The present invention relates to a turning device for changing the direction of travel of an object.

Described herein is a turning device which can be used to turn objects in motion which comprise the turning device such as cars, bicycles, lorries and golf buggies where the turning device would be used as an alternative to the wheel. The turning device can also be employed with smaller moving objects such as miniature travelling devices. The turning device may not be attached to the object it moves such as in parcel sorting machines, where the forward and sideways directions of travel of a parcel can be quickly altered by means of the turning device to ensure it is sorted correctly.

In comparison to a conventional wheel, a number of advantages can be seen in the invention. A feature of the turning device is a surface gripping member, a portion of which is deflectable laterally and relative to another portion of the surface gripping member. If the gripping member is deflected whilst in contact with the ground, the object to which the turning device is mounted is moved instantly to one side. A further advantage over a conventional wheel is seen if a user operating a vehicle wishes to "dry steer" the vehicle when the vehicle is not moving and establish the vehicle in a turn before setting off. Dry steering may damage the tyres of the conventional wheel or the surface on which the dry steering occurs. If the turning device of the present invention is turned, the surface gripping member does not need to overcome the frictional force with the ground in order to turn. All deflected parts of the surface gripping member move in the same direction, as opposed to a conventional wheel, which pivots about a centre point in the middle of the contact surface, resulting in two extremities of the contact surface moving in different directions. Another advantage involves the turning device's suitability to soft surfaces. Due to less disturbance with the contact surface, this design is particularly suitable for use with delicate surfaces. Also since the turning device does not need to overcome a frictional force with the contact surface before the turn occurs, as with the conventional wheel, the contact surface can more reliably provide traction on soft mediums such as sand or hot tarmac with particular shapes of gripping member, such as one with a grid-shaped protrusion.

The invention provides a turning device for turning an object, the turning device comprising a surface gripping member movable along a closed loop path wherein at least one portion of the surface gripping member is deflectable laterally, and a deflection means for deflecting the at least one portion of the surface gripping member, characterised in that the at least one portion of the surface gripping member is deflectable relative to another portion of the surface gripping member and turning of the object arises when the deflection means deflects the at least one portion of the surface gripping member laterally and relative to the another portion of the surface gripping member

The surface gripping member is a part of the turning device which can grip a surface in use. The surface gripping member could be comprised of rubber, a flexible strap, a.track made of links, such as metal links, or comprise an extruding surface, such as a grid. The surface gripping member may be formed from a continuous piece or from discontinuous pieces and merely refers to any part which is intended to contact a surface in use. It is the frictional and contact forces between the surface gripping member and a surface which will cause an object to turn. The surface gripping member is defined as moveable along a closed loop path. A point on the surface gripping member will trace the circumference of a circle for example or if the surface gripping member is a belt which is wrapped around two turning devices, one of which may be a standard wheel, the closed looped path will travel in approximately a straight line between the two turning devices and around an outer edge of each of the turning devices. Turning of the object arises when the deflection means deflects at least a portion of the surface gripping member laterally and relative to another portion of the surface gripping member. The lateral deflection refers to a movement having a component perpendicular to the ordinary direction of travel of the object. The ordinary direction of travel is a direction of travel in which the object is moving in a straight line. When the object is moving in a straight line a point on the surface gripping member will trace a straight line on the ground and it is a lateral movement of this point on the surface gripping member from this straight line which will cause the turning device to cause a turn. The deflected portion of the surface gripping member is additionally deflected relative to another portion of the surface gripping member, in other words the deflection means causes a relative movement between two portions of the surface gripping member when a portion of the surface gripping member is deflected laterally. When a conventional wheel turns an object, the wheel retains the same shape and portions of the wheel are not deflected relative to one another unlike the present invention.

A conventional wheel affects turning of the vehicle when the whole wheel is deflected to an angle relative to the axle. The present invention does not require the whole turning device to be deflected and merely requires that a portion of the surface gripping member be moveable. All parts of the surface gripping member may be deflectable with respect to another part of the surface gripping member. The deflection means may deflect the surface gripping member in one direction or another relative to the closed loop ¹ path which the surface gripping member traces when no turning is required. This enables an object, with the correct combination of associated turning devices attached, to be turned in one direction or another by the turning device or devices. In referring to an object associated with the turning device, this refers to, for example, a car body having an axle to which such turning devices are attached, a golf buggy or a remote controlled object. This deflection means can also be used to manipulate the motion of the contact surface, for example in parcel or product sorting, where the parcel's direction of travel requires a particular direction at a certain point in time to reach the correct destination.

A conventional steering mechanism may affect turning of a vehicle when a wheel is deflected to an angle relative to the vehicle's axle on which it is mounted. Alternatively, the axle may rotate with the wheel to cause the vehicle to turn. In both cases, the wheel is rotated with respect to the vehicle on which it is mounted. It is within the scope of the present invention to provide a steering mechanism combining the teachings of the turning device described herein and a conventional steering mechanism. Thus, a vehicle could have a turning device according to the present invention, and the surface gripping member could be additionally rotated with respect to the vehicle by means of a conventional steering mechanism. For example, the axle could be rotated with respect to the vehicle to cause a surface gripping member to rotate with respect to the vehicle.

