Source: https://patents.google.com/patent/CN104870244B/en
Timestamp: 2020-05-30 18:56:33
Document Index: 249871923

Matched Legal Cases: ['Application No. 13', 'Application No. 12', 'Application No. 12', 'Application No. 61', 'art 132', 'art 270', 'art 201', 'art 201', 'art 254']

CN104870244B - Short block linear synchronous motor and changement - Google Patents
Short block linear synchronous motor and changement Download PDF
CN104870244B
CN104870244B CN201380060618.0A CN201380060618A CN104870244B CN 104870244 B CN104870244 B CN 104870244B CN 201380060618 A CN201380060618 A CN 201380060618A CN 104870244 B CN104870244 B CN 104870244B
CN201380060618.0A
CN104870244A (en
N·N·金
B·M·帕莱奥特
T·M·克拉克
J·门登霍尔
R·D·索顿
M·W·伯塔索
麦克纳莫绅有限公司
2012-09-20 Priority to US13/623,124 priority Critical patent/US9032880B2/en
2012-09-20 Priority to US13/623124 priority
2013-09-18 Application filed by 麦克纳莫绅有限公司 filed Critical 麦克纳莫绅有限公司
2013-09-18 Priority to PCT/US2013/060286 priority patent/WO2014047104A1/en
2015-08-26 Publication of CN104870244A publication Critical patent/CN104870244A/en
2017-09-15 Publication of CN104870244B publication Critical patent/CN104870244B/en
238000004642 transportation engineering Methods 0 claims abstract description 53
In some versions, the present invention provides a kind of transportation system, and it includes the track with some propulsion coils, and some propulsion coils are arranged along the region that one or more delivery vehicles are promoted wherein.One or more delivery vehicles are arranged on the track, and each delivery vehicle includes sources of magnetic flux.Track has one or more running surfaces of supporting delivery vehicle, and delivery vehicle is rolled or slided along running surface.
Short block linear synchronous motor and changement
This application claims the power of the U.S. Patent application for the Application No. 13/623,124 submitted for 20th in September in 2012 Benefit, this application number is the Application No. 12/692 submitted on June 22nd, 2010 for 13/623,124 U.S. Patent application, The part continuation application of 441 U.S. Patent application and claimed, this application number are 12/692,441 United States Patent (USP) Shen Please be submitted on January 23rd, 2009 Application No. 12/359,022, the entitled " transport driven by short block linear synchronous motor The part continuation application of the U.S. Patent application of system " and claimed, while also requiring that what is submitted on June 5th, 2009 The U.S. Provisional Patent Application " by improving the transportation system that short block linear synchronous motor drives " of Application No. 61/184,570 Rights and interests.The content of above-mentioned application, which is cited, to be included herein.
The present invention relates to transportation system, in particular, for example with short block linear synchronous motor, transport system based on guide rail System.The application of the present invention includes, but not limited to production line application, laboratory applications and the track for requiring complexity, zig zag, handed over The other application converged with turnout commutation and/or the operation overturn.
There are many transportation system's types that object can be made to move in orbit.The example includes：By rotation or linear electricity The wheel suspension type delivery vehicle that machine is promoted, the magnetic suspension promoted by linear electric machine or cable or the floated delivery vehicle of mattress, The delivery vehicle for being promoted to move in pipe by air pressure, the delivery vehicle for being supported by bearing or being guided, and in conveyer belt The delivery vehicle of upper motion.Existing transportation system has many practical applications, but also has many to carry out the place of significant improvement, For example, in terms of precise motion of the smaller and in close proximity object on complicated guide rail.
Small size and medium size objects are often transported on a moving belt, because so there is no need to wheel and other mechanisms To hang, guide and promote these objects.Band transportation system is relatively cheap, but they lack the accurate control being frequently necessary to, and And because there are many moving components to need substantial amounts of maintenance.Other approach of low cost transport be included in motion in pipe by air The delivery vehicle of promotion, and object is moved downward along inclined-plane using gravity, but the control accuracy of these methods is worse.
Using linear synchronous motor (LSM) promote many merits be widely known by the people and also other patents (including, but It is not limited to, United States Patent (USP) 7,458,454,7,448,327,6,983,701,6,917,136,6,781,524,6,578,495,6, 499,701,6,101,952, and 6,011,508, they are assigned to present assignee and their entire teaching is cited Include herein) in have been described, but under many circumstances, especially when mobile small and in close proximity object, LSM may be more Costliness, and productivity ratio some competition propulsion system it is low.
Based on above reason, it is an object of the invention to provide improved transportation system, apparatus and method.
The related objective of the present invention, which is to provide, can play this kind of systems, devices and methods of LSM technical advantages.
Another related objective of the present invention is to provide this that be adapted to transport small-sized object and/or medium size objects Class systems, devices and methods.
Another related objective of the present invention is to provide this kind of system, the device for being adapted to transport object in close proximity And method.
Another related objective of the present invention, which is to provide, is suitable for use in production line, laboratory and the complicated track of requirement, racing It is curved, cross with turnout commutate and/or turning operation other application this kind of systems, devices and methods.
Above is some to be reached targets of the invention, the present invention provides a kind of transportation system with several schemes, it includes Track with some propulsion coils, some propulsion coils are along the area that one or more delivery vehicles are promoted wherein Domain is arranged.One or more delivery vehicles are arranged on the track, and each delivery vehicle includes sources of magnetic flux.Track has There are one or more running surfaces of supporting delivery vehicle, delivery vehicle is rolled or slided along running surface.Each delivery vehicle There can be the partition board portion of narrowed cross section, the partition board portion is connected to one or more bodies of the delivery vehicle.Institute Stating track includes turnout region, and the turnout region includes the running surface of fin-shaped plate and the apex positioned at the turnout Extension.The fin-shaped plate to the delivery vehicle by applying side force so as to start vehicle direction at turnout Conversion.The extension by with the baffle contacts so that at the turnout vehicle direction conversion continue into OK.
Other schemes of the present invention provide transportation system for example as described above, wherein, the fin-shaped plate is for example, by edge The one of outer surface for the body of the delivery vehicle contacted with the delivery vehicle (rather than for example with delivery vehicle Baffle contacts) so that vehicle direction starts conversion.
Other schemes of the present invention provide transportation system for example according to the present disclosure, wherein, the traveling table at turnout Face extension is triangular in shape.
Other schemes of the present invention provide transportation system for example as described above, wherein, the track has limitation described One or more guiding surfaces from delivery vehicle to lateral movement.According to the scheme for above addressing correlation, these surfaces are at turnout Vehicle direction conversion provide guiding.
Therefore for example the present invention some schemes in, the fin-shaped plate by the delivery vehicle apply side force from And vehicle direction is started conversion at turnout, the extension of the apex positioned at turnout of the running surface makes delivery The conversion of tool direction continues, and/or the guiding surface is provided further for the commutation at the rear position on turnout Guiding.
Other relevant programmes of the present invention provide transportation system for example as described above, wherein, changement for example passes through Rotary type stepper motor is actuated mechanically, and the rotary type stepper motor does not include encoder or including one or more codings Device.Other relevant programmes of the present invention provide such transportation system, wherein, the arm of stepper motor is accommodated in the fin-shaped plate Kidney shape aperture in.Other relevant programmes of the present invention provide such transportation system, wherein, the motor drives fin-shaped plate Move any one into three below position：Non-deployed position, expanded position and partially deployed position.
Other schemes of the present invention provide the transport for being for example arranged to widget inspection and/or assembling as described above System, wherein, the delivery vehicle is that 50mm to 200mm is wide, with one times to twice of the length for the width, and is had There is 0.2kg to the load quality between 4kg；The delivery vehicle is run on the track with the speed more than 2m/s；It is described Fin-shaped plate starts the delivery vehicle commutation by the mobile 2cm that is less than about.
Other relevant programmes of the present invention provide transportation system for example as described above, wherein, one or more of fortune Load instrument, which has, to be included one or more first areas and includes the guiding surface of one or more second areas, it is one or The guiding surface that multiple first areas are used for the track at some parts of the track is contacted, one or more of The guiding surface that second area is used for the track at the other parts of the track is contacted.These " first " regions can be with It is straight line, and " second " region can be bending.In addition, according to the present invention other relevant programmes, for example as described above Fin-shaped plate can by contact one or more of described second area (according to the present invention further scheme can be bending ) the vehicle direction conversion at turnout is started.
Other relevant programmes of the present invention provide transportation system for example as described above, wherein, one or more of fortune Load instrument has one or more pins, and one or more of pins are from the running surface edge for the part for forming the delivery vehicle The position that the running surface of the track is rolled or slided is extended about, and wherein, these pins and the fin-shaped plate phase interaction To control the direction of motion of the delivery vehicle at the turnout.
