Roller crusher, method for monitoring physical condition thereof, and retrofit kit

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a roll crusher, the roll crusher comprising a frame, a first crushing roll and a second crushing roll arranged axially parallel to each other, and a deflection distributor. The roll crusher further comprises: at least one load sensor configured to detect a material load in the deflection distributor; and at least one positioning sensor configured to detect a parameter related to a distance between a first point and a second point of the roll crusher. At least the first point is defined on the deflection distributor or on one of the movable bearing housings of the roll crusher. The present disclosure also relates to a method for monitoring a physical condition of a deflection distributor and a retrofit kit for a roll crusher.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a roller crusher and a method for monitoring the physical condition of a deflection distributor of the roller crusher. The present disclosure also relates to a retrofit kit for a roller crusher. Background Art

[0002] When crushing or grinding rocks, ores, cement clinker and other hard materials, a roller crusher with two roughly parallel rollers can be used, which rotate towards each other in opposite directions and are separated by a gap. The material to be crushed is then fed into the gap. One type of roller crusher is called a high-pressure grinding roller or a high-pressure roller crusher. This type of comminution has been described in US4357287, in which it has been determined that when trying to achieve fine and / or very fine comminution of materials, it is actually not necessary to strive for the rupture of individual particles. On the contrary, it has been found that by introducing sufficiently high compression forces so that briquetting or agglomeration of particles occurs during the comminution process, significant energy savings and increased production can be achieved. This crushing technology is called inter-particle crushing. Here, the material to be crushed or ground is crushed not only by the crushing surface of the roller, but also by the particles in the material to be crushed, and is therefore named inter-particle crushing. When performing inter-particle crushing, the roller crusher should be choked with the material to be crushed, which means that the gap between the two opposite rollers of the roller crusher should always be filled with material along its entire length, and there should also always be material filled to a certain height above the gap to always keep the gap full and maintain the particle-to-particle compression. This will increase the output and reduce it more to finer material. This is in sharp contrast to the old solutions, in which single particle crushing was always emphasized as the only way to obtain fine and very fine particle crushing. In contrast to some other types of crushing equipment (such as, for example, screens), inter-particle crushing has the property of not generating a series of impacts and widely varying pressures during use. Instead, the equipment using inter-particle crushing acts on the material present in the crushing zone created in and around the gap between the rollers with a very high, more or less constant pressure.

[0003] In this type of roller crusher, the gap width is generated by the pressure of the feeding material characteristics. The movement of the crushing rollers away from each other is controlled by a hydraulic system, which includes an active hydraulic cylinder and an accumulator, which provides a spring action to handle different material feeding characteristics. For example, for a roller crusher, a higher material feeding density will generally result in a gap width greater than a lower material feeding density, and an uneven feeding characteristic along the length of the crushing roller (such as an uneven material feeding distribution) will result in a gap width that is different along the length of the crushing roller, that is, a skew is generated. This uneven feeding characteristic may be caused by an uneven feeding of the amount of material along the length of the crushing roller, but it may also be caused by different bulk densities (bulk densities) in the feeding material, different particle size distributions in the feeding material, different water contents in the feeding material, and the diversity of mineral fracture strengths in the material feeding, and it may also be caused by unbreakable materials that may enter the feeding material. A variety of attempts have been made to avoid this skew problem, but these attempts usually result in complex systems. Recently, a mechanical deflection distributor system has been proposed in WO2019093956 A1 to overcome this problem. A deflection distributor mechanically connects the left and right sides of the movable grinding roller in order to minimize deflection. However, the heavy forces involved in the crushing process place great stress on all mechanical parts of the roller crusher, causing wear and possibly also increasing material weakening over time. Therefore, there is a need for improvement in the art. Summary of the invention

[0004] An object is to mitigate, alleviate or eliminate one or more of the above mentioned deficiencies and disadvantages in the art, singly or in any combination, and to solve at least the above mentioned problems.

[0005] According to a first aspect, a roller crusher is provided, the roller crusher comprising: a frame; a first crushing roller and a second crushing roller arranged axially parallel to each other, the first crushing roller being supported in a plurality of bearing housings arranged in the frame, the second crushing roller being supported in a plurality of bearing housings configured to be movable; and an active hydraulic system configured to adjust the position of the second crushing roller and the crushing pressure between the two crushing rollers, wherein the roller crusher further comprises a deflection distributor, wherein the deflection distributor comprises a deflection distribution shaft, a mounting for attaching the deflection distribution shaft to the frame of the roller crusher, and a plurality of push rods, each of the push rods having a first end and a second end, wherein the first end of each of the push rods is attached to the deflection distribution shaft via a lever, and wherein the second end of each of the push rods is attached to the movable bearing housing of the second crushing roller, characterized in that the roller crusher further comprises:

[0006] at least one load sensor configured to detect material loading in the deflection dispenser; and

[0007] At least one positioning sensor is configured to detect a parameter related to a distance between a first point and a second point of the roll crusher, wherein at least the first point is defined on the deflection distributor or on one of the movable bearing housings.

[0008] The advantage of the roller crusher compared to the prior art may be that it allows monitoring the physical condition of the deflection distributor. Monitoring may be performed during maintenance and / or other downtime periods, but may alternatively be performed during crushing operations. With the aid of the at least one positioning sensor and the at least one load sensor, the physical condition of the mechanical connections of the system may be monitored by measuring or at least estimating the joint clearance. The joint clearance is caused by wear of the mechanical elements and the systems used to connect the mechanical elements (e.g., bearings, bushings, etc.), and may cause mechanical hysteresis in the deflection distributor over time. This hysteresis is undesirable because it reduces the effectiveness of the anti-deflection characteristics of the deflection device. In short, if the joint clearance is too high, the deflection distributor may not operate as expected. Another type of wear is material fatigue. This may occur due to the high internal loads to which the mechanical elements of the deflection distributor are subjected during operation. Material fatigue is also undesirable because it effectively reduces the rigidity of the deflection distributor and, therefore, reduces the effectiveness of its anti-deflection characteristics. By utilizing at least one position sensor and at least one load sensor, physical properties of the mechanical joint (joint clearance) and physical properties of the material properties (material stiffness / material fatigue level) may be measured, estimated and / or monitored.

[0009] According to some embodiments, the at least one load sensor comprises a plurality of load sensors, and the at least one positioning sensor comprises a plurality of positioning sensors.

