text:
111 Cherokee Rd, Easley, SC 29642
2 beds2 baths-- sqft Edit
This home is not currently listed for sale or rent on Zillow.
A Zestimate® home valuation is Zillow's estimated market value. It is not an appraisal. Use it as a starting point to determine a home's value. Learn more
My NotesEdit
- Lot: 0.29 acres
- Single Family
- Built in 2012
- Views: 487 all time views
- Cooling: Central
- Heating: Forced air
- Cable Ready
- Ceiling Fan
- Deck
- Flooring: Linoleum / Vinyl
- Porch
Appliances Included
- Dishwasher
- Dryer
- Garbage disposal
- Microwave
- Range / Oven
- Refrigerator
- Washer
Room Types
- Breakfast nook
- Family room
- Exterior material: Vinyl
- Roof type: Other
- Room count: 5
- Stories: 1
- Structure type: Other
- Heating: Electric
- Laundry: In Unit
- Zillow Home ID: 2111181749
Zestimate Details
The Value Range is the high and low estimate market value for which Zillow values a home. The more information, the smaller the range, and the more accurate the Zestimate. See data coverage and accuracy table
Don't agree with your home's Zestimate? Owners can edit their home facts to make the Zestimate more accurate. Plus, you can leave an opinion on your Zestimate value below. Just click "Owner Estimate".
The Rent Range is the high and low estimate for which an apartment or home could rent. The more information we have, the smaller the range, and the more accurate the Rent Zestimate. See data coverage and accuracy table
Improve This Home's Value
Popularity on Zillow
Comparable Homes
Homes like this sold for $68-120K.
Neighborhood: 29642
Foreclosures will be a factor impacting home values in the next several years. In 29642, the number of foreclosures waiting to be sold is 4.5% less than in Easley, and 1.9% higher than the national average. This lower local number could help 29642 home values rise more quickly than other regions in Easley.
Learn more about forecast calculations or 29642 home values.… More Less
For Sale
- 109 Autumn Ln2 beds, 1 baths
735 sqft, 6,098 sqft lot, built in 1983
- 00 Bonita Dr-- beds, -- baths
-- sqft, -- sqft lot, built in --
- 126 Upward Way3 beds, 2 baths
1,933 sqft, 10,018 sqft lot, built in 2002
- 269 Rivers Edge Dr4 beds, 2.5 baths
2,200 sqft, 18,730 sqft lot, built in 2002
- 116 Mount Frontenac Way3 beds, 2.5 baths
2,194 sqft, 19,602 sqft lot, built in 2009
- 112 Hill View Ct3 beds, 2 baths
1,941 sqft, 10,018 sqft lot, built in 2001
- Highway 8 LOT 4DStudio, -- baths
-- sqft, 241,322 sqft lot, built in --
- 293 Rivers Edge Dr3 beds, 2.5 baths
1,400 sqft, 10,454 sqft lot, built in 2005
- 801 W 7th AveStudio, -- baths
-- sqft, 18,295 sqft lot, built in --
- 201 Giants Ridge Rd3 beds, 2 baths
1,934 sqft, 10,018 sqft lot, built in 2006
- 211 Pelzer Hwy2 beds, 1 baths
954 sqft, 446,054 sqft lot, built in 1948
- 140 Spirit Mountain Ln5 beds, 2.5 baths
2,644 sqft, 10,018 sqft lot, built in 2007
- 101 Neal St2 beds, 1 baths
862 sqft, 14,810 sqft lot, built in 1957
- 212 Woodfield Dr3 beds, 2 baths
1,979 sqft, -- sqft lot, built in 1967
- 206 S 8th St3 beds, 2 baths
1,730 sqft, 9,147 sqft lot, built in 1920
- 200 Mcbee Ave4 beds, 3 baths
1,702 sqft, 21,780 sqft lot, built in 1959
- 107 Liberty Dr3 beds, 2 baths
1,417 sqft, -- sqft lot, built in 1930
- 100 Martin St2 beds, 1 baths
-- sqft, -- sqft lot, built in --
- 136 Hamilton St3 beds, 2 baths
-- sqft, -- sqft lot, built in --
|Other Units in this Building (1)
|Learn more about 111 Cherokee Rd
Nearby Schools in Easley
GreatSchools ratings give an overview of a school's test results. The ratings are based on a comparison of test results for all schools in the state.
Disclaimer: School attendance zone boundaries are supplied by Maponics and are subject to change. Check with the applicable school district prior to making a decision based on these boundaries.
School Rating
West End Elementary (assigned)PK-50.5 mi
Richard H. Gettys Middle (assigned)6-81.9 mi
Easley High (assigned)9-120.7 mi
Data by GreatSchools.org
Get a Professional Estimate
Learn how to appear as the agent above
Ask these lenders about financing
What is a Premier Lender?
The premier lender and the agent have a financial relationship and pay to advertise on this page. Zillow and the agents do not recommend or endorse any of the premier lenders. For more information on Zillow advertising practices, see Zillow's Terms of Use & Privacy. Learn more here
Contact Successful!
Find out how much house you can afford and get pre-approved for a mortgage in minutes.
- Fast & Easy
- Top-Notch Lenders
- Safe & Secure
A Lender can assist you with pre-approval process and answer any question you have.
A Lender will also be calling you back to assist with pre-approval.
Thanks for using Zillow!
We'll send you an email with a link to get pre-approved on Zillow or you can get started by clicking below.
We weren't able to process your pre-approval request. Please go to Zillow Mortgage Marketplace directly by clicking below.


text:
to explore
sign up (free!)
@Scott Schuman (17th - 23rd september 2012) http://losperrosnobailan.blogspot.com/2012/09/10-styles-of-week-17th-23rd-september.html?spref=tw Africanbeauti Africanfashion, Styles Pinboard, Styles Men'S, Prints Pants, Street Styles, Men'S Styles, Men'S Fashion, Ankara Pants, My Styles
Related Pins
I enjoy seeing friends with similar styles. It's this strange doubling that seems to validate a look. via Sartorialist 2/9/11
On the Street…. Arco della Pace, Milan « The Sartorialist Love how the red pops out amongst its neutral garments.
ok, so when you really don't know what to wear, tie your sweater around your hips for a -unusual-skirt-look. .... oh well, it works for her, i guess!
except for the cigarette, which kind of ruins everything On the Street….The Layered Turtleneck, Florence - The Sartorialist

subset: commoncrawl


text:
1. Pigs
by Peter Brady
A title in the FARM ANIMALS series which uses simple sentences to introduce the world of pigs: what they look like, where they live and what they eat ... More
See All Softcovers | Hardcovers
2. Pigs and Piglets
by Anita Ganeri, Anni Axworthy (Illustrator)
3. Small Pig
by Arnold Lobel
Because the farmer's wife insists on cleaning his mud puddle, a little pig runs away to the city where he becomes permanently stuck in what he ... More
See All Softcovers | Hardcovers
4. The Pig in the Pond
by Martin Waddell
One hot day, Neligan goes off to town in his cart. Neligan's pig sits by the pond watching the ducks and geese play on the cool water. The pig gets ... More
See All Softcovers | Hardcovers
5. Piglet and Papa
by Margaret Wild
In this sweet and heartwarming companion to the beloved "Piglet and Mama," Piglet feels a little insecure. She has upset her papa. Does that mean he ... More
See All Softcovers | Hardcovers
6. Curly the Pig
by Heather Amery, Stephen Cartwright (Illustrator)
This board book about Curly the pig has been written especially for very young children from one year upwards.
See All Hardcovers
7. Peaceful Piggy Yoga
by Kerry Lee MacLean (Illustrator)
Who loves yoga? Everyone from ballerinas to football players to moms and dads. Babies do yoga positions without even knowing it! From the author and ... More
See All Softcovers | Hardcovers
8. Saddlebottom
by Dick King-Smith
The runt of the piglet litter is nicknamed "Saddlebottom" by the rest of the farm animals because the white marking of a saddleback has slipped a bit ... More
See All Softcovers | Hardcovers
9. Daggie Dogfoot
by Dick King-Smith
10. Pigs
by Christina Wilsdon
So you think pigs are sloppy? You may be surprised to know they are actually very clean. Pigs are also as intelligent as dogs or cats. Find out how ... More
See All Softcovers | Hardcovers
11. All Pigs Are Beautiful
by Dick King-Smith, Anita Jeram (Illustrator)
It's true what they say: pigs are beautiful! Curious young minds will love learning about their habits in this picture book which combines story with ... More
See All Softcovers | Hardcovers
12. Piglets Playing: Counting from 11 to 20
by Megan Atwood, Sharon Holm (Illustrator), Paula J Maida (Consultant editor)
Animals make perfect counting company! The simple language teaches young readers mathematical terms and counting concepts. Learn to count from 11 to ... More
See All Hardcovers
13. Pigs
by Sara Swan Miller
Describes the physical traits, lifestyle, and behavior of pigs and their role in providing humans with meat.
See All Softcovers | Hardcovers
14. Find the Piglet
by Stephen Cartwright (Illustrator)
These delightful rhyming board books provide young children with the challenge of something to look for, amusing situations to talk about and ... More
See All Softcovers | Hardcovers
15. Desert Rose and Her Highfalutin Hog
by Alison Jackson, Keith Graves (Illustrator)
When gritty pig farmer Desert Rose finds a gold nugget, just a-lyin' there in the mud, she decides to buy herself the biggest, fattest hog she can ... More
See All Hardcovers
16. If You Give a Pig a Pancake
by Laura Joffe Numeroff
If you give a pig a pancake, she'll want some syrup to go with it. If you give her some of your favourite maple syrup, she'll probably get all sticky ... More
See All Softcovers | Hardcovers | Audiobooks
17. Chester the Worldly Pig
by Bill Peet
A disgruntled pig sets his sights on being more than something to eat.
See All Softcovers | Hardcovers
18. Perfect Piggies!: A Book! a Song! a Celebration!
by Sandra Boynton
Piggies rock! So does Boynton. Through her eyes, her words, her music, and above all her art, the world is seen with whimsy and pleasure. "Perfect ... More
See All Softcovers | Hardcovers
19. Pigs
by Robert N Munsch
Megan is told to feed the pigs, but not to open the gate. She does of course, and the results are hilarious as the pigs help themselves to coffee and ... More
See All Softcovers | Hardcovers
20. The Adventures of Nanny Piggins
by R.A. Spratt
This critically acclaimed, award-winning middle-grade debut follows the story of the three Green children who are cared for by a nanny pig. Yes, a ... More
See All Softcovers | Hardcovers
21. Olivia ... and the Missing Toy
by Ian Falconer
Olivia has one toy that she loves more than anything. She feeds him, dresses him and takes him everywhere. So when he disappears, Olivia is furious! ... More
See All Softcovers | Hardcovers
22. Lady Lollipop
by Dick King-Smith
The bestselling book from the author of "Babe, the Gallant Pig"--an American Library Association Notable Children's Book and Junior Library Guild ... More
See All Softcovers | Hardcovers
23. Clever Lollipop
by Dick King-Smith, Jill Barton (Illustrator)
24. Hogwash
by Arthur Geisert
It s bath time! All the little piggies have had lots of fun playing, and now they re dirty, muddy, and covered in paint. But their mamas aren t ... More
See All Hardcovers
25. Lady Lollipop
This is a fresh young fiction look for Dick King-Smith's timeless classics, "Lady Lollipop and Clever Lollipop". Lollipop is no ordinary pig. ... More
See All Softcovers | Hardcovers