Other relevant programmes of the present invention provide transportation system for example as described above, and it includes intersectional region, the friendship Remittance region includes the widened section of fin-shaped plate and the running surface.When the delivery vehicle enters the intersectional region, institute State fin-shaped plate and apply side force to the delivery vehicle to change its angle, and the widened section is by contacting the delivery The dividing plate of instrument makes the continuation that crosses, so as to provide crossing further guiding or guide.
Other relevant programmes of the present invention provide such transportation system, wherein, the fin-shaped plate is equipped to complete exhibition Open or the partially unfolded, also, using the fin-shaped plate in the partially unfolded form so that the proper delivery vehicle is into when crossing Change the angle of the delivery vehicle.
Other schemes of the present invention are provided using the delivery vehicle in transportation system for example as described above.These deliveries Instrument can be rectangle, pointed oval or other shapes of cross section.In addition, two or more this delivery vehicles are for example It is pivotably attached to form other delivery vehicle.
Above and other scheme of the present invention will be evident below and in accompanying drawing.
Other schemes of the present invention provide the track for constructing and operating as described above, rail module and for being used thereon Delivery vehicle.Other schemes of the present invention provide the above-mentioned transportation system of operation, track, rail module and in track and rail The method of the delivery vehicle used in road module.
The more complete understanding of the present invention can be obtained by reference to accompanying drawing, wherein：
Fig. 1 is the system according to the present invention, including straight rail and multiple delivery vehicles, and they are spaced closely together ground in orbit Promoted, and slided and by the rail guidance of track side surfaces in low-friction coefficient raceway surface simultaneously by LSM.
Fig. 2, which is shown, according to an embodiment of the invention to be used for supporting delivery vehicle in the object of Fig. 1 moving on rails Details.
Fig. 3 shows the guide structure and magnet array of delivery vehicle in system according to an embodiment of the invention.
Fig. 4 is similar to Fig. 3, but magnet is Halbach array.
Fig. 5 is similar to Fig. 3, but is promoted using single magnet.
Fig. 6 shows track according to an embodiment of the invention, including printed circuit board (PCB), pacifies on the printed circuit board (PCB) Propulsion coil is filled, the latter presses close to raceway surface and is connected with the power control circuit on wiring board.
Fig. 7 shown in system according to an embodiment of the invention, when delivery vehicle by when coil in electric current typical case Waveform.
Fig. 8 shows that delivery vehicle passes through 90 degree of horizontal sharp turns in system according to an embodiment of the invention.
Fig. 9 shows that delivery vehicle passes through the vertical sharp turn of 180 degree in system according to an embodiment of the invention.
Figure 10 shows the right turnout in system according to an embodiment of the invention, and wherein the direction of delivery vehicle is by finlet The position of shape plate is determined.
Figure 11 shows that it can realize turnout instead of curve available for the rotating disk in system according to an embodiment of the invention With the operation that crosses.
Figure 12 shows some propulsion coils, their deliveries to being moved in the right turnout module of the system according to the present invention Instrument provides lasting power.
Figure 13 shows the vertical changeover portion in system according to an embodiment of the invention.
Figure 14 shows an example of the system according to the present invention.
Figure 15-16 shows the track and delivery vehicle in system according to an embodiment of the invention.
Figure 17 shows the perspective view of system middle orbit straightway according to an embodiment of the invention.
Figure 18 shows the perspective view of the right turnout section of system middle orbit according to an embodiment of the invention.
Figure 19 A-19D show other structures of each section of system middle orbit according to an embodiment of the invention.
Figure 20 A-20B show the top view of the right turnout section of system middle orbit according to an embodiment of the invention.
Figure 21 shows the broken-open perspective view of the right turnout section of system middle orbit according to an embodiment of the invention.
Figure 22 A show the perspective view of system middle orbit turnout section according to an embodiment of the invention.
Figure 22 B show the perspective view of the fin-shaped plate of the rail spur section according to an embodiment of the invention used in system.
Figure 23 A show the motion of the delivery vehicle on straight way in system according to an embodiment of the invention.
Figure 23 B show the motion of the delivery vehicle on bend in system according to an embodiment of the invention.
Figure 24 A-24B show the motion of the delivery vehicle at turnout in system according to an embodiment of the invention.
Figure 25 A-25B and 26A-26B show the other configurations of the delivery vehicle according to the present invention.
Described herein is the transportation system based on LSM, and it can allow delivery vehicle to move in orbit, and the track can Energy is very complicated and may include level and vertical turning, crosses and turnout commutation, and the operation overturn.Application example bag Include：Make the bottle movement in filling just on assembly line and capping, be used in the laboratory glass bottle motion of analysis, make electronic equipment Moved along production line to allow robot to can be inserted into element, sorting is from multiple sources and must be distributed to the thing of appropriate position Body.Wheel, bearing or other rolling elements can be used in some cases to help to suspend and guide, but the present invention also can use In the delivery vehicle slided without wheel (or other rolling elements) and on track running surface.When the object that will be moved not When being too big, delivery vehicle without wheel may very little and cheap.For heavier delivery vehicle, same short block structure Be suitable for wheel-or bearing-based on suspension and guiding.
The transportation system so built up will offer be economically competitive, it is in-orbit to be promoted and controlled using LSM propulsions Small-sized and medium-sized delivery vehicle in close proximity on road.
Other schemes of system as described herein have the LSM motor modules as transportation system's rail (or " track ") part. Selection standard rail builds module and is assembled together by plug and play mode, can almost form with countless changes design. Many motor modules (or simpler, " motor group ") not only can be comprising promoting and intelligent path element, but also containing can be used to The guiding and structural support units of quick assembling and rail configuration.The system is very suitable for requirement and worked cleanly and/or energy The environment (non-limitative example) of flushing.It can also support " track following " requirement, because each delivery vehicle can be whole Uniquely recognized and be constantly tracked in individual system.
The suspension system for the coefficient of friction that can be reached with gliding motility is well suited for being used for the negligible LSM of attraction. For embodiment in, this realizes that wherein propulsion coil for example, be mounted at fortune by using centreless motor At the magnet of load instrument.
Each paragraph will illustrate part and the work of various embodiments of the present invention below.It should be understood that the design can have a lot Change programme, and these change programmes are that but this specification shows within the present invention expects, how using can The single system manufactured with reasonable cost realizes above and other target.
Fig. 1 show track straightway, above each delivery vehicle 13 it is in close proximityly mobile.The structure of track can be by its side Guide rail 12 on face provides the guiding in one or more dimensions.For the application of the delivery vehicle of not provided with wheels, they are in-orbit Slided on road running surface, while minimizing friction using special material (being discussed below).Track shell 11 accommodates whole Electronic device, including position sensing device, propulsion coil, power electronic element and microprocessor.
The delivery vehicle of structure institute foundation shown in these figures is about 50mm wide and 50 to 60mm length.For larger The size of object, track and delivery vehicle can be scaled up, although rail model is according to multiple different scale factors Build.
The displays of Fig. 2 and 3 can be used as the delivery vehicle 21 of proposed transportation system's part.It is smaller, about 50mm Square and 20mm are high, while having the element 32 with traveling (or " sliding ") surface, (they are located under delivery vehicle 21 herein On surface), these elements are slided on traveling (or " sliding ") surface of track.Hole 22 at the top of delivery vehicle is used for installing use In the supporting mechanism of object to be moved.
The delivery vehicle has the curved side 23 matched with warp rail side, so that the level that can make short radius turns It is curved.Delivery vehicle is guided by track, and can be moved when transporting object in normal stand up position and in not belongings In the case of moved to upturned position.It can also cross vertical turning.Pin 24,31 and trouble on each corner of delivery vehicle Mechanism in road and module cooperates, to control the direction of motion.
Fig. 3 is the view of delivery vehicle lower surface, while showing permanent magnet 33,34, they are installed in delivery vehicle Near bottom, and provide the device promoted for LSM.
Fig. 4 shows Fig. 3 modification, and wherein magnet structure is Halbach array 44, to produce at a given weight more Big power.Fig. 5 is the structure 51 of single magnet, and it is suitable for the application of the less power of requirement.
Larger object can same moving on rails herein, this is by using the dual load wheel designed as conventional LSM Structure design is like that just (for example, reference can be made to what is authorized on December 2nd, 2008 is entitled " using based on single pass actuator The United States Patent (USP) 7 of three-dimensional motion ", entitled disclosed on March 1st, 458,454, and 2007 " track actuating type delivery vehicle magnetic is changed To " U.S. Patent Application 2007/0044676, both teachings are all incorporated herein by quoting), or pass through increase The size of track and delivery vehicle is realized.
