Compression apparatus, system and method for sieving material

Abstract

The vibrating screen includes replaceable screening components. Compression mechanisms are used to secure the replaceable screening components to the vibrating screen. Each compression mechanism applies a force to the replaceable screening component, the force comprising a horizontal component and a downward vertical component. Each replaceable screening component is typically substantially flat before being installed onto the vibrating screen. The force applied to the screening component by one or more compression mechanisms causes the screening component to engage with an underlying concave support member, resulting in a concave shape for the screening component itself, where the center of the screening component is lower than the side edges. The downward vertical component of the force helps to secure the screening component to the screening machine.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of application number 202380064839.9, filed on July 5, 2023, entitled "Compression apparatus, system and method for screening materials".

[0002] Cross-reference to related applications

[0003] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 464,982, filed May 9, 2023, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference, and claims priority thereto. Technical Field

[0004] This disclosure generally relates to material screening. More specifically, this disclosure relates to apparatus and methods for compressing screening components onto a screening machine. Background Technology

[0005] Material screening involves the use of vibrating screens. Vibrating screens cause installed screens to vibrate, separating materials placed on the screens to the desired levels. Oversized materials are separated from undersized materials. Over time, the screens wear out and need to be replaced. Therefore, the screens are designed to be replaceable. Attached Figure Description

[0006] Figure 1A A perspective view of a twin-groove vibrating screen with replaceable screening components is shown in the embodiment.

[0007] Figure 1B Examples are shown Figure 1A A perspective view of a double-groove vibrating screen, with one of the replaceable screening components removed.

[0008] Figure 1C Examples are shown Figure 1A Side view of the vibrating screen.

[0009] Figure 1D A perspective view of a single-chamber vibrating screen with replaceable screening components installed in an embodiment is shown.

[0010] Figure 2A An end view of a portion of an exemplary dual-groove vibrating screen in an embodiment is shown.

[0011] Figure 2B An end view of an exemplary single-trough vibrating screen in an embodiment is shown.

[0012] Figure 2C Examples are shown Figure 2B A close-up of a part of a vibrating screen.

[0013] Figure 3AA first embodiment of the support plate for the screening assembly is shown.

[0014] Figure 3B A second embodiment of the support plate for the screening assembly is shown.

[0015] Figure 3C It shows including, for example Figure 3B The screening assembly of the support plate shown.

[0016] Figure 4A This is a top perspective view of a single-trough vibrating screen, which includes a side compression mounting mechanism for securing the screening components to the machine.

[0017] Figure 4B yes Figure 4A Another perspective view of the vibrating screen shown.

[0018] Figure 4C yes Figure 4A The image shows a top view of the vibrating screen.

[0019] Figure 4D yes Figure 4A An enlarged perspective view of a portion of the vibrating screen shown.

[0020] Figure 4E Is with Figure 4A The diagram shows a perspective view of a portion of a single-chamber vibrating screen, similar to the one shown, with a support plate housing the screening components.

[0021] Figure 4F Is with Figure 4A The image shows an enlarged perspective view of a portion of a single-chamber vibrating screen, similar to the one shown, with a support plate housing the screening components.

[0022] Figures 5A to 5C The steps of the process of mounting the support plate of the screening assembly onto the single-chamber vibrating screen are shown in the embodiment.

[0023] Figure 6A This is a perspective view of an embodiment of the compressed installation component.

[0024] Figure 6B yes Figure 6A Top perspective view of one embodiment of the compression piston of the compression mounting assembly shown.

[0025] Figure 6C yes Figure 6A The bottom perspective view of the compression piston shown.

[0026] Figure 7A This is a perspective view showing the support plate of the screening assembly placed in the base of the vibrating screen when the compression piston of the mounting assembly is in the retracted position.

[0027] Figure 7B This is a perspective view showing the support plate of the screening assembly placed in the base of the vibrating screen when the compression piston of the mounting assembly is in the extended position.

[0028] Figure 8A This is a top perspective view showing another embodiment of the compression piston and the corresponding mounting holes of the support plate.

[0029] Figure 8B yes Figure 8A The bottom view of the compression piston and mounting hole shown.

[0030] Figure 8C This is a top perspective view of another embodiment of the corresponding mounting holes for the compression piston and support plate.

[0031] Figure 8D yes Figure 8C The bottom view of the compression piston and mounting hole shown.

[0032] Figure 8E This is a top perspective view of another embodiment of the compression piston, the corresponding mounting holes and through holes of the support plate.

[0033] Figure 8F yes Figure 8E The side perspective view of the compression piston and mounting hole shown.

[0034] Figure 8G Is with Figure 8E and Figure 8F The diagram shows a perspective view of the end of a compression piston similar to the one shown, and also includes alignment fingers at its distal end.

[0035] Figure 8H It shows when using with Figure 8G The perspective view of a portion of the support plate of the screening assembly being placed in the base of the vibrating screen when a compression piston, similar to the one shown, is installed onto the support plate of the vibrating screen.

[0036] Figure 9A This is a perspective view of the fixed compression piston assembly.

[0037] Figure 9B yes Figure 9A The image shows a cross-sectional view of the fixed compression piston assembly.

[0038] Figures 10A to 10C This demonstrates how to use a compression assembly with a compression piston to install an injection molding screening assembly in a vibrating screen.

[0039] Figure 11A An end view of the vibrating screen in the embodiment is shown.

[0040] Figure 11B Examples are shown Figure 11A A partial end view of the vibrating screen.

[0041] Figure 12A A perspective view of the screening component in the embodiment is shown.

[0042] Figure 12B An embodiment is shown in which a portion of the screening surface has been removed. Figure 12A A perspective view of the screening components.

[0043] Figure 12C A top view of the support plate of the screening assembly in the embodiment is shown.

[0044] Figure 12D Examples are shown Figure 12C A close-up view of a portion of the support plate.

[0045] Figure 12E Examples are shown Figure 12C A perspective view of a portion of the support plate being engaged by the hooks of the actuator assembly.

[0046] Figure 13A and Figure 13B A first perspective view and a second perspective view of the compression component in the embodiment are shown.

[0047] Figure 13C and Figure 13D Examples are shown respectively. Figure 13A and Figure 13B The compressed component is shown in the first and second side views of the collapsed and expanded configurations.

[0048] Figure 13E Examples are shown Figure 13A and Figure 13B A cross-sectional view of the compression component.

[0049] Figure 13F Examples are shown Figure 13A and Figure 13B The exploded view of the compressed component.

[0050] Figure 14A Three views of the pawl in the embodiment are shown, including: (a) a rear perspective view; (b) a front perspective view; and (c) a side view.

[0051] Figure 14B Three views of the internal compression mounting bracket in the embodiment are shown, including: (a) a cross-sectional side view; (b) a front perspective view; and (c) a top view.

[0052] Figure 14CThree views of the external compression mounting bracket in the embodiment are shown, including: (a) a side view; (b) a perspective view; and (c) a bottom view.

[0053] Figure 14D Three views of the eccentric nut in the embodiment are shown, including: (a) a first perspective view; (b) a second perspective view; and (c) a rear view.

[0054] Figure 14E Four views of the actuator bracket in the embodiment are shown, including: (a) a first side view; (b) a second side view; (c) a perspective view; and (d) a top view.

[0055] Figure 14F and Figure 14G Perspective view and exploded view of the fixing hook assembly in the embodiment are shown respectively.

[0056] Figure 15A The compression assembly, fixing hook assembly, and plate assembly of the vibrating screen are shown in an embodiment where the plate assembly is not compressed.

[0057] Figure 15B An embodiment in which the board assembly is compressed is shown. Figure 15A Compression components, fixing hook components, and plate components.

[0058] Figure 15C An embodiment in which the board assembly is not compressed is shown. Figure 15A and Figure 15B A close-up view of the compression component and the fixing hook component.

[0059] Figure 15D Examples are shown Figure 15A and Figure 15B A close-up view of the compression assembly and the fixing hook assembly compressing the plate assembly of the screening assembly.

[0060] Figure 15E An alternative pawl for the compression assembly and / or fixing hook assembly is shown in the embodiment.

[0061] Figure 15F and Figure 15G The radii of curvature of the under-compression screening assembly in the embodiment and the prior art screening assembly are shown respectively.

[0062] Figure 15H Examples are shown Figure 15F The end view of the screening components being pressed against the base of the pressure screening machine.

[0063] Figure 15I Examples are shown Figure 15GThe end view shows the screening components pressed against the base of a conventional screening machine.

[0064] Figure 16A A perspective view of a portion of the vibratory machine in the embodiment is shown.

[0065] Figure 16B An embodiment is shown where the screening surface has been removed. Figure 16A It is part of a vibratory machine.

[0066] Figure 16C An embodiment is shown where the screening component has been removed. Figure 16A It is part of a vibratory machine.

[0067] Figure 17A Examples are shown Figure 16A A perspective view of a portion of a vibrating machine.

[0068] Figure 17B Examples are shown Figure 17A A cross-sectional view of a portion of the vibratory machine shown.

[0069] Figure 17C The example shown is before compression. Figure 17A The ratchet and hook are part of the vibrating machine shown.

[0070] Figure 17D The compressed version shown in the embodiment is shown. Figure 17A The ratchet and hook are part of the vibrating machine shown.

[0071] Figure 17E and Figure 17F The pawls in the uncompressed and compressed positions are shown in the embodiments, respectively.

[0072] Figure 17G Another pawl and support plate are shown in the embodiment.

[0073] Figure 18 The support plate of the screening assembly is shown, which can be used in conjunction with two different types of mounting components.

[0074] Figure 19A A perspective view of the screening component in the embodiment is shown.

[0075] Figure 19B An embodiment is shown in which a portion of the screening surface has been removed. Figure 12A A perspective view of the screening components.

[0076] Figure 19C A top view of the support plate of the screening assembly in the embodiment is shown.

[0077] Figure 20A partial perspective view of a portion of the vibratory machine in the embodiment is shown.

[0078] Figure 21A A detachable handle that can be used to actuate the compression assembly is shown in the embodiment.

[0079] Figure 21B Examples are shown Figure 21A The diagram shows how the detachable handle connects to the compression assembly to actuate it.

[0080] Figure 21C A detachable handle is shown in the embodiment, which can be used to simultaneously actuate two adjacent compression components.

[0081] Figure 21D Examples are shown Figure 21C The diagram shows how the detachable handle connects to two adjacent compression components to actuate both components.

[0082] Figure 21E The illustration shows how two adjacent compression components are connected to allow for dual actuation using a single handle.

[0083] Figure 21F The pneumatic compression assembly in the embodiment is shown.

[0084] Figure 21G Examples are shown Figure 21F A cross-sectional view of the pneumatic compression assembly.

[0085] Figure 22A and Figure 22B Top and bottom perspective views of another embodiment of the pressure screening assembly in the examples are shown respectively.

[0086] Figure 22C The compression assembly and the fixing hook assembly in the embodiment are shown. Figure 22A and Figure 22B The screening components are compressed.

[0087] Figure 23A The embodiment shows multiple segmented base supports forming support tracks along the wall of the screening machine.

[0088] Figure 23B The segmented base support is shown in the embodiment.

[0089] Figure 24A and Figure 24B The embodiment shown depicts the base rubber or gasket being installed into the base support.

[0090] Figure 24C Two base supports forming the corner interface are shown.

[0091] Figure 24D The two base rubber or gasket pieces forming the corner seal in the embodiment are shown.

[0092] Figure 25A The screening component in the embodiment is shown.

[0093] Figure 25B The sieving assembly is shown in an embodiment where a portion of the sieving surface has been removed.

[0094] Figure 25C A top view of the support plate of the screening assembly in the embodiment is shown.

[0095] Figure 25D A cross-sectional side view of a portion of a screening assembly having multiple screening surfaces is shown in the embodiment.

[0096] Figure 25E The illustration shows how the various parts of the screening surface are connected to or in contact with the support plate in the embodiment.

[0097] Figure 26 This is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a synthetic screening assembly having an end bar with a through compression point.

[0098] Figure 27 This is a perspective view of the composite screening assembly in Figure 17, showing how the end rods are attached to the screening unit.

[0099] Figure 28 It is Figure 17 and Figure 18 The diagram shows a perspective view of the synthetic screening assembly after the end rods have been coupled to the screening unit.

[0100] Figures 29A to 29D A dual-trough vibrating screen is shown, which includes a variety of different types of screening components.