text:
Online Dating in Mandan for Free
The only 100% Free Online Dating site for dating, love, relationships and friendship. Register
HERE and chat with other Mandan singles
TdtimeFirst of all----Go Broncos!!! Hi.. Honesty and maturity are a must! Chemistry, personality, stability are priorities as well. I'm into Bismarck/Mandan area for conversations and see where it takes u
Bismarck North Dakota doll73 42 Single Woman Seeking Men
If you love animals, you've got a good heart!I am creative and I love to swim and dance. I would enjoy the company of a person who is down to earth and have goals and aspirations in life and who knows how to respect other people. I love to trave
Bismarck North Dakota TrustininGod 39 Single Woman Seeking Men
I beat Steph Curry with the shotJust looking to see what's out there. Someone to hang out with that can possibly lead to more. Not going to play any games just going to be 100% real.
bismarck North Dakota danschwab 27 Single Man Seeking Women
i do have pics just wanted to be liked for morenot much time to get out to find real lady that i like and allI am faithful and loveing caring i want to find a real relationship or friends too it dont matter, i just dont want to waste ti
Bismarck North Dakota for-real-be-real 30 Single Man Seeking Women
just looking for friendsI'm not perfect in any way my hearts been broken too many time I can't handle liars, so if your a compulsive liar Tata. I'm a lover not a hater and I will treat u like a king. I have a big heart but
center North Dakota hmtemich 34 Single Woman Seeking Men
Honest man looking for the long haul.I'm an honest, hardworking man looking to love and to be loved. I'm at the point in my life where I am looking for something serious and am actively seeking my aspirations of finding the one for me.
Bismarck North Dakota Stephenjh2392 22 Single Man Seeking Women
I have a 3 year old haha she comes first!! But hmuHello my name is Dion young I'm 21 years old. I have a 2 year old baby girl. She's my world! I spend most of my time with her. But in my free time I enjoy movies, fishing,camping, and snowboarding! I'
Bismarck North Dakota shawn3457 21 Single Man Seeking Women
Lets see how this works lolHey Im Lacey. I am a corrections officre at the state penn. I also am going to school to get my BS. I work allot but like to have fun when Im not there. My job is way too serious to surround myself wi
Mandan North Dakota lcyf89 26 Single Woman Seeking Men
im a cool guyI grew up on a farm but I work in Bismarck and then go to the farm on the weekends. I have a lot of family members and I have one sister and I love country music
bismarck North Dakota brobeans12345 22 Single Man Seeking Women
The only 100% Free dating service. Register HERE to use this Free Dating Service, and start contacting other users for free
JasonA friend told me that online dating sites are frequented by some very strange people, so I figured I should filter out a few folks by asking some serious questions. Please answer carefully:1
Bismarck North Dakota 701jason 30 Single Man Seeking Women
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23


text:
The Story of Life, as Told by the Movies
From Movieclips, here's a stirring compilation of clips edited together to show the journey from birth to death, as told by cinema. The voice-over is largely taken from an Orson Welles clip from F for Fake , in which he quotes from Rudyard Kipling's poem "The Conundrum of the Workshops," though other musings come from Nicolas Cage's Charlie Kaufman in Adaptation.
It's worth pointing out that Welles' narration—and, therefore, the clips—are predominantly from a male perspective, which is not uncommon in the movies. But the montage otherwise culls from a large and varied swath of the cinema, and I'm willing to bet that the power of how it's woven together is universal.
The GOP Base Loves Trump It sees itself in his foreign policy belligerence, anti-elite agitation, and raw bigotry.
A Toxic Legacy Workers like Yvette Flores didn't know their jobs in electronics manufacturing could harm their children. And the U.S. does tragically little to protect them.
One Thing Primates of Park Avenue Definitely Doesn't Exaggerate: The Obscene Power of Designer Purses
Geeking Out I write about some of the uglier aspects of humanity. Sometimes escapism is exactly what I need.
Medical Examiner
Don't Go in the Water Why a nasty parasite is thriving in chlorinated swimming pools and water parks.


text:
Stock Photo:
cute elementary schoolgirl in classroom with classmate and teacher
- Image ID: 128872663
- Copyright: michaeljung
- Release Information: Signed model release filed with Shutterstock, Inc
High quality images curated from over 150 countries.
Over 50 million photos, vectors, illustrations, and more.
Simple and flat pricing by image or by month.
Over 230,000 images downloaded every day.


text:
Naturally Beautiful
Photos taken by amateur photographers from around the state showcase Alabama's flora and fauna
Published: Monday, August 11, 2008 at 11:35 a.m.
Last Modified: Monday, August 11, 2008 at 11:35 a.m.
Although Tom Price is proud of his photograph of a fawn, which took third place in the Outdoor Alabama Photo Contest and is now on display in the Junior League Gallery at the Bama Theatre, another of his nonwinning entries shows the aims of the exhibit equally well.
The contest, sponsored by the Alabama Department of Conservation to draw focus to the state's spectacular array of flora and fauna, didn't pick the Tuscaloosa resident's shots of the butterfly known as Mitchell's Marsh Satyr, a rare and endangered species found in west-central Alabama.
'There are only three to four different colonies in different states in this area,' Price said. 'There's a little bit of controversy about how many colonies still exist now, how many are viable enough to call a colony.
'We have probably the most of any state.'
But declining habitats, due to logging and other destruction of marshes, along with pesticide poisoning, may some day make Price's photographs of the butterfly an artifact, a reminder of our lack of foresight.
Price submitted an entry to the contest for the first time this year because he's a reader of Outdoor Alabama, the 80-year-old conservation magazine sponsoring the competition.
'I like Outdoor Alabama because it brings the awareness of what we have and how we should really make a strong endeavor to protect it, not just for our benefit, but for our lineage, our children and grandchildren,' he said. 'It's a shame to see things pass away, just like the ivory-billed woodpecker. It would be a tremendous thing to see, but we're never going to see it again, because we failed to protect them.'
Like many who grew up in the South, Price developed a love for the outdoors through hunting. The techniques his father taught him for finding deer help him when he's shooting through a lens instead of a rifle.
'I've been a big hunter for years; I just decided it was more fun to photograph them than shoot them,' Price said.
His fawn photo, taken in Talladega National Forest, joins a few dozen others in seven categories of the Outdoor Alabama exhibit, including scenic/pictorial, birds, mammals, reptiles/amphibians/fish, other wildlife, flora and nature-based recreation.
Photography for the magazine has always been one of its most popular facets. About five years ago, editors decided to ask readers to send in their amateur work featuring plants, animals and landscapes found around the state.
'We really were just overwhelmed by the photos we got in,' said Kim Nix, Outdoor Alabama's managing editor.
Bird photos seem to be the most popular, such as the contest-winning snowy egret that graced a magazine cover last year. But Alabama's scenery and plant life is also dramatically featured, from Cheaha's mountainous peaks, overlooks and waterfalls, to the snowy white beaches of Gulf Shores, to trillium and ladyslipper wildflowers running rampant.
After publishing some shots in the magazine, Outdoor Alabama decided to share them in a larger and more personal format, creating a contest and putting the winners on tour. Last year's exhibit was also displayed at the Bama/Junior League Gallery, as well as other venues around the state from Mobile to Montgomery to Florence and Dothan.
'It's all amateur photography, but I think very high quality,' said Pam Penick, executive director of the Arts Council of Tuscaloosa, which operates the Bama.
Visitors, judging by the guest book signatures in the gallery on the second floor of the theater complex, were high last year, and Penick expects equally strong numbers this month. It's one of the first big public events at the Bama this summer; they shut down for most of the summer to install a new air-conditioning unit.
For the 2009 contest, Outdoor Alabama is adding two categories, for state parks and for youth.
'It's a way to get young people involved in the outdoors,' Nix said. 'They might not want to hunt or fish, but they might hike or canoe and take photographs.'
For more information on the magazine or contest, see www. outdooralabama.com.
Reader comments posted to this article may be published in our print edition. All rights reserved. This copyrighted material may not be re-published without permission. Links are encouraged.
Comments are currently unavailable on this article


text:
The Maritieme Academie Holland has selected VSTEP as simulator partner for its new Inland Navigation Center in Harlingen, signing a deal that includes the purchase
For 70 years, Beier Radio has provided engineering, sales, and service for marine electronics around the globe. As the corporation marks its 70th anniversary,
The State University of New York (SUNY) Maritime College has selected Dr. Richard Burke and Dr. Christopher Clott as its inaugural ABS chairs following a comprehensive
A naming ceremony was held for the Evergreen Group's newest containership, Ever Lovely, the ninth of its L-type vessels to be built by CSBC Corporation in Taiwan
French container shipping group CMA CGM said on Tuesday it will sign a $1 billion financing agreement with the Export-Import Bank of China.
Oil and shipping conglomerate A.P. Moller-Maersk said on Tuesday it was experiencing no problems funding operations in Greece or getting paid by Greek customers


