Storage and retrieval machine with spring tensioned shuttle pulley
US5813816A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 28, 1996 |
| Grant date | Sep 29, 1998 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 28, 2016 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB66F9/141
- WIPO fieldHandling
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A storage and retrieval machine has a telescopically extendible shuttle assembly and having spring tensioned shuttle idler pulleys for the slave drive members, preferably chains, of the shuttle assembly. A spring, preferably a die spring, exerts a biasing force on each idler pulley which opposes forces imposed on the idler pulley by the corresponding slave chain. Pre-tensioning the idler pulley in this manner assures adequate tension on the slave chain to prevent or at least inhibit undulations in plate movement which otherwise could occur during telescopic extension and retraction of the shuttle assembly if the slave chain were inadequately tensioned. Use of the spring loaded idler pulley also obviates the need to over-tension the slave chain and prevents or inhibits premature wear and failure of the idler pulley, pulley bearing, and/or chain.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.