product carriers being used to receive incoming products and convey the products to a product outlet. Each chain runs through an inlet-side and an outlet-side vertical loop. The upper deflections of the chain loops can be moved vertically in opposite directions.

Abstract: A people conveyor (10) comprises a conveying band (12) including a plurality of conveying elements (13); a truss (8) supporting the conveying band (12); a motor (24), which is mounted to the truss (8) and which is configured for driving the conveying band (12); and a force sensor (26). The force sensor (26) is arranged between the motor (24) and the truss (8) and is configured for measuring a force which is exerted by the motor (24) on the truss (8).

Abstract: A roller system has a frame, a plurality of rollers (supported by the frame) forming a roller plane, and an external rotor motor (“motor”) spaced from the roller plane. As an external rotor motor, the motor has a stator and an external rotor radially outward of the stator to substantially circumscribe the stator. To kinetically couple the motor with the rollers, the system also has a transmission coupling coupled with the external rotor and at least one of the rollers. The transmission coupling and external rotor are configured so that rotation of the external rotor causes the at least one roller to rotate in response to a torque received through the transmission coupling.

Abstract: A method of thermal processing a work piece using another work piece which includes providing a chamber having a plurality of temperature zones, disposing a first work piece within a first temperature zone of the chamber, allowing a temperature of the first work piece to thermally equilibrate with the first temperature zone, moving the first work piece to a second temperature zone and disposing a second work piece within the second temperature zone of the chamber, in fluid communication with the first work piece, wherein a thermal exchange occurs between the first and second work pieces.

Abstract: A system for feeding washing racks to an entrance of a washer, comprising: a directionally alternating transfer conveyor positioned at, and able to communicate said washing racks with, said entrance of said washer; said conveyor having a first receiving mode, a second receiving mode, and a discharge mode; and a pre-wash enclosure substantially surrounding said conveyor and including a first and second door, said first and said second door each actuable between an open position and a closed position; and a pre-wash selective water flow interior of said pre-wash enclosure and directed generally toward said conveyor.

Abstract: A drive unit for a roller conveyor assembly having a motor and an integrated motor controller. The controller is mounted on a circuit board and connected to the rear of the motor housing. A cover for the controller substantially encloses the controller. An opening in the cover allows access to a terminal block from the controller. The terminal block receives wiring to external devices and to other zone controllers. Wiring between the circuit board for the controller and the motor is performed as a step in the assembly of the integrated motor and controller. The motor and controller are configured to be mounted below the rollers and between the side frames of a conveyor assembly. An output shaft from the motor is coupled to the rollers to power the conveyor assembly.

Abstract: A drive unit for a roller conveyor assembly having a motor and an integrated motor controller. The controller is mounted on a circuit board and connected to the rear of the motor housing. A cover for the controller substantially encloses the controller. An opening in the cover allows access to a terminal block from the controller. The terminal block receives wiring to external devices and to other zone controllers. Wiring between the circuit board for the controller and the motor is performed as a step in the assembly of the integrated motor and controller. The motor and controller are configured to be mounted below the rollers and between the side frames of a conveyor assembly. An output shaft from the motor is coupled to the rollers to power the conveyor assembly.

Abstract: A container treatment machine with at least one gripper, which can be compulsorily transported along a predetermined transport section for handling a preform or container during transport and/or acceptance and/or delivery, and including, at a holder retaining at least two gripper claws, at least one controllable electric or magnetic drive for the gripper claws, where the gripper claws can be moved relative to each other in opening and closing directions and at least between defined gripping and release positions, and where each gripper claw can be individually separately actuated by the drive in the opening and/or closing direction relative to another gripper claw of the gripper. Alternately, both gripper claws can be actuated together in the same direction.

Abstract: A carousel according to the invention uses a number of smaller, less expensive drive units at different locations along the carousel path in place of a single larger drive unit of comparable capacity. Closed loop control according to the invention allows individual drives to be de-energized when the power requirements do not demand their usage. When not energized, the drives may be disengaged from the chain, such as by way of a linear actuator as described hereafter. Benefits of such a system include reduced mechanical costs, longer drive life, better redundancy/higher availability, correct drive power, lower energy use, closed loop system monitoring and reduced collateral damage.

Abstract: A carousel according to the invention uses a number of smaller, less expensive drive units at different locations along the carousel path in place of a single larger drive unit of comparable capacity. Closed loop control according to the invention allows individual drives to be de-energized when the power requirements do not demand their usage. When not energized, the drives may be disengaged from the chain, such as by means of a linear actuator as described hereafter. Benefits of such a system include reduced mechanical costs, longer drive life, better redundancy/higher availability, correct drive power, lower energy use, closed loop system monitoring and reduced collateral damage.

