Overhead transporter system with free running trolleys on a load rail coupled to an overhead drag system by grips with load limiting shear catches

摘要

An overhead transport system has free running trolleys (10) on a support rail (1) and with a catch system to couple to an overhead drag system. The top of the trolley support has a profiled grip (14) which is engaged by a catch (32) on a selective coupling (20) fitted to the underside of the drag system, to couple to selected trolleys, and release them as required. The coupling includes a shear fitting (28) which breaks if a preset level of resistance is reached, i.e. the trolley is blocked. The drive is immediately uncoupled before causing any damage. The drive is rapidly restored by unclipping the damaged shear component and clipping in a replacement.