GBC Train - Transfer Crane using EV3 - Finished - New Video

[doug72]

I have just finished building a GBC Train Transfer Crane but using EV3 to control it.

Works well - however on one problem remained, the train motor continues to run throughout the sequence.

The train as it docks starts the sequence and at the end the train reverser trip rotor is operated by a medium EV3 motor to release the train.

I have come up with a mechanical solution using two LEGO Technic Half Beam Cam (6575) see image.

As the train enters the dock it starts the sequence and the trip bar on the train is pushed over just enough to stop the train motor.
At end of sequence the trip bar is activated by the EV3 reverser to start train motor again & train leaves the dock.

All the parts that turn the trip rotor can be removed BUT the latch gears are retained to ensure train departs OK.

Touch Sensor

 

EV3 motor for reverser with 4 lobes. Redundent parts to be removed

 

Watch for the crash  at the end !!!!!

 

Edited May 26, 2020 by Doug72
Added video

[doug72]

Update. due slight problem now resolved.

Found the device to stop the train motor only works with the train car facing in one direction.

If facing the other direction the yellow half bush on end of cross axle fouls the trip cam.

Modified the trip beam to eliminate the half bush on end of cross axle.

See photo which shows the modification.

Edited April 2, 2020 by Doug72

[doug72]

GBC Transfer Crane using EV3 control Tested & Completed.

Finally got this programmed and after a lot of attempts got the inlet ball chute to release balls as the train car hopper lands on location beams when elevator arm is fully lowered.

Dwell time for loading balls a bit long at 8 secs and could be reduced to 4 secs.
Up 30 balls can be loaded and transported OK.

Many balls went astray during testing and adjusting.

Once program loaded you have to ensure the start postion is correct with train docked and ball hopper located within the lifting frame, otherwise it will jam.

See video which uses a turntable module to demonstrate the two loading cycles.

 

 

Edited May 26, 2020 by Doug72

[doug72]

Improved ball inlet hopper now installed and 30 balls can be loaded without any escaping.
Loading time reduced to 4 sec and module cycle time is 60 secs.

Train dock along with EV3 touch sensor & EV3 motor will now be transfered to a new GBC Train module I am developing.

Edited June 1, 2020 by Doug72