Low friction slidingsurface
For propulsive force needed for reducing and frictional heating, the delivery vehicle and track of illustrated embodiment are designed to make friction Coefficient cfAs small as possible, coefficient of friction is to make the propulsive force and the gravity of delivery vehicle in orbit needed for vehicle motion The ratio between.Sometimes with wheel as the method for reducing this power, but the present invention can use the delivery vehicle of no wheel.Fig. 6 shows Show the track that (or " sliding ") surface 63 is travelled with low friction, it presses close to the ground of propulsion coil 64 and supports delivery vehicle.
It is included in the Teflon slided on Teflon for the low friction example without wheel application and slides on stainless steel Teflon.If surface filmlubrication, relatively low friction can be obtained, but this does not allow in numerous applications, because All assume without lubrication in this design.We also want to the wearability that surface has had, so can for example use in orbit Stainless steel and Teflon is used on delivery vehicle, can be ignored with the abrasion expected on steel, and delivery vehicle is eventually possible Need to change its slipsurface, this is cheaper than changing track.Sliding block 32 in Fig. 3 shows the example for how installing low-friction elements Son.If it is expected that if they will just be worn before delivery vehicle reaches its end of life, they can be designed What Cheng Kegeng was changed.
For some structure cfCan as little as 0.1, but more real value is between 0.15 to 0.2.Compare because this is one High value, had better not allow propulsive force to produce very big downward force on delivery vehicle.It will be applied using the typical LSM of ferromagnetic material Plus 4 to the suction of 6 times of propulsive forces, and delivery vehicle possibly can not be moved under so big suction, or if its is certain If motion, will there are very big heat and power consumption-in this case, may incorporate wheel, bearing or other rollings Element is so that delivery vehicle is hung.
There is the magnet array that can much use, one of them is shown in Fig. 3.There is one piece of center magnet 33 in this configuration (having the South Pole in its lower surface), while there are two and half magnets 34 (having the arctic in its lower surface) at its two ends.Magnet is typically used NdFeB is to obtain highfield, but it is also possible to using other materials, and for example ceramics are (when requiring that cost or external field must be very low When) or samarium cobalt magnet (when operating temperature is very high).
One design considers it is the interaction between neighbouring carrier magnet.Ferromagnetic unit 35 can substantially prevent adjacent Delivery vehicle magnetic field is interfered.
Fig. 4 shows Halbach array, and it can be used for needing the increased cost acceptable of larger power and institute Close.It is rotation from one piece of magnet to next piece of magnet using magnetic field during this structure, as a result can produces than magnet structure in Fig. 3 Higher propulsive force.Ferro-magnetic shield 43 causes the interaction between each neighbouring carrier magnetic field to minimize.
Fig. 5 shows single magnet, provides loop to provide whole magnetic fluxs in its end ferromagnetic material.So produce Power may be less big but more less expensive than many magnet structures.
Linear electric machine is promoted
Fig. 6 shows the coil 64 that rail running surface 63 is installed.Electric current in these coils passes through power electronic Element and microprocessor are independently controlled, so contacted with each other even if it and neighbouring carrier can also be by for each delivery vehicle Individually control.
Illustrated embodiment is characterized in no ferromagnetic material, and this is generally used to obtaining higher effect in LSM Rate.Although suction, can be limited to the very small part of propulsive force by our power high not as not reaching without ferromagnetic material, because Even if this coefficient of friction 0.2 magnitude or it is higher when, can still there is very strong acceleration and brake force to make vehicle motion.
Frictional force can be with sufficiently small, so that can be in stator using some in the delivery vehicle based on wheel is used Ferromagnetic material and obtain higher propulsive force.
Control the software of microprocessor may be soft with the control of the LSM design structures for the block with several coil length Part is similar.But, position sensing element positioning here is enough near, even if being contacted with each other between delivery vehicle, position sensing element Single delivery vehicle can still be recognized.Such sensor-based system is conducive to controlling the fortune of delivery vehicle independently of each other in orbit It is dynamic.The local LSM examples turned to before this are not it has been shown that this software requires any special characteristic.
Coil and control circuit on a printed circuit is installed
Illustrated embodiment can independently control each coil without the cost related to traditional design.Reference picture 6, Shown embodiment coil 62 is directly installed on printed circuit board (PCB) (PCB) 64.The plate support coil and provide coil and Connection between the power electronics modules of control electric current.General each coil with for control in each coil the size of electric current and The output of the MOSFET in direction or " the H bridges " of IGBT device is connected.These parts are all installed on same PCB.The PCB Also include some Hall effect devices, use them to sense delivery vehicle produce magnetic field and allow microprocessor produce needed for Power.Fig. 7 shown as delivery vehicle is moved by coil, the typical waveform of electric current in the propulsion coil for promoting delivery vehicle Figure.By properly selecting waveform, several propulsion coils can cooperate to produce constant power on delivery vehicle, and line Power consumption in circle is minimum.The sense of current is opposite during for braking.
By the way that coil is mounted directly on a printed circuit and integrated power controller is used, coil and electricity can be reduced The cost of sub- device.One microprocessor can control multiple H bridges, if the spacing of coil is 16mm or so, and every meter of motor can be with There is the microprocessor more than a dozen, while the work of these electric machine controllers must be assisted with " node " controller of higher level Adjust.Using modern semiconductor technology, for as little as middle power level, these elements can be all installed in motor housing On interior only one or two piece of PCB.
Track is built up with module, is barricaded as just like model train with many modules.Fig. 6,8-11 and 13 show respectively Show the example of straight section, 90 degree of flat banks, the vertical curve of 180 degree, the commutation of right turnout, rotating disk and vertical changeover portion.These elements It can be connected with each other in a variety of different ways, to meet the demand of a variety of different applications.
The vertical curved section of 180 degree in Fig. 9 is primarily used to empty delivery vehicle to send back to a kind of machine of starting point Structure, while the delivery vehicle for crossing this curved section can be without LSM with the control of other means and propulsion.For example, downward Delivery vehicle can be promoted by gravity, and upward delivery vehicle can be promoted by the interaction with mechanical mechanism, simultaneously Control can be inaccurate during curve transition in both cases.Preferably once delivery vehicle crosses this curved section Recovery is accurately controlled.In some cases, vertical curved section has much bigger radius of curvature, be used for example as horizontal rail and The curve of transition between inclined plane.(for example, with reference to Figure 13).In this case, LSM, which is promoted, can be used for vertical curved section simultaneously Therefore accurate control is kept when by the curved section.
Figure 10 shows right turnout part, and it uses small mechanical fin-shaped plate or magnetic fin-shaped plate 101, by the delivery vehicle of motion Guide to straight trip or turnout to the right.The fin-shaped plate is controlled by linear or revolving actuator, the latter and the pin 102 on delivery vehicle Delivery vehicle is oriented to and is correctly oriented by interaction.Same device can be used to cross two strands of delivery vehicle streams.Should Fin-shaped plate is small and light, thus from a position can move to another position in far less than one second, so productivity ratio is very Height, while adjacent delivery vehicle can independently commutate.Left turnout part can be made the mirror image of right turnout part.
Figure 11, which is shown, can replace the rotating disk 111 of fin-shaped plate.Guide rail 112 and the guiding of propulsion coil (not shown) on rotating disk With the propulsion delivery vehicle.Rotating disk in Figure 11 can be increment rotation with 90 degree, but other design can support it is other it is various not With the motion of angle.Rotating disk may be slower than fin-shaped plate due to the increase of quality, but compares just for some applications It is suitable and more multi-functional because it can for replace curve and make delivery vehicle reversely and multiple interorbitals conversion.
Figure 13 shows vertical changeover portion 130.In illustrated embodiment, this includes concave transition part 132, straightway 134 With convex transition portion 136, they are connected with each other as shown in the figure.Changeover portion shown in figure and vertical axis are into 10 degree of angles, so And the angle can be with greater or lesser in other embodiments.Although vertical transition angle depicted herein is by transition portion 132,136 set up, but the transition in other embodiments can be defined by other parts (for example, be incorporated into turnout section, it is straight In line segment etc..)
Commutation function can also be provided by acting on the magnetic force on delivery vehicle.For example, can control in orbit or attached Near coil performs commutation function to produce cross force.This commutation method is in U.S. Patent Application US 2007/ Had been described in 0044676 " the delivery vehicle magnetic commutation performed by track ", it is instructed to be cited and included herein.
Figure 12 shows the sectional view of rail spur module, it is shown that for promoting delivery on any one of two paths The propulsion coil of instrument.It is this by turnout or the continuous propulsion crossed for provided in all times accurate position control come Say it is crucial.
Further appreciate that, refer to entitled for the other module component technologies for being packaged with linear electric machine and rail module The United States Patent (USP) 6 of " modular linear electric machine track and its manufacture method ", 578,495, it be transferred to the application by Allow people and its teaching be cited include herein.