[0101] Figures 30A to 30C This demonstrates how to install different combinations of different types of screening components onto a vibrating screen. Detailed Implementation

[0102] Material screening involves the use of vibrating screens. Vibrating screens cause installed screens to vibrate, separating materials placed on the screens to the desired levels. Oversized materials are separated from undersized materials. Over time, the screens wear out and need to be replaced. Therefore, the screens are designed to be replaceable.

[0103] Vibrating screens are widely used in various industries. They typically withstand significant vibrational forces and transmit these forces to the screen and screening components, causing them to vibrate. One industrial application is in oil and gas drilling, where the screen attached to the vibrator is subjected to a compressive force of 2-4 kpsi to secure it. Drill cuttings, rocks, and drilling mud are then dumped onto the top of the screen at high temperatures, and the screen is vibrated with a force of 3 to 9 G.

[0104] The embodiments of this disclosure are applicable to a wide range of applications, including wet and dry applications, and are applicable to various industries. This disclosure is not limited to the oil and gas industry or the mining industry. The disclosed embodiments can also be used in any industry that requires the separation of materials using a vibrating screen, including pulp and paper, chemical, pharmaceutical, and other industries. In various embodiments, the screening assembly according to this disclosure is designed to withstand high vibrational forces (e.g., accelerations in the range of 3–9G), abrasive materials (e.g., fluids having a few percent to up to 65% abrasive solids), and high load requirements (e.g., fluids with a specific gravity up to 4). The disclosed screening assembly is also designed to withstand compressive loads of up to 2000–4000 pounds at the edges of the screening assembly, as described, for example, in U.S. Patents 7,578,394 and 9,027,760, the entire disclosure of each of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0105] Vibrating screens typically withstand significant vibrational forces and transmit these forces to the screens and screening components, causing them to vibrate. The screens and / or screening components must be securely attached to the vibrating screen to ensure the vibrational forces are transmitted to them and to prevent them from detaching. Effective transmission of vibrational forces from the machine to the attached screening components is crucial for screening performance. Screening components that are not securely attached to the screen will not be able to effectively perform screening and / or dewatering functions. Furthermore, when screening components are not securely fixed to the screen, both the screening components and the screen itself are more prone to wear and breakage.

[0106] Various methods can be used to secure the screen or components to the vibrating screen, including clamping and tensioning. The disclosed compression devices, systems, and methods are designed to ensure that the screening components can be securely attached to the screen under operating conditions including the aforementioned compressive loads, high vibration forces, and the presence of heavy fluids.

[0107] One method for installing a screening assembly into a screening machine is to place the screen or assembly in a compressed state to secure it in place. The screen or assembly can be placed inside a vibrating screen with one side against a portion of the vibrating screen and the other side facing the compression assembly. The compression assembly can then be used to apply compressive force to the screen or assembly. The compression assembly can be electric or manual.

[0108] Embodiments of this disclosure relate to systems, apparatus, and methods for securing screening components to a vibrating screen. Specifically, although non-limiting, this disclosure relates to systems, apparatus, and methods for securing screening components to a vibrating screen using a compression assembly that deflects the screen into a concave / contour shape.

[0109] Embodiments of this disclosure provide a compression assembly for compressively mounting a screen and / or screening assembly to a vibrating screen. In some embodiments, the compression mounting mechanism may include a compression piston that abuts against a side edge or side surface of the screening assembly and applies a horizontal and vertical compressive force. In other embodiments, the compression mounting mechanism may include an arrangement in which one or more hook members pass through the screening assembly and apply a horizontal force to a side surface or edge surface of the screening assembly, and a downward force to a top surface of the screening assembly. Compared to known compression assemblies, such embodiments may increase the vertical downward component of the compressive force applied to the screen, thereby improving the attachment of the screening assembly to the screening machine and / or improving the seal between the screening assembly and the screening machine.

[0110] In the pressure-bearing embodiment, a set of retaining hooks (e.g., wall members or center members) attached to the screening machine extends through a corresponding set of through compression points (e.g., holes) that extend through the screening assembly inside the screening assembly (e.g., within the periphery of the support plate of the screening assembly and spaced apart from a first edge of the support plate). These retaining hooks can extend from the bottom surface through the screening assembly to the top surface.

[0111] A set of movable or actuated hooks of one or more compression assemblies arranged along opposite wall members of the screening assembly pass through a set of corresponding through compression points (e.g., spaced apart from a second edge of the screening assembly) inside the screening assembly. Actuation of the compression assemblies moves the hooks from a first position (e.g., retracted) to a second position (extended) to apply a horizontal compressive force to the screening assembly (e.g., the inner edge of the through compression points). Actuation of the compression assemblies can also apply a downward force to the upper surface of the screening assembly. The combination of the horizontal force and the downward vertical force can deflect the screening assembly into a concave shape and secure the screening assembly to the screening machine.

[0112] Embodiments of this disclosure may provide a separate compression assembly for each movable or actuated hook of a vibrating screen. Each movable or actuated hook has an independent assembly, thereby distributing the energy required to apply compression across multiple assemblies. In other embodiments, a single compression assembly may actuate two or more movable or actuated hooks.

[0113] The compression assembly may have a detachable handle. A single handle can be used to actuate multiple compression assemblies. The compression assembly may be attached along a first and / or second wall of the vibrating screen. The compression assembly may be attached to the vibrating screen such that multiple (e.g., two, three, four, or more) compression assemblies are configured to engage each screen and / or screening assembly mounted in the vibrating screen. By using multiple compression assemblies on a single screen or screening assembly, the combined clamping force applied to the screening assembly by the multiple compression assemblies increases, while the energy required to actuate a single compression assembly remains constant.

[0114] Figure 1A , Figure 1B and Figure 1C A non-limiting embodiment of a vibrating screen 300 equipped with replaceable screening components is shown. More specifically, Figure 1A The fully assembled screening machine 300 is shown, with two rows of parallel, replaceable screening components 320a and 320b. Figure 1B The image shows a screening machine 300 with the screening components removed to show the parts below the screening machine. Figure 1C A side view of the screening machine is shown. In the illustrated embodiment, the screening machine 300 uses two sets of replaceable screening assemblies 320a and 320b arranged parallel to each other along the length of the screening machine 300. Each set of screening assemblies 320a and 320b includes four longitudinally aligned screening components.

[0115] Material is fed into a feed hopper (not shown) and then guided onto the top surfaces 8 of two sets of parallel screening assemblies 320a, 320b. The material flows in the flow direction 6 toward the outlet end 4 of the vibrating screen 300. The material flowing in direction 6 is contained within parallel grooves provided by the sets of parallel screening assemblies 320 and is prevented from flowing out from the sides of the screening assemblies 320. Material that is too small and / or fluid enters a separate discharge material flow path through the parallel screening assemblies 320a, 320b (hereinafter referred to as 320 unless otherwise specified) for further processing. Material that is too large is discharged from the outlet end 4. The screening material can be dry material, slurry, etc. The screening assembly 320 can be tilted downwards from the hopper toward the other end of direction 6 to assist in material feeding. Alternatively, the screening assembly can be tilted upwards to increase the pool depth, thereby increasing the contact between the screen and the screening material.

[0116] The vibrating screen 300 includes wall members 312a and 312b (hereinafter referred to as 312 unless otherwise specified), a concave support surface 314 (e.g., a partition or longitudinal beam), a central member 316, an acceleration device 18 (e.g., one or more vibrating motors), a plurality of screening assemblies 320, and a compression assembly 322. The central member 316 divides the vibrating screen 300 into two concave screening areas (e.g., a double trough).

[0117] Compression assembly 322 is attached to the outer surface of each wall member 312. However, the vibrating screen can have a concave screening area (e.g., a single trough) sized to accommodate a set of screening assemblies, with the compression assembly arranged on one wall member. Such a single-trough screen 300A... Figure 1D As shown, the same reference numerals are used to identify the same elements. This arrangement may be ideal when space is limited and maintenance and operation personnel can only access one side of the vibrating screen. A single-trough screen may also be preferred if the screening assembly arrangement benefits from having compression assemblies 322 on both sides of the machine. Although Figures 1A to 1C The image shows a vibrating screen 300 having multiple longitudinally oriented screening components that form two parallel concave material paths (e.g., double troughs), but the screening components are not limited to this configuration and may be oriented in other ways.

[0118] exist Figures 1A to 1C In the screening machine 300 shown, a central member 316 is disposed between wall members 312, such that the screening machine has two parallel flow paths (e.g., a dual-chamber design). As shown, each screening assembly 320 includes a first edge disposed near the first wall member 312a or the second wall member 312b and a second edge disposed near the central member 316, the first and second edges forming an abutment surface of the screening assembly. In a single-chamber embodiment utilizing a single screening assembly, the central member is omitted, such that a single set of screening assemblies extends between the first and second walls of the screening machine 300A. In this arrangement, one wall may include a compression assembly, while the other wall may form an abutment surface. In an alternative embodiment, compression assemblies are disposed on both walls. In either arrangement, the compression assembly 322 presses the screening assembly 320 against the concave support 314, causing the screening assembly 320 to deflect into a concave profile.

[0119] Figure 1B A screening machine 300 is shown, in which one screening component is removed and the screening surface is removed from another screening component to expose the porous support plate 324 underneath. The configuration of the screening component 320 and its support plate 324 will be discussed more fully in the description below. Figure 1B As shown, a plurality of concave support surfaces 314 extend between the first wall 312a and the central support member 316. Although not shown, a plurality of concave support surfaces also extend between the second wall 312b and the central support member 316. Single-slot machine (e.g., Figure 1DSimilar concave supports extending between the first and second walls can be utilized. As shown, each concave support 314 has a first end attached to the wall member and a second end attached to the central support 316. As shown, the concave supports 314 are evenly spaced and parallel. However, other spacing may also be used.

[0120] The compression assembly of a vibrating screen is typically attached to the outer surface of the wall member and includes a telescopic member that extends and retracts to apply pressure to the screening assembly supported on the base of the screen. The telescopic member can advance and retract in response to manually applied forces, pneumatic forces, hydraulic forces, electrical forces, and spring forces. Figure 2A A partial end view of a prior art twin-trough screening machine 10 is shown, which utilizes a compression assembly 22 attached to a first wall 12 of the machine 10 to compress a screening assembly 20 located between the first wall 12 and a central member 16. The compression assembly 20 applies compressive force to a vertical flange 28 extending above the top surface of the screening assembly 20 using a telescopic member 32 (illustrated as a pin). Compression of the vertical flange 28 near the first edge of the screening assembly causes a second edge of the screening assembly to press against the central member 16 (or the second wall of a single-trough screening machine), and deforms the screening assembly 20 into a concave profile against one or more underlying concave support surfaces 14. That is, the screening assembly 20 deforms from an undeflected, generally flat profile (not shown) to... Figure 2A The deflected concave profile shown.

[0121] Figure 2B and Figure 2C An end view of a prior art single-trough screening machine 10A is shown. As shown, a compression assembly 22a attached to a first wall 12a compresses a screening assembly 20a against a stop surface 26 located on a second wall 12b of the machine 10A. Although illustrated as a generally flat surface, it should be understood that the stop surface 26 can have other configurations, such as, but not limited to, channels (grooves). The compressive force applied to the screening assembly 20a by the compression assembly 22a causes the screening assembly 20a to deflect against the concave profile of one or more underlying concave support surfaces 14a. Figures 2A to 2C The screening machine and compression assembly are described in U.S. Patent No. 9,027,760, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0122] This disclosure is partly based on the understanding that the compressive force applied to a vertical flange extending above the edge of the screening assembly does not provide ideal compressive force for the screening assembly. That is, during compression, the torque around this vertical flange and / or the deflection of the vertical flange only provides a limited downward force applied to the screening assembly (i.e., the vertical component of the compressive force). Furthermore, the compressive force applied to the vertical flange by the compression assembly 22a tends to cause the side edges of the support plate to warp upwards, away from the wall member and away from the underlying support surface 14a. Therefore, fluid and aggregate often accumulate at the screen edge behind the flange, leading to maintenance and contamination problems.

[0123] A smaller downward vertical component of the compressive force can also lead to poor sealing between the screening assembly and the peripheral edges of the screening machine, potentially causing contamination of the screened material. In other words, oversized material that is not screened may leak from the outer periphery of the screening assembly and fall into the area used to collect undersized material. Furthermore, a smaller downward vertical component of the compressive force may cause some movement (e.g., oscillation) of the screening assembly relative to the screening machine, increasing wear on the screening assembly and / or the underlying rubber sealing base (e.g., gaskets), and reducing screening efficiency and / or performance.