[0010] The use of more than one sensor of each type allows to improve the reliability and accuracy of the physical condition monitoring by providing data from several target points / areas of the deflection distributor. Furthermore, it allows to selectively determine the joint clearance and / or material load at specific target points / areas, allowing, for example, to identify a faulty bearing or a faulty component.

[0011] According to some embodiments, the roll crusher further comprises a control unit configured to determine, based at least on input from the at least one positioning sensor, an extent of joint clearance in the deflection distributor indicative of material wear.

[0012] According to some embodiments, the control unit is further configured to determine a degree of stiffness in the deflection dispenser indicative of material fatigue based on inputs from the at least one load sensor and the at least one positioning sensor.

[0013] The term "load sensor" should be interpreted as any type of sensor capable of detecting a parameter related to material loading. Such load sensors may include load cells or force transducers. Such load cells may include, but are not limited to, hydraulic load cells, pneumatic load cells, piezoelectric load cells, and strain gauge load cells. Load cells may convert forces such as tension, compression, pressure, or torque into electrical signals that can be measured and standardized. As the force applied to the load cell increases, the electrical signal changes proportionally.

[0014] According to some embodiments, at least one of the at least one load sensor is a load sensor pin.

[0015] The term "position sensor" should be interpreted as a sensor that facilitates the measurement of mechanical position. Position sensors can indicate absolute position (positioning) or relative position (displacement) based on linear travel, rotation angle, or three-dimensional space. Common position sensor types include, but are not limited to: capacitive displacement sensors, eddy current sensors, Hall effect sensors, inductive sensors, piezoelectric transducers (piezoelectric), proximity sensors (optical) string potentiometers (also known as string potentiometers, string encoders, cable position transducers), and ultrasonic sensors.

[0016] According to some embodiments, at least one of the at least one positioning sensor is a linear positioning sensor. Such a linear positioning sensor can, for example, be based on the working principle of a linear transducer that converts the linear movement of an object into an electrical signal. The linear positioning sensor can be a rod-based sensor, which includes a sensor housing, in which the sensor rod is slidably arranged. The relative position between different points on the roll crusher can be determined using a so-called LVDT (Linear Variable Differential Transformer). The position of the sensor can vary. For example, the sensor can be integrated into a machine component such as a connecting rod, a pin and a cylinder, or it can be attached to the outside of the machine component.

[0017] According to some embodiments, the at least one positioning sensor comprises a first positioning sensor and a second positioning sensor arranged at opposite ends of the second crushing roller, such that each of the first positioning sensor and the second positioning sensor has its respective first point defined on the respective movable bearing housing, and its respective second point defined on the frame.

[0018] This can be advantageous because it allows the position of the end points defined by the entire mechanical connection making up the deflection divider to be determined. Determination of the position of the end points relative to each other allows the overall joint clearance or total joint clearance of the deflection divider to be determined or estimated.

[0019] According to some embodiments, the at least one load sensor comprises two load sensors, each load sensor being arranged at a respective joint between a first end of each of the push rods and a respective lever of the deflecting distribution shaft. The load sensor may be arranged in a bearing interconnecting the push rod and the respective lever to form a joint.

[0020] This can be advantageous as it allows a load reading to be obtained which accurately reflects the total load in the deflection distributor. At this location, an advantage is that the load sensor is arranged so that it coincides with the force vector of the actual load acting on the deflection distributor. By providing one load sensor in each lateral end of the deflection distributor, any non-uniformity in the measured load can be monitored.

[0021] According to some embodiments, at least one of the at least one load sensor and at least one of the at least one positioning sensor are arranged on the yaw distribution shaft and are configured to detect a torsional load and a torsional angle, respectively.

[0022] This can be advantageous as it allows the physical condition of the deflector distributor shaft to be monitored separately. Over time, high torsional loads can lead to a reduction in material stiffness indicating material fatigue. By measuring the torsional load as well as the torsional angle, material fatigue can be monitored.

[0023] According to some embodiments, at least one of the at least one load sensor and at least one of the at least one positioning sensor are disposed on each of the push rods and are configured to detect an axial load and a linear distance, respectively.

[0024] This can be advantageous as it allows the physical condition of the push rod to be monitored alone. Over time, high tensile and compressive loads can lead to a reduction in material stiffness in the push rod indicating material fatigue. By measuring the axial load as well as the linear distance, material fatigue in the push rod can be monitored.

[0025] According to some embodiments, at least one of the at least one positioning sensor is arranged on the deflection distributor such that its first point is defined on the deflection distribution axis and its second point is defined on one of the push rods.

[0026] This can be advantageous because it allows monitoring the physical condition of the joint connecting the deflection distributor shaft and each push rod. The joint may be defined by a bearing. In this case, the proposed embodiment allows determining any joint clearance caused by wear or failure of the bearing.

[0027] According to a second aspect, a method for monitoring the physical condition of a deflection distributor of a roll crusher is provided.

[0028] wherein the deflection distributor comprises: a deflection distribution shaft; a plurality of push rods, each of the push rods having a first end and a second end; and a plurality of mounting members for attaching the deflection distribution shaft at a first side and a second side of a frame of the roll crusher, wherein the first end of each of the push rods is attached to the deflection distribution shaft via a lever, wherein the second end of each of the push rods is attached to a movable bearing housing of the roll crusher, at least one load sensor configured to detect a material load in the deflection distributor; and at least one positioning sensor configured to detect a parameter related to a distance between a first point and a second point of the roll crusher, wherein at least the first point is defined on the deflection distributor or on one of the movable bearing housings, the method comprising:

[0029] - displacing the movable bearing housings relative to each other so that the deflection distributor is moved from an identified first rigid state in which the joint play does not affect the deflection distributor, via an intermediate state in which the joint play affects the deflection distributor, to an identified second rigid state in which the joint play does not affect the deflection distributor;

[0030] - determining a displacement distance indicative of the extent of the joint gap in the deflection distributor based on the output from the at least one positioning sensor obtained in the first and second rigid states, respectively.