There are many possible applications, but Figure 14 simple layout shows how rail module can be connected with each other.Delivery vehicle Around major loop motion, but it can be moved when needing by branch road.Typical application rail module used is than this simple example Son is much more.
As represented in figures 1 through 14, the traveling or slipsurface of track include the track close to propulsion coil in certain embodiments Upper surface, such as surface 63 and coil 64 shown in above-mentioned Fig. 6.In other embodiments, the traveling or slipsurface can be The surface of another (or contact delivery vehicle) upward of track -- for example, the guide rail of track, protuberance, depressed part or flange Surface.The surface may be close to coil 64 or relative to its skew.
This supports delivery vehicle 13 wherein being provided from the surface 63A of one distance (△) of coil offset as shown in Figure 15 Low friction traveling (or " sliding ") surface.The two surfaces 63A has been shown in figure, but other embodiments may be included and it Its other surface (such as the surface 63 in Fig. 6) is combined such surface of more or less numbers of (or not combining).This For example in Figure 16 have shown that.In Figure 15 and 16 embodiment, a part for the running surface 63A formation guide rails 12 of track, Although these may include separated track structure (or other structures) in other embodiments.
Equally, also as represented in figures 1 through 14, the traveling or slipsurface of delivery vehicle 13 may be by transporting in certain embodiments The sliding block 32 of load instrument or other elements are provided, such as shown in Fig. 3 and the above.In other embodiments, this kind of traveling Or " sliding " surface can be the surface of face-down (or contact track) of delivery vehicle -- for example, the guide rail of delivery vehicle, prominent Go out the surface of portion, depressed part or flange.This also shows that wherein surface 32A provides low friction traveling in such as Figure 15 (or " sliding ") surface, they are slided in the traveling or slipsurface (being herein surface 63A) of track.
In those embodiments as shown in figure 15, and some other embodiment of the invention, slipsurface 32A, 63A etc. It is sized, or is designed to make coefficient of friction c as described abovefMinimum, while being provided for delivery vehicle 13 Appropriate support under expected condition of work.
Figure 17 may be referred to further appreciating that for the embodiment shown in Figure 15-16, the figure is the track of these embodiments Straightway perspective view.Figure 18 is the perspective view of the right turnout section of the track of these embodiments；Figure 19 A-19D are these implementations Straightway, left turnout section, the perspective view of vertical turning and curved section of the track of example.
Crossed or other each sections of turnout function as Figure 18 and providing, the running surface 63A of guide rail 12 can be such as figure institute Show and widen and/or narrow, to provide preferably guiding or guide function.
From that discussed above with shown in each figure it is clear that commutation function can pass through rotating disk and using mechanical fin-shaped plate or magnetic Commutation component realizes, the latter be in track crossing turnout region or its near.Using the track structure of the latter in Figure 20 A Draw in more detail with 20B and 21, and be discussed below.Although illustrate only turnout section in these figures, people know Road, the fin-shaped plate and reversing arrangement shown here can also be used for other rail modules and/or structure.
Referring to Figure 20 A and 20B, turnout or the commutating zone of track according to an embodiment of the invention are shown in figure.Bag Wrap in the shown turnout region 200 of one or more modules (although construct and operate as discussed herein) containing the above-mentioned type Include ingress path 250 and two or more outlet pathways (depicted herein is outlet 260L and 260R).Commutate component (such as fin Shape plate 201) it is in along transverse direction (or outside) part 270 of orbital region 200, and track can be actually in as shown in figure Laterally in (side) rail sections 270.In other embodiments, the commutation component 201 is likely to be at the middle body of track 275, such as on or near the delivery vehicle traveling center line 280 that it is moved above.Anyway, the fin-shaped plate 201 (or Other commutation components) it is preferably the position for being in each outlet mutually fork (bifurcation point on such as turnout or fork) along along track At or near.
The component 201 that commutates include be suitable to the component 201 and the delivery vehicle passed through (namely near component 201-example Such as near the bifurcation point on turnout-moving on rails delivery vehicle) between produce magnetic attraction ferromagnetic material so that example The route of the delivery vehicle passed through is such as selectively changed in the transverse direction along the direction of motion of the delivery vehicle of track.Institute Show in embodiment, such suction is specifically what is produced between component 201 and permanent magnet on the delivery vehicle, although In other embodiments, suction is probably that other magnetic elements on delivery vehicle are produced.Shown commutation component (is fin here Shape plate 201) it is made into plate shaped, straight elements, although other shape may be made in other embodiments.
Referring to Figure 20 A and 20B, actuator 300 is connected (for example, by bar 301 or other mechanisms) to commutation component 201, so as to
* commutation component is placed in first position (moreover, more generally, being placed in the first configuration), then this is changed Apply bigger horizontal magnetic attraction on the delivery vehicle passed through to component, so that it is by one of exporting from turnout region 200 come out,
* commutation component is placed in the second place (moreover, more generally, being placed in the second configuration), then this is changed Apply smaller horizontal magnetic attraction on the delivery vehicle passed through to component, so that it passes through another (example in outlet Such as, straight way is exported) come out from turnout region 200,
* commutation component 201 is made to be moved between first position and the second place (or configuration).
The actuator can include servo control mechanism, solenoid, lever, spring, motor or well known suitable for disposing or moving in the industry Move other type of mechanism (or combinations thereof)s to component.The actuator can be in microprocessor or other conventional classes well known in the industry Run under the control of type (consistent with teaching herein) control device (not shown), to allow the delivery vehicle passed through to pass through turnout Region.
Referring to Figure 20 A, in figure actuator 300 fin-shaped plate 201 is placed in the first configuration-be now in fixing end 201A On (for example, in pin or other pivot members) pivot so that free end 201B rotate into the first rotation position-so that delivery Instrument leads to and (represented here with arrow 220) outlet 260R.Referring to Figure 20 B, fin-shaped plate 201 is placed in second and matched somebody with somebody by actuator 300 In putting-and it is now to be pivoted in fixing end 201 (for example, in pin or other pivot members) so that free end 201B is rotated into Enter the second rotation position-so that delivery vehicle lead to and (represented here with arrow 221) outlet 260L.
As shown in these figures, the first and second configurations of illustrated embodiment represent the different rotary position of fin-shaped plate 201, They make the delivery that free end 201B is passed through closer to (in the case of Figure 20 A) and further from (in the case of Figure 20 B) Instrument, so as to impose different suction to the delivery vehicle.In other embodiments, other structures can be used to be used as replacement Or it is additional.For example, can be the free end of fin-shaped plate 201 and fixing end in turn (for example, from situation shown in figure in turn).Again Give one example, actuator can be connected with fin-shaped plate (or other commutation components) so that whole component 201 (without Simply free end) it is arranged under being configured first from delivery vehicle closer to and farther from delivery vehicle under the second configuration.Also One example, fin-shaped plate or other elements can be flexible, while actuator arrangement is into that can bend it, make its each portion Divide under being configured first closer to delivery vehicle, while being more bent away from delivery vehicle under being configured second.Under teaching herein, this Art personnel will be appreciated that these or other alternative solutions.
Although only showing in the various figures and discussing single movable commutation component 201, it should be appreciated that can also provide another This outer class component.For example this can be the movable commutation component as component 201, but it be in along with component 201 The relative lateral part of orbital region 200 (along track near the bifurcation point on turnout or the place at fork or its), at the same with figure Show the cooperative motion of component 201, the first and second outlets are led to the delivery vehicle for facilitating planning to be passed through.
Alternatively, another element can the permanent magnet of (or fixed) component movable with right and wrong-such as or its Its ferromagnetic element-it act on by the magnetic attraction on delivery vehicle be enough it be inclined to outlet one of so that when commutation structure When part 201 does not plan the path for leading to another outlet effectively by (actuator 300), it is ensured that delivery vehicle leads to that outlet. The retaining element can be placed along with the be relatively fixed lateral part of region 200 or other positions of commutation component 201 as shown in the figure (for example, middle body of track).As movable part 201, the non-moving element is disposed along the bifurcation point of rail spur Or the position at fork or near it, and plate shaped or linear, or other shape can be made.
We refer to Figure 21 to further appreciate that commutation embodiment discussed above, and the figure is similar with shown in Figure 18 The perspective view that scales off of track right turnout section 200.Rail sections 12 and surface 63A are not shown in Figure 21, to see See the fin-shaped plate 201 and fixed board-like non-movable link 202 of type discussed above.As illustrated, the fin-shaped plate 201 is set to In gap 210 between the opposite segments of guide rail 12.
