Conveyor using Geneva Mechanism

The Geneva mechanism serves as a means to convert continuous circular motion into intermittent or fixed-step circular motion, where the circular motion occurs at regular time intervals and results in consistent displacement. Meanwhile, a conveyor belt is essentially a linear belt typically crafted from robust rubber or plastic compounds, coupled with one or more layers of fabrics like nylon, polyester, neoprene, or nitrile. Its fundamental purpose is to transfer materials from one location to another.

A basic Geneva mechanism comprises a driving wheel (linked to a motor) and a driven wheel (connected to belt pulleys). The driving wheel, resembling a disk, features a pin or shaft near its outer edge. Conversely, the driven wheel encompasses several slots. Properly aligned, the driving wheel rotates alongside the driven wheel, causing the pin or shaft to engage with a slot. Upon reaching the slot’s innermost point, the pin applies force to the driven wheel. This force results in a moment as the driven wheel pivots from its center, generating torque that propels the rotation of the driven wheel and its attached pulley. This sequence leads to intermittent circular motion, driving the motion of the belt.

Geneva rotators come in various types, including external Geneva rotators, internal Geneva rotators, and spherical Geneva rotators. For the conveyor belt application, an External Geneva rotator is employed, where the rotating drive wheel interacts externally with the driven wheel. This design generates instantaneous motion at consistent intervals and can endure heightened mechanical strains. The mechanism finds widespread utility across diverse industries, particularly in cost-effective systems.

We have successfully fabricated and demonstrated the functionality of a miniature conveyor belt utilizing the Geneva mechanism.

Hardware Used:

• DC Geared Motor
• Power Supply
• Toggle Switch
• Mechanical Fabrication

Please Note; As we are constant improvising our products, the physical appearance may by slightly different than as shown in images or videos