The deflection means may comprise a rod or a gear. The deflection means may comprise a rod which exerts a force on the deflectable portion of the surface gripping member. The rod may comprise a roller bearing between the surface gripping member and the rod itself to remove any surface friction between the two. Alternatively, gearing may be provided between the at least a portion of the surface gripping member which is deflectable and adjacent portions of the surface gripping member wherein this connection is controllable to enable the portion of the surface gripping member to be laterally deflected where required.

Alternatively, the deflection means may comprise an electromagnetic means. The surface gripping member may comprise a magnet and activation of a nearby current can cause the gripping member to experience a force in one direction or another.

The deflectable portion of the surface gripping member may be deflected when it reaches a predetermined point on the path. The turning device may always actuate the deflectable portion at the same point on the path if turning is required. Alternatively, the deflection means can be configured to deflect the deflectable portion of the surface gripping member or members when it or they reach different points on the path, depending on the turning effect required by an operator, computer or other control mechanism.

The deflection means may comprise a part which rotates about an axis. This axis may be the same as an axis about which the turning device rotates.

In the most simple of constructions, a portion the surface gripping member is deflectable between a first position and a second position, both of which are predeteπnined. The turning device may comprise a control means to enable a user to control whether the portion is deflected or not and to control the rate of deflection at a particular point on the closed loop path. The control means may also deteπnine whether the surface gripping member is deflected in one direction or another, the degree of displacement of the surface gripping member and exactly when the surface gripping member is to be displaced. If the degree of displacement of the surface gripping member can be varied, the location of the first and second positions need not always be the same and can be chosen by a user.

The control means may comprise an electronic circuit. A signal by a user is interpreted by circuitry to effect the desired response from the deflection means to deflect the surface gripping member as required. As an alternative to the electronic circuit the control means may be based on pneumatic, hydraulic or mechanical control.

The control means controls the displacement of the surface gripping member and may comprise an actuation disk. If the deflection means comprise an electromagnetic means, all the associated circuitry can be arranged on the actuation disk in a convenient way. Electromagnetic components can be provided on the periphery of an actuated disk which rotates at the same rate as the turning device. If the deflection means comprise rods, the rods can be connected to the actuation disk through double jointing. The actuation disk can then be pivoted about at least one axis to advantageously deflect all of the rods at once. The control means may alternatively comprise a pivotable set of rails to control the displacement of the surface gripping member. An extension associated with the deflectable portion of the surface gripping member can be located between the rails and movement of the rails can cause displacement of the portion of the surface gripping member when the extension is located between the pivotable rails.

The control means may comprise at least one position member which acts on the actuation disk to pivot the disk to it desired position. This at least one position member can assert a force on one of the two flat faces of the actuation disk. Alternatively, it can exert a force on a periphery of the disk in order to move the actuation disk to a desired position and therefore move deflection members, for example rods, attached to the disk to effect the desired deflection of the surface gripping member.

The deflection zneans may comprise at least two discrete deflection elements which are displaceable laterally and relative to one another so as to turn the object. A surface gripping member may be continuous or discontinuous. The surface gripping member may be mechanically connected to the discrete deflection elements. The surface gripping member may be in direct or indirect contact with the deflection elements. Optionally the surface gripping member may be integrally formed with each deflection element on which it is provided. The deflection means may comprise at least six discrete deflection elements which are displaceable laterally and relative to one another, so as to turn the object. The deflection means could comprise more deflection elements still, such as eight, ten or forty deflection elements. The deflection element is herein also referred to as a turning element.

The deflection elements may be linearly deflectable or may each be deflected pivotably. With the surface gripping member provided on the deflection elements, the deflection elements can be pivoted in order to deflect the surface gripping member associated therewith.

If a deflection element is pivotable about an axis, the surface gripping member associated therewith may have a certain geometry when viewed in a plane perpendicular to the pivot axis. When the deflection element is pivoted, any object comprising the turning device should remain at the same height with respect to a ground surface on which the object is travelling. The surface gripping member should preferably have a peripheral edge with a radius of curvature centred on the pivot axis of the associated deflection element to ensure the object remains at the same height above the ground surface when the object is turned.

The part of the surface gripping member in contact with the ground will change when the deflection elements rotate. This contact point must always be the same distance from the axis about which the turning elements rotate, again so that any objects comprising the turning device remain at the same height with respect to a ground surface. Therefore, preferably the surface gripping member is provided on the deflection elements and has an outer edge when viewed in a plane which passes through all points along the pivot axis of the deflection element on which it is provided and which plane is orthogonal to the outer edge, wherein the outer edge has a radius of curvature centred on an axis about which the deflection elements are rotatable.

The deflection elements may be arranged on a frame to support the elements. Each deflection element may be connected to the frame by a pivot connection, defining the pivot axis about which each deflection element can pivot. If five deflection elements are provided, the frame may be in the form of two pentagons attached together, with one deflection element provided between each pair of sides. The pivot axis about which each deflection element can pivot is parallel with the sides of the pentagons with which each deflection element is associated.