Embodiment discussed above can be further appreciated that by the following description：
* diagram turnout region 200 work depend on delivery vehicle on permanent magnet and track side surfaces on ferromagnetic plate it Between suction.Magnet on delivery vehicle is primarily used to produce the magnetic field for propulsion below delivery vehicle, but in fortune There is sufficiently strong magnetic field on load instrument side to produce enough power to control the direction of delivery vehicle.If desired, may be used So that plus additional magnet, this is entirely to commutate for convenience.
* as discussed above, Figure 21 be shown in the small fixed plate 202 on the front of turnout 200 and fork side on can Dynamic plate 201.If it is desired to which delivery vehicle is kept straight on, movable platen 201 can be placed at several millimeters from rail flanges so that without very big Power delivery vehicle is pulled in into turnout.In the case, the plate 202 on front ensures delivery vehicle straight trip.If it is desired to allow fortune Load instrument enters turnout, then can be placed in rail flanges by movable platen 201, simultaneously because the movable platen 201 is more than fixed plate 202, there is a resulting net force that delivery vehicle is pulled in turnout path.As delivery vehicle starts into turnout, power difference increases and become It is sufficiently large, with the centrifugal force for the delivery vehicle for offsetting turning.
* there is several methods that movable platen 201 can be controlled.For example, it being attached on pivot and be driven with electric rotating machine It is dynamic, or make its transverse movement using magnetic force.
* in certain embodiments, commutation function is the magnetic force offer on the delivery vehicle advanced in orbit by putting on 's.The magnetic force can be used to control direction of the delivery vehicle at rail spur region or intersectional region.For example, can one or Multiple commutation components (such as fin-shaped plate) are placed on track.One or more commutation components may be configured to so, make to work as this Or at least one in multiple commutation components is when activateding (as move), at least one in one or more commutation components and fortune The change of flux between sources of magnetic flux on load instrument.For example, the commutation component can by pivoting, translation, bending or its is any Combine and move.
* the sources of magnetic flux on delivery vehicle may include permanent magnet or electromagnet.This sources of magnetic flux for being used for commutating also can use The means promoted in offer LSM.But, the delivery vehicle also can be comprising additional and independent permanent magnet or electromagnet, they It is adapted to provide the sources of magnetic flux separated with any sources of magnetic flux for promoting.
It is discussed above be utilize track cross or turnout region at or the trouble of magnetic commutation component that works it near Road region.It will be appreciated that for embodiment be only to provide some such regions transportation system and one of module Example.Although so that it takes up a position, for example, referred herein movable and fixed commutation component be in its vicinity on track with delivery vehicle Form magnetic attraction, but in other embodiments, one or more of these commutation components can be by magnetic repulsion rather than Suction.Meanwhile, although lifted turnout region is exported with straight with fork, the turnout region of other embodiments can be difference Structure.For example, the turnout region can be Y shape.In addition, it can have (alternately or additionally) additional outlet.
Emphasis is described
Pass through discussion that is shown in discussed above and Figure 15 to Figure 18, Figure 21 and being carried out by its combination, the row of track Sail or slipsurface can deviate coil 64 and surface adjacent thereto 63.Such case is, for example, embodiment shown in the drawings And as being discussed above, protuberances or flange portion of the low friction running surface 63A for example comprising guide rail 12.
Formed the running surface of the part of delivery vehicle 13 on these raceway surfaces-more specifically, shown in accompanying drawing On these surfaces in embodiment on guide rail 12-travel or slide.As other parts herein are discussed, on delivery vehicle These running surfaces include helping its sliding block for moving on the 63A of surface or other parts (such as wheel, bearing or other rollings Element).
With further reference to Figure 15 to Figure 18, it can be seen that these running surfaces are disposed in recessed on the body of delivery vehicle In the portion of falling into, and a part for the depressed part of delivery vehicle is formed in the illustrated embodiment.This can be guide rail in fig .15 The groove of 12 types being disposed therein or in figure 16 track are placed in deeper depressed part therein, and it, which is only used as, shows Exemplify.The depressed part (groove or other configurations) limits the constriction for being referred to as " dividing plate " of the body of delivery vehicle 16. In Figure 15 and 16 embodiment, dividing plate 13D is made with running surface and load (such as the article carried by delivery vehicle) Epimere and with guiding surface 13B and the delivery vehicle part that is connected of hypomere for providing the magnet array promoted；Although at it It can change in its embodiment.
With reference to Figure 15 (it illustrates the lateral cross section of delivery vehicle 13 and track), dividing plate 13D lateral dimensions can be with The slightly less than part being located in track of (i) delivery vehicle 13, and/or be slightly less than being located at for (ii) delivery vehicle 13 Part outside track.By comparing, with reference to Figure 16 (lateral cross section for which also illustrating delivery vehicle 13 and track), the dividing plate 13D lateral dimensions can significantly less than (i) delivery vehicle 13 be located at track in part, and/or be sufficiently smaller than (ii) part being located at outside track of delivery vehicle 13.
Except running surface 63A (it supports delivery vehicle and delivery vehicle slides along or rolled), in Figure 15 to figure The guide rail 12 of track shown in 18 and Figure 21 can have on the side constraint delivery vehicle motion guiding surface 63B ( This guiding surface need not be included in embodiment shown in Figure 10, because pin 24,31 there can be guiding function).What is shown In embodiment, guiding surface is approximately perpendicular to running surface, but it can change in certain embodiments.
One or more surfaces of these guiding surfaces may be arranged to and the body (rather than dividing plate) of delivery vehicle Corresponding surface 13B has sufficient gap, so that delivery vehicle is moved in the case where not contacting these surfaces 63B, so that In the case of if necessary to which delivery vehicle is kept in orbit (such as crossing/turnout operation during, delivery vehicle is loaded not In the case of uniform, fitful wind etc.) guiding is provided.In addition, guiding surface 63B it is one or more can be arranged to in orbit The respective surfaces 13B of the delivery vehicle 13 of traveling is substantially constantly contacted, so as to provide the guiding of constant.
In summary, the surface 13B of surface 63B and delivery vehicle can make coefficient of friction cfMinimum slipsurface, The surface 13B of delivery vehicle can be low-friction surface in itself and/or can include contributing to it to move on the 63B of surface Sliding block or other parts (such as wheel, bearing or other rolling elements).
According to the track of the present invention can comprising cross and/or delivery vehicle that turnout region is passed through with changing path. One of them this track (figure 10 illustrates) is used together with the delivery vehicle for example shown in Fig. 2, Fig. 3, the delivery Instrument has pin 24,31, the traveling for forming a delivery vehicle part that pin 24,31 is travelled or slided from the running surface along track Corner extension near the position on surface.These sell fin-shaped plate 101, the Yi Jixiang with being arranged as and being adjacent to one of guide rail To guide rail corresponding section 101a interactions, with control figure 10 illustrates type turnout in the direction moved. (in certain embodiments, can use other extension components for the same purpose) in addition to pin.As described above, fin-shaped Plate 101-can be machinery or magnetic, and can be controlled by linear or rotation actuator-with delivering Pin 102 on instrument interacts so that delivery vehicle edge is correctly oriented traveling.As it was previously stated, same mechanism can be used Two groups of delivery vehicle streams are made to cross.
It is other it is this cross/turnout region is shown in Figure 18,19B and 21, for having for the type with being shown in Figure 16 The delivery vehicle of narrower dividing plate is used together.It is apparent these cross/turnout region have widen (such as region 1802 shows Go out) and narrowed (such as region 1804 is shown) running surface 63A, work is delivered (such as in the case of the region widened) to provide The bigger guiding or guiding of tool.For example figure 20 illustrates and correlation for the ferromagnetic fin-shaped plate 201 used in such arrangements Described in part.As described above, it is connected to servo actuator, solenoid actuator, lever actuater, spring actua, horse Fin-shaped plate 201 is placed in the first configuration or the second configuration by the actuator controlled up to actuator or other forms, above-mentioned actuator, So as to apply greater or lesser lateral suction to the delivery vehicle passed through, so as to determine its direction, such as from turnout region Ingress path travels or gone to the second outlet in the region to the first outlet in the region.
In the illustrated embodiment, the direction of motion and delivery vehicle fortune first outlet at of the delivery vehicle in porch Dynamic direction is roughly the same, therefore the motion from entrance to the outlet is considered as " straight line " motion for this.On the contrary, delivery vehicle The direction of motion in porch of the direction of motion and delivery vehicle at second outlet is at an angle of, therefore from entrance to the outlet Motion be considered as turn to or commutation.Other embodiments can change in these areas, and such as delivery vehicle is at two The direction of motion of the direction of motion in exit with delivery vehicle in porch is at an angle of.