[0124] The compression assembly, screening assembly, and related methods disclosed herein address the aforementioned problems and offer further benefits. In a broader sense, the disclosed compression mounting assembly and screening assembly allow for an increase in the vertical component of the compressive force applied to the screening assembly while deflecting the screen into a concave profile. Among other advantages, this also improves the sealing of the screening assembly and / or reduces movement of the screening assembly relative to the support members and sealing gaskets below the screening machine.

[0125] As described above, the screening components installed on a vibrating screen typically include a support plate and a screening surface attached to the top of the support plate. Figure 1A Each screening assembly shown includes a corrugated screening surface attached to the top surface of a support plate. Figure 1B One of the screening components is shown, in which the corrugated screening surface has been removed to expose the underlying support plate 324. Figure 1B As shown, the support plate includes multiple holes that allow material that has passed through the screening surface to easily fall through the support plate 324. Figures 2A to 2C The diagram illustrates a prior art screening assembly in which a vertical flange 28 extends upward from the side of a support plate. As described above, the compression mechanism of a prior art screening machine rests against the upwardly extending vertical flange 28 to apply a compressive force for mounting the screening assembly onto the screening machine.

[0126] The following describes several different embodiments of a novel screening assembly and corresponding mounting mechanisms for mounting the screening assembly onto a vibrating screen. One embodiment of the novel mounting mechanism applies compressive force directly to the side edge of a support plate below the screening surface of the screening assembly. Because the compressive force is applied to the side edge of the support plate, it does not tend to rotate the side edge of the support plate upwards and away from the support elements below the screen.

[0127] Furthermore, the compression piston, which contacts the side edge of the support plate, can apply a greater downward vertical force to the edge of the support plate. In effect, the compression surface of the piston abuts against the side edge of the support plate of the screening assembly, providing vertical restraint and preventing the side edge of the support plate from moving upwards, even under high vibrational acceleration forces. All these factors contribute to securely attaching the screening assembly to the support elements of the vibrating screen and help ensure a good seal between the bottom surface of the support plate and the gasket or flange below the screen, preventing any material from bypassing the screening surface and contaminating the screened material.

[0128] Figure 3A A support plate 202 for a novel screening assembly is shown. A screening surface is mounted on top of the support plate 202 to form the screening assembly. The support plate 202 includes a plurality of flow holes 210. Therefore, any material passing through the screening surface mounted on top of the support plate 202 can fall downward through the flow holes 210.

[0129] The support plate includes a front edge 202, a rear edge 204, a first side edge 206, and a second side edge 208. A plurality of mounting holes 220 are formed on the first side edge 206 and the second side edge 208. Each mounting hole 220 includes a compression surface 222 located on the opposite side of an alignment groove 224.

[0130] Figure 3B An alternative embodiment of the support plate 202 is shown, which includes a flange 230 extending upward on a side surface of the support plate 202. A through hole 232 is formed in the upwardly extending flange 230 to allow a compression piston to move inward and engage with a mounting hole 220. The upwardly extending flange 230 can provide the benefits discussed below.

[0131] Figure 3C A screening assembly is shown, which includes a screening surface 326 mounted on top of a support 202, such as Figure 3B As shown. In this embodiment, the screening surface 326 has a corrugated configuration. However, in alternative embodiments, the screening surface may be substantially flat or have other configurations.

[0132] The number and distribution of mounting holes 220 can be adjusted to achieve various purposes. Mounting holes 220 are typically arranged at regular intervals along the side edges 206, 208, and the positions of the mounting holes 220 correspond to the positions of the compression components of the vibrating screen.

[0133] Figures 4A to 4D A first embodiment of a single-chamber vibrating screen is shown, which includes a compression mounting mechanism for securing the screening components to the screen. Figure 4A A first perspective view is provided showing a plurality of concave support surfaces 314, each concave support surface 314 extending from a first side member 312a to a second side member 312b. The concave support surfaces are arranged from an input end 311 to an output end 313. One or more vibration motors 18 are mounted on the machine to apply vibrational forces to the machine and ultimately to a screening assembly mounted on the machine.

[0134] Multiple screening assemblies will be installed along the length of the vibrating screen. Each screening assembly will span the width of the screen, extending a significant distance between the first side member 312a and the second side member 312b. Multiple compression assemblies 322 for securing the screening assemblies of the screen will be installed along the length of the screen. In some embodiments, the compression assemblies 322 are installed outside the first side member 312a and the second side member 312b. In other embodiments, the compression assemblies 322 may be installed outside only one of the first side member 312a and the second side member 312b. Aspects of these two different configurations will be discussed below.

[0135] Each compression assembly includes a compression piston 240 that extends through the side members 312a / 312b on which the compression assembly is mounted. The compression assembly 322 is capable of extending the compression piston 240 inward toward the center of the screening machine and retracting it backward away from the center of the screening machine.

[0136] Figure 4E and Figure 4F Only shown Figures 4A to 4D Part of the large vibrating screen shown. Figure 4E and Figure 4F This helps explain how to install the screening components onto a vibrating screen. Figure 4E The image shows the support plate 202 of the screening assembly lowered onto the concave support surface. Note that the complete screening assembly would include a screening surface attached to the top of the support plate 202. The screening surface has been removed, leaving only the support plate 202 to help explain how the screening assembly is mounted onto the vibrating screen. Furthermore, the flow hole 210 is not shown in the support plate 202.

[0137] like Figure 4EAs shown, the side edges of the support plate 202 are aligned with four compression assemblies 322 on the side walls 312a and 312b of the screening machine. Therefore, each of the four compression assemblies on each side wall will cause a compression piston to extend inward toward the center of the screening machine to mount and secure the support plate 202 of the screening assembly to the screening machine. The four compression pistons will interact with the corresponding mounting holes 220 on the support plate (as shown in Figure 3).

[0138] Figure 4F This is a magnified view, which provides more details of the support plate 202. (See attached image.) Figure 4F As shown, in this embodiment, an upwardly extending flange 230 is provided on the side edge of the support plate 202. However, a through hole 232 corresponding to the mounting hole 220 of the support plate 202 is provided in the upwardly extending flange 230. The through hole 232 allows the compression pistons of the compression assembly 322 to advance inward, so that they can directly abut against the compression surface 222 of the mounting hole 220, as will be explained in more detail below. Therefore, the compression pistons of the compression assembly 322 will not be like Figures 2A to 2C It rests against the upwardly extending flange 230 as shown in the diagram. Figure 4F This shows the temporary position of the support plate 202 before it is pushed down to align with the compression piston of the compression assembly 322 during the installation operation.

[0139] Figures 5A to 5C The installation procedure for the screening assembly is shown. To help illustrate the installation procedure, Figures 5A to 5B Only the support plate 202 of the screening assembly is shown in the diagram. It should be understood that the actual screening assembly will include a screening surface fixed to the top of the support plate 202.

[0140] Triangular installation ramp 343 (e.g.) Figure 4E and Figures 5A to 5C(As shown) is provided on the side walls 312a, 312b of the vibrating screen. When the screening assembly is installed on the vibrating screen, the mounting ramp 343 abuts against the outside of the upwardly extending flange 230 on the side edge of the support plate 220 (if such an upwardly extending flange 230 is provided). If the support plate 202 does not have an upwardly extending flange 230, the mounting ramp 343 abuts only against the side edges 206, 208 of the support plate 202. The mounting ramp 343 is used to push the side edges 206, 208 of the support plate inward, so that the mounting hole 220 is located inside the end of the compression piston of the compression assembly 322. The inward movement of the side edges of the support plate 202 caused by the mounting ramp 343 also causes the support plate 202 to bend into a concave shape. Once the support plate 202 is concave, the compression piston can more easily bend the support plate 202 further to press the support plate 202 into the installation position. The pre-bending of the support plate 202 also ensures that the support plate continues to bend in the concave direction when the compression piston engages with the side edge of the support plate. In other words, pre-bending the support plate 202 into a concave shape eliminates the possibility that the compression piston will cause the support plate to bend into a convex shape (where the center of the support plate is far away from the vibrating screen).

[0141] Installation begins at Figure 5A The position shown is such that the right edge of the support plate 202 is lowered above the compression piston of the compression assembly 322, which is located in the first side wall 312a of the vibrating screen. Figure 7A When the support plate 202 is positioned as follows Figure 5A The image shown is a partial perspective view of the right corner of the support plate 202. Figure 7A As shown, the mounting ramp 343 on the outer surface of the upwardly extending flange 230 that abuts against the side edge of the support plate 202 pushes the side edge of the support plate 202 inward, so that the support plate 202 can be lowered to a position where the mounting hole 220 is aligned and registered with the compression piston 240 of the compression assembly 322.

[0142] like Figure 5B As shown, the left side of the screening assembly is then pushed downwards, causing the left edge of the support plate 202 to also lower downwards, aligning and registering the mounting hole 220 on the left side of the support plate 202 with the compression piston 240 of the compression assembly 322 on the left side wall 312b of the vibrating screen. This involves moving the upwardly extending flange 230 on the left edge of the support plate 202 downwards along the mounting ramp 343 on the left side wall 312b of the vibrating screen. As a result, the support plate 202... Figure 5A The basic planar shape shown becomes Figure 5B The curved shape shown.

[0143] Figure 5A and Figure 5B This shows the right side of the support plate 202 being lowered into place (e.g.) Figure 5A As shown), the left side of the support plate 202 is then lowered into position (as shown). Figure 5B (As shown). However, the order of the two sides can be interchanged. Therefore, the preceding description should not be considered a limitation.

[0144] In the final installation step, the compression piston 240 of the compression assembly 322 moves inward. This inward movement of the compression piston 240 causes its compression surface 246 to engage with the compression surface 222 of the mounting hole 220 on the support plate 202. Figure 5C As shown, the further inward movement of the compression piston 240 applies force to the compression surface 222 of the mounting hole 220, causing the support plate 202 to bend further and be pushed into engagement with the concave support surface 314 below the vibrating screen. Figure 7B The image shows the state in which the compression piston 240 moves inward and engages with the compression surface 222 of the mounting hole 220 on the support plate 202. Figure 7B It is also shown that the alignment fingers 244 at the end of each compression piston 240 move into the alignment slots 224 of the corresponding mounting holes 220 on the support plate 202.

[0145] Figure 6A A perspective view of some elements of one embodiment of a compression assembly 322 for mounting a screening assembly to a vibrating screen is shown. Figure 6A Parts of the support structure beneath the vibrating screen are also shown, which support the side edges of the screening assembly.

[0146] Compression assembly 322 includes a compression piston 240 slidably mounted in housing 351. A pivot arm 352, attached to sleeve 341, is pivotally mounted to housing 351 via shaft bolt 353. A spring 345 surrounds the rear of compression piston 240 and is clamped between pivot arm 352 and shoulder 245 on compression piston 240.

[0147] like Figures 4A to 4D As shown, housing 351 includes mounting bracket 328 configured to be bolted to the side wall of the vibrating screen. The side wall of the vibrating screen is not shown in Figure 6 so that the elements of the compression assembly 322 can be clearly depicted.

[0148] The end of the compression piston is configured to extend from the side wall (not shown) of the vibrating screen and extend over the top of the washer 670 mounted on the base support 380. This allows the end of the compression piston 240 to abut against a mounting hole on the side edge of the support plate of the screening assembly. The side edge of the support plate of the screening assembly will rest against the washer 670. One function of the compression assembly 322 is to press the support plate of the screening assembly against the top surface of the washer 670 to form a seal between the bottom surface of the support plate and the top surface of the washer 670.

[0149] To actuate the compression assembly 322, a rod is inserted into the sleeve 341, causing the sleeve 341 and the attached pivot arm 352 to pivot about the shaft bolt 353. This causes the rear end of the spring 245 to move inward, which in turn causes the front end of the spring 245 to exert an inward force on the shoulder 245 of the compression piston 240, thereby causing the compression piston to move inward. This causes the end of the compression piston 240 to abut against the mounting hole of the support plate of the screening assembly (described in more detail below) and apply a compressive force to the support plate. Once the pivot arm 352 and the sleeve 341 have rotated a sufficient amount about the shaft bolt 353, the locking rod 334 can rotate downward to stop in the locking groove on the pivot arm 352, thereby preventing the pivot arm 352 from rotating in the opposite direction and releasing the pressure applied to the compression piston 240. This arrangement causes the end of the compression piston 240 to apply a compressive force to the support plate. However, the end of the compression piston 240 can remain in various different positions relative to the housing 351 and the sidewall to which the housing 351 is attached.

