Abstract: A dynamic routing method and apparatus for an Overhead Hoist Transport (OHT) system are disclosed. The present disclosure in some embodiments provides a dynamic routing method for an OHT system, including generating a Q table of records of at least one Q value which is a time for a vehicle to move through an edge between two adjacent nodes to a node other than the two adjacent nodes, measuring a transit time of the vehicle when assigned a destination node and passing a transit edge between a current node and next node, extracting target edges to be updated according to the transit time from a plurality of edges, and differentially updating Q values for the target edges according to distances to the transit edge partially based on the transit time, the Q values for the target edges being time values for the vehicle to move through the target edges to the destination node.

Abstract: A linear conveyor device is installed on a platform having an upper surface which serves as a predetermined installation surface. The linear conveyor device includes a linear motor stator; a slider which includes a linear motor mover; a straight-line conveyance part formed by linearly connecting a plurality of modules to each other, the modules each including a base frame that has an upper surface having guide rails for guiding the movement of the slider and a lower surface facing the platform; and a base member disposed between the upper surface of the platform and the lower surfaces of the modules at a connecting portion between the modules, and configured to position and support the pair of modules to be connected to each other.

Abstract: A multiple parts moving system used in a production line, and more particularly, to a multiple parts moving system capable of moving a plurality of parts to be moved individually or uniformly in a production line, the multiple parts moving system including: a main frame; a stroke motion motor that is mounted on the main frame; a first holding portion that is connected to the stroke motion motor to be interlocked with the stroke motion motor and that fixes parts to be moved selectively; and a second holding portion that is connected to the main frame to be fixed onto the main frame and fixes the parts to be moved selectively.

Abstract: An assembly line, wherein at least one operating branch of fixed length accommodates a number of platforms aligned with one another and with a given travelling direction; each platform being designed to receive a respective vehicle body, feed it in the travelling direction, and subject it to a succession of n assembly operations along the operating branch; each platform being designed for connection to at least one longitudinal extension to assume a total length, which depends on the length of the body carried, and ranges between a minimum length equal to the length of the platform with no extension, and a maximum length; and the length of the operating branch being equal to n times the maximum length.

Abstract: An approach is provided to sort objects on a surface of vertically-adjustable low friction transfer modules that are controlled by processors. A request to sort the plurality of objects in a horizontal direction is received with each of the objects is assigned a sort position. Sets of the vertically-adjustable low friction transfer modules are selected. The vertically-adjustable low friction transfer modules are arranged in a grid formation on the surface, with each of the sets of selected transfer modules being underneath a different object. The sets of selected transfer modules are vertically adjusted causing each of the objects to move independently from the other objects while avoiding the other objects in two or more dimensions formed on the surface. The result of the movement is that each of the objects is moved to a position respective of the other objects according to each object's respective sort position.

Abstract: An approach is provided to sort objects on a surface of vertically-adjustable low friction transfer modules that are controlled by processors. A request to sort the plurality of objects in a horizontal direction is received with each of the objects is assigned a sort position. Sets of the vertically-adjustable low friction transfer modules are selected. The vertically-adjustable low friction transfer modules are arranged in a grid formation on the surface, with each of the sets of selected transfer modules being underneath a different object. The sets of selected transfer modules are vertically adjusted causing each of the objects to move independently from the other objects while avoiding the other objects in two or more dimensions formed on the surface. The result of the movement is that each of the objects is moved to a position respective of the other objects according to each object's respective sort position.

Abstract: A device for transferring objects, in particular parisons (3) or bottles (2), has a carousel (10) able to rotate about a predetermined axis (X), an object (2, 3) pick up element (14), a supporting arm (16) for the pick up element (14) connected to the carousel (10), the pick up element (14) having at least three degrees of freedom relative to the carousel (10), a cam (12) for guiding the arm (16) and the pick up element (14), having a predetermined number of tracks (22, 23, 24), for moving the pick up element (14) along a predetermined path (P); the cam (12) has a fixed portion (25) and at least one removable portion (26) connected to the fixed portion (25), the removable portion (26) having a predetermined profile and there being the possibility of substituting it with other removable portions having a different profile to the portion (26).