[0031] The method can be advantageous because it allows determining or estimating the extent of the joint clearance of some parts of the deflection distributor or the entire deflection distributor. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the extent of the joint clearance determined will depend on the precise position of the at least one positioning sensor. Only one positioning sensor is required to perform the method. As a non-limiting example of such a single sensor method, a roller crusher may include only one positioning sensor arranged at one end of the second crushing roller, so that the only one positioning sensor has its first point defined on the movable bearing housing and its second point defined on the frame. The method can then be performed by displacing the movable bearing housing, the position of which is measured by only one positioning sensor, while keeping the opposite movable bearing housing locked relative to the crusher frame. Then, the output from only one positioning sensor will reflect the total joint clearance of the deflection distributor. Alternatively or additionally, if the positioning sensor is arranged somewhere between the end points of the mechanical connection device, such as, for example, on the deflection distributor, so that its first point is defined on the deflection distribution shaft and its second point is defined on one of the push rods, only some parts of the total joint clearance will be detected.

[0032] The term "rigid state" should be interpreted as a state of the deflection divider in which the elements defining the mechanical connection means are positioned relative to each other so that each element rigidly abuts the adjacent element. Thus, in this rigid state, any joint clearance in the mechanical connection means will not affect the connection means. The rigid state can be defined at the end point of the overall joint clearance or total joint clearance of the deflection divider, but can alternatively be defined even further away from such end point.

[0033] The term "intermediate state" should be interpreted as a state between the rigid states in which the joint clearance does affect the deflection distributor. This means that the intermediate state is within the range defined between the first rigid state and the second rigid state, i.e., within the range defining the overall clearance or total clearance, and when the deflection distributor is in the intermediate range, the mechanical connection of the deflection distributor will be affected by the joint clearance.

[0034] It should be understood that the rigidity state of the actual deflection distributor of the roller crusher is defined when the rotation axis of the second crushing roller forms a non-zero angle with respect to the rotation axis of the first crushing roller. In other words, in this rigidity state, the second crushing roller will be deflected with respect to the first crushing roller. The non-zero angle is caused by the total joint clearance in the deflection distributor and this angle increases with the increase of the total joint clearance. In an ideal deflection distributor, where the joint clearance is zero, the first rigidity state and the second rigidity state will overlap each other and the rotation axis of the second crushing roller will always be parallel to the rotation axis of the first crushing roller.

[0035] The method may be performed when the roll crusher is not in operation, for example in the form of a predetermined test routine. One way of performing the method may be to have an active hydraulic system of the roll crusher adjust the position of two opposing bearing housings supporting the second crushing roll independently of each other, in other words to actively deflect the second crushing roll relative to its intended operating position.

[0036] Alternatively, the method can be performed online during operation of the roller crusher. In this case, the movable bearing housings will instead be displaced relative to each other by forces naturally occurring in the roller crusher due to the crushing process, for example when a too hard or even uncrushable object passes through the crusher gap at an eccentric position of the crusher gap (uncertain event).

[0037] According to some embodiments, the first and second rigidity states of the deflection dispenser are identified based on output from the at least one load sensor.

[0038] This way of identifying that the deflection distributor has reached a rigid state may have certain advantages, particularly when the method is performed during operation of a crusher. The displacement of the movable bearing shells relative to each other between the first rigid state and the second rigid state generally does not require too much force, particularly if performed by a hydraulic system when the roller crusher is not in operation. The applied force needs to overcome friction in the system, but beyond this the deflection distributor will not provide a reaction force due to the joint clearance. However, when the rigid state is reached, any attempt to displace the movable bearing shells further relative to each other will require considerable force to overcome the reaction force from the deflection distributor to which the movable bearing shells are subjected. Therefore, the output from the at least one load sensor will change from a low value at a range defined between the first rigid state and the second rigid state to a high value outside the range.

[0039] The first and second rigid states of the deflection dispenser may be identified by detecting a load using the at least one load sensor, comparing the detected load to a load threshold, and identifying the first and / or second rigid states as states of the deflection dispenser where the load determined by the deflection dispenser exceeds the load threshold. The load threshold may be set to at least a level that exceeds an expected internal load in the deflection dispenser due to, for example, friction.

[0040] An alternative way of identifying that the deflection distributor has reached the rigid state is to determine the load in the hydraulic system, for example by monitoring the hydraulic oil pressure, and identify the rigid state based on changes in said load. As mentioned above, this may be particularly advantageous when performing the method by using the hydraulic system when the crusher is not operating.

[0041] According to some embodiments, the method further comprises:

[0042] - further displacing the movable bearing housings relative to each other by applying an external load to the deflection divider, so that the deflection divider is moved to a third rigid state, which is outside the range defined between the first rigid state and the second rigid state;

[0043] - determining a load in the deflection distributor based on an output from the at least one load sensor and determining a further displacement distance based on an output from the at least one positioning sensor, wherein the determined load and the determined further displacement distance together define a determined load-distance pair, which is indicative of a degree of stiffness in the deflection distributor.

[0044] This embodiment of the method may be advantageous because it not only provides a measure of the joint clearance but also a measure of the system stiffness.The method may be performed online, for example in the form of a dedicated test routine, when the crusher is in operation and when the crusher is not in operation.

[0045] According to this embodiment, the determined load-distance pair is indicative of the degree of stiffness in the deflection distributor. This means that only one load-distance pair outside the range defined between the first and second stiffness states can be monitored in order to monitor the stiffness of the deflection distributor. The stiffness of the deflection distributor will affect the degree of displacement as a function of load. One way to estimate the degree of stiffness based on only one load-distance pair is to form a ratio between the determined load and the determined further displacement distance. This ratio will then show a decrease with decreasing stiffness.

[0046] According to some embodiments, the method further comprises comparing a ratio between the determined load and the determined further displacement distance with a reference ratio and outputting a stiffness alarm signal in response to the ratio deviating from the reference ratio by more than a threshold ratio value.

[0047] The degree of stiffness may alternatively be expressed in the form of a load-distance function. The method may include determining a load-distance function based on the load-distance pairs determined in the third stiffness state and distance values ​​determined in the second stiffness state where the load is zero or close to zero.

[0048] According to some embodiments, the method further comprises:

[0049] - varying an external load applied to the deflection divider so that the deflection divider moves between the third rigid state and the second rigid state;

[0050] - repeating the step of determining a load-distance pair for one or more mutually different detected loads so as to provide two or more unique load-distance pairs;

[0051] - determining a load-distance function based on the coordinates defined by the two or more unambiguous load-distance pairs, wherein the load-distance function is indicative of a degree of stiffness in the deflection distributor.