[0150] The pivot arm 352 applies a force to the rear end of the spring 345. The front end of the spring 345 applies a force to the collar 245 of the compression piston 240.

[0151] Figure 6B This is a top perspective view of one embodiment of the compression piston 240. Figure 6C This is a bottom perspective view of the compression piston 240. As shown in these figures, the inclined upper surface 243 of the top of the compression piston 240 leads to a flat top surface 241. The flat top surface 241 terminates at an end face 242 of the compression piston 240, which is at an angle relative to the longitudinal centerline of the compression piston 240.

[0152] like Figure 6C As shown, a flat bottom surface 248 is provided on the bottom surface of the compression piston 240. Two portions of material are removed from the bottom of the end face 242 to form a center alignment finger 244. The portion removed from either side of the alignment finger 244 includes a side compression surface 246 and an upper compression surface 247, which intersect at a compression angle 250. In some embodiments, the side compression surface 246 does not form a perpendicular angle with respect to the central longitudinal axis of the compression piston 240, but rather slopes downward and forward to the end of the compression piston. Similarly, in some embodiments, the upper compression surface 247 is not parallel to the longitudinal centerline of the compression piston 240. Therefore, the angle formed at the compression angle 250 can be an obtuse angle.

[0153] When the end of the compression piston 240 engages with the mounting hole 220 on the side edge of the support plate 202 of the screening assembly, the alignment fingers 244 extend into the alignment groove 224 of the mounting hole 220. The compression surface 222 of the mounting hole 240 may initially contact the side compression surface 246 or the upper compression surface 247. As the compression piston 240 continues to move inward, the compression surfaces 222 of the mounting hole 220 will move along whatever surfaces they initially engage until the compression surfaces 222 stop in the compression angle 250. Then, further inward movement of the compression piston 240 causes the support plate to bend into a concave shape and be pushed into engagement with the lower support structure on the vibrating screen.

[0154] By confining the compression surface of the mounting hole 220 of the support plate 202 within the compression angle 250 at the end of the compression piston 240, a compressive force can be applied to the mounting hole 220, which includes a horizontal inward component and a vertical downward component. If the compression piston 240 is mounted on the side wall 312 of the vibrating screen such that its central longitudinal axis is angled downward and inward relative to the support plate 202, the inward movement of the compression piston 240 will generate a downward component of the compressive force. However, even if the compression piston is mounted to move horizontally inward, the angled upper compression surface 247 at the end of the compression piston will still generate a downward component of the compressive force. As described above, this vertically downward force pushes the support plate 202 into engagement with the sealing gasket 670 below the vibrating screen. During screening operation, when the screening assembly is subjected to significant acceleration forces, this vertically downward force can also firmly attach the screening assembly to the vibrating screen.

[0155] Furthermore, the upper compression surface 247 on the compression piston 240 acts on the upper edge of the compression surface 222 of the mounting hole 220, thereby preventing the side edges of the support plate 202 from moving upward relative to the vibrating screen. This ensures that the side edges 206, 208 of the support plate remain engaged with the sealing gasket 670 below the vibrating screen, regardless of the magnitude of the vibration or acceleration force applied to the support plate 202.

[0156] The inward movement of the compression piston 240 also applies a compressive force to the compression surface 222 of the mounting hole 220, which includes a significant horizontal inward component. This inward compressive force causes the support plate 202 to bend into a concave shape. As a result, the bottom surface of the support plate 202 is pressed into engagement with the concave support element on the vibrating screen. Because the inward compressive force is substantially in the plane of the support plate 202 at the side edges, it does not cause the side edges 206, 208 of the support plate 202 to rotate upward away from the underlying sealing gasket 270. This is one of the problems with prior art compression mounting mechanisms where the compressive force is applied to an upwardly extending flange located on the side of the support plate 202.

[0157] In existing compression mounting schemes, when compressive force is applied to the upwardly extending flange, the upwardly extending flange on the side edge of the support plate of the screening assembly does not contain any holes. Therefore, when the material to be screened ends up behind the flange—essentially between the outer surface of the flange and the side wall of the screening machine—it is impossible for the material to re-enter the screening area. Conversely, in the design described above, through-holes 232 are provided in the flange 230, allowing any material accumulated between the outer side of the flange and the side wall of the screening machine to pass through the through-holes 232 and re-enter the screening area. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the upwardly extending flange 230 does not extend the entire length of the support plate or the screening assembly. This means that material trapped behind the upwardly extending flange 230 at its front and rear edges can re-enter the screening area. Figure 7A An example can be seen where the upwardly extending flange 230 does not extend to the full length of the side edge of the support plate 202, but terminates before the front edge of the support plate 202. These design features help ensure that virtually all material deposited on the screening assembly is screened and help prevent material buildup between the flange 230 and the side wall of the screening machine.

[0158] Figure 7A and Figure 7B The support plate 202 of the screening assembly is shown with one side edge abutting against a sealing gasket 670, which is itself mounted on the side wall of the vibrating screen via a gasket support 270. As described above, a compression piston 240 applies compressive force to a mounting hole on the side edge of the support plate 202. The compressive force may include a horizontal inward component and a vertical downward component. The vertical downward component pushes the bottom surface of the support plate 202 into engagement with the top surface of the sealing gasket 670. This helps prevent any screened material from bypassing the side edge of the screening assembly and thus contaminating the material that has passed through the screening assembly.

[0159] Figure 7A The diagram shows the compression piston 240 in the retracted position, which allows the support plate 202 to be lowered to the appropriate position on the vibrating screen, with the side edge of the support plate 202 resting on the sealing gasket 670. Note that when the support plate 202 is lowered to the appropriate position, the triangular mounting ramp 343 on the side wall of the vibrating screen will push the side edge of the support plate 202 inward.

[0160] Figure 7B The illustration shows the compression piston 240 moving inward to apply compressive force to a mounting hole on the side edge of the support plate 202. Alignment fingers 244 on the end of the compression piston 240 protrude into corresponding alignment grooves 224 in the mounting hole.

[0161] Figure 8A and Figure 8B An alternative embodiment of the compression piston 440 and a corresponding mounting hole in the support plate are shown. In this embodiment, the compression piston 440 includes triangular alignment fingers comprising a first inclined side surface 444a and a second inclined side surface 444b extending from an end face 445. The mounting hole in the support plate includes a triangular alignment groove formed by the first inclined side edge 424a and the second inclined side edge 424b. When the compression piston 440 moves inward, the triangular alignment fingers are received in the triangular alignment groove.

[0162] The remaining structure of the compression piston 440 and the mounting hole is very similar to that of the aforementioned example. The mounting hole on the support plate includes two compression surfaces 421 located on opposite sides of the triangular alignment groove. The compression surface at the end of the compression piston 440 abuts against the compression surface 421 on the mounting hole to secure the screening assembly to the vibrating screen. The through hole 432 on the upwardly extending side flange 230 is characteristically similar to the through hole in the aforementioned embodiment.

[0163] Figure 8C and Figure 8D Another embodiment is shown with corresponding mounting holes on the support plate of the compression piston 460 and the screening assembly. In this embodiment, the compression piston 460 has a circular alignment finger 463 at its distal end. A circular engagement surface 464 on the circular alignment finger 463 is received in and abuts against a circular alignment groove 465 of the mounting hole.

[0164] The remaining structure of the compression piston 460 and the mounting hole is very similar to that of the aforementioned example. The mounting hole on the support plate includes two compression surfaces 466 on opposite sides of a circular alignment groove 465. The compression surface at the end of the compression piston 460 abuts against the compression surface 466 on the mounting hole to secure the screening assembly to the vibrating screen. The through hole 462 on the upwardly extending side flange 230 is characteristically similar to the through hole in the aforementioned embodiment.

[0165] Figure 8E and Figure 8F Another embodiment is shown with corresponding mounting holes on the support plate of the compression piston 470 and the screening assembly. In this embodiment, the through-hole in the upwardly extending side flange 230 is formed by two inclined side surfaces 473a, 473b. The portion of the compression piston passing through the through-hole in the upwardly extending side flange 230 has a generally triangular cross-section. The inclined side surfaces 472a, 472b on the ends of the compression piston 470 generally reflect the shape and angle of the two inclined side surfaces 473a, 473b of the through-hole in the upwardly extending flange 230. The interaction between the inclined side surfaces 473a, 473b of the through-hole and the inclined sides 472a, 472b of the compression piston 470 provides an alignment function, which allows the screening assembly to be correctly positioned on the vibrating screen.

[0166] Because it can provide the alignment function described above, the mounting hole of the support plate of the screening assembly can include a single linear compression surface 475. In other words, in some embodiments, it is not necessary to form a separate alignment groove 224 in the mounting hole 220 of the support plate 202. The corresponding compression surfaces 476 and 477 at the ends of the compression piston 470 abut against the single compression surface 475 of the mounting hole to secure the screening assembly to the vibrating screen.

[0167] Figure 8G An alternative embodiment of the compression piston 480 is shown, having an end that is similar to... Figure 8E and Figure 8F The triangular profile shown is similar to that of a triangle. However, in this embodiment, the end of the compression piston 480 includes an alignment finger 474. Compression surfaces 476 and 477 are formed on both sides of the alignment finger 474. The alignment finger 474 is configured to be received in an alignment groove 224 of the mounting hole 220 of the support plate 202, as shown in FIG3.

[0168] Figure 8H It shows Figure 8G The diagram illustrates how the compression piston 480 engages with a support plate to mount the screening assembly onto a vibrating screen. Figure 8H As shown, each through-hole on the upwardly extending side flange 230 includes two inclined side surfaces. A compression piston 480 with inclined sides extends through the through-hole. Alignment fingers 474 on the end of the compression piston 480 are received in alignment slots 224 of mounting holes in the support plate. Two compression surfaces on opposite sides of the alignment fingers 474 abut against the compression surfaces of the mounting holes to secure the support plate and screening assembly to the vibrating screen.

[0169] exist Figure 8H In the embodiment shown, the alignment function can be performed in the following ways: (1) the inclined sides 472a, 472b of the compression piston 480 interact with the inclined side surfaces 473a, 473b of the through hole; and (2) the engagement between the alignment finger 474 on the compression piston 480 and the alignment groove 224 of the mounting hole on the support plate of the screening assembly.

[0170] In some embodiments, the through-holes on the upwardly extending side flange 230 can be configured large enough that there are some gaps between the inclined side surfaces 473a, 473b of the through-holes and the inclined sides 472a, 472b of the compression piston 480. However, even with considerable gaps, the interaction between the compression piston 480 and the through-holes will provide a general alignment function to ensure that the screening assembly is mounted in nearly the correct position on the vibrating screen. Then, as the compression piston 480 is pushed inward, the engagement between the alignment fingers 474 on the compression piston 480 and the alignment grooves 224 on the support plate will provide fine adjustments to the position of the screening assembly on the vibrating screen.

[0171] In existing technology machines (e.g.) Figures 2A to 2C In the machine shown, the compression piston abuts against an upwardly extending flange on the side of the support plate of the screening assembly. The screening assembly may be installed in an incorrect position on the vibrating screen in the longitudinal direction or the material feed direction. The screen may also be tilted or slightly rotated improperly, which may cause some compression pistons to apply little or no compressive force to the upwardly extending flange, thus weakening the holding force. Furthermore, when the screening assembly is installed in a tilted or slightly rotated manner, the screening assembly will not present the correct concave shape, and the bottom of the screening assembly is unlikely to form an effective seal with the lower gasket on the vibrating screen.

[0172] In contrast, for the discussion above and Figures 3 to 3, Figure 8H The mounting mechanism shown, in which the end of the compression piston engages with the mounting hole on the side of the support plate, ensures that the support plate and the screening assembly are correctly positioned on the vibrating screen in the longitudinal or material feed direction. Furthermore, the engagement between the end of the compression piston and the mounting hole prevents the screening assembly from being installed at an angle or with slight rotation, and ensures that each compression piston actually applies the correct type of compressive force to the support plate. All these factors contribute to ensuring that the screening assembly is correctly positioned on the vibrating screen, and that the support plate of the screening assembly is firmly pressed into engagement with the gasket beneath the vibrating screen.

