Vertical storage conveyor with symmetrical motor drive system

Abstract

A vertical conveyor which is preferably for storing and conveying automobiles is disclosed. The conveyor is comprised of two, spaced apart parallel vertical frame members supportingly connected together with a plurality of diagonal braces and horizontal beams. An endless compression chain which is in the shape of a racetrack is mounted in each frame member, and each end of a plurality of platforms which hold the automobiles is connected to compression links of the corresponding compression chain. A motor drive unit is mounted between the frame members in the space between passing conveyed platforms. The motor drive unit comprises a single double ended electric motor having a housing and a driven shaft extending from both sides of the housing. The motor is centrally mounted between the frame members, and two substantially similar, but oppositely extending, drive trains are operatively connected at respective ends of the motor shaft. Each drive train includes a drive shaft, a first universal joint directly connected between one end of the drive shaft and a corresponding end of the motor shaft and a second universal joint directly connected between the other end of each drive shaft and a remotely operable brake mounted on the corresponding frame member. Each drive train also includes a reduction gear operably connected between the brake and a drive system which rotates the corresponding compression chain.