[0052] This may be advantageous as it may allow the degree of stiffness to be determined with greater accuracy due to the larger data set. The load-distance function may be determined by fitting a predetermined analytical function (such as a linear function) to the two or more unambiguous load-distance pairs. Alternatively, the load-distance function may be defined by the two or more unambiguous load-distance pairs themselves in the form of discrete functions.

[0053] According to some embodiments, the method further comprises:

[0054] - comparing the displacement distance with a predetermined displacement distance threshold;

[0055] - outputting a joint gap alarm signal in response to the displacement distance exceeding the displacement distance threshold.

[0056] This allows alerting personnel and / or a control system operatively connected to the roller crusher, such as a control unit of the roller crusher, that the clearance has exceeded an allowed level.

[0057] According to some embodiments, the method further comprises:

[0058] - comparing the load-distance function determined with a reference function;

[0059] - outputting a stiffness alarm signal in response to the determined slope of the load-distance function deviating from the slope of the reference function by more than a predetermined slope threshold.

[0060] This allows alerting personnel and / or a control system operatively connected to the roller crusher, such as a control unit of the roller crusher, that the degree of stiffness has deviated beyond an allowed level.

[0061] According to a third aspect, a deflection distributor conversion kit for a roll crusher is provided, the deflection distributor conversion kit comprising: a deflection distributor shaft; a plurality of push rods, each of the push rods having a first end and a second end; and a plurality of mounting members for attaching the deflection distributor shaft at a first side and a second side of a frame of the roll crusher, wherein the first end of each of the push rods is attached to the deflection distributor shaft via a lever, and wherein the second end of each of the push rods is arranged to be attached to a movable bearing housing of the roll crusher, characterized in that the deflection distributor conversion kit further comprises:

[0062] at least one load sensor configured to detect material loading in the deflection dispenser retrofit kit; and

[0063] At least one positioning sensor is configured to detect a parameter related to a distance between a first point and a second point of the roll crusher when mounted on the roll crusher, wherein at least the first point is defined on the deflection distributor retrofit kit or on one of the movable bearing housings.

[0064] The deflection distributor retrofit kit may be advantageous because it allows installation on conventional roll crushers that do not have a deflection distributor. The retrofit kit may also include a control unit configured to determine a degree of joint clearance in the deflection distributor indicative of material wear based at least on input from the at least one positioning sensor. The control unit may also be configured to determine a degree of stiffness in the deflection distributor indicative of material fatigue based on input from the at least one load sensor and the at least one positioning sensor.

[0065] According to some embodiments, the at least one positioning sensor includes: a first positioning sensor configured to be mounted on a first side of the frame; and a second positioning sensor configured to be mounted on a second side of the frame, such that each of the first positioning sensor and the second positioning sensor has its corresponding first point defined on the corresponding movable bearing housing and its corresponding second point defined on the frame.

[0066] According to some embodiments, the at least one load sensor comprises two load sensors, each load sensor being arranged at a respective joint between a first end of each of the push rods and a respective lever that deflects the distribution shaft.

[0067] The effects and features of the second and third aspects are largely similar to those described above in conjunction with the first aspect. The embodiments mentioned with respect to the first aspect are largely compatible with the second and third aspects. It should also be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly stated, the inventive concept relates to all possible combinations of features.

[0068] According to the detailed description given below, the further applicable scope of the present invention will become apparent. However, it should be understood that the detailed description and specific examples, although indicating the preferred embodiments of the present invention, are only given by way of illustration, because from this detailed description, various changes and modifications within the scope of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art.

[0069] Therefore, it should be understood that the present invention is not limited to the specific components of the described devices or the steps of the described methods, because such devices and methods can vary. It should also be understood that the terms used herein are only for the purpose of describing specific embodiments and are not restrictive. It must be noted that, as used in the specification and the appended claims, the articles "a", "an", "the" and "said" are intended to indicate the presence of one or more elements, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, references to "a unit" or "the unit" may include several devices, etc. In addition, the words "comprise", "include", "contain" and similar words do not exclude other elements or steps. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0070] The invention will now be described in more detail, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings, which show currently preferred embodiments of the invention.

[0071] Figure 1 A perspective view of a roll crusher according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0072] Figure 2 Shows Figure 1 Side view of a roll crusher.

[0073] Figure 3A and Figure 3B Shows Figure 1 Opposed side views of some parts of a roller crusher.

[0074] FIG. 4A to FIG. 4E A top view of the deflection divider and the two crushing rollers is shown for different predefined states of the deflection divider.

[0075] Figure 5 The displacement of the deflection divider when carrying out the method according to the first embodiment is shown.

[0076] Figure 6 The displacement of the deflection distributor when carrying out the method according to the second embodiment is shown.

[0077] Figure 7 is a flow chart of a method according to a first embodiment.

[0078] Figure 8 is a flow chart of a method according to the second embodiment.

[0079] Fig. 9 is a perspective view of a deflection distributor retrofit kit according to one embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0080] The present invention will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which currently preferred embodiments of the present invention are shown. However, the present invention may be implemented in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; on the contrary, these embodiments are provided for thoroughness and completeness and to fully convey the scope of the present invention to the skilled person.

[0081] Figure 1 and Figure 2A roller crusher 1 is shown comprising a deflection distributor 100, which will be described in more detail later. The roller crusher 1 comprises a frame 2, in which a fixed first crushing roller 3 is arranged in bearings 5, 5'. The bearing housings 35, 35' of these bearings 5, 5' are fixedly attached to the frame 2 and are therefore immovable. The second crushing roller 4 is arranged in the frame 2 in bearings 6, 6', which are arranged in the frame 2 in a slidably movable manner. The bearings 6, 6' can be moved in the frame 2 in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the first crushing roller 3 and the second crushing roller 4. Typically, guide structures 7, 7' are arranged in the frame along the upper longitudinal frame elements 12, 12' and the lower longitudinal frame elements 13, 13' of the roller crusher 1 on the first side 50 and the second side 50'. The bearings 6, 6' are arranged in movable bearing housings 8, 8', which can slide along the guide structures 7, 7'. The roller crusher 1 further comprises an active hydraulic system 10, 10' comprising a plurality of hydraulic cylinders 9, 9'. These hydraulic cylinders 9, 9' are arranged between the movable bearing housing 8, 8' and a first end support 11 and a second end support 11' arranged near or at a first end 51 of the roller crusher 1. These end supports 11, 11' are attached to upper longitudinal frame elements 12, 12' and lower longitudinal frame elements 13, 13' and also serve as support for the forces occurring at the hydraulic cylinders 9, 9' when the hydraulic cylinders 9, 9' adjust the gap width and react the forces occurring at the crushing rollers 3, 4 due to the material fed to the roller crusher 1. Such a roller crusher works according to the earlier disclosed crushing technique known as inter-particle crushing and the gap between the crushing rollers 3, 4 is adjusted by the interaction of the feed load with the hydraulic system influencing the position of the second crushing roller 4. As described above, this prior art roll crusher is delayed in adjusting the position of the second crushing roll 4. In the case of uneven load along the length of the crushing gap, or in the case of mixed material entering the crushing gap, especially when entering the gap eccentrically, the second crushing roll 4 may deflect, and the hydraulic system 10, 10' is too slow to adjust the position of the movable bearing housing to maintain a constant supply pressure, and the movable bearing housing may get stuck in the guide device 7, 7', and in the case of uncrushable material, the surface of the crushing roll may be damaged by the uncrushable material, and the entire frame 2 of the roll crusher 1 may become tilted.