[0173] In addition, in such Figures 2A to 2C In the prior art machine shown, the engagement between the compression piston and the upwardly extending flange can permanently deform the flange of the screening assembly. This can result in the compression piston applying a less-than-expected holding force. Furthermore, if the permanently deformed screening assembly is removed and subsequently reinstalled on the vibrating screen, maintenance personnel may have difficulty noticing the deformation. Therefore, the force applied during reinstallation of the screening assembly may be less than expected. In contrast, for the machine discussed above and shown in Figures 3 to 4... Figure 8H As shown in the compression component, such permanent deformation is unlikely to occur.

[0174] In addition, the screening assembly (Figures 3 to 10) used in conjunction with the installation mechanism discussed above Figure 8H (As shown in the diagram) no upwardly extending flange is required, unlike existing mounting systems (e.g.) Figures 2A to 2C The installation system shown requires an upwardly extending flange. This reduces manufacturing costs, speeds up the assembly process, and makes the screening assembly lighter, thus reducing transportation costs. Furthermore, since there are no side flanges, there is no problem of material getting stuck behind side flanges, thereby improving screening operation efficiency.

[0175] exist Figures 4A to 4D In the illustrated vibrating screen embodiment, the screen has a single trough, with compression assemblies 322 located on both side walls of the screen. In this type of screen, a single screening assembly spans the width of the screening area, and a single row of screening assemblies is arranged along the length of the screen. This configuration is advantageous because the screening assemblies can be mounted onto the screen using only the compression assembly 322 on one side of the screen.

[0176] For example, the compression assembly on the first side of the screening machine can be left in the locked position with the compression piston extended. The compression assembly on the second side of the screening machine is opened, causing the compression piston on the second side to retract. Then, a new screening assembly can be installed on the machine by pushing the first side of the screening assembly downwards into the base of the screening machine, causing the mounting hole on the first edge of the support plate of the screening assembly to engage with the extended compression piston on the first side of the screening machine. The second side of the screening assembly is then pushed downwards into the base of the screening machine. The compression assembly on the second side of the screening machine is then actuated, causing the compression piston on the second side of the screening machine to extend inwards, which pushes the screening assembly into engagement with the concave support surface of the screening machine and secures the screening assembly to the screening machine.

[0177] With this type of screening machine configuration, the operator only needs to enter one side of the screening machine to install the screening components. Furthermore, because compression components are located on both sides of the screening machine, the operator can install the screening components from either side. On the other hand, configuring the screening machine in this way means that compression components must be installed on both sides of the screening machine, which increases the cost and complexity of the machine.

[0178] The compression assembly 322 may be located only on the first side wall of the screening machine, rather than on both side walls. The second side wall may include a fixing stop element configured to match the end of the compression piston of the compression assembly mounted on the first side wall. In this configuration, the operator installs the screening assembly from the first side of the screening machine where the compression assembly is located.

[0179] To install the screening assembly on this type of machine, the screening assembly is placed on the machine, and the second side of the screening assembly is pushed downwards into place such that the fixed stop element on the second sidewall of the screening machine aligns with the mounting hole 220 on the second side edge of the support plate 202 of the screening assembly. Then, the first side of the screening assembly is pushed downwards such that the mounting hole 220 on the first side of the support plate 202 of the screening assembly aligns with the end of the movable compression piston 240 of the compression assembly 322 on the first sidewall of the screening machine. The compression assembly 322 on the first sidewall of the screening machine is then actuated. Actuation of the compression assembly on the first side of the screening machine causes the compression piston to be pushed into engagement with the compression surface 222 of the mounting hole 220 on the first side of the support plate 202. Further inward movement of the compression piston also causes the compression surface 222 of the mounting hole 220 on the second side of the support plate 202 to be pushed into engagement with the fixed stop surface. Further advancement of the compression piston causes the support plate 202 to bend and be pressed into engagement with the support surface of the screening machine.

[0180] The fixed stop surface can be rigidly mounted to the side wall of the screening machine. Alternatively, the fixed stop surface can be configured to provide a degree of flexibility. When the fixed stop surface provides a degree of flexibility, the element simulating the end of a movable compressible piston can move elastically relative to the side wall of the vibrating screen. Figure 9A and Figure 9B An example of a fixed stop element that provides compliance is shown.

[0181] Figure 9A A fixed compression piston assembly 239 is shown, which can be mounted on the exterior of a side wall of a vibrating screen. Bolt holes 269 in a housing 268 of the fixed compression piston assembly 239 are used to attach the assembly to the side wall of the vibrating screen. The fixed compression piston assembly 239 includes a resiliently mounted compression piston 260 extending through a circular hole in the housing 268. When the fixed compression piston assembly 239 is mounted on the exterior of the side wall of the vibrating screen, the end of the compression piston 260 extends through the hole in the side wall into the interior of the vibrating screen.

[0182] like Figure 9B As shown, a compression spring 261 is mounted around the rear of a compression piston 260. A first end of the spring 261 abuts against a collar 262 of the compression piston. A second end (opposite end) of the spring abuts against a flange assembly 267. The flange assembly 267 includes an external thread 269 that engages with an internal thread on the inner bore of a cylindrical portion 265 of the housing 268. This secures the compression spring 261 within the cylindrical portion 265 of the housing.

[0183] The compression piston 260 can slide inward into the housing 268, which causes the spring 261 to be compressed. Depending on the adjustment of the fixed compression piston assembly 239, when no force is applied to the end of the compression piston 260, the compression spring 261 acting on the collar 262 can push the compression piston 260 outward until the collar 262 rests on the end of the cylindrical portion 265 of the housing 268.

[0184] Nut 266 is screwed onto the threaded rear end of compression piston 260. Nut 266 can be rotated to adjust the position of compression piston 260 within housing 268. Therefore, when no force is applied to the end of compression piston 260, collar 262 can be spaced apart from the end of cylindrical portion 265 of housing.

[0185] Figures 4A to 4D The single-chamber vibrating screen shown may include multiple compression assemblies 322 on the first sidewall and multiple fixed compression piston assemblies (such as...) on the second opposite sidewall. Figure 9A and Figure 9B (As shown). Figure 1A and Figure 1B The dual-groove vibrating screen shown may include multiple compression assemblies mounted on the first and second outer side walls of the screen, wherein the fixed compression piston assembly is mounted on both sides of the central stop 316.

[0186] In the aforementioned example, the compression assembly 322 with a compression piston is used to mount a screening assembly, which includes a support plate and screening elements mounted on top of the support plate. The same basic compression assembly can also be used to mount different types of screening assemblies onto a vibrating screen.

[0187] An alternative type of screening assembly is formed from multiple individual screening units that are attached together to form a complete screening assembly. Each individual screening unit may include a support structure and one or more screening elements mounted on the support structure. Each support structure may include attachment elements for coupling to other support structures so that multiple screening units can be attached together to form a complete screening assembly. Both the support structure and the screening elements can be formed from injection-molded plastic or synthetic materials. Examples of such screening components are disclosed in U.S. Patents 9,409,209, 9,884,344, 1,004,6363, 1,025,9013, 1,057,6502, 1083,5926, 1084,3230, 1098,1197, 1099,4306, 1096,0438, 1097,4281, 1093,3444, 1096,7401, 11,413,656, 11,161,150, 11,000,882, 11,426,766, 11,638,933, 11,417,913, 11,446,704, and 11,471,914, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0188] Figures 10A to 10C The diagram illustrates how to use compression assembly 322 (including compression piston 240) to mount another screening assembly on a vibrating screen, the other screening assembly being formed by connecting a screening unit consisting of an injection-molded support structure and injection-molded screening elements. Figures 10A to 10C Only a portion of the entire screening assembly is shown to help clearly illustrate how the installation process is performed. Figures 10A to 10C The image depicts only a portion of the support elements of the entire screening assembly. The screening element will be installed... Figures 10A to 10C The top of the support element shown.

[0189] Figure 10B The diagram shows that a portion of the entire screening assembly is formed by connecting multiple planar support elements 281 and multiple pyramidal support elements 280 together. Figure 10B As may be best illustrated, each support element 280 / 281 includes an attachment member that allows the respective support elements to be attached to each other. The attachment member includes a protruding clip 284 and a clip hole 283. The clip hole 283 on the first support element receives the clip 284 of a second adjacent support element to connect the support elements together. Figures 10A to 10C Multiple flat support elements 282 are shown connected end-to-end to form elongated strips of two flat support elements 282. Multiple pyramidal support elements 280 are connected end-to-end to form elongated strips of pyramidal support elements 280. The sides of the elongated strips of the pyramidal support elements 280 are then connected to the sides of the elongated strips of two flat support elements 281 to form part of a complete screening assembly. As described above, the screening element (not shown) is mounted on top of the support elements.

[0190] Figures 10A to 10C The left edge of the screening assembly is also shown to include a binder bar 282. The binder bar 282 includes protruding clips and clip holes similar to those of the support elements 280 and 281. Therefore, the clips and clip holes on the binder bar 282 can be attached to corresponding clips and clip holes on the elongated strip forming the flat support element 281 on the left side of the screening assembly. The complete screening assembly will include another binder bar mounted along opposite side edges of the screening assembly.

[0191] Multiple interconnected support elements can form a "support member" of the screening assembly. In some embodiments, the support member may further include clamping bars attached to the sides of the assembled support elements. As described above, the screening elements are attached to the top surface of the connected support elements to form a complete screening assembly.

[0192] The multiple support elements attached together, along with possible clamping bars, roughly correspond to the support plate of the screening assembly in the previous example. In the following description, the terms "support plate" and "support member" are used interchangeably to refer to the portion of the screening assembly that interacts with the mounting mechanism to secure the screening assembly to the vibrating screen.

[0193] like Figure 10C As shown, mounting holes 284 are formed on the outer edge of clamping bars 282. Mounting holes 284 are configured to receive the end of the compression piston 240 of the compression assembly 322 of the vibrating screen. To mount this screening assembly onto the vibrating screen, a complete screening assembly with clamping bars on opposite side edges is placed on the machine such that the mounting holes 284 on the clamping bars are aligned with the compression piston 240 of the compression assembly. The compression piston is then moved inward into the mounting hole 284 of the clamping bars 282. The end element of the compression piston engages with the surface within the mounting hole in essentially the same way as the first type of screening assembly described above. This may include alignment fingers 244 on the compression piston 240, which are received in alignment grooves 285 of the mounting hole 284. The end face of the compression piston may abut against either or both of the lower compression surface 286 and the upper compression surface 287 of the mounting hole 284. This allows the compression piston 240 to apply a horizontal inward force and a vertical downward force to the clamping bars 282 and the remainder of the screening assembly. These forces push the bottom surface of the screening assembly into engagement with the support structure of the vibrating screen below the screening assembly.

[0194] Of course, a compression assembly 322 with a movable compression piston 240 can be provided on the opposite side of the vibrating screen, such that the movable compression piston 240 engages with a clamping bar on the opposite side of the screening assembly. Alternatively, such a screening assembly can be used in a vibrating screen, wherein a clamping bar is used on one side of the screening assembly, such as... Figure 9A and Figure 9B The fixed compression piston assembly shown.

[0195] In some embodiments, the clamping bar 282 may also be made of synthetic or plastic materials by injection molding or other forming techniques. In alternative embodiments, the clamping bar may be a composite structure comprising injection-molded plastic or synthetic elements and reinforcing members made of metal or glass fiber. The reinforcing members will be configured to help distribute the compressive force applied by the compression piston across the entire side of the screening assembly. Furthermore, the clamping bar may be formed of a metallic material.

[0196] In some embodiments, mounting hole 284 may be configured to receive the same type of compression piston used with other types of screening assemblies (e.g., the screening assembly described above that includes a metal support plate). In alternative embodiments, mounting hole 284 may be configured to receive the end of a compression piston of a different size and / or shape. For example, mounting hole 284 of clamping bar 282 may include larger compression surfaces 286, 287 to allow a certain amount of compressive force to be distributed over a larger area. This may require the use of compression pistons with different larger surfaces to mount such screening assemblies on vibrating screens. Alternatively, end caps with larger compression surfaces may be mounted on the end of a compression piston designed for use with the first type of screening assembly described above. Here, the end caps mounted on the end of the compression piston will also be configured to distribute a certain amount of compressive force over a larger area than in the first embodiment described above.

[0197] In some embodiments, the clamping bar 282 may be configured such that the mounting hole 284 is made of a material with higher strength than the rest of the clamping bar 282. This can be achieved by inserting a hard plastic or metal insert into a hole in the clamping bar to form the mounting hole 284, or the entire clamping bar 282 may be formed of metal.

