Storage and retrieval machine with pre-tensioned shuttle guides
US5839873A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 28, 1996 |
| Grant date | Nov 24, 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 which includes a plurality of linearly movable plates and a plurality of shuttle guide roller assemblies which accommodate non-linearities in the guide surface and other variations in clearance between the shuttle guide rollers and the corresponding guide surfaces of the shuttle assembly. Each shuttle guide roller assembly includes a spring, preferably a die spring, which biases the guide roller towards the guide surface but which permits limited deflection of the roller when it encounters bows, bumps, or other variations in linearity in the guide surface. The pre-tensioned guide rollers provide wear compensation, center the shuttle plates on their tracks, and assure adequate guidance of the shuttle plates during shuttle telescoping while preventing premature wear of the shuttle guide roller bearings and/or the guide surfaces.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.