초록 ▼

A conveyor switch for a conveyor track comprising a tubular linear induction motor as the switch drive. A switch tongue is adapted to be pivoted between first and second positions on the conveyor track and has a driving arm extending from one end thereof. The switch drive is operatively connected to

A conveyor switch for a conveyor track comprising a tubular linear induction motor as the switch drive. A switch tongue is adapted to be pivoted between first and second positions on the conveyor track and has a driving arm extending from one end thereof. The switch drive is operatively connected to the driving arm for driving the switch tongue, wherein the switch tongue is adapted to direct a moving conveyor component between first and second paths of travel on the conveyor track. Various means are provided to account for the linear movement of the switch drive in relation to the arcuate movement of the switch tongue. The switch assembly is especially adapted for switches in power and free conveyor systems.

대표청구항 ▼

1. A method of directing a moving conveyor component between first and second paths of travel, comprising:activating an electromagnetic field within a linear induction motor having a stationary primary and a moving secondary; causing said field to move linearly along said stationary primary and to i

1. A method of directing a moving conveyor component between first and second paths of travel, comprising:activating an electromagnetic field within a linear induction motor having a stationary primary and a moving secondary; causing said field to move linearly along said stationary primary and to interact with currents induced within said moving secondary; moving said moving secondary in a linear direction in relation to said stationary primary, between an extended position and a retracted position, wherein said moving secondary is physically linked to a drive arm extending from a switch member for moving said conveyor component; driving said switch member between first and second positions using said linear induction motor physically linked to said switch member; causing said conveyor component to be switched between said first and second paths of travel by said switch member, wherein the link between said drive arm and said moving secondary is adapted such that the arcuate movement of said switch member about a pivot point in relation to said linear movement of said moving secondary is accommodated thereby; and selectively energizing a holding coil mounted adjacent said stationary primary of said motor, and retaining said moving secondary in said extended or retracted position.