[0198] The second type of screening assembly and compression mounting mechanism utilizes a compression mechanism that passes through mounting holes in the support plate from the underside of the screening element. Figure 11A Figure 1 shows an end view and a partial end view of a twin-trough screening machine 300 including this second type of compression mounting mechanism. As previously described, the twin-trough screening machine 300 includes two parallel screening assemblies 320a, 320b (hereinafter referred to as 320 unless otherwise specified), which are disposed between the inner surfaces of spaced-apart wall members 312a, 312b (hereinafter referred to as 312 unless otherwise specified). A central member 316 divides the screening machine 300 into two parallel screening zones. Each screening assembly 320 includes a first edge disposed near the wall member 312 and a second edge disposed near the central member 316. A compression assembly 322 presses each screening assembly against a concave support 314 below. Gaskets 317 (e.g., rubber or other compressible material) may be disposed on the concave upper surface of each support 314. Therefore, when the compression assembly 322 compresses the screening assembly 320 into a concave profile, the bottom surface of the screening assembly (e.g., the bottom surface of the support plate 324) can press against the gasket 317 on the upper surface of the concave support 314, thereby forming a seal between the screening assembly and the screening machine. The width of the gasket allows for sealing the interface between two longitudinally arranged screening assemblies.

[0199] like Figure 11AAs shown, one screening assembly 320b has a screening surface 326 that covers the underlying porous support plate 324, while the other screening assembly 320a does not have a screening surface. In use, each screening assembly will include a screening surface. Although illustrated as an undulating or corrugated surface, it should be understood that the screening surface may have other configurations (e.g., substantially flat). The screening surface may be made of woven mesh materials, metals, and / or synthetic materials, such as, but not limited to, polyurethane, thermoplastic polymers (e.g., polyurethane) and thermosetting polymers. Each screening assembly also includes the underlying porous support plate 324.

[0200] Figures 1A to 1C , Figure 11A and Figure 11B An embodiment of the screening machine 300 utilizes a so-called "compression" arrangement to horizontally compress each screening component (e.g., against a central support or a second wall) and vertically downward against a concave support. In the illustrated embodiment of the compression components, the compression component 322 on the wall member 312a includes a movable / actuable pawl 336 that extends through a set of corresponding through compression points 350a disposed near a first edge 340 of the support plate 324 (see, for example...). Figures 12B to 12C Each pawl 336 typically includes one or more hooks for engaging a support plate 324 of the screening assembly. More specifically, the pawl 336 and its hooks engage a through compression point 350a located inside the outer edge of the support plate 324 below the screening assembly. The through compression point 350a is spaced apart from a first edge 340 of the support plate 324. When the screening assembly is mounted on the screening machine, the pawl 336 extends from the bottom surface of the support plate 324 through the through compression point 350a to the upper surface of the support plate 324. Actuation of the compression assembly 322 moves the pawl 336 between a first position (e.g., retracted) and a second position (e.g., extended). In the extended position, the hook supported by the pawl 336 applies a compressive force having both a horizontal component applied to the edge surface of the through compression point 350a and a vertically downward component applied to the upper surface of the support plate 324. See also Figure 15A and Figure 15B These forces may cause the screening components to deflect into a concave shape, while simultaneously securing the screening components to the screening machine.

[0201] It is worth noting that the pawl 336 applies the downward component of the compressive force to the top surface of the support plate 324, which is supported between its side edges 340, 342 before compression (see example). Figure 15ACompared to existing systems that apply compressive force to the edges of such a screening assembly and require the plate to “bend” to deflect into a concave profile, applying this force between the supporting edges of the plate provides a multiplier effect for the downward force. That is, the distance between the plate edges 340 and 342 and the position where the pawl 336 engages with the plate 324 provide a torque arm for the downwardly applied force.

[0202] Refer again Figure 11A and Figure 11B A set of retaining hook assemblies 330 (only one shown) are attached to the central member 316, and each retaining hook assembly has a retaining pawl 336 having one or more hooks that extend through a set of corresponding through compression points 350b disposed near the opposite edges 342 of the support plate 324. See also Figure 4C The retaining pawl 336 passes through the through compression point 350b of the support plate 324 and extends from the bottom surface of the support plate 324 to the upper surface. Although the use of retaining pawls on the central member 316 (or the second wall in other embodiments) has been discussed herein, it should be understood that in various embodiments, the second edge 342 of the support plate 324 may engage the central member / second wall and a stop or stop surface (e.g., a channel) on the screening machine, thereby omitting the retaining pawl and / or hook.

[0203] Figure 12A , 12BFigures 12C and 12C respectively show top views of the screening assembly 320, the screening assembly 320 with a portion of the screening surface 326 removed, and the support plate 324 in the embodiments. In the embodiments, the top surface of the screening assembly 320 may include an optional handle 305 for mounting the screening assembly in a screening machine. As shown, the support plate 324 of the screening assembly 320 is generally rectangular, having a first edge 340, a second edge 342, a first end 344, and a second end 346. These edges and ends collectively define the periphery of the plate. The plate 324 is typically formed of a sheet of metal, but other materials are also possible. The support plate 324 includes a plurality of flow holes 348 that extend through the body of the plate within the support plate defined by the edges and ends (e.g., on its periphery). The flow holes 348 are configured to allow material that is too small to support the screening surface to pass through the support plate 324. Although the flow-through orifice 348 shown in the figure is rectangular, it will be understood that the size, shape, and distribution of the flow-through orifices on the support plate 324 can be varied. Multiple through-compression points 350a, 350b (hereinafter referred to as 350 unless otherwise specified) are arranged along and spaced apart from the first edge 340 and the second edge 342 of the support plate 324. As described above and here, the through-compression points 350 are used to secure the screening assembly to the screening machine. More specifically, the inner edge of each through-compression point 350 (e.g., relative to the centerline A-A' of the support plate 324) provides a contact or compression surface through which horizontal and / or vertical forces are applied to the interior of the plate. The contact or compression surfaces can be positioned substantially vertically (e.g., perpendicular to the upper surface of the support plate 324) or at a predetermined angle. See, for example... Figure 17G .

[0204] like Figure 12A and Figure 12B As shown, the screening surface 326 is depicted as an undulating or corrugated surface. However, it should be understood that the screening surface 326 may have other configurations (e.g., substantially flat). The screening surface 326 may be made of woven mesh material, metal, and / or synthetic materials, such as polyurethane, thermoplastic polymers (e.g., polyurethane), and thermosetting polymers, but is not limited thereto. When using a woven mesh material, the screening surface 326 may comprise one or more layers of woven mesh material. This woven mesh material may be attached to the support plate 324 by gluing, welding, and mechanical fastening. The following is in conjunction with... Figures 25A to 25EThe discussion is provided to provide a discussion of this multi-layered woven mesh screen. Molded polyurethane filter screens are described in U.S. Patents 8,584,866, 9,010,539, 9,375,756, 9,403,192 and 9,908,150; the disclosure of each of these patents is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. For example, thermosetting and thermoplastic polymer screens are described in U.S. Patents 9,884,344, 9,409,209, 10,046,363, 10,259,013, and 10,576,502; and also in U.S. Patent Applications 15 / 965,363, 16 / 269,646, 16 / 269,656, 16 / 359,773, 16 / 359,830, 16 / 743,516, 16 / 743,581, 16 / 743,609, 16 / 743,626, 16 / 743,662, 16 / 837,716, and 16 / 904,819; the disclosures of each of these patents are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0205] In the illustrated embodiment, the through compression points 350 are generally T-shaped, each having a generally rectangular opening (e.g., a first hole portion) with an alignment groove 354 (e.g., a second hole portion) extending from the center of its inner edge (e.g., relative to the centerline AA of the support plate 324). See also Figure 12B , 12C And 12D. Alignment groove 354 is configured to receive alignment element or joint of pawl 336 of compression assembly or fixing hook assembly.

[0206] exist Figure 12E In one embodiment, engagement between the through compression point 350 and the movable pawl 336 of the compression assembly is shown. The operation of the fixing hook assembly is essentially the same and is omitted here for simplicity. See also Figure 11B and Figures 12B to 12E As shown, the alignment groove 354 accommodates the alignment joint 338 disposed between the two hooks 332a, 332b of the pawl 336. As shown, the support plate 324 may include a plurality of through compression points 350, each through compression point including an alignment groove 354. In the illustrated embodiment, each side of the support plate 324 includes four through compression points 350, each through compression point having an alignment groove 354. When the support plate 324 is positioned in the screening machine, the alignment joint 338 of the pawl 336 of the compression assembly 322 is located in the alignment groove 354 of the through compression point 350 disposed along the first edge 340 of the support plate 324, while the alignment joint 338 of the pawl 336 of the fixing hook assembly 330 is located in the alignment groove 354 of the through compression point 350 disposed along the first edge 340 of the support plate 324.

[0207] The alignment groove 354 and alignment joint 338 provide a positive positioning system for the screening assembly 320. That is, once the joint 338 is positioned through the alignment groove 354 in the screening assembly, the position of the screening assembly 320 along the longitudinal length of the screening machine (i.e., along the wall) is necessarily correct, eliminating the need for manual positioning of the screening assembly along the length of the screening machine as before. Due to the alignment device, correct positioning of the screening assembly prevents adjacent screening assemblies from jamming together or separating during use, leaving gaps. Correct positioning also ensures that the screening assembly is not improperly compressed, which could lead to damage. Furthermore, correct positioning better aligns the screening assembly with the gasket below, providing a better seal. In addition, the reduced need for fully manual positioning of the screening assembly shortens the time required to install a set of screening assemblies.

[0208] The T-shaped through-type compression point 350 also provides first and second contact or compression surfaces 356a, 356b, which are disposed on both sides of the alignment groove 354. In use, this allows the double hooks 332a, 332b of the movable pawl 336 of the compression assembly or the double hooks of the fixed pawl of the fixed hook assembly to engage on both sides of the alignment groove. This arrangement provides good contact between the screening assembly and the hooks / pawls, thereby allowing the application of strong compressive forces.

[0209] Although each through-compression point 350 is shown as having an alignment groove 354, it is understood that a first subset of through-compression points 350 may include alignment grooves 354, while a second subset of through-compression points 350 may not have alignment grooves. The alignment groove 354 is shown extending inward from the inner edge of the through-compression point 350. Although shown as being located at the center of the through-compression point 350, it is further understood that the position of the alignment groove 354 may vary along the length of the through-compression point 350. Furthermore, it is understood that the alignment groove 354 may extend from the outer edge of the through-compression point 350 and / or from the upper and lower ends of the through-compression point 350. In this respect, the through-compression points 350 may have different shapes (e.g., shapes other than T-shapes). In any configuration, the first portion of the through-compression point 350 has a first portion (e.g., a first hole portion) and a second portion (e.g., a second hole portion). The first portion has one or more inner edges (e.g., relative to the centerline AA of the support plate 324) to apply horizontal and / or vertical compressive forces to the support plate 324. The second portion is capable of accommodating alignment elements. The second portion of the through-compression point (e.g., the second hole portion) typically has one or more sidewalls transverse to the inner edges of the first hole portion. Based on a similar principle, other shapes of through-points, such as L-shaped or cross-shaped through-points, may also be used.

[0210] Figures 13A to 13FAn embodiment of a compressed assembly 322 is shown, configured to allow engaging members (e.g., pawls and / or hooks) and alignment members (joints) to pass through the bottom of the screening assembly to align the screening assembly with the screening machine, applying a horizontal force to the side or edge surfaces of the screening assembly and a downward force to the top surface of the screening assembly. More specifically, Figure 13A and Figure 13B A first perspective view and a second perspective view of the compression component 322 in the embodiment are shown; Figure 13C and Figure 13D A first side view and a second side view of the compression component 322 in the embodiment are shown in retracted and extended configurations, respectively. Figure 13E A cross-sectional view of the compression component 322 in the embodiment is shown; Figure 13F An exploded view of the compression component 322 in the embodiment is shown.