Abstract: A conveyor device for coins, having a mechanism for moving at least one coin in a predetermined movement direction which differs from the effective direction of gravity, under a force uninfluenced by a moved mechanical component, the conveyor device being coupled to a detection device which identifies the presence of the coin, in order to accelerate the coins in the predetermined movement direction in accordance with requirements.

Abstract: A system that includes at least a first, a second and a third three-dimensional element, each element including a centre point in the element, a motion-guiding module, coupled to the centre point and defining a predefined trajectory over the element, a motion module, adapted for displacing the centre point with respect to a second centre point of one of the other elements using the motion-guiding module of that other element, a motion-restriction module, adapted for limiting the displacement of said centre point with respect to the second centre point to at least one trajectory selected from the group consisting of the predefined trajectory and a second predefined trajectory of the other element.

Abstract: A laboratory sample distribution system is presented. The system comprises a plurality of container carriers. The container carriers each comprise at least one magnetically active device such as, for example, at least one permanent magnet, and carry a sample container containing a sample. The system also comprises a transport device. The transport device comprises a transport plane to carry the plurality of container carriers and a plurality of electro-magnetic actuators stationary arranged below the transport plane. The electro-magnetic actuators move a container carrier placed on top of the transport plane by applying a magnetic force to the container carrier. The transport device also comprises a control device to control the movement of the container carriers on top of the transport plane by driving the electro-magnetic actuators. The control device controls the movement such that more than two container carriers are movable simultaneously and independently from one another.

Abstract: A multiple parts moving system used in a production line, and more particularly, to a multiple parts moving system capable of moving a plurality of parts to be moved individually or uniformly in a production line, the multiple parts moving system including: a main frame; a stroke motion motor that is mounted on the main frame; a first holding portion that is connected to the stroke motion motor to be interlocked with the stroke motion motor and that fixes parts to be moved selectively; and a second holding portion that is connected to the main frame to be fixed onto the main frame and fixes the parts to be moved selectively.

Abstract: The thin panel conveyance unit used for piling up and conveying a plurality of rectangular thin panels includes: resin cushion spacers inserted between the rectangular thin panels, each resin cushion spacer having a load-receiving upper surface for receiving load of the rectangular thin panel disposed above and a placement lower surface placed on an upper surface of the rectangular thin panel disposed below, and having an end part provided with a positioning body for the resin cushion spacer; a pallet having an upper surface configured to allow the rectangular thin panels to be piled up thereon; and a protection sleeve surrounding the piled rectangular thin pallets. The upper surface of the pallet is provided with a peripheral groove in which the protection sleeve can be fitted.

Abstract: A driven roller is engageable with a screw shaft and an engaged member is engageable with a pusher of a chain conveyor. The engaged member is projected on the downside of at least one of front and rear trolleys of a conveying traveling body. A conveyed object support base supported via vertical columns of both trolleys includes a driven roller support member composed of an upper column projected downward and aligned in a vertical plane passing through the vertical columns, and a lower arm. The driven roller is pivotally supported by the lower arm at a position higher than a load bar coupling both trolleys.

Abstract: A conveying system includes rolling bodies each with a rolling element cage and rolling elements. The rolling elements are arranged in recesses of the rolling element cage and for the rolling in a guide channel. In each case two or three or more rolling elements form a roller set, and the rolling elements of a roller set roll on one another as well as on the guide channel, and at least one roller set is present per rolling body. The conveying system includes at least two guide channels which run at an essentially constant distance to one another and together form a guide path; and at least two rolling bodies are connected to one other by way of a connection element, into a conveying element, and the conveying element with its at least two rolling bodies is movable in at least two guide channels along the guide path.

Abstract: A conveyance system includes a traveling member to transport an article installed for movement along a travel guide. A drive source arranged to drive the traveling member is a linear motor including an armature, disposed along the travel guide, and a mover on the secondary side installed on the traveling member. The travel guide includes a rectilinear section and a curved section. The armatures of the linear motor are spaced at a distance from each other and arranged such that a plurality of the armatures are arranged along the rectilinear section and the curved section of the travel guide. The travel guide is arranged to accommodate a plurality of traveling members mounted thereon.