text:
Westland Park in Jacksonville, FL
The Westland Park gated apartment community in the Jacksonville area features one bedroom, two bedroom, and three bedroom apartments.Check Availability
Westland Park6710 Collins Road, Jacksonville, FL 32244 USA
Floor Plans and Pricing
1 Bedroom
|$680 - $713
|1 Bathroom
|650 Sq. Ft.
|$721 - $746
|1 Bathroom
|750 Sq. Ft.
|1 Bathroom
|875 Sq. Ft.
2 Bedrooms
|1 Bathroom
|950 Sq. Ft.
|Oleander - Loft
|$766 - $806
|2 Bathrooms
|1230 Sq. Ft.
|$780 - $805
|2 Bathrooms
|1040 Sq. Ft.
|2 Bathrooms
|1175 Sq. Ft.
3 Bedrooms
|$889 - $929
|2 Bathrooms
|1450 Sq. Ft.
- |
- |
- |
- Application Fee:
- |
- Deposit:
Prices are subject to change daily without notice. Please contact office. Thank you!!Check Availability
Property Features
- Property Overview
- Special Features
- Community Features
- Apartment Amenities
- Local Schools
- Pet Policy
Westland Park in Jacksonville, FL
Westland Park is an upscale apartment community Jacksonville, Florida. We are conveniently located one mile from I-295, with easy access to Jacksonville's beaches. Downtown Jacksonville is just 15 minutes away, and local shopping and restaurants are down the street at The Orange Park Mall. We offer one, two and three bedroom floor plans with a mix of features, such as a washer and dryer, energy efficient appliances, ceiling fan, private patio or balcony, and more. We also have recently remodeled apartments available, with new countertops, cabinets, and brand name appliances. Take advantage of our swimming pool, 24-hour fitness center, sand volleyball court, and everything else we have to offer. Call or stop by for your personalized tour today!
Special Features
- Club House
- Two Swimming Pools & Spa
- Washer/Dryer INCLUDED in Every Unit
- Screened Patio/Balcony
- Gated Entry
- Just North of Orange Park
- Spacious 1, 2 & 3 Bdrm Floor Plans to Choose From
- Generous Storage Space
- Playground and Dog Park
- Picnic Pavilion
- Two Lighted Tennis Courts
- 24 Hour Fitness Center
Community Features
- Fitness Center
- Playground
- Pool
- Tennis Court
Additional Information
Year Built: 1989
Apartments in Community: 405
Apartment Amenities
- Air Conditioning
- Cable or Satellite
- Ceiling Fan
- Dishwasher
- Extra Storage
- Garbage Disposal
- Walk In Closets
- Washer Dryer In Unit
- Window Covering
Local Schools
- Jefferson Davis Middle School
- Sadie T. Tillis Elementary School
- Westside High School
We believe school data to be accurate, but do not guarantee that. Please be sure to verify where your children will attend school before making your housing decision.
Pet Policy
Maximum of 2 pets per home. Additional rent for pets is $5 per month. The one-time pet fee is $300.
- Cats Allowed
- Small Dogs Allowed
Contact Westland Park
Westland Park
Office HoursS 1:00 PM-5:00 PM M 9:00 AM-6:00 PM T 9:00 AM-6:00 PM W 9:00 AM-6:00 PM Th 9:00 AM-6:00 PM F 9:00 AM-6:00 PM Sa 10:00 AM-5:00 PM
I-295 to Blanding exit. North on Blanding to Collins Road, turn left. Follow Collins to the property.
Nearby Suggested Apartments
Savannah Springs offers 2,3 & 4 Bedroom Apartment Homes With a Wide Array of Amenities! You Will Find Full Applianced Kitchens With Built In Full Size Microwave As Well As Designer Cherry Cabinetry In Kitchen & Baths! Relax By Our ...
Experience life as it was meant to be at Lake Gray Apartment Homes. Lake Gray offers exceptional lakeside living options with a choice of 1, 2, and 3 bedroom floor plans. This newer community provides a calm and gracious environment ...
Now Open! 220 Riverside is an urban residential community that includes retail space, water views, underground parking, restaurants, cutting edge technology and a park called Unity Plaza. At 220 Riverside you will find modern features like an interactive business center, ...
Colonial Forest is located on the west side of Jacksonville, FL convenient to I 295, shopping, great dining & local schools. Our beautiful gated community offers 1,2 & 3 bedroom homes for rent that feature fully equipped kitchens, large walk ...


text:
- Denis Leary Finds His Inner Washed-Up Singer in 'Sex&Drugs&Rock&Roll'
- Lifetime's 'UnReal' Recycles a Producer's Dark Experiences
- Val Doonican, Irish Singer and TV Host, Dies at 88
- ArtsBeat: Sonia Manzano, Maria on 'Sesame Street,' to Retire After 44 Years
- ArtsBeat: Stephen Colbert Interviews Eminem on Michigan Public Access
Wild on the Beach 2001
TV Special
More in Television
TV Highlights
What's On This Week
A daily updated summary of the week in TV.
Program Overview
Executive Producer: Scott Woodward
Genre: Interview
Genre: Interview
Program Synopsis
Host Brooke Burke takes viewers on a tour of the world's best beaches.
What's On Tonight
- Obama's Eulogy, Which Found Its Place in History
- As Grateful Dead Exit, a Debate Will Not Fade Away
- Review: Sargent's Intimate Portraits of Friends at the Metropolitan Museum
- The Hermione Sails Into New York Harbor, Cannons Blazing
- ArtsBeat: Grateful Dead 'Fare Thee Well' Tour Gets Down to the Music
- 'Collecting Paradise' at the Rubin: A Curious Case of Divergence
- Ballet Theater's Met Season, a Mix of Sparkling Moments and Familiar War Horses
- Denis Leary Finds His Inner Washed-Up Singer in 'Sex&Drugs&Rock&Roll'
- Havana's Vital Biennial Was Trumped by a Stifled Voice
- On the Organ Trail in Manhattan