At work, 201 pairs of fin-shaped plate for example figure 16 illustrates the delivery vehicle 13 passed through of type apply laterally Suction with initiate commutation (such as to the second outlet on turnout).With reference to Figure 16 and Figure 18, once commutation starts, then delivery vehicle Dividing plate 13D is with forming a side contacts of the gable 275 shown in running surface 63A and engaging, wherein travelling table Face 63A supports delivery vehicle 13 and guides delivery vehicle 13 (although the part is showing when delivery vehicle continues to commutate motion In the embodiment gone out be triangle, but running surface turnout " extension at the place of summit 278 " can according to turnout section Bending radius and the delivery vehicle commutated dividing plate size change).And if as guiding surface 63B and delivery work During the corresponding surface 13B formation contacts of tool, the other guiding for commutation can then be provided by guiding surface 63B.
Other embodiments of the invention individually and/or in combination provide the mechanical fin-shaped of the type of population shown in Figure 10 The narrowed dividing plate delivery vehicle of type shown in the deformation of plate, Figure 16 or its modification, and/or Figure 15 to Figure 18 and Figure 21 are shown Type track or its modification.When used in combination, these embodiments by using smaller (therefore faster) commutation from And the commutation of delivery vehicle is realized using the narrowed cross section of delivery vehicle dividing plate.
One of them this embodiment is shown in Figure 22 A, and the small edge of fin-shaped plate 222 is utilized it illustrates turnout module 220 Sideways against the delivery vehicle 13 of the type for example shown in Figure 16 with initiate commutation.In the illustrated embodiment, fin-shaped plate passes through Promote not at the surface 13B on dividing plate 13 but in one of them bigger transverse cross-sectional area of delivery vehicle body Initiate commutation；Other embodiments can change in this, such as by promoting the surface of dividing plate with initiate commutation.No matter such as What, is once commutation, the side engagement of the dividing plate of delivery vehicle when it is completely into turnout with extension 275.And if When guiding surface 63B is contacted with the corresponding surface 13B formation of delivery vehicle, guiding surface 63B is provided for commutation Other guiding.Module 220 may also include the non-movable link 202 of the above-mentioned type, here, steel plate produces suction to help to draw Lead the delivery vehicle not commutated.
Module 220 can be used to be used to make delivery vehicle 13 in the track for widget inspection and/or assembly operation Commutation, or it is higher and/or in the case of being separated by relatively nearly (therefore needing fin-shaped plate quickly to move) in the speed of delivery vehicle Commutated.
For widget inspection and/or assembling, such as, as nonrestrictive example, delivery vehicle can be with 50mm (or more It is small) to it is wide between 200mm (or bigger)-wherein width refer to delivery vehicle transverse to the direction moved in orbit The size-of axis and with referring to delivery vehicle for the length-wherein length of one to twice (or more times) of width Edge parallel to the axis in the direction moved in orbit size-and show in certain embodiments as nonrestrictive Example is about 60 millimeters of square.As nonrestrictive example, this delivery vehicle can have 0.2kg (or lower) to 4kg The load quality of (or higher), and generally reach about 2kg (or higher).
Anyway, this delivery vehicle can be worked with the speed more than 2m/s on this track.Delivery vehicle can Operated in the case of to be much smaller than one second in time interval and still provide for changing when neighbouring carrier is moved along different directions To.Generally, the fin-shaped plate 222 used in above-mentioned application is fast so as to allow preferably with as small as possible quality and moment of inertia Quick change to.
Therefore, for widget inspection and/or assembling and the delivery vehicle of above-mentioned size, showing as nonrestrictive Example, such as quality with about 20g-60g and preferably have about 40g (not including rolling bearing) quality and about 5cm- 10cm length and (it can be preferably used as non-by only moving relatively short distance with the fin-shaped plate 222 of about 7.5cm length Restricted example, is, for example, less than 2cm or more) commutation can be initiated.Certainly in other embodiments, fin-shaped plate 222 can be with It is other quality and/or length and speed that also can be according to delivery vehicle 13 in orbit and interval, dividing plate and extension The relative size (and geometric configuration) in portion etc. realizes similar or sufficiently fast expansion and commutation, all these by herein Teaching will be readily appreciated by one skilled in the art.
When the rotary stepped machine by commercially available this area is activated, the end of described fin-shaped plate can be with With about 30 milliseconds or shorter time across the distance (and commutation can be initiated under any circumstance).This causes module 220 100 milliseconds of occasion is as short as available for delivery vehicle interval.
The shape of the fin-shaped plate can for example as shown in Figure 22 B.Go out as shown in the figure, fin-shaped plate 222 includes aperture 224, Axle 226 is disposed therein and fin-shaped plate body can be pivoted about.Fin-shaped plate comprises additionally in kidney shape aperture (or otch) 228, It receives the motor arm 230 for fin-shaped plate to be positioned to such as expanded position, partially deployed position and fully expanded position.With For example can be ellipse conventional incision it is different, kidney shape otch makes Motor torque needed for the delivery vehicle 13 of mobile heavy duty most It is small.
In the illustrated embodiment, the direction of motion and delivery work of the delivery vehicle in the porch on the turnout shown in Figure 22 A The direction of motion having in first (i.e. non-commutation) outlet is roughly the same, but motion of the delivery vehicle at the second outlet on turnout The direction of motion of the direction with delivery vehicle in porch is at an angle of.However, other embodiments can change in these areas.Therefore Such as delivery vehicle two exits on turnout the direction of motion can with delivery vehicle porch direction of motion angulation Degree, it is therefore desirable in two different expansion direction (such as left and right) commutations.It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that not Away from the present invention spirit in the case of can by herein teaching be conveniently applied to these embodiments, therefore such as the above-mentioned type Fin-shaped plate 222 can by between these different expanded positions (such as from " non-deployed " position or other positions at center Put) quickly commutate to realize commutation in these embodiments.
In certain embodiments of the present invention, stepper motor 224 can include to sense and allow the position to fin-shaped plate Put the encoder realized and accurately controlled.This allows fin-shaped plate 222 being arranged in not only two kinds of configurations, and is arranged on three kinds Or more in configure, for example for the delivery vehicle that makes to pass through turnout along fork lane change be fully deployed configuration, for The partially unfolded configuration for the delivery vehicle that intersection's guiding passes through and permission delivery vehicle continue at turnout along straight way direction The retracted configuration of motion.This also allow according to the speed and/or quality of delivery vehicle in above-mentioned various configurations (especially for example Be fully deployed with the partially unfolded configuration) fin-shaped plate position optimize (for example based on trial-and-error method, kinematic calculation or Other methods).
Based on discussed above it will be understood that being changed in the delivery vehicle for making compactly to be spaced and/or quickly move To embodiments of the invention in, by delivery vehicle dividing plate 13D size be set to it is as narrow as possible be helpful, so as to only need Less fin-shaped plate motion realization is wanted to realize commutation.Equally, the quality and moment of inertia of fin-shaped plate are remained as far as possible It is small to be helpful, so as to allow quick commutation.
Figure 23 A to Figure 23 B are delivery vehicle 13 and guide rail in the horizontal plane limited with Figure 16 dotted line 160 Top view.Delivery vehicle shown herein is adapted for the type being used together with the commutation section 220 in Figure 22 A.As shown in drawings, Guiding surface 13B can include being used for connecing in the raceway surface 63B formation of (such as turnout section or other parts) straight way section Tactile one or more regions, such as 13B-1, and for the raceway surface 63B shapes in (such as turnout section) bending section Into the region of contact (it is by oneself or together with the 13B-1 of region), such as 13B-2.Figure 23 A (straight) and 23B (bending) In show these regions 13B-1,13B-2-especially its contact between guiding surface 63B-use.
In the illustrated embodiment, region 13B-1 feature can be the delivery vehicle when delivery vehicle is located at straight way In contact or the potentially outer region near the 63B of contact guidance surface.The feature in these regions, which can also be, works as delivery vehicle With the tangent line parallel with neighbouring surface 63B tangent line during positioned at straight way.More simply, region 13B-1 is when delivery Instrument tends to the region being in contact with surface 63B when being travelled along straight way.
On the contrary, in the illustrated embodiment, region 13B-2 feature can be delivered when delivery vehicle is located at bend Instrument in contact or the potentially outer region near the 63B of contact guidance surface.The feature in these regions can also be when fortune Load instrument be located at bend when with the tangent line parallel with neighbouring surface 63B tangent line.More simply, region 13B-2 is Tend to the region being in contact with surface 63B when bending section of the delivery vehicle along track is travelled.On the embodiment shown, region 13B-2 feature can also be the guiding surface 13B forward corner positioned at delivery vehicle (i.e. when delivery vehicle is travelled in orbit When guide the corner of delivery vehicle) neighbouring bending area or rounded area.