Abstract: An automated guided vehicle is equipped with a stabilization system for precisely locating, leveling, or otherwise positioning the AGV and its payload with respect to a work piece. The stabilization system includes one or more extension members that extend away from the AGV to engage the ground or a locating assembly installed in the ground. Each extension member may be part of a locating assembly or a leveling assembly. The locating assembly extension member may extend at least partially into an opening of another locating assembly to align the two locating assemblies. The locating assembly may also be configured to provide a leveling function.

Abstract: A conveyor unit which can be displaced for conveying vehicle bodies and which includes a bogie assembly and a coupling device which is connected to the bogie assembly and which is configured such that it interacts with the base areas of the vehicle body which are upwardly orientated to the roof. Also a conveyor system having at least one conveyor unit of such type and a plant for machining vehicle bodies. Vehicle bodies are conveyed by a conveyor system between and/or in machining stations, said plant also including such a conveyor system.

Abstract: A learning control device performs a positioning process, a first image capturing process, and a first deviation amount calculating process in which a reference position deviation amount in the horizontal direction between the imaging reference position and a detection mark is derived based on image information captured in the first image capturing process to derive a position adjustment amount from the derived reference position deviation amount, and the learning control device further includes a positioning correcting process in which the position adjustment device is operated to adjust a position of the second learn assist member based on the derived movement adjustment amount when the reference position deviation amount derived in the first deviation amount calculating process falls outside a set tolerance range. A second image capturing process, and a second deviation amount calculating process may be further provided.

Abstract: A continuous sharp chain conveyor system is disclosed wherein a workpiece may be elevated from the sharp chain conveyor while the workpiece is transported down the sharp chain conveyor such that the workpiece may be rotated to maintain the workpiece in an optimized position. The system includes a sharp chain which engages the workpiece, a first and a second skid positionable in parallel alignment with the sharp chain to elevate and lower the workpiece relative to the sharp chain, and pairs of rotatable positioning drive rolls positionable along the sharp chain to rotate the workpiece when the workpiece is elevated. The system may also include a plurality of hold-down rolls to maintain the workpiece on the sharp chain by exerting downward pressure on the workpiece. The pairs of rotatable positioning drive rolls may cooperatively displace the workpiece laterally and/or independently angularly displace the workpiece relative to the longitudinal centreline of the sharp chain.

Abstract: An example adjustable part loader system includes a first loader adjacent a base and adjustable along the base having a first motor and a second loader adjacent the base and adjustable along the base having a second motor. The second loader is aligned with the first loader along the base in a position relative to a dimension of a first part to be loaded. The first loader and the second loader each carry a distinct portion of the same part. The first loader is adjustable relative to the second loader. A controller system in communication with the first loader and the second loader and controls both simultaneously.

Abstract: A sortation conveyor includes a method of calibrating the control system to provide a calibration value indicative of the spacial correlation between the sort induct sensor and the first shoe sensor.

Abstract: The gluing device includes a log feeding path that extends at least partially between a flexible conveying member and a feeding surface; and a log inserter that sequentially introduces logs between the flexible conveying member and the feeding surface. The inserter includes a flexible input member, provided with pushing elements for pushing single logs between the flexible conveying member and the feeding surface.

Abstract: A device (1) is described herein for supplying rough-shaped sheets, made especially of cardboard, for making a corresponding package for housing respective cigarettes or the like. The device comprises means (11) for supporting and conveying sheets (A) along a respective path, which comprise first and second means (111, 112) that still-retain respective ends (A1, A2) of the sheet (A) along the advancement path.

Abstract: A conveying method for an artificial stone process comprises placing stone on a trolley equipped with a catch basin, the trolley traveling along a track set to carry the stone to a processing region which has a top bracing unit, when the trolley carrying the stone to the processing region, the catch basin being braced upwardly and separated from the trolley, an engaging mechanism receiving the catch basin and delivering it to a processing station, thereby processing the stone on the catch basin.

Abstract: An apparatus for singulating flat items has a first separator and a second separator. The two separators are connected in series. The apparatus is configured in such a way that each object to be separated first of all runs through the first separator and then through the second separator. Each separator is configured for extending a plurality of objects, which partially overlap, in each case in a perpendicular extending plane and separating them as a result. A lateral offset is set between the two separators. As a result, a spacing also occurs between the two extending planes.

