Digital sensor and controller for two-rail electrically driven vehicles

Abstract

Within factories, the transportation of components and of assembled parts to and from storage is very important. This paper presents an original idea of such transportation by means of two-rail electrical vehicles. The digital sensors and controllers can be connected into a wider digital network in order to ensure automation, efficiency and safety of the vehicles. The computerized central command station can learn the behaviour of the manufacturing chain and adapt the system operation parameters accordingly. The digital sensor and controller has two functions: it signals the presence of the vehicle in its controlled rail block, and it stops the vehicle if the block ahead is occupied or the operator issued a “stop” command, or lets it pass through if the block ahead is clear and the operator does not need it there. The vehicles are fitted with electrical motors which drive their wheels, and they collect low-voltage electricity from the two metal rails by means of wheel pick-up contacts. This system can be implemented in small or medium-size factories, and it can be extended and/or upgraded according to necessities. Due to the resemblance with the miniature railway systems, this idea can also be used in this field of activity.