[0082] The roller crusher 1 further comprises a deflection distributor 100. The deflection distributor 100 comprises a deflection distribution shaft 20 and levers 25, 25' attached at respective ends of the deflection distribution shaft 20. Furthermore, a mounting 24, 24' is arranged at each end of the deflection distribution shaft 20, which is used to mount the deflection distribution shaft 20 of the deflection distributor 100 to the frame 2 of the roller crusher 1. The deflection distribution shaft 20 comprises a rotary bearing, preferably a spherical bearing, in each end thereof, thereby allowing the deflection distribution shaft 20 to rotate relative to the mounting 24, 24' at positions 30C and 30C', respectively. The levers 25, 25' each comprise a handle 26, 26', a first end of which is attached to the deflection distribution shaft 20, and the handle extends in a radial or tangential direction of the deflection distribution shaft 20. A first end 27, 27' of the push rods 21, 21' is attached to a second end of each of the levers 26, 26'. The second end 28, 28' of the push rod is attached to the movable bearing housing 8, 8' of the roller crusher 1. Figure 1 and Figure 2 As can be seen in the figure, the push rods 21, 21' are attached to the respective pins 30A-30B, 30A'-30B' via respective bearings (not shown). In the exemplary embodiment, the second ends 28, 28' of the push rods are attached to the movable bearing housings 8, 8' by means of pivot brackets 31, 31'. Each of the levers 25, 25' is attached to the first end 27, 27' of the respective push rod 21, 21', so that the longitudinal axis of the levers 25, 25' is arranged substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the push rods 21, 21'. In addition, the longitudinal axis of the levers 25, 25' passes through the central axis of the deflection distribution shaft 20 and the pivot points of the levers 25, 25' and the push rods 21, 21'.

[0083] The roller crusher 1 also includes a set of sensors, which will be discussed in detail below. Figure 1 and Figure 2 The sensor is not shown in FIG. Instead, reference is made to FIG. 3A to FIG. 3B Describe these sensors. FIG. 3A to FIG. 3B The roller crusher 1 is shown in a corresponding side view with some elements removed for increased clarity.

[0084] The roller crusher 1 further comprises at least one load sensor 110, 110', which is configured to detect the material load in the deflection distributor 100. FIG. 3A to FIG. 3BIn the illustrated example embodiment, at least one load sensor comprises two load sensors 110 and 110', each of which is arranged at a respective joint between the first end 27, 27' of each of the push rods 21, 21' and the respective lever 25, 25' of the deflection distribution shaft 20. In the illustrated example embodiment, the load sensors 110, 110' are arranged as load sensor pins 30A, 30A', which will replace the ordinary pins used in these joints. In other embodiments, the load sensors 110, 110' may be arranged in ordinary pins. In this way, they are able to detect the load applied to each pin by the deflection distribution shaft 20 and the bracket 31, 31', respectively. The load sensor pin may include a load cell or a force transducer. Such load cells may include, but are not limited to, hydraulic load cells, pneumatic load cells, piezoelectric load cells, and strain gauge load cells.

[0085] The roller crusher 1 further comprises at least one positioning sensor 120, 120', which is configured to detect the distance between a first point 121, 121' and a second point 122, 122' of the roller crusher 1. Figure 3A and Figure 3B In the exemplary embodiment shown in , the at least one positioning sensor comprises a first positioning sensor 120 and a second positioning sensor 120' arranged on opposite ends of the second crushing roller 4. Each of the first positioning sensor 120 and the second positioning sensor 120' has its respective first point 121, 121' defined on the respective movable bearing housing 8, 8', and its respective second point 122, 122' defined on the frame 2. Figure 3A and Figure 3B In the example embodiment shown, the second point 122, 122' is defined on a support bracket 126, 126', which is attached to the lower longitudinal frame element 13, 13' and thus forms part of the frame 2. The positioning sensors 120, 120' of the example embodiment are linear positioning sensors of a rod-based design. Each positioning sensor 120, 120' comprises a sensor housing 123, 123', in which a sensor rod 124, 124' is slidably arranged. The sensor outputs a signal that depends on the relative position between the sensor rod 124, 124' and the sensor housing 123, 123'. The operating principle may be based on a linear transducer that converts the linear motion of an object into an electrical signal.

[0086] As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, this arrangement allows for determination of the locations of the endpoints defined by the entire mechanical connection making up the deflection divider 100. Determining the locations of the endpoints relative to one another allows for determination or estimation of the overall joint play or total joint play of the deflection divider 100. Joint play is a type of mechanical hysteresis that occurs in all real mechanical connection systems and which generally increases with mechanical wear.

[0087] At least for this purpose, the roll crusher 1 further comprises a control unit 150 configured to determine a degree of joint clearance in the deflection distributor 100 indicating material wear based at least on input from the at least one positioning sensor 120, 120'. The control unit 150 is further configured to determine a degree of stiffness in the deflection distributor 100 indicating material fatigue based on input from the at least one load sensor 110, 110' and the at least one positioning sensor 120, 120'. The control unit 150 is operatively connected to the at least one load sensor 110, 110' and the at least one positioning sensor 120, 120'.