Abstract: A substrate is held by adsorption by a substrate holding frame that is formed into a frame shape and is lightweight, and the substrate holding frame is driven along a horizontal plane by a drive unit that includes a linear motor. Below the substrate holding frame, a plurality of air levitation units are placed that support by levitation the substrate in a noncontact manner such that the substrate is substantially horizontal, by jetting air to the lower surface of the substrate. Since the plurality of air levitation units cover a movement range of the substrate holding frame, the drive unit can guide the substrate holding frame (substrate) along the horizontal plane at high speed and with high precision.

Abstract: Apparatus for use in an area of vehicular traffic is disclosed. The area is of the type having a vehicle receiving area whereat a stream of vehicles arrive, randomly spaced-apart from one another in time and further having a point to which vehicles travel from the vehicle receiving area. The apparatus comprises a transport device adapted to transport vehicles, in use, from the receiving area to the point at independently variable rates of speed to permit vehicles to be turned off at the receiving area while maintaining a flow of vehicles, spaced-apart from one another, to the point. The point can be a pinch point, whereat the speed of vehicular travel is constrained. The apparatus can form part of a drive-through restaurant, wherein the drive-through window defines the pinch point in use.

Abstract: A control system for a bank of analytical instruments operates the instruments as a group rather than singly. The system includes an autoloader at a sample preparation station into which an individual loads sample vials of unknown material. A second autoloader provides sample vials of known material that can be used to calibrate instruments. A computer controls the autoloader and a conveyor system to deliver a selected one of the vials to a selected instrument. The conveyor system includes a group of distributors, typically in series, to deliver a vial to any one of a large group of instruments. The conveyor system is preferably a pneumatic system including a receiver and technique for slowing the vials down when they approach the receiver. The receiver is positioned to deliver the vial to an autoinjector of the instrument. A computer monitors and communicates with the analytical instrument to obtain inputs to control components of the system.

Abstract: A dynamic storage for objects having an endless conveyor chain equipped with receptacles for the objects and having at least two contrarotating upper pulleys that are adjustable in height such that the conveyor chain forms two essentially vertical loops whose variable lengths are defined by the upper pulleys, the stationary lower pulleys rotating in essentially horizontal planes and being connected to the essentially vertical loops by curved guides for the conveyor chain.

Abstract: A work locating conveyer, including: a locator disposed on a conveyer carriage and configured to locate and support a work; a locating jig disposed on the respective locator and configured to locate and support the works having different configurations; and a driver. The driver includes: an original position mover configured to move a main locator in such a manner that the main locator follows a moving path on the conveyer carriage to an original position on the moving path, a jig returner configured to return the main locating jig to the non-use state, a jig locating mover configured to move the main locator from the original position to a certain locating position on the moving path, and a locating jig selective mover configured to move from the non-use state to the in-use state the main locating jig that is to be used.

Abstract: In a transport apparatus for the low-pressure transforming of a stream of bottles or the like into at least two separate single rows, comprising a multiple-lane feed conveyor, a plurality of single-lane discharge conveyors and an acceleration conveyor arranged therebetween and having a speed which increases in the transport direction, a plurality of diagonally oriented guides are provided at a distance from one another across the acceleration conveyor, which guides in each case guide a sub-stream of the stream of bottles coming from the feed conveyor across the sections of the common acceleration conveyor.

Abstract: An apparatus for transferring articles such as absorbent cores or disposable diaper chassis components from a rotary mechanism, such as a pad turner, to a linear mechanism, such as a conveyor, for further processing. A puck on the apparatus is capable of manipulating the article during this transfer procedure.

Abstract: Device comprising means of separating at least two sintering shoes for transporting nuclear fuel pellets capable of moving according to a first axis (X) and of which two end faces are in contact with one another, wherein said separating means are capable of moving at least one of the two sintering shoes close to said end faces in contact, according to a second vertical axis (Y) substantially orthogonal to the first axis (X).

