Charles G Cope

US Patent:

47665475, Aug 23, 1988

Filed:

Apr 14, 1986

Appl. No.:

6/851787

Inventors:

Richard G. Modery - Grand Rapids MI
John C. Bell - Grand Rapids MI
Charles R. Cope - Grand Rapids MI

Assignee:

Transfer Technologies, Inc. - Grand Rapids MI

International Classification:

G06F 1546

US Classification:

364478

Abstract:

A computer-controlled overhead conveyor system is provided wherein all conveyor vehicles substantially continually communicate with a control system to be routed through the track network. The track is conceptually divided into zones each identified by an optically read marker; and the vehicles include scanners for reading the markers as the vehicles traverse the track. The marker information is communicated to the control system which controls track switches and vehicle velocities to prevent collisions and to direct the vehicles to desired destinations. Preferably, each vehicle includes a circuit for indicating the weight of the load transported thereby; and the control system calculates running totals of material weight moved--for example by material type or by track station. Further preferably, the control system controls the acceleration/deceleration of each vehicle in a manner dependent on the material type and weight to effect the maximum vehicle speeds while preventing damage to vehicle loads.