Abstract: A high speed manufacturing system for processing articles of manufacture requiring processes to be performed on the articles at a pre-selected processing rate includes a trunk for simultaneously conveying a plurality of the articles of manufacture at the pre-selected processing rate in a first mode of motion from the beginning of the manufacturing system to the end of the system. At least one branch processing station is positioned intermediate the beginning and the end of the trunk wherein the branch processing station during its operation performs at least one process on articles of manufacture conveyed on the branch processing station and where the articles are conveyed in a second mode of motion.

Abstract: A high speed manufacturing system for processing articles of manufacture requiring processes to be performed on the articles at a pre-selected processing rate includes a trunk for simultaneously conveying a plurality of the articles of manufacture at the pre-selected processing rate in a first mode of motion from the beginning of the manufacturing system to the end of the system. At least one branch processing station is positioned intermediate the beginning and the end of the trunk wherein the branch processing station during its operation performs at least one process on articles of manufacture conveyed on the branch processing station and where the articles are conveyed in a second mode of motion.

Abstract: A high speed manufacturing system for processing articles of manufacture requiring processes to be performed on the articles at a pre-selected processing rate includes a trunk for simultaneously conveying a plurality of the articles of manufacture at the pre-selected processing rate in a first mode of motion from the beginning of the manufacturing system to the end of the system. At least one branch processing station is positioned intermediate the beginning and the end of the trunk wherein the branch processing station during its operation performs at least one process on articles of manufacture conveyed on the branch processing station and where the articles are conveyed in a second mode of motion.

Abstract: A high speed manufacturing system for processing articles of manufacture requiring processes to be performed on the articles at a pre-selected processing rate includes a trunk for simultaneously conveying a plurality of the articles of manufacture at the pre-selected processing rate in a first mode of motion from the beginning of the manufacturing system to the end of the system. At least one branch processing station is positioned intermediate the beginning and the end of the trunk wherein the branch processing station during its operation performs at least one process on articles of manufacture conveyed on the branch processing station and where the articles are conveyed in a second mode of motion.

Abstract: A chain conveyor (2), for example a carousel forming an internal revolving stock for a machine (1) for a logistic installation such as for sorting flat objects or a baggage conveyor for an airport environment or similar, the chain of the conveyor (2) being composed of stretches of chain implemented from at least one fixed-length link, distinctly self-conveyed and guided in a guide rail (3), two adjacent stretches being connected notably by a link with variable and/or adjustable pitch, this conveyor having adjustment means (10) and detection means.

Abstract: Two turntables 41L, 41R that rotate on a perpendicular axis are arranged in parallel along a moving passage; a surface of each of the tables 41L, 41R is divided into three sections; and in trays 61L, 62L, 63L (61R, 62R, 63R) placed in the sections, respectively, parts “&agr;”, “&bgr;”, and “&ggr;” corresponding to a type of a center cluster W in which the parts are built (“&agr;′”, “&bgr;′”, and “&ggr;′” which are different from the “&agr;”, “&bgr;”, and “&ggr;” in a kind of the parts though they are the same as the “&agr;”, “&bgr;”, and “&ggr;” in the type of the center cluster W) are put.

Abstract: In order to be able to carry out in a vessel cleaning machine with a circulating conveyor chain a safe, reliable and fast inspection of the interior of the vessel cleaning machine, an inspection device is arranged on the conveyor chain. The inspection device is provided with sensors and/or cameras.

Abstract: A storage unit for the temporary storage of rolls, arranged between a first section and a second section of a production line, is described which includes an endless flexible member defining a closed path within the storage unit and bearing a plurality of seats for the rolls, the seats being subdivided into a first group of empty seats and a second group of full seats; an input feeder for controlled distribution of rolls arriving from the first section to the seats of the first group; an output feeder for controlled discharge of rolls from the seats of the second group toward the second section; a first motor for advancing the seats of the first group toward the input feeder and; a second motor for advancing the seats of the second group toward the output feeder. The first and second motors have first and second independently adjustable continuous speeds, respectively. Further, the first and second motors move the flexible member at a continuous but variable speed.

Abstract: A multidirectional belt-type conveyor includes a base supporting a motor-driven conveyor belt formed in a continuous closed loop and supporting articles to be conveyed. The conveyor belt is mounted on the base such that the closed loop forms the multidirectional path in a generally horizontal direction, thereby permitting the conveyor belt to convey the articles along the multidirectional path.