The deflectable portion of the surface gripping member may be slidably mounted on the frame, or another component of the turning device, for example via a sliding rail. This type of mounting enables the deflectable portion of the surface gripping member tcbe moved in a convenient way when the portion is deflected. If the deflection elements are supported on a frame and the at least one portion of the surface gripping member is slidably mounted on the frame, it may have a peripheral edge when viewed in a plane perpendicular to the pivot axis of the deflection element to which it is mechanically connected wherein the peripheral edge is flat. The word flat encompasses substantially flat surfaces, and does not require the surface to lie in a single plain, for example the flat surface could have a design etched onto its surface.

The at least one portion of the surface gripping member may comprise teeth engageable with co-operating teeth to enable the at least one portion of the surface gripping member to be deflected. The co-operating teeth may be provided on the deflection elements. At least one gear may be disposed between the at least one portion of the surface gripping member which is deflectable, and the deflection element to which it is mechanically connected, wherein the co-operating teeth are provided on one of the at least one gears. A plurality of gears/cogs may be disposed between the at least one portion of the surface gripping member which is deflectable, and the deflection element to which it is mechanically connected. The co-operating teeth may be provided on one of the gears/cogs. Each deflection element may comprise at least one actuation element on which a force can be exerted to deflect the deflection element. The actuation element may be positioned radially inwardly of the pivot connection on each deflection element. When the actuation element is moved in one direction, the deflection element will pivot about the pivot axis and the surface gripping member, which may be located on the other side of the deflection element to the actuation element, will move accordingly. The actuation element may be formed in one piece with the deflection element or be formed separately and arranged thereon.

As mentioned, the surface gripping member may be a belt arranged on the turning device. The belt must have a degree of flexibility such that it, or part of it, can be deflected without being completely disassociated from the turning device.

The surface gripping device may comprise links. It may be foπned of a track made of hundreds of metal links, similar to that provided on a tank, or links made of other materials, such as plastic links, similar to that on miniature remote-controlled tracked- vehicles.

The surface gripping device may alternatively be pneumatic portion of a tyre, or comprise a resilient rubber surface, or a contoured surface with extruding patterns, such as an extruding grid pattern.

A vehicle such as a car may comprise two of the turning elements. If more than one turning element is to be provided on a vehicle, the two should be configured to turn the vehicle in the required direction.

The turning device may be used in parcel sorting machines or other similar sorting or directing machinery in mass manufacturing. The turning device can be located above a conveyor belt. Parcels located on the moving conveyor belt can be deflected laterally in one way or another by the turning device. Lateral movement refers to movement having a component perpendicular to the direction of travel of the object/parcel. Instead of acting on a ground surface, the turning device acts on the parcel. Advantageously, with the turning device rotating to match the speed of the conveyor belt, parcels can be smoothly moved in a desired direction. The turning device is fixed in location and merely rotates. The turning device could be retrofitted to exiting sorting machines.

Alternatively, the turning device could be located to act on the underside of parcels. The conveyor belt could be discontinuous and have a hole located therein, in which the turning device is located.

Figure 1 shows a first embodiment of the turning device with an undeflected surface gripping member;

Figure 2 shows the first turning device of Figure 1 with the surface gripping member deflected;

Figure 3 shows a second embodiment of the turning device with an electromagnetic deflection means;

Figure 4 shows a third embodiment of the turning device;

Figure 5 shows the third embodiment of the turning device according to Figure 4 in a sideways view;

Figure 6 shows detail of a frame of the third embodiment of the turning device;

Figure 7 shows detail of a surface gripping member and turning element of the third embodiment of the turning device; Figure 8 shows a side view of the turning element and surface gripping member of Figure

Figure 9 shows an intermediate member for use with a fourth embodiment of the turning device;

Figure 10 shows a cross-section of an undeflected portion of the surface gripping member in a fifth embodiment of the turning device;

Figure 1 1 shows a deflected portion of the surface gripping member in the fifth embodiment of the turning device;

Figure 12 shows an undeflected portion of the surface gripping member in a sixth embodiment of the turning device;

Figure 13 shows a deflected portion of the surface gripping member in the sixth embodiment of the turning device;

Figure 14 shows detail of the connection between the turning element and the actuation device in the sixth embodiment of the turning device;

Figure 15 shows detail of a double jointing used in the third, fourth, fifth and sixth embodiments of the turning device;

Figure 16 shows detail of an actuation disk for use in a seventh embodiment of the turning device;

Figure 17 shows a side view of an actuation disk for use in an eighth embodiment of the turning device; Figure 18 shows a flattened, plan view of the circumference of the actuation disk of Figure 17 between points A and B;

Figure 19 shows a schematic view of a turning element for use with the actuation disk shown in Figures 17 and 18;

Figure 20 shows detail of the pivotable rails of Figure 18;

Figure 21 shows the pivotable rails of Figure 20 when they are pivoted;

Figure 22 shows a ninth embodiment of the turning device comprising a track with a metal linkage;

Figure 23 is a schematic diagram showing use of a turning device in an object sorting machine wherein the device contacts a lower side of the objects to be sorted;

Figure 24 is a schematic diagram showing an alternative use of the turning device in an object sorting machine wherein the device contacts an upper side of the object to be sorted;

Figure 25 shows an undeflected portion of the surface gripping member in a tenth embodiment of the turning device;

Figure 26 shows a deflected portion of the surface gripping member in the tenth embodiment of the turning device;

Figure 27 shows detail of the sliding rails of the tenth embodiment of the turning device;