As shown in Figure 24 A to Figure 24 B, region 13B-2 (similar to region 13B-1) can also work to commutation.Return to Its forward corner of delivery vehicle 13-especially can be herein region 13B-2-along laterally pushing away by Figure 22 A discussion, fin-shaped plate 222 Dynamic a small distance is so as to initiate commutation, as shown in fig. 24 a.Once commutation, branch off as delivery vehicle more completely enters The turnoff in road, the dividing plate 13D of delivery vehicle and a side engagement of extension 275, as shown in fig. 24b.Enter one for commutation The guiding of step can be contacted so as to basic as guiding surface 63B is formed with the corresponding surface 13B-2 (13B-1) of delivery vehicle It is upper to be provided by guiding surface 63B.
Although (rather than single ingress path of turnout section) has fin-shaped plate on one or more ingress paths wherein 222, but for making module that delivery vehicle in orbit crosses generally discussed above and for example showing in Figure 22 A The mode gone out is constructed and operated.In addition, in the section that crosses, these fin-shaped plates are only by rotary type stepper motor 224 or other mechanism parts Divide ground engagement.If thus, for example the fin-shaped plate 222 of turnout section is actuated such that the movement of its end about in given track 2cm is so as to start switch operation, then the fin-shaped plate of the section that crosses of same track, which can be activated, makes its end be moved in intersection 0.5cm to 1cm.This local engagement (or " the partially unfolded ") such as consolidating by the lateral position of the delivery vehicle for allowing to cross Change so as to improving performance of the delivery vehicle (and system) in intersection, while contributing to when delivery vehicle starts to cross pair The angle of delivery vehicle carries out small adjustment.
Therefore, in the illustrated embodiment, when delivery vehicle 13 enters intersectional region and especially when delivery vehicle 13 In the porch crossed, (running surface 63B starts to broaden here, such as the transition between region 1804 and 1802 in Figure 18 Area) enter region when, actuator 224 can make fin-shaped plate 222 partly deploy to make delivery vehicle be slightly turned simultaneously And improve it into the area-and more generally saying, into crossing-angle.As described above, in the embodiment shown In, fin-shaped plate by be not on dividing plate 13 but in one of them bigger transverse cross-sectional area of delivery vehicle body- And more specifically, be in certain embodiments on the 13B-2 of region-promote surface 13B so as to realizing aforesaid operations, it is other Embodiment can change in this, such as the other parts such as region on the surface by promoting delivery vehicle body 13B-1, by promoting the surface of dividing plate to start to cross, etc..In addition, the fin-shaped of the type as described in Figure 20 A, 20B Plate, fin-shaped plate can realize this rotation by magnetic and/or by the other manner in addition to being physically contacted with delivery vehicle.
Anyway, once crossing, crossed as delivery vehicle more fully enters, track broaden or The running surface 63B and delivery vehicle that have broadened baffle contacts and/or engagement, further guide or lead so as to provide Draw.Once delivery vehicle enters circuit or initially moves off intersectional region (in exit), running surface 63B narrows.
It will additionally be understood that the direction that some modules can be travelled according to delivery vehicle can be used as turnout region and confluence Both domains.This module can be utilized respectively above-described fin-shaped plate 222 in each in inlet/outlet, according to entrance/ Outlet is used as turnout (or commutation) entrance of operation or the entrance as the operation that crosses so as to mode selectivity as described above Ground activates each fin-shaped plate.
As illustrated, in certain embodiments, the bodies of some delivery vehicles 13 can be generally rectangular cross section ( Such as dividing plate 13D is not considered, is sold, or other extensions 24,31,102 etc.) and can include for example in Figure 23 and Figure 24 showing The convex side gone out.Other shapes of delivery vehicle can also be used together with according to the track of the present invention.
Thus, for example the above-mentioned type and can example in two (or more) delivery vehicles 13 shown in Figure 23 to Figure 24 The single delivery work for the type for showing and (being shown in Figure 25 B with exploded view) to form Figure 25 A that is such as bonded with each other by platform 250 Tool 252.For ease of around the motion in the knee of track, corner and other regions, one or more deliveries as part Instrument 13 can be rotated relative to other delivery vehicles 13 and/or relative to platform 250.In the illustrated embodiment, this passes through Platform 250 (by may include the installed part 254 of bearing or other parts) is connected to one or more as part Delivery vehicle is pivotly realized.In other embodiments, this can be realized by using articulated platform 250 or other devices. Delivery vehicle 250 can be used together with the delivery vehicle 13 of other parts discussion in text as described above.Figure 25 illustrates The advantage of delivery vehicle include for example its can carry bigger or heavier load, can better by corner or bending section, And can be used in need make as part delivery vehicle in orbit differently move relative to each other it is more multiple Miscellaneous track manipulation.
Other shapes of delivery vehicle can also be used together with track herein.Other such examples Figure 26 A with And shown with decomposition view in Figure 26 B.Delivery vehicle 260 can be described generally as with pointed oval cross section, without It is generally rectangular cross section.Except with than (especially being discussed in Fig. 1 into Figure 24) other delivery vehicles discussed above Quality and the big quality of relative length and relative length outside, delivery vehicle 260 can enter according to the description to delivery vehicle 13 Row construction and use (and can by with the discussion identical mode according to Figure 25 and other this delivery vehicles 13,260 pivots Turn ground connection).According to its bigger cross section, delivery vehicle 260 can be in its body (and for example in the lower section of dividing plate simultaneously And closer to the part of track coil) combine bigger (or amount is more) permanent magnet 33,34 to help to move load. The advantage of delivery vehicle shown in Figure 26 include for example its can carry bigger or heavier load.
Described above is the system, apparatus and method for meeting above and other purpose.It should be appreciated that as shown herein and beg for The embodiment of opinion is only the example of the present invention, and the other embodiments comprising modification are also within the scope of the invention.Therefore, by non- Restricted example, the present invention can be realized by following examples, i.e. for example except above-mentioned without wheel, belt wheel and other Design based on rolling element, can also provide suspension by air cushion or fluid cushion.It is used as other nonrestrictive examples, fin-shaped Plate, dividing plate and triangular pieces 275 can be formed as being different from shown in the accompanying drawings and shape as discussed above.
1. a kind of transportation system, it includes：
A. the track of some propulsion coils is included, some propulsion coils are pushed away along one or more delivery vehicles wherein Dynamic region arrangement, the track has the one or more running surfaces for supporting the delivery vehicle, the delivery vehicle edge One or more of running surfaces are rolled or slided,
B. one or more delivery vehicles on the track are arranged, each delivery vehicle includes sources of magnetic flux,
C. each delivery vehicle has partition board portion, and the partition board portion is connected to one or more bodies of the delivery vehicle, Wherein, the partition board portion has narrowed cross section,
D. the track includes turnout region, and the turnout region includes fin-shaped plate, and is included in the top in the turnout region Point place the running surface extension, wherein, the fin-shaped plate by the delivery vehicle apply side force thus Make at the turnout region vehicle direction start conversion, also, the extension by with described in the delivery vehicle Partition board portion formation contacts the vehicle direction conversion continuation so that at the turnout region,
Wherein, the fin-shaped plate further comprises kidney shape aperture, and it is received for the fin-shaped plate to be positioned at into expanded position, portion Divide the arm of expanded position and the motor of fully expanded position.
2. transportation system according to claim 1, wherein, the fin-shaped plate passes through along described of the delivery vehicle One or more outer surfaces in body portion are contacted with the delivery vehicle so that vehicle direction starts conversion.
3. transportation system according to claim 2, wherein, the extension is triangular in shape.
4. transportation system according to claim 1, wherein, the track, which has, limits the delivery vehicle to lateral movement One or more guiding surfaces.
5. transportation system according to claim 4, wherein, the part offer of the guiding surface in the turnout region The further guiding changed to vehicle direction.
6. a kind of transportation system, it includes：
A. the track of some propulsion coils is included, some propulsion coils are pushed away along one or more delivery vehicles wherein Dynamic region arrangement, the track has the one or more running surfaces for supporting the delivery vehicle, the delivery vehicle edge One or more of running surfaces are rolled or slided, and the track, which also has, limits the delivery vehicle to the one of lateral movement Individual or multiple guiding surfaces,
C. each delivery vehicle has partition board portion, and the partition board portion is connected to one or more bodies of the delivery vehicle, Wherein, there is the partition board portion one or more of narrowed cross section, also, described body to include being used to contact described One or more surfaces of the guiding surface of track,
D. the track includes the turnout region with fin-shaped plate,
E. the fin-shaped plate to the delivery vehicle by applying side force so as to open vehicle direction at the region of turnout Begin to change, also, the extension of the apex positioned at the turnout region of the running surface changes vehicle direction Continue, also, a part for the guiding surface in the turnout region provides further drawing to vehicle direction conversion Lead,
Wherein, the arm of motor is received within the kidney shape aperture of the fin-shaped plate, and the fin-shaped plate is actuated to following three Any of individual position：Non-deployed position, expanded position and partially deployed position.