text:
Top infoTECH News
Software News
Hardware News
Security News
Networking News
infoTECH Editor's Pick
infoTECH Awards
What's Hot in Information Technology?
infoTECH Services
infoTECH Media Kit
Application Deployment
Cloud Contact Center
Data Management
Power Protection
Software Licensing
Software Monetization
infoTECH News
[September 03, 2014]
Creative Labs, Inc. Unleashes the Biggest, Baddest, Boldest Sound Blaster(R) Ever -- the Sound Blaster X7, the Ultimate Audiophile Upgrade for Pro-Level Gamers
(Marketwire Via Acquire Media NewsEdge) MILPITAS, CA -- (Marketwired) -- 09/03/14 -- Creative Technology Ltd today announced the Sound Blaster X7, its most powerful and technologically advanced audio solution to date. Created to provide only the best audio experience for gamers, the Sound Blaster X7 incorporates Creative's renowned audio processing technologies with the finest audiophile-grade components and specifications, coupled with a whole slew of advanced features to cover all aspects of usage on different platforms.
Designed to connect with a whole range of gaming and entertainment systems, the Sound Blaster X7 functions as an ultra high-end external Sound Blaster with an impressive 24-bit/192kHz high-resolution 127dB digital-to-analog converter (DAC) and 100W-capable audio amplifier. The result: the clearest, most powerful high-resolution audio experience for games, music and movies.
"The world has changed, and so must Sound Blaster. The answer is the Sound Blaster X7. Audio content for games, music and movies has changed so incredibly in detail and complexity in this day and age, and consumed on so many platforms -- PCs, laptops, smart devices, TVs and game consoles to name a few -- and by many different generations of users. Our goal is to allow all these users of all these platforms to enjoy the best audio in the way it's meant to be heard, and in the way they want to hear it. That's why we've created the Sound Blaster X7. It is absolutely the biggest, baddest, and boldest Sound Blaster to date," says Wong Hoo Sim, CEO of Creative.
"It boasts the biggest array of features of any Sound Blaster, including an unprecedented kick-ass built-in power amplifier, cross-platform connectivity, and our proprietary intelligent audio enhancement technologies. It is the baddest player in the arena of entertainment audio -- we have spared no effort in spoiling our users with only the finest of the finest audiophile-grade components that deliver the absolute best audio performance. We have no concern for cost as long as our users get the best of the best. We splurged on exquisite Fine-Gold capacitors just to squeeze out that last drop of performance on top of the already superb audio quality. We even indulged our users' wish to have swappable op-amps to customize their audio's tonal characteristics. And the boldest, because we dared to overcome mountains of obstacles to create an ultra premium audiophile-grade device and fuse it with such a mind-blowing list of features; and then compress all of it into one stylish compact trapezoidal prism that can be easily connected to the PC and just about anything else. So if you've always aspired to pwn the Everest of Audio, seek no further. It's here." The Sound Blaster X7 for Captivating and Adrenaline-Pumping Games Users of the Sound Blaster X7 will gain full access to Creative's extensive suite of advanced audio enhancement technologies through the built-in SB-Axx1 multi-core DSP that deliver an all-new standard of audio realism for games. This functionality is especially pertinent to capture and reproduce the incredibly detailed audio created alongside the immensely compelling graphics and expansive environments found in today's popular gaming titles, such as Battlefield 4, Titanfall and Skyrim.
With the Sound Blaster X7's massive connectivity options, users who game on PCs, laptops, game consoles, tablets, smartphones and even TVs can now enjoy the full benefits of these enhancement technologies. Upgrading to the external Sound Blaster X7 is a breeze -- just plug and play! The Sound Blaster X7 for Mellifluous and Beyond Pristine Music Today, average users -- and even audiophiles -- store most of their music on their PCs, Macs, smartphones and tablets. The Sound Blaster X7 connects to these devices while boasting the finest components and top-notch specifications that allow users to enjoy ultra high-resolution music the way it was recorded in the studio.
These components and amplification capabilities allow the Sound Blaster X7 to deliver amazing audio quality even by audiophile standards on passive bookshelf and tower speakers.
Audiophile-grade components, features, and specifications: Burr-Brown (PCM1794) 127dB digital-to-analog converter (DAC) supports high-resolution audio playback of HD audio tracks up to 24-bit/192kHz when connected to PC/Mac, including 24-bit/88.2kHz and 24-bit/176.4kHz Texas Instruments (TPA6120A2) 600ohm headphone amplifier is capable of driving audiophile-grade headphones, with full and detailed clarityHigh power, high efficiency Texas Instruments Class D amplifier (TPA3116D2) delivers up to 100W power (2 x 50W @ 4ohm)* to passive bookshelf and tower speakersBurr-Brown (PCM4220) 123dB analog-to-digital converter (ADC) delivers high quality, low noise analog line-in audio playback and audio recording of up to 24-bit/192kHzNichicon "Fine Gold" capacitors offers rich sound in the bass register and clearer highsUSB 2.0 Host connectivity allows direct streaming of high quality, lossless audio from Android and iOS devicesAsynchronous Mode USB Audio greatly reduces jitter and allows accurate high-resolution audio data transfer from the computerSwappable op-amps for customizable tonalityASIO support allows for reduced latency for a higher resolution audio experienceGold-plated audio connectors create precise contact for low signal loss*100W speaker output requires upgrade to high power adapter (24V 6A).Supplied power adapter provides up to 2 X 38W @ 4ohm.The Sound Blaster X7 for Immersive and Explosive Movies With the advent of high-speed broadband, users have easy access to HD and Ultra HD movies through download sites and streaming solutions such as Netflix. These sites and services have upped the ante of users' expectations in terms of the visual quality of their entertainment, but they are often let down by subpar audio from inferior sound systems.
The Sound Blaster X7 will bring TV and movie audio to a whole new level of detail and realism. Users can connect the Sound Blaster X7 to their existing sound systems and enjoy the full suite of Sound Blaster processing for real-time audio enhancement. For instance, SBX Crystalizer� is able to emphasize subtle audio details that were previously unheard, while SBX Bass enhances low frequency audio for an impactful experience, for example, with explosions in fast-paced action movies and shows. SBX Smart Volume on the other hand, intelligently minimizes abrupt volume level changes during playback and between commercials.
Users will also be able to enjoy a cinematic audio experience via the Sound Blaster X7's built-in Dolby Digital decoding technology that delivers powerful 5.1 discrete channels of high-quality surround sound for supported content via their speaker systems.
Ultra High Fidelity Digital Audio Superhighway The Sound Blaster X7 provides a digital audio superhighway starting right from the original uncompressed audio from the PC/Mac, through a high-speed USB 2.0 digital audio path, to a high-resolution 24-bit/192kHz 127dB DAC, immediately coupled directly to a powerful 100W built-in amplifier. Connect to any high-end passive speaker system that users have yearned for, and savor the deeply stirring music as it comes alive with stunning details! Extensive Connectivity Options The Sound Blaster X7 boasts a full range of convenient audio input and output connectivity options that allow it to serve as the ultimate audio upgrade for most sound systems.
Listen from all audio sources: Digital High-Speed USB 2.0 connectivity to PC/Mac as an ultra high-end external Sound BlasterDigital USB Host connectivity to select iOS/Android models for direct high quality, lossless audio streaming^Optical S/PDIF-Input connectivity to televisions and gaming consolesFeatures wireless Bluetooth 4.1 Low Energy connectivity and Near Field Communication (NFC) technology for one-touch Bluetooth pairing. Also supports HD audio codecs such as aptX® Low Latency and AAC for a wireless connection as good as a wired connection, and Creative Multipoint� for up to two simultaneous Bluetooth connectionsFeatures an RCA Line-In (Right and Left) option for analog connectivity to other various audio sources Features a 3.5mm Mic-In^ Compatible with: - iOS devices using Lightning connector (iPhone 5, 5S, 5C, iPad Air, iPad Mini) - Android devices (Samsung Galaxy S4, S5, Note 2, Note 3; Google Nexus 5, Nexus 7; Sony Xperia Z Ultra; Xiaomi Redmi, Redmi Note, Mi 3; LG G2) Play to any speaker system and headphones: Gold-plated 2-Way binding post terminal connectors for passive bookshelf and tower speakers (bare wires/banana plug connectivity). Comes with a switch for impedance selection5.1 analog connectivity for surround soundOptical S/PDIF-Output connectivity1/4? (6.3mm) headphone out1/8? (3.5mm) headphone outOther Great Features For additional real-time audio enhancement for music, movies and games, the built-in multi-core SB-Axx1 audio processor allows users to activate Sound Blaster's intelligent processing capabilities via the SBX Pro Studio� suite of technologies -- all at a touch of a button. It can also be switched off when listening to lossless audioWith the built-in beamforming CrystalVoice� microphone array, the Sound Blaster X7 becomes an intelligent speakerphone for crystal clear voice calls when connected to PCs, Macs, smartphones and tablets. Users can even record their conversations when connected to a PC/MacCrystalVoice FX allows users to morph their voice into different characters (male, female, orc, alien, elderly, robot, scrappy kid, and more) in games, chats, phone and video calls, and recordingsTotal audio control over Sound Blaster X7 on any platform -- PC, Mac, iOS or Android. The Sound Blaster X7 Control Panel for PC/Mac users, while the Sound Blaster Central mobile application for iOS and Android devices gives users full access to customize their audio settings, like a remote control right in the palm of their handPricing and Availability The Creative Sound Blaster X7, priced at USD399.99, will be available in December 2014 at the online store at creative.com.
For in-store availability, please refer to local authorized dealers.
For more information about the Creative Sound Blaster X7, please visit www.soundblaster.com/X7/.
About Creative Creative is a worldwide leader in digital entertainment products. Famous for its Sound Blaster® sound cards and for launching the multimedia revolution, Creative is now driving digital entertainment with cutting-edge audio solutions, premium wireless speakers, wireless headphones and portable media devices. Today, Creative re-invents the Sound Blaster, which has a user base of over 400 million, with its ground-breaking Sound Blaster Roar and Sound BlasterAxx that aim at the new mobile networked generation by bridging the worlds of the computer, smartphones, and tablets. Creative's proprietary technologies, innovative hardware, applications and services leverage the Internet, enabling consumers to experience high-quality digital entertainment -- anytime, anywhere.
The following files are available for download: PS-X7 AnglePS-X7 BackPS-X7 Angle Mood Contact informationRyan SchlieperProduct MarketingCreative Labs, email@example.com Source: Creative Labs, Inc.
InfoTech Spotlight's Homepage
comments powered by Disqus.
blog comments powered by
infoTECH Headlines
Veracode Report: Business Applications Often Lack Solid Encryption
Kordia Joins Asigra Partner Ecosystem to Deliver Backup and Recovery Services
Wheelings & Dealings: Cloud Technology Partners Scores $3.5 Million Funding Round to Scale Out Operations
Three Steps to Prepare an Enterprise for Digital Revolution
Wheelings & Dealings: Cisco Targets OpenDNS in Nine-Figure Acquisition
Evolve IP Launches IT-as-a-Service
Report: Facial Recognition Market About to See Huge Jump
Five New Stats on Project Portfolio Management in 2015: Lack of Resources and Alignment Challenges
People, Process and Technology: A Recipe for Security
IBM Announces Its Version of Container Technology
Subscribe to InfoTECH Spotlight eNews
InfoTECH Spotlight eNews delivers the latest news impacting technology in the IT industry each week. Sign up to receive FREE breaking news today!
FREE eNewsletter
IoT News: Smart Transportation, Smart Cities and Holograms you Touch
Rich Tehrani
IoT News from Cisco, University of Missouri and a new IoT Certification Available
Rich Tehrani
IoT News: Lake George, IBM, Sears, Gemalto, China Growth and More
Rich Tehrani
Logitech ConferenceCam CC3000e Video Conferencing for SMB Review
Tom Keating
TransCertain CertainSafe Review - 2014
Tom Keating
Jumper Card - The Swiss Army Knife of Portable Chargers
Tom Keating
IoT Evolution World News
Ken Briodagh, IoT Evolution World Editorial Director, gives you the download on today's top news stories from the IoT. Visit IoTEvolutionWorld.com for all the industry news you need to get informed and grow your business.
IoT Evolution World News
Ken Briodagh, IoT Evolution World Editorial Director, gives you the download on today's top news stories from the IoT. Visit IoTEvolutionWorld.com for all the industry news you need to get informed and grow your business.
Posted Wednesday, July 1, 2015
IoT Evolution World News
Ken Briodagh, IoT Evolution World Editorial Director, gives you the download on today's top news stories from the IoT. Visit IoTEvolutionWorld.com for all the industry news you need to get informed and grow your business.
Telecom Exchange NY 2015 Interview with Fifteenfortyseven
Telecom Exchange NY 2015 Interview with Fifteenfortyseven
Telecom Exchange NY 2015 Interview with XKL
Telecom Exchange NY 2015 Interview with XKL
infoTECH Whitepapers
SAP Enterprise Mobility: Bringing a Cohesive Approach to a Complex Market
What is Your Mobile Content Policy? A Checklist for Content Risk Mitigation
SANS Whitepaper: Mobile Content and Document Management Best Practices and Decision Checklist
IBM SmartCloud Social Collaboration for Government
IBM SmartCloud Solutions: Software as a Service
IBM SmartCloud for Social Business Mobility
IBM SmartCloud Engage Security
The Forrester Wave: Cloud Strategies Of Online Collaboration Software Vendors, Q3 2012
Social Business in the Cloud
The Social Business: Advent of a new age
What is Information Tehnology
What is Information Technology?
The History of Information Technology
Today's Most Desired Information Technology Skills
Information Technology Careers
Ten Information Technology Companies of 2011
Powered by
Technology Marketing Corporation,
800 Connecticut Ave, 1st Floor East,
Norwalk, CT 06854 USA
Ph: 800-243-6002, 203-852-6800;
Fx: 203-853-2845
Contact us
Technology Marketing Corp. 1997-<%= curyear %> Copyright.
infoTECH Resources
Editor's Pick
infoTECH News
Software News
Hardware News
Security News
Networking News
What's Hot
Media Kit
infoTECH Communities
Cloud Call Center
Mobile Market
SIP Trunking
infoTECH Channels
Application Deployment
Cloud Contact Center
Data Management
Power Protection
Software Licensing
Software Monetization
Other Industries
IP Communications
Cable Spotlight
Satellite Spotlight
Smart Grid
Sports Techy
M2M Evolution


text:
With the 4th of July around the corner, we celebrate the most kick-ass USA ...
Dude, are you drunk AND high? Or are you just being PRANKED?!
Two Faced
Which one is the best Two Face?
This reminds me of Boardwalk Empire.
Seriously, doesn't htis remind you of that awful 3rd Batman movie with Val ...
Harvey Dent got turned into Two Face through nefarious means, depending on ...
This guy's name is Edward Mordrake. He may not have actually existed, but ...
Need some ointment there or something.
Ooooh, they're gonna kiss!
Flash back to Hellraiser 4. Blech.
One Funeral.
Batman put him away but caught chlamydia in the process
a cute cat with two faces
Two most beatiful girls onthe face of the earth
Break Picture Gallery: Faced Edition! Super Mario Stalin, a monkey prostitu...
Her Oh Face


text:
|Name: _________________________
|Period: ___________________
This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through Baranovich Station, pp. 152-163, Eighteen from Pereshchepena, pp. 163-166.
Multiple Choice Questions
1. What causes the saleswoman to sit down on her basket and cry into her shawl?
(a) She finds out that her husband has died.
(b) She is insulted by a goy.
(c) The Jews mock her and call her a beauty queen.
(d) Her basket is overturned and her merchandise spoiled.
2. What class does the narrator generally take when he goes by trains?
(a) It is unknown.
(b) First class.
(c) Second class.
(d) Third class.
3. How does Golde feel about Peppercorn's marriage to Tevye's daugher Hodl?
(a) She is indifferent to the match.
(b) She likes Peppercorn and is pleased with the match.
(c) She refuses to acknowledge the wedding and mourns Hodl as dead.
(d) She is stunned that Tevye has allowed it.
4. What is the name of the town the two women are trying to get to?
(a) Boiberik.
(b) Yehupetz.
(c) Boreykh.
(d) Velamalshin.
5. Why is Tevye expelled from the village in Lekh-Lekho?
(a) He is punished for not paying his taxes.
(b) His neighbors want to seize his land.
(c) The provinical governor has ordered all Jews to be expelled.
(d) It has been found out that his son-in-law Peppercorn is a revolutionary.
Short Answer Questions
1. Why does Tevye end up staying in Russia instead of going to the Holy Land?
2. What does the long-haired messenger tell Hodl?
3. What is the man from Lower Pereshchepena wearing?
4. What is wrong with Itzikl Borodenko's daughter in The Happiest Man in All Kodny?
5. What relationship do the saleswoman and the salesman on the train have in the Competitors?
This section contains 350 words
(approx. 2 pages at 300 words per page)


