ProQ

The ProQ uses short, independently driven, servo motor controlled chain sections to transport cants from the primary breakdown to secondary breakdown machine. The system continuously tracks the position and width envelope of all cants as they flow across the ProQ using encoder feedback and photo-eyes positioned at each chain break. Utilizing the independently controlled chain sections, the system can control the position and velocity of each piece resulting in the following:

  • Ability to control the spacing (gap) between pieces.
  • Ability to “race” pieces from the primary breakdown to the secondary breakdown.
  • No chain slip under the pieces.
ProQ machine

Overview

  • Traditional hook decks have hooks spaced for the widest cants, limiting the number of pieces on the transfer. The ProQ dynamically controls the gap between pieces, maximizing the number of cants queued by positioning each piece close to the one downstream. This ability to race pieces across the transfer ensures continuous operation, reducing the risk of starving the secondary breakdown machine and blocking the primary breakdown machine due to a full deck.
  • The ProQ minimizes sequencing errors and manual intervention by eliminating chain slip under the pieces:
    • On traditional sequencing decks, chain slip, fast running chains, and straighten delays at each hook are the root cause of most sequencing errors.
    • With the ProQ, pieces are transported in the orientation they arrive from the upstream equipment, ensuring seamless handling and accurate positioning at the secondary breakdown machine.
    • If a cant is heavily skewed from the upstream equipment, the ProQ will simply transport that piece in that orientation to the secondary breakdown machine where the skew will be removed when it loads into that machine.
  • In the event that a sequencing error or cross-up occurs, a servo motor controlled cant turner and independent manual control of the ProQ chains allows the operator to intervene to correct issues when they arise.
  • Compared to a traditional hook deck, the ProQ is the most energy efficient solution on the market. No frictional losses due to chain slip under the cants and no air actuated hooks, minimizes the overall energy usage.

Mechanical Details

  • Max 20' Nominal Length Cants
  • Independently controlled 30" long chain runs
  • Direct coupled head-shaft mounted servo motors and gearboxes on each chain run
  • Oregon Bend chain tensioning system
  • Servo Motor Controlled Cant Turner / Straight Hook

Automatic Lubrication

  • Cycle Switch Flow Indication
  • Way-Oil Circuit
  • Chains and Track
  • Grease Circuit
  • Low-Speed Cartridge Bearings

Electrical Components

  • Electrical devices are pre-wired to On-Machine I/O Enclosures and J-Boxes