Figure 28 shows an undeflected position of a surface gripping member in an eleventh embodiment of the turning device; and

Figure 29 shows a further turning element which comprises a cylinder. Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing a first embodiment of the turning device. The turning device comprises two turning elements 63, 65 which together take an annular shape similar to a conventional wheel, with the elements rotating in a plane about an axis 75. The smaller turning element 65 can be deflected laterally from the plane by means of a deflection member 71 in the form of a rod, although in Figure 1 the smaller turning element is undeflected so the turning elements 63, 65 rotate in the same plane. A surface gripping member 23 is provided on the outer edge of each of the turning element in the form of rubber. The two turning elements are distinct and the smaller element 65 is connected to the larger element by connections 67 and 69 at either end of the smaller element 65. These connections are made from an electrically controlled linkage using gearing, which peπnits the portion 65 to be displaced laterally relative to the rest of the wheel when a force is exerted on the portion 65 in a direction parallel with the axis. When the force is removed the gearing can be actuated to bring the larger turning, element 63 inline with the smaller portion 65 and any object fixedly attached to the larger turning element 63 will also be displaced sideways in the direction of initial displacement of the smaller turning elements 65. Provided that when the initial force was applied, the smaller element 65 was not in contact with the ground, and none of the larger portion is in contact with the ground when the larger portion is brought back in line with the smaller portion 65, the object will have moved in a direction parallel with rotation axis 75, assuming the available frictional force from the gripping member on the contact surface is greater than or equal to the force required to bring the turning elements inline.

The deflection rod 71 rotates about axis 75, at a distance from the axis and at the same rate as the turning elements 63, 65 such that it rests against a side of the smaller turning element 65 to exert a force thereon if required. The rod 71 comprises a roller bearing 73 which rests against the smaller turning element 65. The rod 71 is electrically controlled to exert a force on a user's command.

Figure 2 shows a front view of first embodiment of Figure 1 when the smaller turning element 65 has been displaced by the rod 71 by an amount 'x' . An operator can timely alter the displacement to allow the device to turn an object in one direction. If the portion 65 is displaced during a rotation of the turning element 63 before the portion 65 touches a ground surface, the portion can then be displaced back towards its starting position when the portion is in contact with the ground surface to effect a turn. Instead of a rod 71 being provided, the connections 67, 69 could have an electrically controlled gearing to move the turning elements with respect to one another when desired.

As an alternative to an electronically actuated gearing forming the connections 67, 69, a resilient elasticated connection could be provided instead. Gears could still be provided to allow the smaller and larger turning elements to move laterally with respect to one another and a elastic element could bias the connections in a direction realigning the turning elements. A rod 71 deflecting the smaller turning element 65 would exert a force against this elastic element. When the rod's force is removed, the elastic element would bring the larger portion, and an object to which it is attached, inline with the smaller turning element provided the frictional force from the surface gripping member on the contact surface is greater than or equal to the force required to bring the turning elements back inline.

Figure 3 shows a second embodiment of the turning device with an alternative deflection means for the turning device described in relation to Figures 1 and 2. The smaller turning element 65 can be deflected relative to the other turning element 63 by electromagnetic means. The smaller turning element 65 comprises a magnetic component which can be attracted toward or repelled away from a magnetic induction component 79. The induction component 79 is located on a carrier disk 77 which may or may not rotate together with the turning elements and a force can be directed on the smaller turning element 65 it in one direction or another parallel with the axis 75 by means of a current travelling in one direction or another through the induction component 79. The smaller turning element can be displaced in one direction or another during a rotation of the turning elements before the portion touches a ground surface, so when the smaller turning element's surface member is in contact with the ground, the surface member can be displaced in the required direction to maximise the turning effect of an object attached to the larger turning element, which will move in the direction of initial displacement of the smaller turning element 65. Figure 4 shows a third embodiment of the turning deλ'ice with five segments 1, which can rotate about an axis 5, which is the same as the rotation axis of an axle 7. Each segment is axially displaceable by means of an actuating device 9 and has a component of displacement parallel with the axis 5 about which the segments rotate. The turning device is located on an outer extent of an axle 7 with the segments 1 being mounted further towards the outer extent than the actuating device 9.

Figure 5 shows a side view of the arrangement of Figure 4 and shows how the segments 1 are arranged with respect to one another. The segments are mounted on a frame 15 which comprises an outer plate 3 and an inner plate 17 as seen in Figure 6. The inner and outer plates are arranged parallel with one another and can both have the same outline, here in the form of a pentagon with five sides, with one turning element being supported on each of the pentagon sides. The inner and outer plates are connected together by fixed members 19 with one fixed member connecting each corresponding corner of the inner and outer plates to complete the frame. Returning to Figure 5. details of one of the segments is seen. Each segment 1 comprises a turning element 21 which is pivo tally connected to the frame 15. A turning element 21 extends between two neighbouring fixed members 19 and is pivotally connected to them by a pivot connection 11. The turning element therefore pivots about a pivot axis between the two fixed members. An actuation element 13 is provided on the turning element 21 which comprises a bar shaped member extending in a direction parallel with the turning element pivot axis, supported on two parallel members.