text:
True stories
I am almost 8 months pregnant and I lost my 15 month old daughter almost a year ago. My dream started out that I was in the same catholic ch...
I dreamt that i walked into a very old & huge church. We got inside a girl &me by our choice and the path was divided into 7 phases. And i...
I dreamt that i was at my old house( i hated this house because i always felt unsafe), and in my backyard was a cemetery. I use to stay in a...
And I was there,seeing her and trying to scream but i couldnt.She was threating me and the evil spirit was pushin me away.A guy I used to li...
A while ago I had a dream about this guy that goes to my school named Garry, for some reason me and him were huging and kissing . well then ...
Last night I had a dream where I was a church camp and it was the last day and my dad (We are not on good terms with eachother) came and pic...
Hello all and peace be unto you also. I am new to the group topic but old to the subject of dreams and visions. Since 1993 I have documented...
I have dreams that have happened are about stuff that have happened when i was a really little kid or i have a dream and that thing happens ...
True Stories
- Newest
- Commented
- Popular
- Those Aliens and all ...4110
- The phone call7490
- Crazy Dream7071
- Pregnancy Dream21641
- Home Alone Dream6941
- Weird Scary Dream7501
- She is kidnapped5281
- My wife vomiting4061
Mysteries and Phenomena
- Newest
- Last commented
- Popular
- Most commented
- I dreamed I was naked! What do does it mean?
- Conscious dreaming and what is it?
- Scientists Have Determined the Perfect Time for Fall...
- What Our Dreams Reveal According to Jung
- Dreams of Birds
- Colors in Dreams
- The Benefits of an Afternoon Nap
- Dreams That Have Left Their Mark on History
- Hindu dream meaning interpretations


