Three-dimensional motion using single-pathway based actuators
US7926644B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 28, 2008 |
| Grant date | Apr 19, 2011 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 9, 2028 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB65G2201/0261
- WIPO fieldHandling
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
The invention provides novel mechanisms and methods for effecting rotational and translational motion in three dimensions of objects carried by, or coupled to, actuators that move along a pathway. Vehicles or other conveyances (collectively, “vehicles”) that utilize mechanisms and methods can increase the performance of and decrease the cost of transportation, shipping, manufacturing, materials handling and other systems. In one aspect, the illustrated embodiment provides such a vehicle or other conveyance having two (or more) actuators adapted for movement along a pathway. The actuators are propelled or otherwise capable of motion, relative to each other so that the distance between can be increased or decreased. When desired, that distance can also be maintained the same, e.g., regardless of whether the actuators are moving. A pallet, carriage or other moveable part (collectively, pallet) is moveably coupled to the actuators so that at least selected motions by the actuators relative to one another on the pathway effect rotational and/or translational motion of the pallet in three dimensions relative to the pathway, including, for example, movement transverse to the pathway and o…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.