Figure 7 shows further detail of a turning element, gripping member and actuation element comprised by each segment 1, and examines a cross section viewed in a plane which is perpendicular with the axis of rotation 5 of the turning element 21. The turning element 21 comprises a surface gripping member 23 on its outer most extent from the rotation axis 5. Together the turning element 21 and surface gripping member 23 fonn first and second sides 21 and 31 of equal length extending from the actuation element to the outer peripheral edge of the segment 1. At the outer edge, between the first and second sides, the surface gripping member defines an outer edge with radius of curvature equal to the distance from the outer extent of the first and second sides to the rotation axis 5. This will ensure that as the wheel rotates, the object fixed to the device will remain at the same height above the contact surface. The first and second sides are inclined with respect Io one another so that adjacent segments 1 do not contact each other when in operation. The turning element 21 is made of a rigid material, and fonns a base on which the surface gripping member 23 is provided. In the embodiment shown, the turning element 21 is formed by an angular basket which partly extends around the outside of the surface gripping member 23. The turning element does not contact the surface on which the vehicle is to be moved and extends only partly towards the ground, forming part of the first and second sides 21, 31 and is connected to the actuation element 13 on its innermost extent relative to the axle.

The surface gripping member itself is formed from a hard wearing, elastic member, such as car tyre rubber, which may be injection moulded onto the turning elements 21. The surface gripping member has tread 25 etched into its outer surface or may have an extruding pattern to enable penetrative grip on soft contact surfaces.

Figure 8 shows a view of the device in a plane which is perpendicular to the axis connecting the two pivot points 11. The turning element 21 and surface gripping member 23 form third and fourth sides of equal length extending from the actuation element to the outer peripheral edge 33, 35. At the outer edge, between the third and fourth sides, the surface gripping member defines an outer edge with a radius of curvature equal to the shortest (i.e. perpendicular) distance from the outer extent of the third and fourth sides to the axis through the pivot points 11. When the segment pivots about pivot points 1 1 such that the part of the surface gripping member 23 touching the contact surface changes, the axle 7 should remain at the same height above the contact surface to prevent an object attached to the turning device moving up and down in relation to the contact surface.

With reference to Figures 4 and 5, the actuation mechanism is further described. The actuation mechanism 9 provides a means of acting on the actuation elements 13 attached to the turning elements 21, enabling each turning element to be displaced relative to the axle 7 to a desired degree. The actuation mechanism 9 comprises a plurality of deflection members in the form of rods 39, one rod being connected to the bar of the actuation element 13 of each segment. The bar of the actuation element is free to rotate within the rod 39. The rods are connected at the other end to an actuation disk 37, mounted on the axle 7 via a bearing arrangement 43. The actuation disk is arranged to rotate at the same rate as the turning elements about the axle 7. Each rod is connected to the actuation disk 37 via a double jointing 41. The double jointing 41 permits the actuation disk 37 to have two degrees of freedom relative to the rod 39 yet the disk 37 remains fixed in the same location on the axle. The rods 39 generally remain parallel with the axle 7 when the actuation disk 37 is perpendicular to the direction of the axle.

The actuation disk 37 is mounted on the axle 7 via a bearing arrangement 43 which permits the disk to be displaced to different inclinations with respect to the axle, whilst ensuring that the disk 37 rotates with the axle 7 and that the centre of the actuation disk 37 remains positioned in the same place. A control member 45 provides a means of displacing the actuation disk 37 into a desired plane.

The control member 45 does not rotate with respect to the axle 7 and is mounted to an object frame (not seen). The control member can be electronically or mechanically actuated and enables an operator to exert a force at a desired part of the actuation disk 37. The control member 45 comprises a number of position members 47 which can displace or be displaced by the actuation disk 37 in a direction parallel with the axle 7, depending on the inclination of the disk 37 with respect to the control member 45. The position members 47 are positioned to abut against a side of the disk 37 facing the control member 45 at a plurality of points around a circumference towards the outer edge of the actuation disk 37. There are 6 position members in total, equally spaced around the rotation axis of the axle. Each position member can be displaced to a differing degree towards or away from the control member 45. Each position member may comprise a rod, movable by means of a motor via a gearing. The control member 47 does not rotate with respect to the axle 7 but the actuation disk does, so the position members 47 are provided with a roller element which contacts the actuation disk 37 to allow the position members 47 to move easily thereon.

Figure 9 shows a fourth embodiment of the turning device. Instead of the control member 45 acting directly on the actuation disk 37 via position members, an intermediate member 53 may be provided which does not rotate with the axle but can be inclined relative to the axle, and is fixed to the object frame. The inteπnediate member 53 is a flattened annular member provided with a plurality of wheels 51. Six wheels are equally spaced around the inteπnediate member 53 and arranged to abut against a face of the actuation disk 37. The control member 45 acts on the intermediate member 53 to incline the intennediate member and the inclination of the intermediate member 53 acts to incline the actuation disk, due to the plurality of wheels 51 abutting the actuation disk 37.