[0088] The control unit may include control circuitry and an associated processor, such as a central processing unit (CPU), a microcontroller or a microprocessor. The processor is configured to execute program code stored in a memory in order to perform the functions and operations of the roller crusher 1. The functions and operations of the control unit may be embodied in the form of executable logic routines (e.g., lines of code, software programs, etc.) stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium (e.g., memory) of the control unit and executed by the control circuitry (e.g., using a processor). Furthermore, the functions and operations of the control unit may be a stand-alone software application or form part of a software application that performs additional tasks associated with the control unit.

[0089] Now refer to FIG. 4A to FIG. 4E , Figure 5 and Figure 7 A method for monitoring the physical condition of a deflection distributor of a roll crusher is described in detail. Figure 1 3 to 3 illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a roller crusher, but the method may be equally applicable to other embodiments of a roller crusher within the scope of the appended claims. FIG. 4A to FIG. 4E The roller crusher 1 is schematically shown from a top view. Figure 5 and Figure 6 is a graphical representation of the described parameters and their data analysis. Figure 7 is a flow chart of the method.

[0090] The method comprises displacing the movable bearing housings 8, 8' relative to each other S101 so that the deflection distributor 100 is moved from a first rigid state S1 in which the joint gap does not affect the deflection distributor 100, via an intermediate state S0 in which the joint gap affects the deflection distributor 100, to a second rigid state S2 in which the joint gap does not affect the deflection distributor 100. The displacement step S101 is FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C It is shown in FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C The positions of the deflection distributor 100, the movable bearing housing 8, 8' and the second roller 4 are shown from a top view for each of the three states. FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C As shown, the roller crusher 1 has a certain amount of joint play, as do all real mechanical connections. This is schematically shown in the figure by a set of circles, where selected joints are shown, one of which is larger than and surrounds the other. The larger circle represents the location of an opening in a first element, and the smaller circle represents the location of a pin of an adjacent second element, which is connected to the first element by engaging the pin of the first element via the opening (usually the pin would engage the opening via a bearing, but these have been omitted for clarity). Starting from one of the movable bearing housings, there are a total of 6 joints that could potentially create joint play. These are where the push rods 21, 21' connect to the deflection distributor 100 (i.e. at the corresponding locations of pins 30A and 30A'), where the push rods 21, 21' connect to the respective movable bearing housings (i.e. at the corresponding locations of pins 30B and 30B'), and where the deflection distributor shaft 20 is mounted to the frame via mountings 24, 24' (i.e. at locations 30C and 30C' respectively, not in FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C ) of the connector.

[0091] Figure 4A The roller press 1 is shown when the movable bearing housings 8, 8' are positioned relative to each other so that the joint clearance does not affect the deflection distributor 100. This occurs in a state where the elements defining the mechanical connection are positioned relative to each other so that each element rigidly abuts the adjacent element. This is referred to herein as the rigid state. Figure 4A A first rigid state S1 is shown, marking an end state beyond which it is not possible to force the deflection distributor without subjecting it to loads high enough to deform the mechanical components. Figure 4A It can be seen in FIG. 1 that, due to the overall joint gap, the second roller 4 is slightly tilted relative to its intended axis of rotation.

[0092] During the displacement of the movable bearing housings 8, 8' relative to each other, the deflection distributor 100 and the second roller 4 therewith will move into the intermediate state S0, which Figure 4BIn the intermediate state S0, the joint gap between the mechanical elements will affect the deflection of the distributor 100. Figure 4A It can be seen in FIG. 1 that the second roller 4 is parallel to the first roller 3 in the intermediate state S0 and is therefore aligned along its intended axis of rotation.

[0093] Continuing to displace the movable bearing housings 8, 8' relative to each other will eventually lead to the deflection distributor 100 reaching a state in which no further displacement is possible without subjecting the deflection distributor 100 to a load high enough to induce deformation of its mechanical parts. This state is referred to as the second rigid state S2 and is Figure 4C As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the first rigid state S1 and the second rigid state S2 are defined in the same manner and mark the respective endpoints of the displacements performed in the method.

[0094] The method further comprises determining S102 a displacement distance D0 indicative of the extent of the deflection of the joint gap in the dispenser 100 based on outputs from the at least one positioning sensor 120, 120' obtained in the first rigidity state S1 and the second rigidity state S2, respectively. FIG. 3A to FIG. 3B and FIG. 4A to FIG. 4E Due to the arrangement of the first and second positioning sensors 120 , 120 ′ on the crusher 1 in this exemplary embodiment, the displacement distance D0 will reflect the overall gap or total gap in the deflection distributor 100 .

[0095] The displacement distance D0 can be determined in different ways. As an example, the displacement of the movable bearing housing 8 can be first determined by calculating the difference between the distance values ​​between the first point 121 and the second point 122 determined in the first rigid state S1 and the second rigid state S2, respectively. Similarly, the displacement of the movable bearing housing 8' can be determined by calculating the difference between the distance values ​​between the first point 121' and the second point 122' determined in the first rigid state S1 and the second rigid state S2, respectively. Finally, the displacement distance D0 can be determined by the sum of the determined displacements of the movable bearing housings 8, 8'.

[0096] However, the method is not limited to determining a total displacement distance indicative of total joint clearance. Alternatively, the displacement distance may be defined on one or a group of joints and thus reflect the joint clearance in said one or a group of joints. In this case, the positioning sensor may be arranged to measure between points on either side of said joint or group of joints.

[0097] The first rigid state S1 and the second rigid state S2 of the deflection distributor 100 can be advantageously identified based on output from at least one load sensor 110, 110'. The first state S1 and / or the second state S2 of the deflection distributor 100 can be identified by detecting a load using at least one load sensor 110, 110', comparing the detected load with a load threshold L0, and identifying the first rigid state S1 and / or the second rigid state S2 when the load determined by the deflection distributor 100 exceeds the load threshold L0. Figure 5 is most clearly shown in .

[0098] like Figure 4D and Figure 5 As shown, the method further comprises: displacing the movable bearing housings 8, 8' relative to each other by applying an external load to the deflection distributor 100 S103, so that the deflection distributor moves to a third rigid state S3, which is outside the range defined between the first rigid state S1 and the second rigid state S2. Applying an external load allows the rigidity or structural integrity of the deflection distributor 100 to be tested. Since the material will provide a reaction force that increases as the external load increases, the appearance of the curve of the load-distance diagram will appear as an increasing function, such as Figure 5 shown.