Abstract: A continuous sharp chain conveyor system is disclosed wherein a workpiece may be elevated from the sharp chain conveyor while the workpiece is transported down the sharp chain conveyor such that the workpiece may be rotated to maintain the workpiece in an optimized position. The system includes a sharp chain which engages the workpiece, a first and a second skid positionable parallel alignment with the sharp chain to elevate and lower the workpiece relative to the sharp chain, and pairs of rotatable positioning drive rolls positionable along the sharp chain to rotate the workpiece when the workpiece is elevated. The system may also include a plurality of hold-down rolls to maintain the workpiece on the sharp chain by exerting downward pressure on the workpiece. The pairs of rotatable positioning drive rolls may cooperatively displace the workpiece laterally and/or independently angularly displace the workpiece relative to the longitudinal centreline of the sharp chain.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for the improved hanging transportation of an article having an uneven weight distribution that permits the article to hang in a balanced manner. The apparatus is attached to an overhead trolley and includes attachment plates rotatably secured to the overhead trolley and a plurality of chain assemblies. Each of the attachment plates define several chain mounting holes, with each of the chain mounting holes being formed at a predefined, individual radial spacing from a center mounting hole. By attaching the chain assembly to selected ones of the plurality of chain mounting holes, an effective chain length can be varied. The chain assemblies support the article, and adjusting the effective chain lengths permit the article to hang in a balanced manner.

Abstract: A system and method is described for treating workpieces, in particular vehicle wheels, especially in the context of a powder coating process, with a conveying device that guides the workpieces along a movement path through the arrangement. The conveying device comprises a conveyor. The workpieces can be arranged on spindle-shaped elements that are secured to the conveyor and that are rotatable about their own axis. The conveyor device comprises at least one means for generating a spatially and/or temporally altering magnetic field, which produces a force to rotate or stop the spindle-shaped elements.

Abstract: The invention relates to a system for transporting coat hangers employing a conveyor screw capable of being driven about its longitudinal axis by a driving system. The conveyor screw is adapted to convey, in a direction of transport, hook coat hangers to be transported. The driving system is coupled to the front end of the conveyor screw, as regarded in the direction of transport.

Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided for sorting items to a plurality of sort destinations. The items are loaded onto one of a plurality of independently controlled delivery vehicles. The delivery vehicles follow a track that guides the delivery vehicles to the sort destinations, which are positioned along the track. Once at the appropriate sort destination, the delivery vehicle ejects the item to the sort destination and returns to receive another item to be delivered.

Abstract: The device for transporting containers comprises a cogged belt which extends along a ring-wound trajectory and is wound on at least a pair of cogged wheels which are rotatable on vertical axes, and a plurality of regularly distanced support means borne on the external surface of the cogged belt, which receive respective containers. The cogged belt bears a plurality of skates constrained to the internal surface thereof which engage with guide means that are solidly restrained to a fixed structure of the device, in order to constitute a lateral constraint which prevents transversal movements and deformation of the cogged belt.

Abstract: A skid for supporting at least one object which is conveyable in a conveying direction inside a conveyor installation comprises at least two support runners disposed parallel to one another. Running means different from the support runners are fastened to the skid. In addition, a transfer station for transferring an above-mentioned skid from conveying means to a guide structure is specified. Also specified are a self-propelling drive unit with a chassis and a coupling device by means of which a skid can be coupled detachably to the chassis, a drive system for driving a skid and a conveyor installation, in which a drive unit is provided inside a conveying area.

Abstract: A patty-forming machine includes a food supply system where the drive mechanism for feed screws use integrated and compact motor and gearbox assemblies. The feed screws have heavy wall thickness flights and the feed screw shafts are journaled through modular bearing assemblies. A conveyor that forms the bottom of the hopper uses a sealed drum motor housed in the drive roller to drive the conveyor. A food supply system includes independent sensing means for indicating whenever the moldable food material accumulated at one end of the hopper exceeds a given level.

Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus and method for directing a conveyed product on a conveyor. The apparatus includes a filing channel that includes the ability to adjust the location of at least one end of the filing channel. In one embodiment, the filing apparatus includes a plurality of cards successively arranged wherein the cards are supported by a support member. The cards define the filing channel and the shape of the channel is maintained despite repositioning at least one end of the filing channel.