Figure 10 shows a front view of a fifth embodiment of the turning device in cross section. Just one of the segments 1 is shown in a surface contact position. The actuation disk 37 is perpendicular to the axle 7. Figure 11 shows the same view as Figure 10, only the actuation disk 37 has been inclined into a plane which is at a different angle with respect to the axle 7. The lower part of the actuation disk 37 has been displaced towards the frame 15, and the corresponding displacement of the rod 39 towards the frame 15 displaces the actuation element 13 to the same extent. The turning element 21 pivots about pivot point 11. at which it is attached to the frame 15, and surface contact member 23 therefore rotates about the pivot point 1 1. An object fixed with respect to the axle 7 will move in the direction of displacement of the rod. Figures 10 and 1 1 show an optional additional feature, which is a rotation support member 55. The rotation support member is in the foπn of a disk fixed to each turning element 21. The disk has its centre located at the pivot point 1 1 , and roller bearings 57, 59 provided on the outer and inner plates 3, 17 respectively are located between the rotation support member 55 and each plate. The rotation support member 55 guides the turning element when it pivots, and reduces the stress on the rod 39, actuation element 13 and on pivot axis 1 1 , when the turning element 21 is displaced whilst receiving stresses from the contact surface via the gripping member 23. Figures 12 and 13 show a sixth embodiment of the device having a plurality of turning elements 21, where only one is shown here. The surface gripping member 23 is provided on turning elements 21 with the turning element extending between the outer and inner plates 3, 17 when viewed in a plane perpendicular to the pivot axis of the turning element 21 i.e. between the pivot points 11. The turning element 21 comprises a disk shape which extends between the two plates, such that when it pivots, the movement of the disk is constrained by the plates. Roller bearings 57, 59 are provided on the outer and inner plates 3, 17, between the turning element 21 and the plates. Each turning element 21 is connected to an actuation disk 137 which is provided within the frame 15, in a space- saving manner. The turning element 21 is still mounted pivotally on the frame 15, in the same way as described for the third embodiment shown in Figures 4 to 8, at pivot connections 11. Again, five turning elements are provided here, each mounted on a side of a pentagon- shaped frame. Each turning element 21 is foπned with a threaded extension 203 which extends towards the axis 5 about which the turning elements rotate. This axis 5 is co-incident with the rotational axis of the axle 7. Each turning element also comprises an actuation element 113 mounted substantially over the threaded extension 203. The actuation element 113 is tubular and hollow in part, the hollow part having a thread on the inside which abuts the thread of the extension. The actuation element also comprises a part which is not hollow and extends towards the axis 5 of rotation of the turning elements. This part comprises a slot 201 , in which a bar 81 of the actuation disk is provided. The slot 201 extends parallel to the length of the actuation element and is broad enough to accommodate the bar 81 with little play between the slot 201 and the bar 81. The arrangement of the turning element 21, the actuation element 1 13 and the bar 81 of the actuation disk pennits the actuation disk to be inclined in all directions about its stationary mid point at the axle 7.

Consider a turning element 21 which is in contact with a ground surface, in the position illustrated in Figure 12. The actuation disk 137 is perpendicular to the axle 7 when no turning effect is required. When a user wishes to rum, the actuation disk 137 is inclined. Figure 13 shows the turning element 21 which is in contact with the ground surface when it is inclined. The actuation disk 137 has been inclined and pivoted about a mid-point of the disk 137 about an axis which is perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the axle 7. The turning element 21 considered remains attached to the frame 15 at piλ'ot points 1 1. Since the bar 81 of the actuation disk 137 is engaged in the slot 201 of the actuation element 1 13, movement of the actuation disk 137 will cause the turning element 21 to pivot. The bar 81 is fixed to the actuation disk 137 so will move away from the pivot point 1 1 but since the bar 81 is provided in the slot 201 , the bar 81 will ride up within the slot and the turning element 21 will be rotated without any problems.

Consider a turning element 21, not shown, which has completed a quarter of a turn about the turning axis 5 from its position in contact with the ground surface. The mid-point of the turning element 21 is level with the axle 7. When the actuation disk 137 is inclined in the same manner just described, the bar 81 will not move away from the pivot point 1 1. Instead, the actuation disk 137 will just twist with respect to the turning element." The threaded connection between the turning element and the actuation element 113 will accommodate this twist and permit the actuation disk 137 to move with respect to the turning element 21. As the twist occurs, there will be an amount of displacement of the actuation element 1 13 along the turning element 21. As the turning element is mounted to the frame 15, the turning element will be stationary in this regard but the actuation element 1 13 will move away from the pivot points. Since the connection between the actuation element 1 13 and the actuation disk 137 is not static, this movement will be permitted and the bar 81 will move within the slot 201.

For all turning elements 21 in-between the two positions described above, i.e. in contact with a ground surface and a quarter of a turn from this point, when the actuation disk 137 is inclined there will be both a movement of the actuation disk 137 away from the turning element 21 and a twisting movement of the disk 137, both of which are accommodated by the bar and slot and the screw -threaded connection described above to peπnit the actuation disk 137 to move with respect to the turning elements 21. In the sixth embodiment, the control member 45 is provided between the inner and outer plates and can exert a force onto the actuation disk 137 to angle it relative to the axle 7. The actuation disk 137, the turning elements, gripping members, actuation elements and the outer and inner plates 3, 17 rotate with the axle whereas the control member is fixed with respect to an object frame (not shown). Each turning element 21 pivots when the actuation disk 137 is inclined with respect to the axle by the control member 45, due to the movement of the actuation element 113 which pivots the turning element 21, therefore pivoting the gripping members 23. Both the control member and the actuation disk are provided between the inner and outer plates in a compact construction. As mentioned, Figure 13 shows the device with the actuation disk 137 inclined and Figure 12 shows an uninclined disk.