text:
This invention relates to a drive-transferring apparatus having a constraining guide (10) carrying a plurality of drive-transferring members (11) interconnected compressively. Drive members (13) drive the drive-transferring members (11) about the constraining guide (10). One or more elongate apertures such as slots (13) permit access to the drive-transferring members for connection of further members thereto; and for reading, of data carried by the drive-transferring members (11) or by members connected thereto.
1. A drive-transferring apparatus, comprising:
a first constraining guide defining a drive-transfer path; and
a plurality of drive-transferring members movably captive in the constraining guide, wherein:
(i) the first constraining guide includes one or more apertures permitting engagement of one or more of the drive-transferring members with one or more further members in a drive-transferring, manner; and
(ii) the drive-transferring members are capable of transferring drive between discrete parts of the constraining guide by means of compressive interconnection, characterised in that one or more of the drive-transferring members includes a radio frequency identification transmitter, a bar code and/or another means for audibly, optically or otherwise transmitting encoding information.
2. A drive-transferring apparatus according to
3. A drive-transferring apparatus according to
4. An apparatus according to
5. An apparatus according to
6. An apparatus according to any preceding claim wherein a plurality of the drive-transferring members are substantially contiguous with oneanother in the first constraining guide when the apparatus is at rest.
7. An apparatus according to
8. An apparatus according to any preceding claim wherein each drive-transferring member carries encoded data.
9. An apparatus according to
10. An apparatus according to
11. An apparatus according to
12. An apparatus according to any of
13. An apparatus according to any of
14. An apparatus according to
15. An apparatus according to any preceding claim wherein each drive-transferring member is of a shape generally complementary to the cross-sectional shape of the first constraining guide, whereby to facilitate movement of the drive-transferring members in the first constraining guide.
16. An apparatus according to
17. An apparatus according to any preceding claim wherein one or more of the drive-transferring members is engageable, via the or an aperture in the first constraining guide, with one or more further members whereby to cause motion of the further member.
18. An apparatus according to
19. An apparatus according to
20. An apparatus according to any of
21. An apparatus according to
22. An apparatus according to
23. An apparatus according to any preceding claim including a source of lubricant for the drive-transferring members.
24. An apparatus according to
25. An apparatus according to
26. An apparatus according to any preceding claim including a drive for the drive-transferring members.
27. An apparatus according to
28. An apparatus according to
29. An apparatus according to
30. An apparatus according to
31. An apparatus according to any of
32. An apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the constraining guide is branched.
33. An apparatus according to
34. An apparatus according to
35. An apparatus according to
36. An apparatus according to any of
37. An apparatus according to
38. An apparatus according to
39. An apparatus according to
40. An apparatus according to any preceding claim including one or more sources of drive-transferring members for adding drive-transferring members to the constraining guide.
41. An apparatus according to
42. An apparatus according to any preceding claim wherein the first constraining guide includes one or more apertures permitting removal of drive-transferring members from the constraining guide.
43. An apparatus according to
44. An apparatus according to
45. An apparatus according to any of
46. An apparatus according to any of
47. An apparatus according to any preceding claim including a detector of fracturing of a drive-transferring member.
48. An apparatus according to
49. An apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein at least a portion of the constraining guide is rigid.
50. An apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein at least a portion of the constraining guide is flexible.
51. A constraining guide for an apparatus according to any preceding claim, comprising three or more parallel rods spaced from one another and supported on one or more supports, the pattern of the rods defining a recess for moveable retention therein of a drive-transferring member.
52. A constraining guide according to
53. A constraining guide according to
54. A constraining guide according to any of
55. A constraining guide for an apparatus according to any of
56. A constraining guide according to
57. A two or three dimensional array of interconnected, drive-transferring apparatuses each according to any of
58. A three dimensional array according to
59. A three dimensional array according to
60. An array according to
61. An array according to
62. A building generally enclosing an array according to any of
63. A building according to
64. A vehicle generally enclosing an array according to any of
65. A vehicle according to
66. A vehicle according to
67. A vehicle according to any of
68. A vehicle according to any of
69. A drive-transferring member of an apparatus, array, building or vehicle according to any preceding claim.
70. A drive-transferring member according to
71. An apparatus according to any of
72. An apparatus according to
73. A conveyor comprising a plurality of pivotably interlinked support members supported at spaced locations on respective pairs of spaced constraining guides of an apparatus according to any of
74. A conveyor according to
75. A conveyor according to
76. A conveyor according to
77. A conveyor according to
78. An apparatus according to any of
79. A support comprising a base member including a plurality of engaging members secured thereon selectively projectable therefrom for engaging a selected plurality of drive-transferring members in an horizontal array of an apparatus according to
80. A motor including a drive-transferring apparatus according to any of
81. A motor according to
82. A motor according to
83. A drive-transferring member for use in an apparatus according to any of
84. A drive-transferring member according to
85. A drive-transferring member according to
86. A drive-transferring member according to
87. A drive-transferring member according to
88. A drive-transferring member according to any of
89. A method of transferring drive comprising imparting motion to one or more of a plurality of drive-transferring members, one or more of which includes a radio frequency identification transmitter, a bar code and/or another means for audibly, optically or otherwise transmitting encoding information, loosely captive in a constraining guide, whereby to cause compressive interconnection of a plurality of said drive-transferring members and thereby transfer drive in the constraining guide.
90. A vehicle according to any of
91. A vehicle according to claim 90 wherein a said region is within the vehicle.
92. A vehicle according to claim 90 or claim 91 wherein a said region is external of the vehicle.
93. A vehicle according to any of
94. A vehicle according to claim 92 or claim 93 including one or more supports for the said region of the array.
95. A vehicle according to claims 65 and 94 wherein the said constraining guide portion includes the said region.
[0001] This invention relates to a method and apparatus for transferring drive.
[0002] For many years it has been known to transfer drive by means of direct, permanent mechanical interconnections. An example of such an interconnection occurs when the output shaft of a motor is coupled directly to the member that the motor is intended to drive.
[0003] However, in many branches of industry it is commonly required to transfer objects over comparatively large distances and to apply drive at locations remote from eg a motor. It therefore is well known to employ drive-transferring apparatuses such as belts, chains and gear trains in order to achieve these aims.
[0004] However, all known drive-transferring technologies are associated with significant disadvantages.
[0005] For example, drive belts and drive chains rely on the imparting of tensile forces in order to transfer drive. In drive belts, the use of such forces causes gradual stretching of the belts. Similar effects are observed in drive chains over time.
[0006] Prolonged use of belts and chains leads to failure, as a result of friction and wear in the belt/chain members. Failure of a drive belt usually necessitates replacement of the entire belt; or at best a repair that significantly reduces the performance of the belt. Some belt and chain failures are dangerous, especially when fragments of such members are thrown from an apparatus at speed.
[0007] It is possible to replace individual links of a drive chain, but this is often a time-consuming process. Hitherto it has not been possible to automate the repair of a broken link in a drive chain.
[0008] Gear trains do not suffer from the same disadvantages as belts and chains; however, they are sill prone to wear; they are expensive to manufacture; and they generally require permanent installations including bearings secured to fixed datum points. Also, gear trains generally employ only rigid members and hence they lack some of the versatility inuring to belts and chains, that employ flexible members.
[0009] According to the invention in a broad aspect there is provided a drive-transferring apparatus comprising a constraining guide defining a drive-transfer path; and a plurality of drive-transferring members movably captive in the constraining guide; wherein
[0010] (i) the constraining guide includes one or more apertures permitting access to one or more of the drive-transferring members; and
[0011] (ii) the drive-transferring members are capable of transferring drive between discrete parts of the constraining guide by means of compressive interconnections.
[0012] This apparatus overcomes at least some of the disadvantages of the prior art.
[0013] In particular, the transferring of drive by compressive interconnection means that tensile failure of components of the apparatus is most unlikely to occur. Furthermore, the use of compressive interconnection means that the drive-transferring members need not be permanently connected together. This in turn means that individual drive-transferring members can readily be repaired or replaced in the apparatus, thereby obviating the difficulties associated with repair of drive belts and drive chains.
[0014] The failure modes of apparatuses according to the invention are safer than in the prior art. This is partly because the constraining guide can be designed substantially to enclose all the moveable parts of the device. Thus, component failure may be contained safely within the constraining guide, even when the apparatus is operating at high speed.
[0015] Additionally, the use of compressive interconnection means that parts of the apparatus are less likely to be thrown outwardly of the apparatus during failure.
[0016] The use of compressive interconnection also means that the drive-transferring elements can be made of materials and shapes inherently resistant to wear and damage yet which also are associated with low frictional forces, thereby improving the efficiency of the apparatus. Particularly suitable shapes for the drive-transferring members are spherical and spheroidal shapes.
[0017] All the components of the apparatus of the invention may if desired be manufactured from rigid materials. Thus, it is possible to produce a drive-transferring apparatus that is versatile in terms of the locations between which drive may be transferred; yet which does not suffer from the known disadvantages of flexible drive-transferring members such as belts and chains.
[0018] Another possibility is for e.g. the constraining guide to be flexible. This confers versatility on the apparatus of the invention. One preferred form of flexible constraining guide is a hose-like construction that may be formed into a variety of shapes while permitting movement of the drive-transferring members in the manner defined above.
[0019] Further, advantageous features of the invention are set out in claims 2-91 appended hereto.
[0020] In another broad aspect, the invention is considered to reside in a method of transferring drive comprising imparting motion to one or more of a plurality of drive-transferring members loosely captive in a constraining guide, whereby to cause compressive interconnection of a plurality of said members and thereby transfer drive in the constraining guide.
[0021] There now follows a description of preferred embodiments of the invention, by way of example, with reference being made to the accompanying drawings in which:
[0022]FIG. 1 is a schematic representation of a first embodiment of the invention;
[0023]FIG. 2 shows an optional branch in the constraining guide visible in FIG. 1;
[0024]FIG. 3 shows part of the FIG. 1 embodiment in more detail;
[0025]FIG. 4 is a variant on the FIG. 3 arrangement;
[0026]FIG. 5 shows one form of multiple branching of the constraining guide visible in eg. FIG. 1;
[0027]FIG. 6 shows an arrangement for lubricating part of the FIG. 1 embodiment;
[0028]FIG. 7 is a variant on the FIG. 6 arrangement;
[0029]FIG. 8 shows some further optional features of the invention;
[0030]FIG. 9 shows the apparatus of the invention configured for garment distribution;
[0031]FIG. 10a-10 f show various embodiments of the constraining guide;
[0032]FIG. 11 shows an apparatus for controlling drive-transferring members at a junction;
[0033]FIGS. 12a and 12 b show an alternative form of the constraining guide;
[0034]FIG. 13 shows a three-dimensional array of constraining guides installed in a warehouse;
[0035]FIGS. 14a, 14 b, 14 c and 14 d show arrays of constraining guides in vehicles;
[0036]FIGS. 15a and 15 b show a possible reservoir of drive-transferring members;
[0037]FIGS. 16 and 17 show flat bed conveyors embodying the principles of the invention;
[0038]FIGS. 18 and 19 show typical layouts of conveyors according to the invention;
[0039]FIGS. 20a and 20 b shows a further vehicle including a three dimensional array of constraining guides;
[0040]FIGS. 21a and 21 b show a motor according to the invention;
[0041]FIG. 22 shows an optional feature of the constraining guide;
[0042]FIG. 23 shows an embodiment of drive-transferring member; and
[0043]FIG. 24 shows a further embodiment of drive-transferring member.
[0044] Referring to the drawings there is shown a constraining guide 10 in the form of tubular member. The tubular member 10 has a hollow, elongate interior substantially filled with a line of contiguous bead-like drive-transferring members 11. A driven member shown schematically at 13 protrudes through the wall of constraining guide 10 and imparts drive to successive drive-transferring members 11. This causes drive to be transferred along the constraining guide 10 in a compressive manner.
[0045] Driven member 13 protrudes through an aperture in the wall of constraining guide 10. A similar aperture may be provided at a location remote from driven members 13, whereby drive may be taken from the apparatus if desired. Apertures may be formed in the wall of constraining guide 10 at virtually any desired location. The apertures may, if desired, be closable eg by means of automatic or manually operated closures. One form of closure is described below in relation to a drive-transferring member ejection apparatus.
[0046] The driven member 13 may be a star wheel as shown schematically in FIG. 1, or may be a drive screw. Numerous other, equivalent arrangements may also be employed for imparting linear motion to the drive-transferring members 11. Nonetheless, a driven member 13 that converts rotary motion (eg from an electric motor) to linear motion is preferred.
[0047] As is evident in FIGS. 3 and 4, constraining guide 10 may include an elongate slot 13. This permits access to one or more of the drive-transferring members 11 along a lengthy portion of the constraining guide 10. This in turn permits one or more further members to be engaged with the line of contiguous members 11, thereby giving rise to a transport apparatus.
[0048] In the FIG. 3 embodiment, the constraining guide 10 is generally rectangular in cross-section, with the elongate slot 13 formed in one of the vertical sides of the guide 10. This permits a member such as rod 14 connected to a member 11 to protrude generally horizontally from the apparatus. This in turn permits articles to be carried on the apparatus by means of suspension from rod 14.
[0049] If desired, a second constraining guide 10 that is the mirror image of constraining guide 10 shown in FIG. 3 may be disposed to provide support at each end of rod 14. It is believed to be desirable, but not essential, for the mirror image constraining guide 10 to contain a plurality of members such as the drive-transferring members 11. However, such members need not necessarily be driven as in the embodiment of FIG. 1, and could under some circumstances be dispensed with entirely so that the further constraining guide serves simply as a support for the otherwise free end of rod 14.