Abstract: A pallet stop generally comprises a support frame, an internal enclosure, a rotating actuator, a pivoting stop, and a counterweight assembly. The rotating actuator has an upper arm portion that extends just above the surface of the enclosure. The enclosure is received in and supported by the support frame. As a pallet load moves across the enclosure, its leading edge will contact the upper arm portion of the rotating actuator, which causes it to rotate clockwise. A lower portion of the rotating actuator is positioned below the pivoting stop. As the rotating actuator rotates clockwise, the lower portion of the rotating actuator moves downwardly, thus allowing a counterclockwise rotation of the pivoting stop. Once the pallet load travels over the rotating actuator, the counterweight assembly causes the rotating actuator to return to the upright position to ensure a proper positioning of the pallet load.

Abstract: A manufacturing operation having a first production area, a second production area, and a plurality of platforms each having independently controllable drive assemblies for moving the platforms through the production and delivery areas. Adjacent platforms are spaced from one another a first distance in the delivery areas and a second distance in the production areas, wherein the first distance is greater than the second distance and, preferably, where the second distance creates a “zero” gap between adjacent platform decks.

Abstract: The present invention 10 discloses a device for singulating individual logs from groups of logs for linear or transverse processing. The present invention discloses a log singulator having a fully rotatable lifter arm member, i.e., 360 degrees rotatable, which is used to singulate logs from groups of logs. The rotatable axle of the lifter arm may be located above the upstream “V” of the log cradle member. Furthermore, the lifter arm of the present invention will positively push the logs over the top point of the log cradle because it is rounded at the top point, thereby allowing the tip of lifter arm to remain in contact with the log. Lifter arms with 1 to 4 lifter arm tips are disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention 10 discloses a device for singulating individual logs from groups of logs for linear or transverse processing. The present invention discloses a log singulator having a fully rotatable lifter arm member, i.e., 360 degrees rotatable, which is used to singulate logs from groups of logs. The rotatable axle of the lifter arm may be located above the upstream “V” of the log cradle member. Furthermore, the lifter arm of the present invention will positively push the logs over the top point of the log cradle because it is rounded at the top point, thereby allowing the tip of lifter arm to remain in contact with the log. Lifter arms with 1 to 4 lifter arm tips are disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention 10 discloses a device for singulating individual logs from groups of logs for linear or transverse processing. The present invention discloses a log singulator having a fully rotatable lifter arm member, i.e., 360 degrees rotatable, which is used to singulate logs from groups of logs. The rotatable axle of the lifter arm may be located above the upstream “V” of the log cradle member. Furthermore, the lifter arm of the present invention will positively push the logs over the top point of the log cradle because it is rounded at the top point, thereby allowing the tip of lifter arm to remain in contact with the log. Lifter arms with 1 to 4 lifter arm tips are disclosed.

Abstract: A device for singulating individual logs from groups of logs for linear or transverse processing. The log singulator having a fully rotatable lifter arm member, i.e., 360 degrees rotatable, which is used to singulate logs from groups of logs. The rotatable axle of the lifter arm may be located above the upstream “V” of the log cradle member. Furthermore, the lifter arm will positively push the logs over the top point of the log cradle because it is rounded at the top point, thereby allowing the tip of lifter arm to remain in contact with the log. Lifter arms with 1 to 4 lifter arm tips are disclosed.

Abstract: A method of conveying articles provides for feeding an article to a pocket travelling along a conveying path; gripping the article by means of suction holes located along a plate of the pocket; feeding the article and the pocket along the path; releasing and pushing the article against a locating member of the pocket as the article and the pocket are advanced; and gripping the article to the plate by means of the suction holes.

Abstract: Disclosed is a device for intermittently conveying packages which are conveyed in a first moving direction in package carriers (2) in a first processing plane in positions underneath various treatment stations and are conveyed back in a second return motion plane in a second moving direction that is parallel in relation to the first moving direction, whereby a conveying cycle is formed. The aim of the invention is to enable such a device to be efficient, compact and be operated using simple devices. According to the invention, the respectively superimposed ends of the essentially horizontal first conveyor (19) in the first processing plane and of the essentially horizontal third conveyor (12) in the second return motion plane are connected to one another for forming the conveying cycle by means of vertically acting second and fourth lifting conveyors (9, 15). Each conveyor (9, 19, 12, 15) has a separate drive (22-24).