[0099] The method further comprises: determining S104 a load L1 in the deflection distributor 100 based on an output from at least one load sensor 110, 110', and determining a further displacement distance D1 based on an output from at least one positioning sensor 120, 120', wherein the determined load L1 and the determined further displacement distance D1 together define a determined load-distance pair (L1, D1) indicating a degree of stiffness in the deflection distributor 100. The method steps are as follows: Figure 5 The determined load-distance pair (L1, D1) will depend on the stiffness of the deflection dispenser 100. A simple way to estimate the degree of stiffness from the determined load-distance pair (L1, D1) is to form the ratio R between the determined load L1 and the determined further displacement distance D1, which ratio R shows a decrease with decreasing stiffness.

[0100] The method further comprises comparing the displacement distance D0 with a predetermined displacement distance threshold DT0 S105 , and outputting S106 a joint gap alarm signal in response to the displacement distance D0 exceeding the displacement distance threshold DT0 .

[0101] The method further comprises comparing S110 a ratio R between the determined load L1 and the determined further displacement distance D1 with a reference ratio R0 and outputting S111 a stiffness alarm signal in response to the ratio R deviating from the reference ratio R0 by more than a threshold ratio value RT.

[0102] Figure 8 An alternative embodiment of the method is shown. This alternative embodiment of the method has the method steps S101-S106 in common with the first embodiment. Figure 8 These steps are no longer shown.

[0103] An alternative embodiment of the method comprises: varying S207 an external load applied to the deflection distributor 100 so that the deflection distributor 100 moves between a third rigid state S3 and a second rigid state S2; repeating S208 the step of determining load-distance pairs for one or more mutually different detected loads L2, L3 so as to provide two or more unambiguous load-distance pairs (L1, D1), (L2, D2), (L3, D3); and determining S209 a load-distance function F based on coordinates defined by the two or more unambiguous load-distance pairs (L1, D1), (L2, D2), (L3, D3), wherein the load-distance function F indicates a degree of rigidity in the deflection distributor 100. These method steps are described in detail in detail. Figure 6 is most clearly shown in .

[0104] This embodiment of the method further comprises: comparing the determined load-distance function F with a reference function F0 S210; and outputting S211 a rigid alarm signal in response to the determined slope S of the load-distance function F deviating from the slope S0 of the reference function F0 by more than a predetermined slope threshold ST. Steps S210 and S211 of the second embodiment of the method correspond to steps S110 and S111 of the first embodiment.

[0105] Figure 5 and Figure 6 Also shown is a fourth rigid state S4 located on the opposite side of the range defined between the first rigid state S1 and the second rigid state S2. Those skilled in the art recognize that the fourth rigid state S4 is a mirror image counterpart of the third rigid state S3 and is a result of symmetry. Figure 4E The deflection distributor 100 is shown in a fourth rigid state S4. Figure 6 As shown, the method can also be applied in the range defined between the first rigidity state S1 and the fourth rigidity state S4 as an alternative to applying the method in the range defined between the second rigidity state S2 and the third rigidity state S3. It is also conceivable that the method is applicable to both ranges.

[0106] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the two embodiments are based on the same general concept, the only difference being that the second embodiment of the method utilizes more measurement points. Therefore, the two embodiments may have different advantages. The first embodiment requires only a single measurement point and may therefore provide results more quickly, while the second embodiment derives an average of many data points and may therefore be expected to provide greater accuracy in its predictions.

[0107] Now refer to Fig. 9 A deflecting distributor retrofit kit 100' for a roll crusher is described. The deflecting distributor retrofit kit 100' has common features with the deflecting distributor 100 of the roll crusher 1 which has been described in detail above, so the description may be kept brief.

[0108] The deflection distributor conversion kit 100' comprises: a deflection distributor shaft 20; push rods 21, 21', each of which has a first end 27, 27' and a second end 28, 28'; and mounting members 24, 24', which are used to attach the deflection distributor shaft 20 to the first side 50 and the second side 50' of the frame of the roller crusher, wherein the first end 27, 27' of each of the push rods 21, 21' is attached to the deflection distributor shaft 20 via a lever 26, 26', and wherein the second end 28, 28' of each of the push rods 21, 21' is arranged to be attached to a movable bearing housing of the roller crusher. The deflection distributor retrofit kit 100' further comprises: at least one load sensor 110, 110' configured to detect a material load in the deflection distributor retrofit kit 100'; and at least one positioning sensor 120, 120' configured to detect a parameter related to a distance between a first point 121, 121' and a second point 122, 122', wherein at least the first point 121, 121' is defined on the deflection distributor retrofit kit 100' or on one of the movable bearing housings. The at least one positioning sensor 120, 120' comprises: a first positioning sensor 120 configured to be mounted on the first side 50 of the frame; and a second positioning sensor 120' configured to be mounted on the second side 50' of the frame, such that each of the first positioning sensor and the second positioning sensor has its respective first point 121, 121' defined on the respective movable bearing housing and its respective second point 122, 122' defined on the frame. The at least one load sensor 121 , 121 ′ comprises two load sensors, each of which is arranged at a respective joint between a first end 27 , 27 ′ of each of said push rods 21 , 21 ′ and a respective lever 26 , 26 ′ deflecting the distribution shaft 20 .

[0109] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the present invention is by no means limited to the preferred embodiments described above. On the contrary, many modifications and variations are possible within the scope of the appended claims. In addition, by studying the drawings, the disclosure, and the appended claims, those skilled in the art can understand and implement variations of the disclosed embodiments when practicing the claimed invention.

Claims

1. A roller crusher, comprising: frame; a first crushing roller and a second crushing roller arranged axially parallel to each other, the first crushing roller being supported in a bearing housing arranged in the frame, the second crushing roller being supported in a plurality of bearing housings configured to be movable; and an active hydraulic system configured to adjust the position of the second crushing roller and the crushing pressure between the two crushing rollers, wherein the roller crusher further comprises a deflection distributor, wherein the deflection distributor comprises a deflection distribution shaft, a mounting for attaching the deflection distribution shaft at the frame of the roller crusher, and a plurality of push rods, each of the push rods having a first end and a second end, wherein the first end of each of the push rods is attached to the deflection distribution shaft via a lever, and wherein the second end of each of the push rods is attached to the movable bearing housing of the second crushing roller, wherein the roller crusher further comprises: at least one load sensor configured to detect material loading in the deflection dispenser; and At least one positioning sensor is configured to detect a parameter related to a distance between a first point and a second point of the roll crusher, wherein at least the first point is defined on the deflection distributor or on one of the movable bearing housings.