7. transportation system according to claim 6, wherein, the fin-shaped plate is mechanically actuated.
8. transportation system according to claim 7, wherein, the fin-shaped plate is mechanically caused by rotary type stepper motor Dynamic, the rotary type stepper motor is without encoder or including one or more encoders.
9. transportation system according to claim 6, it is arranged to widget inspection and/or assembling, wherein,
A. the delivery vehicle is that 52mm to 200mm is wide, one times to twice of the length with the width for the delivery vehicle, And with 0.2kg to the load quality between 4kg,
B. the delivery vehicle is moved on the track with the speed more than 2m/s,
C. the fin-shaped plate makes the delivery vehicle start commutation by the mobile 2cm that is less than.
10. transportation system according to claim 6, wherein, one or more of delivery vehicles have include one or Multiple first areas and the guiding surface for including one or more second areas, one or more of first areas are used in institute State at some parts of track and to be contacted with the guiding surface of the track, one or more of second areas are used in institute State at the other parts of track and to be contacted with the guiding surface of the track.
11. transportation system according to claim 10, wherein, one or more of first areas in straight way with it is described The guiding surface of track is contacted, also, guiding surface of one or more of second areas with the track in bend connects Touch.
12. transportation system according to claim 10, wherein, the fin-shaped plate is by contacting one or more of second Region starts the conversion of vehicle direction at the turnout region.
13. transportation system according to claim 10, wherein, one or more of second areas are bendings.
14. transportation system according to claim 10, wherein, one or more of first areas are the delivery vehicles Such outer region, when the delivery vehicle be located at straight way when, the phase of the tangent line that the outer region has and the track The tangent line on adjacent surface is parallel.
15. transportation system according to claim 10, wherein, one or more of second areas are the delivery vehicles Such outer region, when the delivery vehicle be located at bend when, the phase of the tangent line that the outer region has and the track The tangent line on adjacent surface is parallel.
16. a kind of transportation system, it includes：
C. one or more of delivery vehicles each have one or more pins, and one or more of pins are from the delivery work The position that its running surface along the track of tool is rolled or slided is extended about,
E. one or more of pins interact to control the delivery vehicle at the turnout region with the fin-shaped plate The direction of motion,
17. transportation system according to claim 16, wherein, one or more of pins are from the corner of the delivery vehicle Extension.
18. transportation system according to claim 17, wherein,
A. the running surface of the track includes the first guide rail and the second guide rail,
B. the fin-shaped plate is arranged to adjoining with first guide rail.
19. transportation system according to claim 18, wherein, one or more of described pin and the fin-shaped plate are mutual Act on and interacted with the respective segments of second guide rail, to control the delivery vehicle at the turnout region The direction of motion.
20. the transportation system according to any one of claim 1,6 and 16, it includes electronic power and control circuit, institute State electronic power and control circuit independently encourages some propulsion coils, so as to promote one or many along the track Individual delivery vehicle.
21. transportation system according to claim 20, wherein, one or more of delivery vehicles are slidably arranged on institute State on track.
22. transportation system according to claim 20, wherein, the sources of magnetic flux of at least one delivery vehicle includes one Or multiple magnets.
23. transportation system according to claim 22, wherein, some propulsion coils are arranged in the track to connect One or more of magnets of the nearly delivery vehicle passed through.
24. a kind of transportation system, it includes：
D. the track includes intersectional region, and the intersectional region includes the widened section of fin-shaped plate and the running surface, its In, when the delivery vehicle enters the intersectional region, the fin-shaped plate applies side force to change to the delivery vehicle Its angle, also, the widened section continues remittance by contacting the partition board portion of the delivery vehicle, so as to provide pair The further guiding or guiding imported,
Wherein, the arm of motor is received within the kidney shape aperture of the fin-shaped plate, and the fin-shaped plate is suitable to be actuated to exhibition Open configuration and the partially unfolded configuration in arbitrary disposition, also, the fin-shaped plate be actuated to it is described it is the partially unfolded configuration so as to Change the angle of the delivery vehicle when the delivery vehicle enters the intersectional region.
25. transportation system according to claim 24, wherein, the fin-shaped plate is mechanically actuated.
26. transportation system according to claim 25, wherein, the fin-shaped plate is by rotary type stepper motor by mechanically Actuating, the rotary type stepper motor is without encoder or including one or more encoders.
27. a kind of delivery vehicle being used in the transportation system according to any one of claim 1,6 and 16.
28. delivery vehicle according to claim 27, it includes
A. sources of magnetic flux,
B. be connected to the partition board portion of one or more bodies of the delivery vehicle, wherein, the partition board portion have relative to The narrowed cross section of other bodies.
29. delivery vehicle according to claim 27, it includes
A. the first part and the second part, each part include：
I. sources of magnetic flux,
Ii. be connected to the partition board portion of one or more bodies of the part, wherein, the partition board portion have relative to The narrowed cross section of other bodies
B. the platform of first part and second part is connected.
30. delivery vehicle according to claim 29, wherein, the platform is to be as pivotally connected to the part In at least one.
31. delivery vehicle according to claim 27, it has generally rectangular cross section.
32. delivery vehicle according to claim 27, it has substantially pointed oval cross section.
33. delivery vehicle according to claim 28, wherein,
C. the fin-shaped plate of the transportation system makes the delivery vehicle start commutation by the mobile 2cm that is less than.
34. delivery vehicle according to claim 28, wherein, one or more bodies of the delivery vehicle include using In contact one or more guiding surfaces from the limitation delivery vehicle on the track to lateral movement it is one or more Surface.
35. delivery vehicle according to claim 34, wherein, one or more guiding surfaces in the turnout region A part provide to vehicle direction change further guiding.
36. delivery vehicle according to claim 34, wherein, being used for of the delivery vehicle contacts one on the track One or more surfaces of individual or multiple guiding surfaces include one or more first areas and including one or more secondth areas Domain, the guiding surface that one or more of first areas are used for the track at some parts of the track connects Touch, the guiding surface that one or more of second areas are used for the track at the other parts of the track connects Touch.
37. delivery vehicle according to claim 36, wherein, one or more of first areas in straight way with it is described The guiding surface of track is contacted, also, guiding surface of one or more of second areas with the track in bend connects Touch.
38. delivery vehicle according to claim 36, wherein, the fin-shaped plate is by contacting one or more of second Region starts the conversion of vehicle direction at the region of turnout.
39. delivery vehicle according to claim 36, wherein, one or more of second areas are bendings.
40. delivery vehicle according to claim 36, wherein, one or more of first areas are the delivery vehicles Such outer region, when the delivery vehicle be located at straight way when, the phase of the tangent line that the outer region has and the track The tangent line of the outer region on adjacent surface is parallel.
41. delivery vehicle according to claim 36, wherein, one or more of second areas are the delivery vehicles Such outer region, when the delivery vehicle be located at bend when, the phase of the tangent line that the outer region has and the track The tangent line of the outer region on adjacent surface is parallel.
42. delivery vehicle according to claim 27, it includes
B. one or more pins, one or more of pins prolong near one or more running surfaces of the delivery vehicle Stretch；
Wherein, one or more pins of the delivery vehicle interact to control the delivery vehicle in institute with the fin-shaped plate State the direction of motion at the region of turnout.
43. delivery vehicle according to claim 42, wherein, one or more of pins are from the corner of the delivery vehicle Extension.
44. delivery vehicle according to claim 42, wherein, the delivery vehicle is configured to slide along the track.
45. delivery vehicle according to claim 42, wherein, the sources of magnetic flux of the delivery vehicle includes one or more magnetic Body.
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CN104870244A CN104870244A (en) 2015-08-26
CN104870244B true CN104870244B (en) 2017-09-15
ID=50341894
CN201380060618.0A CN104870244B (en) 2009-01-23 2013-09-18 Short block linear synchronous motor and changement
EP (1) EP2897835B1 (en)
JP (1) JP6342900B2 (en)
KR (1) KR20150060800A (en)
CN (1) CN104870244B (en)
WO (1) WO2014047104A1 (en)
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2013-09-18 JP JP2015533139A patent/JP6342900B2/en active Active
2013-09-18 EP EP13839639.5A patent/EP2897835B1/en active Active
2013-09-18 KR KR1020157010112A patent/KR20150060800A/en not_active Application Discontinuation
2013-09-18 WO PCT/US2013/060286 patent/WO2014047104A1/en unknown
WO2014047104A1 (en) 2014-03-27
CN104870244A (en) 2015-08-26
KR20150060800A (en) 2015-06-03
EP2897835A1 (en) 2015-07-29
JP2015534436A (en) 2015-11-26
JP6342900B2 (en) 2018-06-13
EP2897835A4 (en) 2016-05-18
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