Abstract: A conveyor system for transporting a plurality of liquid-filled containers each having an open top is set forth. The conveyor system comprises a conveyor for supporting the plurality of liquid-filled containers. The conveyor is driven by a servomotor. A programmable servomotor control system is connected to control movement of the servomotor in indexed steps in accordance with a programmed motion profile. The programmed motion profile includes a move portion and a dwell portion, the move portion being substantially non-jerk limited. The non-jerk limited motion profile may take on many different characteristics.

Abstract: The forks of a conveyor tray are hingedly mounted between two end forks rdly interconnected by a cross-bar and through which electrically powered drive chains impart movement to the tray along a vertical conveyor path. The hingedly mounted tray forks are releasably held in normal load-supporting positions on the cross-bar in alignment with the two end forks, so that they may be pivotally displaced upwardly from such positions by travel resistance forces in excess of a safety level.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an automated integrated work station for handling goods within distribution and production environments. In one of the preferred embodiments the work station is specifically adapted for consolidating goods.

Abstract: An improved vertical lift conveyor for moving articles between different heights, in a generally rectangular path of travel, utilizing at least one cantilevered platform. A first drive is rotatably secured to a support structure, and a second drive of equal length, is rotatably secured to the opposite side of the support structure, in parallel, vertically offset alignment. The first and second drive are secured to side supports by a plurality of rotating devices which define a generally rectangular path of travel. Channel are aligned with the first and second drive and secured to the support structure. First and second mounting brackets are secured on opposite sides of the cantilevered platform, in vertically offset alignment. The first and second mounting brackets are preferably adjustably secured for ease of alignment at asssembly. First and second horizontal pins are secured to the respective first and second drive in alignment with the first and second mounting brackets.

Abstract: A self-adaptive stacker comprising infeed and stacking sections whose movement is coordinated to provide interception of the signature stream. A microprocessor utilizes a signal, representative of the infeed conveyor speed, together with a signal from a signature counter, to track the movement of each signature and thereby its arrival at the intercept position. Low armature inertia motors drive the three axes, (stacking section, the turntable, and the ejectors) to provide rapid starting, acceleration, deceleration, and stopping at selected positions. These motors are controlled to interact in real-time in order to adapt the three axes to the rate of the incoming signatures. The movement of the signature carriers is altered, when necessary, due to speed changes of the signature stream.

Abstract: The present invention provides a circulating rack having an electric drive which can be pivoted, to a limited degree, in opposed directions dependent upon the transmitted torque of the electric drive. The drive is mounted on a pivotal rocker element which is displaced against the force of two counteracting elastically deformable abutments. A torque transmitted by the electric drive to overcome non-uniform loading of the circulating rack system causes the pivotal rocker to be displaced in either a clockwise or counterclockwise direction. A displacement measuring sensor measures the extent of pivotal movement of the rocker to provide an indication of the non-uniform loading condition so that corrective action may be taken. If the rocker is pivoted beyond a predetermined range, as for example that caused by a severe overloading condition, the displacement measuring sensor will cause the electric drive to turn off and prevent further circulation of the system until the overload has been corrected.

Abstract: A control system for vertical storage equipment requires only two sensing devices, in combination with a microprocessor controller, for positioning a selected article carrier at a specified work station. One sensor senses a reference mark having a direct speed and position relation with the carriers. The second sensor senses at least one reference mark mounted to a high speed member in the drive mechanism used to move the carriers. By sensing the high speed member, the resolution of the control system is greatly increased, thereby providing the control system with increased accuracy and versatility. A flywheel having a relative inertia greater than the total of the remaining moving parts is preferably employed to negate the influence of carrier loading conditions on control system smoothness and accuracy.

Abstract: Positioning apparatus is disclosed which positions an object with respect to two predetermined lateral positions. In addition, the object is indexable by the apparatus in a step-by-step manner in an incidental direction with respect to each of the two lateral positions. It includes an endless sprocket chain entrained about two sprocket wheels. The chain carries a first member which is pivotably connected to the chain. A second member is affixed to the first member and is adapted to support the object. The second member is slidably mounted to a movable third member which in turn is guided by guiding means such as rails that guides the third member means in a predetermined aligned relationship with the reaches of the chain. In addition, chain guide means guide the chain along the first and second reaches. Driver means are coupled to one of the sprocket wheels to drive the endless chain.

Abstract: A carousel according to the invention uses a number of smaller, less expensive drive units at different locations along the carousel path in place of a single larger drive unit of comparable capacity. Closed loop control according to the invention allows individual drives to be de-energized when the power requirements do not demand their usage. When not energized, the drives may be disengaged from the chain, such as by way of a linear actuator as described hereafter. Benefits of such a system include reduced mechanical costs, longer drive life, better redundancy/higher availability, correct drive power, lower energy use, closed loop system monitoring and reduced collateral damage.