2. The roller crusher according to claim 1, wherein: The at least one load sensor includes a plurality of load sensors, and the at least one positioning sensor includes a plurality of positioning sensors.

3. The roll crusher of claim 1, further comprising a control unit configured to determine, based at least on input from the at least one positioning sensor, an extent of joint clearance in the deflection distributor indicative of material wear.

4. The roller crusher according to claim 3, wherein: The control unit is further configured to determine a degree of stiffness in the deflection dispenser indicative of material fatigue based on inputs from the at least one load sensor and the at least one positioning sensor.

5. The roller crusher according to claim 1, wherein: At least one of the at least one load sensor is a load sensor pin.

6. The roller crusher according to claim 1, wherein: At least one of the at least one positioning sensor is a linear positioning sensor.

7. The roller crusher according to claim 1, wherein: The at least one positioning sensor comprises a first positioning sensor and a second positioning sensor, the first positioning sensor and the second positioning sensor being arranged at opposite ends of the second crushing roller such that each of the first positioning sensor and the second positioning sensor has its respective first point defined on the respective movable bearing housing and its respective second point defined on the frame.

8. The roller crusher according to claim 1, wherein: The at least one load sensor comprises two load sensors, each of the two load sensors being arranged at a respective joint between a first end of each of the push rods and a respective lever of the deflection distribution shaft.

9. The roller crusher according to claim 1, wherein: At least one of the at least one load sensor and at least one of the at least one positioning sensor are disposed on the yaw distribution shaft and are configured to detect a torsional load and a torsional angle, respectively.

10. The roller crusher according to claim 1, wherein: At least one of the at least one load sensor and at least one of the at least one position sensor are disposed on each of the push rods and are configured to detect an axial load and a linear distance, respectively.

11. The roller crusher according to claim 1, wherein: At least one of the at least one positioning sensor is arranged on the deflection distributor in such a way that its first point is defined on the deflection distribution axis and its second point is defined on one of the push rods.

12. A method for monitoring the physical condition of a deflection distributor of a roll crusher, in, The deflection distributor comprises: a deflection distribution shaft; a plurality of push rods, each of the push rods having a first end and a second end; and a plurality of mounting members for attaching the deflection distribution shaft at a first side and a second side of a frame of the roll crusher, wherein the first end of each of the push rods is attached to the deflection distribution shaft via a lever, wherein the second end of each of the push rods is attached to a movable bearing housing of the roll crusher, at least one load sensor configured to detect a material load in the deflection distributor; and at least one positioning sensor configured to detect a parameter related to a distance between a first point and a second point of the roll crusher, wherein at least the first point is defined on the deflection distributor or on one of the movable bearing housings, the method comprising: - displacing the movable bearing housings relative to each other such that the deflection distributor is moved from an identified first rigid state, in which the joint play has no influence on the deflection distributor, via an intermediate state, to an identified second rigid state, wherein the joint play has no influence on the deflection distributor, in which the intermediate state the joint play has an influence on the deflection distributor, and in which the joint play has no influence on the deflection distributor; - determining a displacement distance indicative of the extent of a joint play in the deflection distributor based on the output from the at least one positioning sensor obtained in the first rigid state and the second rigid state, respectively.

13. The method according to claim 12, wherein: The first and second rigid states of the deflection dispenser are identified based on output from the at least one load sensor.

14. The method according to claim 12, further comprising: - further displacing the movable bearing housings relative to each other by applying an external load to the deflection divider, so that the deflection divider is moved to a third rigid state, which is outside the range defined between the first rigid state and the second rigid state; - determining a load in the deflection distributor based on an output from the at least one load sensor and determining a further displacement distance based on an output from the at least one positioning sensor, wherein the determined load and the determined further displacement distance together define a determined load-distance pair, which is indicative of a degree of stiffness in the deflection distributor.

15. The method according to claim 14, further comprising: - varying an external load applied to the deflection divider so that the deflection divider moves between the third rigid state and the second rigid state; - repeating the step of determining a load-distance pair for one or more mutually different detected loads so as to provide two or more unambiguous load-distance pairs; - determining a load-distance function based on the coordinates defined by the two or more unambiguous load-distance pairs, wherein the load-distance function is indicative of a degree of stiffness in the deflection distributor.

16. The method according to claim 12, further comprising: - comparing the displacement distance with a predetermined displacement distance threshold; - In response to the displacement distance exceeding the displacement distance threshold, outputting a joint gap alarm signal.

17. The method according to claim 15, further comprising: - comparing the load-distance function determined with a reference function; - outputting a stiffness alarm signal in response to the determined slope of the load-distance function deviating from the slope of the reference function by more than a predetermined slope threshold.

18. A deflection distributor retrofit kit for a roll crusher, the deflection distributor retrofit kit comprising: Deflection distribution shaft; a plurality of push rods, each of the push rods having a first end and a second end; and a plurality of mounts for attaching the deflection distributor shaft at a first side and a second side of a frame of the roll crusher, wherein a first end of each of the push rods is attached to the deflection distributor shaft via a lever, and wherein a second end of each of the push rods is arranged to be attached to a movable bearing housing of the roll crusher, wherein the deflection distributor conversion kit further comprises: at least one load sensor configured to detect material loading in the deflection distributor retrofit kit; and At least one positioning sensor is configured to detect a parameter related to a distance between a first point and a second point of the roll crusher when mounted on the roll crusher, wherein at least the first point is defined on the deflection distributor retrofit kit or on one of the movable bearing housings.

19. The deflector distributor retrofit kit of claim 18, wherein: The at least one positioning sensor includes: a first positioning sensor configured to be mounted on a first side of the frame; and a second positioning sensor configured to be mounted on a second side of the frame, such that each of the first positioning sensor and the second positioning sensor has its respective first point defined on a respective movable bearing housing and its respective second point defined on the frame.

20. The deflector distributor retrofit kit of claim 18, wherein: The at least one load sensor comprises two load sensors, each of the two load sensors being arranged at a respective joint between a first end of each of the push rods and a respective lever that deflects the distribution shaft.

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