Figure 15 shows further details of the double jointing of the turning device shown in Figures 4 to 11 connecting each of the rods 39 to the actuation disk 37. The rod 39 is pivotally connected to the actuation element 13 (not shown) at one end and at the other end is connected via a double jointing 41 to the actuation disk 37. The rod 39 branches into a two pronged fork towards the actuation disk 37. Between the prongs a connection rod 101 is located. The rod 39 is pivotally connected to the connection rod at pivot connection points 97, such that the rod 39 pivots about an axis perpendicular to the pivot axis of the turning element to which it is connected. The connection rod 101 is connected to the actuation disk 37, again by a pivot connection 99, but this pivot connection pivots the connection rod about an axis parallel with the pivot axis of the turning element 21 (not shown) to which the rod 39 is connected. The actuation disk 37 can therefore be inclined to a number of different positions with respect to the rod 39.

Figure 16 shows detail of an alternative means of pivoting the actuation disk 37, in a seventh embodiment of the turning device. The actuation disk 37 is provided with a groove 103 around the periphery of the disk between the disk's two flat surfaces. A position member 105 has an end located in the groove, and extends to be fixed relative to a frame of an object fixed with respect to the axle 7. The position member 105 does not rotate with respect to the axle. The position member can be extended or retracted to deflect the disk 37 in one direction or another by a desired amount. The end of the position member 105 located in the groove is provided with a roller bearing as the position member 105 does not rotate with the actuation disk 137.

Figures 17 to 21 show an alternative way of pivoting the turning elements for use in an eighth embodiment of the turning device. A plurality of turning elements 21 are again provided on a frame 15. Five turning elements are provided and arranged on the frame 15 in the same way as described in relation to the third embodiment shown in Figures 4 to 8. Instead of an actuation disk and rods being provided as the deflection means, each turning element is provided with a tubular extension 205, similar to the extension 203 seen in the sixth embodiment of Figures 12 to 14, but without the thread. Figure 19 illustrates this extension and shows the turning element 21 in a very schematic way. An actuation disk 237 is provided between the inner and outer plates 17, 19 of the frame 15. A groove 207 is provided around the outer circumference of an actuation disk 237 in which the. extension 205 is located. The frame 15 rotates with the axle 7 on which it is mounted when the turning device is in operation. The actuation disk 237 does not rotate with the axle 7 and the extension 205 of each turning element 21 moves around the groove 207 as the turning device rotates.

Figure 17 shows the actuation disk 237 in a schematic manner. The disk has two flat sides and is of a certain thickness. The disk 237 is shown sideways on and the depth of the disk cannot be seen. The groove 207 is provided between the two disk sides and travels in a straight line around the circumference of the turning device except between points A and B. A and B are points on the circumference at the lower-most extent of the turning device.

Figure 18 shows a schematic view of the outer edge of the disk between the two flat sides of the disk. The outer edge has been flattened and the perspective shows A and B to be in the same flat plane, though in reality this surface will curve around the outer edge of the disk. Figure 18 shows a view from the outer edge of the disk looking inwards towards the disk centre. The groove 207 leads into a pivotable set of rails 209 which are parallel to one another and set a distance apart which is slightly greater than the width of the groove 207. The rails 209 are provided within a cavity 215 in the outer edge of the actuation disk 237 which is deeper than the height of the extension 205.

Figures 20 and 21 show the rails 209 in more detail. The rails comprise two bars which are mounted to the actuation disk 237. Each bar is mounted at one end to the actuation disk 237 by a pivot connection 213. Each bar can pivot about their connection point. A connecting member 211 connects the bars together mid-way along the length of the bars. The connecting member 21 1 is pivotable with respect to the bars to enable them to stay parallel to one another when they are deflected. The pivot connections 213 may comprise an electronically actuated gearing which moves each bar 209 with respect to the actuation disk 237 when required. Alternatively, a rod may be provided which acts on the side of one of the bars so as to deflect it (not shown). Figure 20 shows the rails when they are not deflected and Figure 21 shows the rails when they are deflected.

In operation, the turning device will turn and each of the turning elements 21 will rotate about an axis 5. The extensions 205 will travel within the groove 207 on the outer edge of the actuation disk 237 until they reach the section A-B on the lower-most extent of the actuation disk 237. Here, the extension 205 will travel between the pivotable set of rails 209 which may be actuated to move the turning element 21 presently in location between points A and B. The rails are located so that the turning element can be deflected whilst it is in contact with the ground. After the turning element has left the ground, the extension 205 is no longer in contact with the pivotable rails 209 and enters the cavity 215. As it continues to travel around the outer circumference of the actuation disk 237, the extension 205 is guided by the walls of the cavity back into the groove 207.