[0050] In the FIG. 4 embodiment, the elongate slot 13 extends along the bottom of a generally circular cross-section constraining guide 10. This permits the carrying of a plurality of hangers 16. This version of the invention may be of utility in the garment manufacturing and/or warehousing industries.
[0051] As is evident from FIGS. 1, 3 and 4, the drive-transferring members are spheroidal in shape. Thus, they are well suited for transferring drive by means of compressive interaction. Furthermore, the members 11 roll easily within the guide 10, thereby minimising wear and friction.
[0052] However, the members 11 may be of numerous other shapes including completely spherical; cylindrical and even polygonal.
[0053] In the embodiments of FIGS. 1, 3 and 4 a plurality or indeed all of the members 11 include an aperture and a detent for securing to a further member such as rod 14 or hanger 16.
[0054]FIGS. 2 and 5 show that the constraining guide 10 may be branched in a number of ways, whereby to transfer drive to several locations simultaneously. If necessary, the branch lines of the constraining guide 10 may include further driven members such as member 13 a shown schematically in FIG. 1. The further driven members may, in common with the driven member 13, take a variety of forms according to the arrangement of the apparatus.
[0055]FIG. 1 shows a further branch 17 in the guide 10, for replenishing the guide 10 with members 11. Branch 17 may be constituted as a spring-loaded store of members 11 separated in normal use of the apparatus from the remainder of guide 10 by a moveable wall shown schematically at 18 in FIG. 1. If it is necessary to increase the number of members 11 within the guide 10, the wall 18 may be removed either by an automatic mechanism or manually in order to allow one or more additional members 11 to be dispensed from branch 17 into the main part of guide 10.
[0056]FIG. 1 also shows a closable aperture 19 that may be employed for selectively removing members 11 from the main part of guide 10. This may be required, for example when a member 11 a becomes damaged or broken.
[0057] In the embodiments shown, aperture 19 includes a slidable cover 20 that may be withdrawn to one side to allow the damaged member 11 a to fall into a receptacle 22 secured to the underside of constraining guide 10.
[0058] Instead of a receptacle, the damaged member 11 a may enter a conveyor for removing it to a waste receptacle or repair area.
[0059]FIG. 6 shows an optional portion of guide 10 formed as a downwardly extending curve 10 a. This portion of the constraining guide 10 contains a pool of lubricant 23. Thus, drive-transferring members 11 passing through the portion of guide 10 shown in FIG. 6 automatically receive a coating of lubricant.
[0060] Curved portion 10 a need not be present if the materials chosen for the components do not require lubrication by immersion in a liquid. For example, the materials of the mutually engaging parts of the drive-transferring members and the constraining guide may be chosen to have a low coefficient of friction. Another possibility is for the drive-transferring members, and/or the relevant parts of the constraining guide to be impregnated, coated or otherwise treated with a lubricant.
[0061] Downwardly directed curves 10 a may be located at appropriate points along the guide 10 in order to provide lubrication for the members 11 throughout the apparatus. If desired, the portion 10 a may be automatically or manually refillable with lubricant, eg by means of suitable apertures.
[0062] The drive members 11 may be manufactured from any of a variety of materials. However, it is envisaged that a generally rigid copolymer would be most appropriate in terms of cost and durability. The material of the drive members 11 can be chosen to have a low coefficient of friction with the constraining guide 10.
[0063] The guide 10 may typically extruded eg from aluminium or an aluminium alloy; however, a number of other materials, including flexible materials, may also be used.
[0064] The sliding cover 20 shown in relation to aperture 19 (which may also be employed on other apertures in the apparatus) may be motorised eg by means of a solenoid actuator itself operated under the control of an optical or other sensor.
[0065] The constraining guide 10 is shown in the drawings to be an open-ended elongate device. However, it is most likely that in practical embodiments of the invention the constraining guide 10 would constitute a closed loop whereby to avoid the need for constant replenishment of the members 11. However, in applications where the drive to the transferred is reciprocatory, it may be desirably economical to employ an open-ended constraining guide 10 as shown.
[0066] As shown in FIG. 7, the constraining guide 10 may be shaped in a variety of ways to accommodate obstacles, etc. in a warehouse or factory.
[0067] The constraining guide 10 may be supported at intervals, eg. by suspenders 24 extending downwardly from the ceiling of a building.
[0068] The lubricating trough or pool 23 of FIG. 6 is also visible in FIG. 7. There is, in addition, ;a bypass path for the constraining guide 10 so that the drive-transferring members 11 need only enter the lubricating trough 23 as necessary. Controlling gates (examples of which are described hereinbelow) may be employed selectively to divert the drive-transferring members through the lubricating trough 23 as desired.
[0069]FIG. 8 shows some further ways in which the constraining guide 10 may be formed. As shown at 25 a and 25 b, the constraining guide may be formed into coils for encircling a further component eg. a sensor for detecting the presence of the drive-transferring members 11.
[0070] The drive member 13 a is shown schematically protruding through the wall of constraining guide 10 in FIG. 8.
[0071]FIG. 8 also shows a branch 27 in the constraining guide, included for the purpose of replenishing the constraining guide 10 with drive-transferring members 11 as necessary.
[0072] Gate members 28 protruding through the wall of constraining guide 10 in the vicinity of junction 27 are laterally slideable selectively to open and close the junction 27 and thereby allow one or more fresh drive-transferring members 11 to fall into the constraining guide 10.
[0073] Similar gate members may be installed at a further junction 29 for the purpose of selectively removing drive-transferring members 11 from constraining guide 10.
[0074] A detector of fractures or other failures in the drive-transferring members 11 may be operative at point F in FIG. 8 to cause opening of the junction 29 and ejection of drive-transferring members when faults in the drive-transferring members 11 are detected.
[0075] Gate members 28 moveable for selective interposing in the paths of the drive-transferring member 11 may also be supplied at branches such as 30. Computer control of the gate members permits guiding of the drive-transferring members along a selected branch of constraining guide 10.
[0076]FIG. 9 shows a specific example of this form of the invention, in a garment distribution warehouse. A plurality of garment hangers 32 are secured to the drive-transferring members 11 via the elongate slot 13. A junction such as 27 of FIG. 8 allows replenishment of drive-transferring members as necessary. A further junction such as 30 allows diverting of the garments to a predetermined destination.
[0077] If desired, the drive-transferring members may be encoded as described in detail below in order to predetermine their path along the constraining guide 10.
[0078] In the FIG. 10, various forms of the constraining guide 10 and drive-transferring member 11 are shown.
[0079] In FIG. 10a, constraining guide 10 is an elongate, hollow, square section member having an elongate slot in its lower face.
[0080] In FIG. 10b, constraining guide 10 comprises an inner, elongate, hollow tubular member 33 surrounded by an outer such member 34. Elongate slot 13 passes through both tubular members 33 and 34. Thus it is possible to employ drive-transferring members as shown having one or more downwardly projecting portions 35.
[0081] In the preferred embodiment, the inner tubular member 33 has a low coefficient of friction with the parts of the drive-transferring members 11 with which it is in contact. Outer tubular member 34 is preferably of a rigid material, and as shown in FIG. 10c may be armoured or otherwise strengthened.
[0082] The drive-transferring members 11 may in this embodiment comprise a pair of rollers 37 spaced from one another and mounted on a common axle 38. A central member 39 of approximately rectangular shape occupies the space between the rollers 37. Axle 38 passes through an aperture in central member 39.
[0083] Downwardly projecting member 35 is releasably secured to a portion of central member 39 extending a short distance beyond slot 13.
[0084] Downwardly projecting member 35 includes an aperture for receiving eg. the hook of a garment hanger 32. Downwardly projecting member 35 is encoded eg. by means of a bar code 40, by implanting of a radio frequency identification tag or in another optical, audible or otherwise transmissible manner.
[0085] This embodiment of the invention is of particular use during product manufacture and distribution. On manufacture of a garment, it is hung on a hanger 32 the hook of which is inserted into the aperture of a member 35. This member 35 may then remain uniquely associated with the product on hanger 32 during its transport via an apparatus according to the invention to eg. the interior of a lorry, for subsequent distribution to a warehouse or retail unit.
[0086] During this process the bar code or other code 40 may be read periodically to ensure correct routing of the drive-transferring member to which the downwardly projecting member 35 is secured. Such routing may be achieved through operation of the gate members 28 described hereinabove in the apparatus of the invention.
[0087] When the garment reaches a final or intermediate destination, the downwardly projecting member 35 may be removed from the drive-transferring member. In the embodiment shown this is achieved through use of a slidable dovetail joint, but other methods of releasably securing the downwardly projecting member may also be employed.
[0088] After removal of the downwardly projecting member 35, the drive-transferring member 11 to which it was formerly attached may be recycled within the constraining guide for receipt of another downwardly projecting member 35; alternatively the drive-transferring member 11 may be passed to a reservoir before subsequent use.
[0089]FIGS. 10e and 10 f show alternative profiles for the constraining guide 10.
[0090]FIG. 10f also shows a ball and socket joint 35 a for connection of the downwardly projecting member 35. Such a joint permits rotation about a vertical axis. This may be of benefit in some manufacturing and distributing environments.
[0091] In the FIG. 10b embodiment, each drive-transferring member 11 includes a radio frequency identification tag 42 that remains secured to the drive-transferring member 11 after removal of the bar coded downwardly projecting member 35 as shown. Such an arrangement permits controlled recycling of the drive-transferring members 11.
[0092]FIG. 11 shows an alternative form of the gate members 28 controlling the flow of drive-transferring members in the constraining guide.
[0093] In this arrangement the gate 28 comprises a blade 43 slidably mounted via an elongate slot 44 on a pillar 45 itself rigidly secured relative to the constraining guide 10.
[0094] A connection member 46 interconnects blade 43 and slot 44.
[0095] A bar code reader 47 is mounted forwardly of pillar 45 for reading bar codes associated with the drive-transferring members 11. In this case, the drive-transferring members are all spherical and have the relevant bar codes printed on their bodies.
[0096] The spherical members may be weighted to ensure that the bar codes are correctly oriented.
[0097] The blade 43 may be interposed under the action of eg. a solenoid or other motive device when the bar code reader determines that the branch 10 of FIG. 11 is to be closed, and that the drive-transferring members are to travel under the influence of a driven member 13 along the branch 10 b.
[0098] The bar code reader 47 may of course be linked to a suitable control device such as a microprocessor.
[0099] In FIGS. 12a and 12 b, there is shown an alternative form of the constraining guide. This constraining guide comprises (in the embodiment shown) four rod-like members 50 that extend parallel to one another in a square pattern, to define a comparatively open cage for constraining the drive-transferring members 11 that are again in this embodiment spherical.
[0100] In this embodiment the drive-transferring members may respectively be secured to a load support 51 that engages the associated drive-transferring member via the space between two adjacent rod-like members 50. In such an embodiment, the suspender 24 for the constraining guide 10 may encircle the rod-like members 50 as shown and may include one or more apertures 24 a, 24 b permitting passage therethrough of the support member 51 and any goods 52 supported thereby.
[0101] An alternative, downwardly projecting support member 5la is also shown in FIGS. 12a and 12 b. Aperture 24 b in suspender 24 accommodates travel of such a member.
[0102] In FIG. 13, there is shown a three dimensional array of constraining guides 10, installed within a warehouse 54.
[0103] Portions 10 1, 10 2, 10 3, 10 4, etc of the constraining guide 10 are open ended on one side of the three dimensional array of constraining guides, for receipt of eg. garments or other goods transported by the apparatus of the invention. Such goods may be delivered eg. by lorry or other vehicle from a factory or another distribution centre.
[0104] The goods transported on the apparatus fed into the array via the open ended portions may be transported to any suitable storage point within the three dimensional array as indicated schematically. If desired, spiral portions 10″ of the constraining guide may be employed to raise or lower goods as desired. The use of such spiral portions brings the goods into contact with a plurality of further parts of the array.
[0105] Crossings of portions of the constraining guide 10 may include junctions such as 27, 29 or 30 previously described, in order to provide for routing of individual goods to any preferred location within the array in dependence on the encoding of such goods.
[0106] Further, open-ended portions of the constraining guide 10′1, etc may be provided in a dispatch area preferably located on the opposite side of the three dimensional array. The goods to be dispatched may be transported into vehicles such as those shown in FIG. 13 for onward dispatch to further distribution centres, retail units or other locations.
[0107] A computer control system may be employed to ensure routing of the goods within the three dimensional array, according to encoding of either the drive-transferring members 11 or members attached thereto. This will allow significant reductions in staffing levels at warehouses.
[0108] Referring now to FIG. 14a, a vehicle 55 such as that shown in FIG. 13 is shown in greater detail.
[0109] Vehicle 55 includes formed therein a further three dimensional array of the constraining guides 10. In the embodiment shown, the constraining guides permit vertical movement of intermediate, connecting bars 56 and horizontal movement of such bars along the interior of the vehicle, as desired.
[0110] Two portions 110 a and 110 b are hingeably secured to the three dimensional array formed within the lorry. The hingeable portions 110 a and 110 b may be hinged outwardly from an initial, flush position to protrude from the rear of the vehicle for engagement with the outer, open ended portions 10′1, 10′2, 10′3, 10′4of the three dimensional array in the warehousing building 54.
[0111] If desired, the hingeable portions 110 a, 110 b may be secured to or formed within the rear doors of the vehicle.
[0112] Alternatively the portions 110 a, 110 b may be slideable into and out of the vehicle. In such cases the portions 110 a, 110 b retain the orientation shown throughout their movements.
[0113] The free ends of the portions 10′1, 10′2, etc include gate members 57 that in the embodiment shown are simple pins inserted through aligned holes formed in opposite sides of the constraining guide 10, to prevent the drive-transferring members 11 from falling out of the apertures at the ends of the constraining guide portions 10′1, 10′2, etc.
[0114] If desired, flexible portions may be included in such parts of the constraining guide to ensure mating of the hingeable portions 110 a, 110 b with the corresponding junctions defined at the free ends of the constraining guide.
[0115] The hingeable portion and/or the free ends 10′1, 10′2, etc. may if necessary include clips or other means of securing them to the portions of constraining guide that abut them on manoeuvring of the vehicle 55 to a loading or unloading position.
