Accurate contact modeling is of great importance in the field of dynamic chain simulations. In this paper emphasis is on contact dynamics for a time-domain simulation model of large chains guided in a closed loop track. The chain model is based on theory for unconstrained rigid multibody dynamics where contact within the chain and with the track is defined through continuous point contacts using the contact indentation and rate as means. This paper presents an implicit method to determine contact parameters of the chain model through the use of none gradient optimization methods. The set of model parameters are estimated by minimizing the residual between simulated and measured results. The parameter identification is tested on four different formulations of the Hunt-Crossly hysteresis damping factor with the aim of recognizing a superior model.

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This article presents a dynamic time domain simulation model of loop-sortation systems. Loop-sortation systems for sortation of medium-size items are designed as a closed chain of carts guided in a closed loop track with a view to meet customers' requirements of capacity and space available. Loop-sortation systems are complex mechatronic systems which require the use of simulation models in order to analyse, predict, and improve the dynamic performance in a cost efficient way. The model utilizes theory for unconstrained rigid multibody dynamics where contact between carts and between cart and track are modelled through the use of force elements. To determine contact between the track and the chain of carts, a rapid and robust contact search formulation has been developed and implemented in the model. Comparisons of main forces of the chain model are made with experimental measurements on three different test layouts. Verification results show that the normalized root mean square deviations are generally less than 10 per cent.

Poor dynamics owing to polygon action is a known concern in mechanical applications of closed articulated chains. In this paper a kinematic model of the polygon action in large chains of loop-sorting-systems is proposed. Through optimization techniques the chain dynamics is improved by minimizing the polygon action using a parametric model of the track layout as design variables. Three formulations of the kinematic polygon action are tested on an average sized planer tracks layout to find a superior model. Verification of the proposed optimization method is performed using a state-of-the-art multi-body simulation model of the chain dynamics.