The turning elements can only be rotated so that they travel in one direction along the groove 207, as it is not possible for an extension 205 to travel from the cavity 215 to inbetween the rails 209. The rails 209 will also be closer together when they are at an angle to the groove. They must therefore be positioned sufficiently apart so that the extension 205 will still fit to be guided between the rails when the rails are pivoted. Figure 22 shows a ninth embodiment of a turning device in which a track 85 with a metal linkage is wrapped around the turning device. The track can wrap around another turning device which may or may not be according to the present invention (not shown). The track links permit the belt to flex laterally. When tensioned over gripping parts in the form of small teeth on the turning elements 163 and 165 lateral displacement of the smaller turning element 165 will result in a lateral displacement of the track 85. The linkage on the track is such that the track can be laterally displaced and accommodate the change in shape without being completed disassociated from the turning device.

The various embodiments of the turning device above can also be used to sort objects. Figure 23 shows a plan view of a turning device D, which can be any of the turning devices described, employed between conveyor belt A and conveyor belts B and C. An object, such as a parcel, travelling along conveyor belt A will travel over the turning device. The turning device is fixed in its location between belt A and belts B' and C. The turning device can be used to direct the object onto belt B or belt C, depending on the desired destination of the object. The object may, for example, have a bar code which is scanned by a scanning device (not seen). The bar code identifies the object and the turning device can direct the object depending on its characteristics.

Figure 24 shows an alternative set up of the turning device D in sorting objects. D can be any of the turning devices described. The turning device D is located above a conveying surface which comprises a stationary support surface 219 with a layer of roller bearings 217 located on an upper surface thereof. The object 221 to be sorted is located between the turning device D and the roller bearings 217. The turning device acts on an upper surface of the object 221 to deflect it in one direction or another. This arrangement can only be used for sorting objects of one height. Sheets of glass for example, or parcels of a uniform height, could be sorted by this apparatus.

Figure 25 shows a front view of a tenth embodiment of the turning device in cross section. Just one of the segments 301 is shown in a surface contact position. The actuation disk 337 is perpendicular to the axle 7. Figure 26 shows the same view as Figure 25, only the actuation disk 337 has been inclined into a plane which is at a different angle with respect to the axle 7. The lower part of the actuation disk 337 has been displaced towards the frame 315, and the corresponding displacement of the rod 339 towards the frame 315 displaces the actuation element 313 to the same extent. The frame 315 has an outer plate 303 and an inner plate 317. The turning element 363 pivots about pivot point 31 1 , at which it is attached to the frame 315. When the turning element 363 pivots, it causes a surface gripping member 323 to be displaced sideways. The surface gripping member comprises teeth 322 which mesh with teeth 324 provided on the turning element 363. The surface gripping member 323 is slidably mounted on the frame 315. When the turning element 363 pivots, the teeth 324 of the turning element move and due to their engagement with the teeth 322 of the surface gripping member 323, cause the surface gripping member 323 to be displaced sideways. Figures 25 and 26 show an optional additional feature, which is a rotation support member 355. The rotation support member is in the foπn of a disk fixed to each turning element 363. The disk has its centre located at the pivot point 311, and roller bearings 357, 359 provided on the outer and inner plates 303, 317 respectively are located between the rotation support member 355 and each plate. The rotation support member 355 guides the turning element when it pivots, and reduces the stress on the rod 339, when the turning element 363 is displaced whilst receiving stresses from the contact surface via the gripping member 323.

Figure 27 shows detail of the tenth embodiment of the turning device shown in Figures 25 and 26. Figure 27 is a cross sectional view through the line A-A shown in Figure 25. The surface gripping member 323 is slidably mounted on the frame 315. For this purpose, the inner plate 317 is provided with an extension rail 330 on which the surface gripping member 323 is mounted. A portion 328 of the surface gripping member extends on a radially interior side of the rail 330 to ensure the surface gripping member is secured on the frame 315. Bearings 326 are provided between the surface gripping member 323 and the inner plate 317 to ensure smooth lateral movement of the surface gripping member 323. Other configurations of the frame and surface gripping member could be provided so that the surface gripping member is slidably mounted on the frame. Figure 28 shows an eleventh embodiment of a turning device in cross section. This turning device is substantially similar to the tenth embodiment of the turning device shown in Figures 25 to 27 except a gear comprising a first cog 428 and a second cog 430 is provided between the surface gripping member 323 and the turning element 463. The first cog 428 has teeth 432 which mesh with teeth 424 of the turning element 463. The first cog 428 is smaller in diameter than the second cog 430, to which it is attached. The first gear and second gear are attached at a common centre 436. The second cog 430 has teeth 434 which mesh with teeth 322 of the surface gripping member 323. When the turning element 463 is pivoted, the teeth of the turning element 463 move, causing the first cog 428 to rotate. This causes the second cog 430 to rotate, which causes the gripping member 323 to be displaced laterally. Other gear arrangements are possible, for example the first cog could be larger in diameter than the second cog.

Figure 29 shows an alternative turning element 523 which comprises a cylinder 512. The turning element 523 may be employed with a turning device according to the present invention. The turning element 523 is mounted to the frame via the cylinder 512. The frame is provided with a socket in which the cylinder 512 is received. The frame socket supports the turning element 523 and permits the turning element 523 to pivot about a pivot point 511 which extends along the centre of the cylinder 512. The turning element may alternatively be mounted to the frame via other socket configurations, for example the turning element could comprise a part which co-operates with the socket, with the part in the fonn of an oval or a ball.

The present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments described above. Alternative arrangements and suitable materials will be apparent to a reader skilled in the art.