[0211] like Figures 13A to 13F As shown in various ways, the compression assembly 322 has an external compression mounting bracket 370 configured to attach to the outer surface of a wall member of a vibrating screen. The compression assembly 322 also includes an internal compression mounting bracket 372 configured to attach to the inner surface of the wall member of the vibrating screen. The brackets 370 and 372 are designed to be mounted face-to-face, with the wall member located between the brackets (not shown). The brackets 370 and 372 can be bolted together by the wall member. As discussed further below, the compression mounting brackets 370 and 372 collectively define an internal actuator rod journal that receives an actuator pin or rod 374 passing through a hole in the wall member (not shown). A pawl 336 is attached to the front or distal end of the actuator rod 374. As shown, when the assembly 322 is mounted to the vibrating screen, the actuator rod 374 is arranged at a downward angle “α” (e.g., an inclination angle) relative to the horizontal plane (see example...). Figure 13E When the pawl 336 of the extended compression assembly is extended, the tilt angle facilitates the application of a downward force to the screening assembly. In some embodiments, the tilt angle α is between about 0° and 20°. In some embodiments, the tilt angle α is between about 1° and about 10°.

[0212] exist Figures 13A to 13F In this embodiment, the actuator pin or rod 374 is shown as a cylindrical pin or rod. However, in alternative embodiments, the actuator pin or rod may have other cross-sectional shapes. For example, the actuator pin or rod may have a square or rectangular cross-sectional shape or a hexagonal cross-sectional shape, as well as various other cross-sectional shapes. Furthermore, the diameter of the actuator pin or rod 374 may vary along the length of the actuator pin or rod. Therefore, the description of the actuator pin or rod provided herein should not be considered limiting.

[0213] Actuator bracket 376 is attached to an outer wall compression mount bracket 370. The attachment of actuator bracket 376 can be made by bolts, pins, or other shafts (not shown) extending through alignment holes in actuator bracket 376 and outer compression mount bracket 370. Thus, actuator bracket 376 is rotatable relative to outer compression mount 370 about an axis formed by the bolted connection. Actuator bracket 376 is attached to the rear end of actuator rod 374 by an extension arm 378, which is pivotally engaged with rod 374 by first and second pins 371 fitted into side slots 375 in rod 374. Compression spring 384 is disposed within a journal defined by the compression mount bracket and surrounds actuator rod 374. More specifically, spring 384 is configured to extend between the extension arm 378 of actuator bracket 376 and a collar 377 disposed around actuator rod 374. Spring 384 is configured to hold the actuator rod and the attached pawl in the retracted position when uncompressed.

[0214] The actuator holder 376 also includes a sleeve 379 configured to receive a first end of the handle (see example). Figure 21A Downward and rotational forces can be applied to such a handle to compress the compression spring 384 via the extension arm 378 and push the actuator rod 374 inward, thereby moving the pawl 336, which can be fixedly attached to the front end of the actuator rod 374, from a retracted position to a compressed or extended position (see...). Figure 13D The compression assembly 322 can be locked in the compressed position by engaging the locking tab 392 of the locking latch 390 with the latch stop 394 formed in the actuator bracket 376. See also Figure 14E In other words, when the actuator bracket 376 is in the compressed configuration, the locking latch 390 can be rotated downwards to engage the locking piece 392 with the latch stop 394 of the actuator bracket 376. The compression assembly 322 can be released or unlocked by applying a downward force on the handle (not shown) until the locking piece 392 of the latch 390 can rotate freely away from the latch stop 394 of the actuator bracket 376, thereby allowing the compression pawl 336 to retract.

[0215] Figure 14A Three views of the pawl 336 in the embodiment are shown, including: (a) a rear perspective view; (b) a front perspective view; and (c) a side view. The pawl 336 is configured to interact with... Figures 12A to 12C The screening assembly shown is used in conjunction with a through compression point 350 having a positioning groove 354 for receiving an alignment joint. The pawl 336 includes a first hook 332a, a second hook 332b, and an alignment joint 338. In the illustrated embodiment, the alignment joint 338 is integrally formed with and disposed between the first hook 332a and the second hook 332b.

[0216] The contact surfaces (e.g., hook faces) 337 of each hook 332a, 332b are arranged at an acute angle Θ relative to the generally flat upper surface of the screening assembly (e.g., before compression). The contact surfaces 337 may include two or more flat surfaces, each oriented at a different angle relative to the flat upper surface of the screening assembly. The contact surfaces 337 may also be curved or arcuate. In one embodiment, the included angle Θ is between about 5° and 85°. In another embodiment, the included angle Θ is between about 15° and 75°. In yet another embodiment, the included angle Θ is between about 50° and 60°. The acute angle of the contact surfaces 337 of the pawl 336 facilitates the application of a downward force to the screening assembly as the pawl 336 advances.

[0217] In the illustrated embodiment, a first hook 332a and a second hook 332b, along with a joint 338, are mounted on a first leg of an L-shaped bracket 502, the second end of which is attached to a mounting element 504. The shape of the bracket 502 allows the contact surfaces 337 of the hooks 332a and 332b to extend over the compression assembly and through and engage the upper support plate. The bracket 502 also allows engagement of a through compression point 350 located near the edge of the support plate 324. While engagement within the support plate 324 is advantageous, it has been found that excessive spacing between the through compression point 350 and the edges 340 and 342 of the support plate 324 can lead to reduced compressive force along the edges 340 and 342 of the support plate 324.

[0218] Mounting element 504 includes a hole 506 for attaching pawl 336 to the distal end of actuator rod 374 via an attachment element 381 such as a bolt. See, for example Figure 13E This attachment allows for easy replacement of the pawl 336, a component that wears out during machine operation. Furthermore, because the compression assembly and pawl 336 are located below the screening assembly, these components are removed from the fluid pool at the top of the screening assembly, which helps to further reduce wear on these components.

[0219] In the illustrated embodiment, joint 338 extends vertically above the double hooks 332a, 332b. Furthermore, the top inner edge of joint 338 forms an angled or inclined surface 362. As described above, joint 338 ensures the correct longitudinal positioning of the screening assembly along the length of the sidewall of the screening machine when engaged with the alignment groove 354 in the screening assembly. The use of the inclined surface 362 on the compression assembly joint 338 and the corresponding inclined surface on the joint 338 of the relative fixing hook assembly ensures correct lateral positioning between the sidewalls (or sidewalls and the central member) of the screening machine. More specifically, support plate 324 can be fixed to the compression assembly joint 338 and slide downward along the inclined surface 362. The same process occurs when the joint 338 of the fixing hook 336 engages. Therefore, the positioning of support plate 324 between the wall members or between the sidewall and the central member is necessarily correct. This allows the edges 340, 342 of the support plate 324 to be correctly positioned on the washers 319, 329, which cover the support surface that supports the edge surfaces 340, 342 of the support plate 324. See also Figure 15A and Figure 15B This positioning improves the seal between the screening components and the screening machine. Furthermore, the alignment device reduces the time required to install a set of screening components.

[0220] Figure 14B Three views of the internal compression mounting bracket 372 in the embodiment are shown, including: (a) a cross-sectional side view; (b) a front perspective view; and (c) a top view. The internal compression mounting bracket 372 includes a base plate 516 configured to attach to the inner wall of the screening machine. A hollow journal housing 518 extends from the base plate 516. The hollow interior 510 of the journal housing 518 is dimensioned to accommodate an actuator rod 374 and a surrounding spring 384. See also Figure 13E The hollow interior 510 of the journal housing 518 includes a step 512 with a reduced diameter. When the actuator assembly is assembled, a collar 377 surrounding the actuator rod 374 abuts against the step 512.

[0221] In one embodiment, the internal compression mounting bracket 372 includes a first alignment guide 514a and a second alignment guide 514b fixed to the upper surface of the journal housing 518. When the compression assembly is assembled (see, for example...), Figure 13A and Figure 13B These guides 514a, 514b are positioned on opposite sides of the L-shaped bracket 502 of the pawl 336 (see example...). Figure 14AGuides 514a and 514b provide stability for the pawl 336 as it moves between the retracted and extended positions. It is further noteworthy that the use of the L-shaped bracket 502 and guides 514a and 514b allows the pawl 336 to engage a screening assembly closer to its peripheral edge, while the internal portion of the compression assembly is positioned below the pawl 336 and the screening assembly.

[0222] Figure 14C Three views of the external compression mounting bracket 370 in the embodiments are shown, including: (a) a side view; (b) a perspective view; and (c) a top view. The external compression mounting bracket 370 includes a base plate 520 configured for attachment to the outer wall of a screening machine, and in one embodiment, the base plate 520 is configured for attachment to an inner compression mounting bracket 372. The base plate 520 includes a base plate hole 522 through which an actuator rod 374 and a surrounding spring 384 pass. When the compression assembly is assembled, a journal bearing or rear bearing 524 receives the rear end of the actuator rod 374. See also Figure 5E. The external bracket 370 also includes a mounting hole 526 transverse to the base plate hole 522 and the rear bearing 524. The mounting hole 526 provides a position for pivotally attaching the actuator bracket 376 to the external compression mounting bracket 370. Furthermore, the external compression mounting bracket 370 includes a stud 528 for mounting a locking latch 390 to the external bracket 376. The stud 528 includes a circular base 530 and a hexagonal portion 532. As discussed further below, the stud 528 engages with an eccentric nut to which a locking latch 390 is attached. Notably, when assembling the compression assembly, an additional rear bearing 524 provides additional support for the actuator rod 374. That is, the front end of the actuator rod 374 is supported inside the inner compression mounting bracket 372, while the rear end of the actuator rod 374 is supported by the rear bearing 524. This reduces non-linear movement of the actuator rod 374, thereby reducing wear and extending the life of the actuator rod 374.

[0223] Figure 14D Three views of the eccentric nut in the embodiment are shown, including: (a) a first perspective view; (b) a second perspective view; and (c) a rear view. The eccentric nut 540 is configured to attach a locking latch 390 to a stud 528 of an external compression mounting bracket 370. The eccentric nut 540 includes a first cylindrical outer surface 542, sized to accommodate within a corresponding hole 396 in the locking latch. See also Figure 13FDuring assembly, the locking latch 390 rotates about this outer surface. The eccentric nut 540 also includes a second cylindrical outer surface 544 that forms a retaining lip around the first cylindrical surface 542. This retaining lip holds the locking latch 390 in place when the eccentric nut 540 is secured to the outer support stud 528. The eccentric nut 540 includes two hollow inner portions, a circular portion 546, and a hexagonal portion 548. The circular portion 546 of the nut 540 is configured to fit above and around the circular portion 530 of the outer support stud 528, while the hexagonal portion 548 of the eccentric nut 540 is configured to fit above and around the hexagonal portion 532 of the outer support stud 528. The hollow inner portions of the eccentric nut 540 are offset from the central axis of the outer cylindrical surface of the nut 540. When the eccentric nut 540 engages with the stud 528 (see...), the locking latch 390 rotates around the outer cylindrical surface of the nut 540. Figure 14C The hexagonal portion prevents the eccentric nut 540 from rotating. Furthermore, by selecting the orientation of the eccentric nut 540 relative to the stud 528, the position of the outer surface 542 of the locking latch 390 can be adjusted. This adjustment allows for fine-tuning of the latch and / or spring compression.

[0224] Figure 14E Four views of the actuator bracket 376 in the embodiment are shown, including: (a) a first side view; (b) a second side view; (c) a perspective view; and (d) a top view. The actuator bracket 376 is attached to an external compression mounting bracket 370 by bolts or pins passing through a hole 383 through a first extension arm 378a and a second extension arm 378b. As described above, the inner surfaces of the extension arms 378a and 378b respectively include a first pin 371a and a second pin 371b, configured to pivotally engage a side slot 375 in the actuator rod 374. See also... Figure 13E and Figure 13F The distal tips 385a and 385b of the fork-shaped extension arms 378a and 378b are configured to engage the rear end of the spring 384 during the assembly of the compression assembly.

[0225] Figure 14F and Figure 14G Perspective and exploded views of a retaining hook assembly 330 for attachment to a wall or center member of a screening machine are shown in an embodiment. The retaining hook assembly 330 uses the same pawl 336 used with the compression assembly (as described above). Figure 14A The pawl 336 includes a joint 338 disposed between the two hooks 332a, 332b. For brevity, further discussion of the pawl 336 is omitted. When used with the fixing hook assembly 330, the mounting element 504 of the pawl is bolted to a mounting bracket 560 having a plate 562 configured for attachment (e.g., bolting or welding) to the wall or center member of a screening machine.

[0226] In some embodiments, the retaining hook assembly 330 may include a biasing element, such as a spring, similar to Figure 9A and Figure 9B The fixed compression piston assembly is shown. This allows the retaining hooks 332a and 332b to move slightly during the installation of the screening assembly. This also allows for slight adjustment of the stopping position of the retaining hooks 332a and 332b.

