CARRIER BRAKE FOR PNEUMATIC TRANSPORT SYSTEM

摘要

The present application discloses braking devices for use in a pneumatic tube system (PTS). The braking devices are adapted for in-line incorporation with a pneumatic tube and are operative to stop a pneumatic carrier within a pneumatic carrier system. The in-line braking devices allow for decelerating a carrier to a stop over a distance to reduce the forces applied to a carrier and its contents.

主权项

1. A brake for use in a pneumatic tube carrier system, comprising:
a pneumatic tube having an internal bore extending between a first open end and a second open end, wherein said internal bore is sized to accommodate the passage of a pneumatic carrier there through; a first gate assembly disposed along a length of the pneumatic tube at a first location, wherein said first gate assembly is configured to move a first plate into and out of said internal to open and close said internal bore; a second gate assembly disposed along a length of the pneumatic tube at a second location, wherein said second gate assembly is configured to move a second plate into and out of said internal to open and close said internal bore; and a first valve and a second valve configured to controllably open and close first and second ports in a sidewall of said pneumatic tube between said first and second ends; and a controller configured to controllably move said gate assemblies and said valve assemblies create an air cushion in front of a carrier upon arrival of a carrier into said pneumatic tube.