[0116] Although the arrangement shown in FIG. 14a concerns loading of goods onto a vehicle, it will be appreciated that a similar arrangement may be employed for unloading of the vehicle when it reaches its destination.
[0117] The vehicle 55 may include a microprocessor or other controller device for routing the garments, eg. as supported on the bars 56, within the vehicle in dependence on encoding of the drive-transferring members 11 or further members secured thereto.
[0118] Such an arrangement may permit organisation of goods within the vehicle as it travels, thereby speeding unloading of goods at the vehicle's destination.
[0119] An alternative array of constraining guides in a vehicle 54 is shown in FIG. 14b.
[0120] In this arrangement the deck of the vehicle contains a grid-like array of interconnected constraining guides 10, the interconnections including junctions as necessary such as junctions 27, 29 and 30 of FIG. 8.
[0121]FIG. 14d shows the floor plan of the vehicle, that optionally includes side doors that permit rapid unloading of the vehicle. The side doors minimise the movement of goods needed within the vehicle to achieve speedy unloading.
[0122] This arrangement is intended to support a pallet such as pallet 58 of FIG. 14c.
[0123] Pallet 58 includes a plurality of selectively downwardly moveable members 59 for engagement with selected drive-transferring members 11 in the array of constraining guide 10.
[0124] Depending on encoding of either the pallet or the drive-transferring members, the pallet may drivingly engage predetermined drive-transferring member 11 in order to move the pallet within the vehicle.
[0125] If desired, one or more grid squares of the array shown in FIG. 14b may be left blank to provide room for manoeuvring the pallets within the vehicle.
[0126] Alternatively, a grid extension 60 (optionally supported on leg 61) of constraining guide members 10 may project from eg. the rear of the vehicle to provide such space for manoeuvring.
[0127]FIG. 14b also shows an equivalent array of constraining guides 10′″ at an upper level within the body of the vehicle 54, for manoeuvring pallets 58 in a second tier within the vehicle.
[0128] If desired, the entire array of upper constraining guide 10′″ can be height-adjustable on eg. suitable hoist motors within the vehicle 54.
[0129] The computer control may if desired be operable on the upper tier of drive-transferring members as well.
[0130] Furthermore, suitable extensions 60″ may be provided to permit manoeuvring of the pallets 58 on the upper tier.
[0131] As in the embodiment of FIG. 14a, the constraining guides 10 of FIGS. 14b and 14 c may if desired be connectable to eg. the free ends 10′1,10′2, 10′3as shown in FIG. 14a.
[0132] Referring now to FIGS. 15a and 15 b, there is shown a reservoir 63 of encoded drive-transferring members 11 for use in a warehouse, factory or vehicle based environment such as those of FIGS. 13 to 14.
[0133] As is shown in detail in FIG. 15b, the reservoir 63 is subdivided into a plurality of compartments. Each compartment contains a plurality of drive-transferring members 11 encoded in a predetermined way, eg. to indicate to a control device controlling operation of the apparatus of the invention the destination of goods to be carried by the apparatus. This is shown schematically in FIG. 15a.
[0134] A plurality of gate members such as gate members 28 as described hereinabove, may selectively control the feeding of drive-transferring members into the constraining guide 10. This may be achieved eg. in dependence on intervention by the operator of a garment manufacturing or finishing machine may on completion of each garment indicate the kind of drive-transferring member 11 (in terms of its encoding) to be added to the constraining guide 10, prior to attachment of the garment hanger 32 for the most recently completed garment thereto. In this way, within seconds of their manufacture or finishing the garments are associated with drive-transferring members of the apparatus of the invention that are encoded as to their destinations. Such encoding may be carried with the garments throughout their journeys to final destinations, such journeys possibly embracing travel through warehouse-based systems as shown in FIG. 13 and in vehicles such as those of FIG. 14.
[0135] Referring now to FIG. 16, there is shown a flatbed conveyor powered by a pair of constraining guides 10 according to the invention.
[0136] Flatbed conveyor 63 includes a plurality of horizontal slats or plates 64 secured one adjacent another on a pair of parallel, mutually spaced constraining guides 10 according to the invention.
[0137] Each of the slats or plates 64 is slidingly engaged on its underside with one or more of the drive-transferring members 11 of one or both the constraining guides 10 shown in FIG. 16.
[0138] The slats or plates 64 may be linked together eg. by means of sliding links, or may be mutually disconnected from one another.
[0139] The key advantage of using constraining guides according to the invention in the FIG. 16 embodiment is that the constraining guides may be driven at different speeds from one another when it is required to drive the flatbed conveyor 63 around a bend as shown.
[0140] A branch 10 a of the constraining guide stands at the infeed to the bend negotiated by the outer constraining guide. Constraining guide branch 10 a feeds additional drive-transferring members 11 into the constraining guide, in order to permit faster travel of the outer part of the flatbed conveyor in the vicinity of the bend. At the termination of the bend, a further branch 10 b of the constraining guide 10 may remove the excess constraining guides in order to permit the two constraining guides 10 to follow a straight line path at the same speed.
[0141] For the avoidance of doubt, in the FIG. 16 embodiment, the flatbed conveyor 63 travels in the direction of the arrows C.
[0142] Suitable gates such as gate members 28 may be employed at the junctions between the branch portions 10 a and 10 b and the main constraining guide forming the outer part of the curve.
[0143] As shown in FIG. 17, the slats or plates 64 may be constructed in two portions 64 a, 64 b. One of the two portions 64 a may be hollow for receiving the free end of the other portion 64 b of the slat 64. A resilient connection indicated schematically by spring 65 may permit resilient compression and/or extension of the elongate length of each slat or plate 64. This allows the slats or plates to accommodate changes in the spacing between the two constraining guides 10 visible in FIG. 17.
[0144] Thus the apparatus of the invention permits construction firstly of a conveyor that is able to negotiate bends through use of variable speed drives as shown in FIG. 16; and secondly of a conveyor the width of which may vary in dependence on the spacing between the pair of constraining guides 10.
[0145] Hitherto it has not been possible to devise a powered conveyor the width of which varies at different points about its travel.
[0146]FIG. 18 shows in plan view a typical conveyor layout for use eg. in a packing area or product finishing area of a factory or warehouse.
[0147] The constraining guides 10 are shown schematically, as are the branches 10 a and 10 b of FIG. 16. The slats or plates 64 of the conveyor are omitted from FIG. 18 for clarity.
[0148] A further layout of constraining guide members 10 is shown in FIG. 19. In this figure there is a main constraining guide loop 10 driven by a main drive member 13 driven by a motor (not visible in FIG. 19).
[0149] A branch loop 10 c may selectively divert drive-transferring members 11 from the main loop 10 and may pass through eg. a protective wall 66 into a hazardous area, a clean room, or other processing area 67 to which human access is normally denied.
[0150] In the embodiment shown, there is a single constraining guide (as compared with the parallel pair of constraining guides of eg. FIG. 18), that in the processing area 67 passes about the periphery of a rotatable table or dais 68. Contact of the drive-transferring members of the branch loop constraining guide 10 c with a suitable surface formed in the periphery of the rotatable dais 68 may cause driven rotation thereof. If necessary, a further driven member represented schematically at 13 c may be provided to power the drive-transferring members around the branch loop 10 c to achieve this.
[0151] The drive-transferring members 11 may transfer their drive in other ways as desired within the processing area 67.
[0152] Referring now to FIG. 20a, there is shown a vehicle comprising a framework 70 constituted predominantly of constraining guides 10 of apparatus according to the invention.
[0153] The constraining guides 10 of the framework 70 are in the embodiment shown each formed as parallel, mutually spaced polygonal shapes rigidly interconnected by struts 71 disposed at intervals about the periphery of the polygonal shape visible in FIG. 20a.
[0154] Each constraining guide 10 includes a junction 72 that may be similar to those eg. on the hingeable portions of the constraining guides of FIG. 14, for connection with further constraining guide portions 10 conveying goods from eg. a factory or warehouse.
[0155] In the embodiment shown, such constraining guides extend in parallel, and pairs of drive-transferring members 11 in the respective parallel constraining guides are interconnected by rigid rods 72 that each have suspended therefrom a goods tray 73.
[0156] It will be apparent that by connecting the constraining guides 10 constituting the bulk of frame 70 of the vehicle of FIG. 20a, the goods trays 73 may be conveyed onto the vehicle for rotation either by means of a motor or by hand about the periphery of frame 70. This permits eg. a worker shown schematically at 74 to fill or empty the trays as desired.
[0157]FIG. 20b shows one way in which the rods 72 may be received in the drive-transferring members 11. In FIG. 20b the elongate slot 13 of the constraining guide 10 faces horizontally to receive the horizontally extending rod 72. If necessary, a detent may be employed to retain the end of the rod 72 in an aperture formed in the drive-transferring member 11 that in the embodiment shown is formed as spherical element.
[0158] In the FIG. 20b embodiment, the portion of the rod 72 interconnecting the two drive-transferring members is dispensed with. Interconnection of the drive-transferring members 11 is achieved through rigidity of the tray 73.
[0159]FIG. 20a also shows a cap 76 that may be used to close the free end of the constraining guides 10 when the vehicle is moved away from the position shown. The vehicle includes wheels for this purpose.
[0160]FIGS. 21a and 21 b show the apparatus of the invention configured as a motor 80.
[0161] In this embodiment, a plurality of the constraining guides 10 extend parallel to one another and are each looped about respective, spaced rollers 81, 82.
[0162] As shown in FIG. 21b, in this embodiment slot 13 is omitted from constraining guide 10. Instead, the wall of constraining guide 10 is manufactured from an open mesh-like material that permits contact between the drive-transferring members 11 and further members exposed outside the constraining guide 10.
[0163] It will thus be appreciated that if roller 81 is driven eg. by means of electric motor 83, the rotation of roller 81 is transferred to linear motion of the drive-transferring members 11. Since the drive-transferring members travel from roller 81 to roller 82, as they pass over roller 82 their drive is transferred to roller 82 that is thereby caused to rotate.
[0164] A series of brake members 84 may be selectively brought into contact with the constraining guides 10 shown in FIG. 21b. The lowermost brake member 84 e may be arranged to contact only the extreme left hand constraining guide visible in FIG. 21b; the next uppermost may be arranged only to contact the constraining guide immediately to the right thereof, and so on, whereby on lowering the brake members downwardly in the direction of arrow B in FIG. 21 the constraining guides may be successively slowed or brought to a stop. This in turn reduces the energy transferred to roller 82 in a progressive manner, thereby slowing or stopping it as desired.
[0165] The brake members 84 a may be mounted on a lever or may be actuated by means of eg. a solenoid or other motor, if necessary in dependence on control signals generated in eg. a microprocessor or other controller.
[0166] Each brake member may include a brake pad 86 (best shown in FIG. 21b) offset laterally from the brake pad in a neighbouring brake member whereby to dedicate a given brake member 84 to the slowing or stopping of the drive-transferring members in a predetermined constraining guide 10.
[0167] As shown in FIG. 21b, the drive-transferring members 11 preferably have a rigid central zone surrounded by a deformable outer coating.
[0168] The mesh-like outer covering of the constraining guides 10 shown in FIG. 21 may for example be supplied for safety purposes over the rods 50 of FIG. 12, thereby preventing articles from becoming entrained or trapped in the constraining guide thereof. In such an arrangement, the mesh may be of a closer weave whereby to prevent access of eg. human digits to the drive-transferring members 11.
[0169] Referring now to FIG. 22, there is shown a window 88 formed in a portion of a constraining guide 10 according to the invention. Window 88, which may be covered eg. by a perspex material, permits reading of optical encoding information that is carried directly on the drive-transferring member 11 visible in FIG. 22. Such encoding information (which may be in the form of bar codes or other optical codes) may be printed directly onto the drive-transferring member, or may be carried by eg. a sticker secured to the drive-transferring member.
[0170] The window 88 may also permit eg. the reading of a radio frequency identification tag secured to the drive-transferring member 10.
[0171] The readers for the bar codes and/or radio frequency or other identification tags, may if desired be enclosed within coils 25 of the constraining guide 10 as shown in FIG. 8. Thus the code reading apparatus may be protected against damage and contamination, and the windows 88 may also be protected against damage. When the windows 88 do not include a cover such as a sheet of perspex or glass, their positioning on the inner face of a coil such as coils 25 or 25 a prevents inadvertent contact of other objects with the drive-transferring members 11. Thus the safety of the apparatus is assured.
[0172]FIG. 23 shows an alternative design of the drive-transferring member 11 shown eg. in FIG. 10. In this embodiment the rollers 37 have a roughed or serrated outer periphery, for gripping the interior of the constraining guide 10.
[0173]FIG. 23 also shows one possible location for the radio frequency identification tag 42. As shown, the tag is located in the hub of the axle 38.
[0174] In FIG. 24, there is shown an arrangement by which the bars 46 of the FIG. 14a arrangement may be supported relative to the drive-transferring members 11. As shown, each drive-transferring member 11 has projecting outwardly therefrom a cup 89 that protrudes beyond the slot 13 of constraining guide 10 in a horizontal direction. Each bar 56 has a reduced diameter portion 56 a at either end that is receivable under the action of gravity in the cup 89, whereby to support the bar 56 at either end. When the drive-transferring members 11 are computer controlled, it is possible to maintain the bars 56 horizontal throughout their travel.
[0175] Any of the optional embodiments described herein in relation to FIGS. 1 to 24 may be employed on their own, or in conjunction with others of the optional embodiments as desired.
[0176] The components of the invention may be manufactured from a variety of materials, as appropriate. For example, the components may be manufactured from materials suitable for use in different industries such as the food industry, chemical processing industry and the pharmaceutical industry. Corrosion free (eg. non-metallic) materials may be employed as appropriate.
[0177] The constraining guides 10 may be manufactured from flexible materials or rigid material as desired.
[0178] Self-lubricating materials may also be used as appropriate. For example, sintered materials that dispense lubricants as they wear may be employed for the interior of the constraining guide 10 and, optionally, for the drive-transferring members 11.
[0179] The windows 88 may also be used to indicate the completion of actions eg. in process plant. For example, the presence of an encoded drive-transferring member in a chosen window 88 may indicate the the lapsing of a predetermined amount of time from the completion of a previous process, by virtue of travel of the drive-transferring members 11 a predetermined distance along the constraining guides 10.
[0180] Reservoirs for receiving drive-transferring members 11 from and supplying drive-transferring members 11 to the constraining guides 10 may be operatively connected to the constraining guides 10 at suitable locations, as desired. In the case of the vehicles of FIG. 14, the reservoirs may be located eg. under the floor of the vehicle, where there is conventionally a significant "dead" space.
Legal Events
Original Image