[0227] Figure 15A and Figure 15B The movable pawl 336 of the compression assembly 322 is shown combined with the fixed pawl 336 of the fixing hook assembly 330 to move the support plate 324 of the screening assembly from a generally flat profile. Figure 15A ) compressed into a roughly concave contour ( Figure 15B Once the screening assembly is correctly positioned such that the hook of the pawl 336 extends through the compression point 350 and the alignment joint 338 is positioned in its corresponding alignment groove 354, the compression assembly 322 can be actuated to move the movable pawl 336 from the retracted position to the extended position. Figure 15A As shown, the support plate 324 may be generally planar before actuation. Upon actuation, the movable pawl 336 of the compression assembly 322 can advance to apply a compressive force having a horizontal component applied to the edge of the compression point 350 and a vertically downward component applied to the top surface of the support plate 324. See also Figure 15B This causes the support plate 324 to be pushed against the retaining pawl 336 of the retaining hook assembly 330, which extends through a through compression point 350 near the second edge 342 of the support plate 324. Continued advance of the movable pawl 336 causes the support plate 324 to deflect against the concave profile of the concave support surface. See also Figure 15B .

[0228] Figure 15C and Figure 15D A partial close-up view shows the engagement of the pawls 336a and 336b of the compression assembly 322 and the fixing hook assembly 330 with the support plate 324 of the screening assembly. The movable or actuating pawl of the compression assembly is referred to as pawl 336a, while the fixed pawl of the fixing hook assembly 330 is referred to as pawl 336b. Initially, the movable pawl 336a of the compression assembly 322 advances to a position such that the hook contact surface 337a of the movable pawl 336a engages with the inner edge of the compression point 350a (e.g., measured from the centerline of the support plate 324). See also Figure 12E The movable pawl 336a pushes the support plate 324 until the inner edge of the opposing through compression point 350b engages with the contact surface 337b of the fixed pawl 336b. At this point, the support plate 324 does not deflect and remains fixed between the opposing pawls 336a and 336b. See also Figure 15C After the plate is secured between pawls 336a and 336b, the continued advancement of the movable pawl 336a, as indicated by the force vector "F", causes the support plate 324 to slide downward along the inclined contact surfaces 337a and 337b of the pawls 336a and 336b, as shown by the downward movement arrows along the pawl faces. Further inward movement of the movable pawl 336a gradually applies a greater force to the support plate. Downward movement along these opposing inclined contact surfaces 337a and 337b results in the vertical component "V" of the force vector applied to the support plate 324 being greater than the horizontal component "H". As a result, the support plate 324 is compressed into a concave profile against the underlying support (not shown) and has a larger downward vertical force component.

[0229] It is worth noting that when the inner edges of the compression point 540 engage and slide down the contact surfaces 337a and 337b of the pawl, the support plate 324 should not get stuck on the contact surfaces 337a and 337b of the pawl. Based on a similar principle, it has been found that increasing the hardness of the hook / pawl 336 and / or the contact surfaces 337a and 337b, making them harder than the support plate 324, can prevent this sticking. That is, if at least the hardness of the contact surfaces 337a and 337b is greater than the hardness of the support plate 324, the support plate 324 will not scratch the contact surfaces 337a and 337b, which could cause the support plate 324 to get stuck on the contact surfaces 337a and 337b and prevent it from sliding smoothly down along the contact surfaces 337a and 337b. In one embodiment, the hardness of the contact surfaces 337a and 337b is Rockwell hardness C45. In a further embodiment, the contact surfaces 337a and 337b have a hardness greater than Rockwell B100 (HRB100) or Rockwell C20 (HRC20).

[0230] In some cases, adjusting the magnitude of the downward vertical component V of the force applied to the support plate 324 may be beneficial. See also Figure 15D In other words, if the support plate 324 slides too far on the contact surface 337 of the pawl 336, the vertical force V may increase exponentially while the horizontal force H decreases excessively. This could result in an insufficient horizontal force applied to the plate, thereby reducing the concave bending of the plate and reducing the engagement of the support plate with the underlying support and / or washer in its internal region (e.g., near its centerline axis).

[0231] Figure 15E A partial view of the pawl 336 is shown. The pawl 336 has two contact surfaces that can alter or restrict the movement of the support plate 324 as it slides down along the contact surfaces 337 and 339 of the hook 332. As shown, the first contact surface 337 has an included angle between approximately 5° and approximately 85° (see also...). Figure 14AFurthermore, the pawl 336 includes a second contact surface 339, which is positioned at an angle different from that of the first contact surface 337. This different angle between the first and second contact surfaces allows for alteration, limitation, or elimination of continuous downward movement of the plate along the pawl 336. In one embodiment, the first contact surface 337 may have a first angle that initially applies a predominantly downward vertical force component to the support plate. Once the support plate engages the intersection between the first and second contact surfaces 337, 339, the additional downward vertical force is reduced, while more horizontal force is applied to the plate. In another embodiment, the second contact surface 339 may be substantially vertical (e.g., perpendicular to a horizontal reference plane defined by the upper undeflected support plate 324; see, for example, ...). Figure 15A Alternatively, the second contact surface 339 may form a lip or step (e.g., a surface substantially parallel to the horizontal reference plane defined by the upper undeflected support plate 324). In such an embodiment, the second contact surface 339 restricts or eliminates movement of the support plate 324 beyond the first contact surface 337. After the support plate 324 moves downward along the contact surface 337 and engages the substantially perpendicular second contact surface 339, further sliding of the support plate 324 is largely or completely prevented. Therefore, any additional movement of the pawl 336 primarily results in the application of additional horizontal forces to the support plate 324. It is understood that the angle, length, and / or position of the first contact surface 337 and the second contact surface 339 can be selected to apply horizontal and vertical forces of desired magnitude to the support plate 324. Furthermore, it is understood that the contact surfaces may be arcuate surfaces, where the vertically and horizontally applied forces vary along the length of the arcuate or other irregular surface.

[0232] Refer again Figure 15A and Figure 15BThe movable pawls 322 of a plurality of compression assemblies near the first side edge 340 of the support plate 324 are designed to engage with one of the corresponding through compression points 350a along the first side edge 340 of the support plate 324. Similarly, a plurality of fixed pawls 330 mounted on the center stop or opposite sidewall of the vibrating screen are configured to engage with one of the corresponding through compression points 350b on the second side edge 342 of the support plate 324. Ideally, all movable pawls 322 should be aligned with each other, and all fixed pawls 330 should be aligned with each other. However, if the sidewall on which the compression assemblies are mounted is not perfectly parallel to the opposite sidewall or stop on which the fixed pawls are mounted, the distance between each pair of movable and fixed pawls may differ. Similarly, if the compression assemblies or fixed pawls change or bend over time, the distance between each pair of movable and fixed pawls may differ. When the compression assembly is actuated to install the screening assembly onto the vibrating screen, the difference in spacing between each pair of movable and fixed pawls may cause undesirable warping or bending of the support plate.

[0233] Considering the slight differences in the spacing between each pair of movable and fixed pawls, one approach is to establish a degree of compliance within the compression assembly. For example, each compression assembly can be configured such that the compression piston or movable pawl in each assembly does not need to advance inward by exactly the same distance before the compression assembly locks. This can be achieved by spring-mounting the compression piston or movable pawl, allowing their final locked positions to differ slightly.

[0234] Considering the slight differences in spacing between each pair of movable and fixed pawls, another approach is to establish a degree of compliance in the fixed pawl 330. For example, the mounting bracket 560 for the fixed pawl (see...) Figure 14F and 14G The device may include a spring element that allows the fixed pawl to move slightly in an inward / outward direction relative to the sidewall or stop to which the fixed pawl is mounted. When the screening assembly is mounted to a vibrating screen, this will allow the fixed pawl to move slightly in an inward / outward direction to accommodate minor differences in the spacing between the movable and fixed pawls.

[0235] Another benefit of the pressure device is that the screening assembly 320 can be installed in a flatter (e.g., less concave) configuration. That is, by joining the panel between its edges by the support plate and applying a greater downward force to the support plate 324, the screening assembly 320 can be adequately fixed relative to the screening machine, while fixing the screening assembly 320 more flat. Figure 15FThe figure illustrates the radius of curvature R1 of a screening assembly 320 configured to be engaged by a pressure device according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 157G illustrates the radius of curvature R2 of a prior art screening assembly 20 configured to be engaged via an edge surface (e.g., an upward flange 25 extending above the top surface of a support plate 24). In the prior art configuration of the screening assembly 20, the radius of curvature R2 is in the range of about 40 to 60 (e.g., in inches), where Figure 15G A screening assembly 20 with a radius of curvature of 50 inches is shown. That is, a high degree of concavity is required to allow the screening assembly 20 to bend sufficiently and seal with the gasket underneath.

[0236] In contrast, the screening assembly 320 configured for use with the pressure-bearing device disclosed herein can form a larger radius of curvature while still maintaining a sufficient seal with the gasket below. For example... Figure 15F As shown, the screening assembly 320 has a radius of curvature of 100 inches, which is significantly flatter than prior art screening assemblies. Furthermore, the screening assembly 320 used with the pressure device disclosed herein can have a radius of curvature R1 ranging from approximately 60 inches to approximately 140 inches. This ability to provide a flatter screening assembly offers significant advantages to the screening machine. In particular, as material (e.g., a fluid pool) flows through the length of the screening assembly, the fluid pool diffuses a larger portion across the width of the concave screening assembly (between its opposing edge surfaces). This results in a larger portion of the fluid pool contacting the screen surface, thereby increasing the screening capacity of each screening assembly.

[0237] Figure 15H It shows Figure 15F The screening assembly is pressed against the base of the pressure screening machine 300A according to this disclosure (see also...) Figure 1D ). Figure 15I It shows Figure 15G An end view of the prior art screening assembly 20 being pressed against the base of the prior art screening machine 10A (see also) Figure 2B ).like Figure 15H As shown, the compression assembly 322 and the fixing hook assembly 330 each have a pawl 336 that extends through the compression point in the support plate 324 of the screening assembly 320. The support plate 324 is disposed between the first side wall 312a and the second side wall 312b of the single-trough screening machine 300A shown.

[0238] In comparison, such as Figure 15I As shown, the screening machine utilizes a compression assembly 22 disposed on the first wall 12a of the machine to engage with a vertical flange 28 extending above the edge surface of the plate 24 of the screening assembly, thereby forcing the second edge surface of the screening assembly 20 against the second wall 12b of the machine (e.g., a stop surface). Figure 15H In the pressure-bearing machine 300A, the pawl 336 engages the screening assembly 320 at a position inside the support plate 324 (e.g., between the edges of the plate) and is spaced a certain distance from the side walls 312a, 312b. As described above, with Figure 15I Compared to the compression assembly 22 shown, the position of the pawl inside the screening assembly and / or the shape of the pawl's hook (e.g., contact surface or hook face) allows the compressed assembly to exert a greater downward force on the screening assembly. Figure 15I In the screening machine, the compression assembly 22 applies force to the edge of the screening assembly, causing most of the downward force to bend the plate 24 of the screening assembly 20. Furthermore, Figure 15I The machine in the middle cannot benefit from the shape of the pawl / hook that contacts the plate as a force multiplier.

[0239] The ability to engage the screening assembly 320 with the top surface of the support plate 320 via the bottom surface also allows for a reduction in the position of each compression assembly 322 on the outer surface of the wall member of the screening machine 300A. That is, Figure 1D and Figure 15H The compression assembly 322 of the intermediate screening machine may be located below... Figure 2B and Figure 15I The compression assembly 22 of the intermediate screening machine 10A is positioned such that it engages with an upper surface or vertical flange extending above the screening assembly. Lowering the position of the compression assembly eliminates interference between the compression assembly and the supports on the outer wall of the screening machine. This also allows the compression assemblies to be spaced more evenly along the length of the screening machine, thus providing more uniform compression of the screening assembly. Although the discussion focuses on lowering... Figure 1D and Figure 15H The compression assembly on the single-slot machine, but it should be understood that, Figures 1A to 1C The use of a pressure device on the twin-slot machine 300 also allows for the reduction of the compression components on the outer wall of the machine.

[0240] In use, the screening assembly 320 can be mounted on the screening machine 300. More specifically, the screening assembly 320 can be disposed between the first wall 312a and the central member 316 of the screening machine 300 (e.g., in a twin-trough screening machine). Alternatively, such a screening assembly 320 can be disposed between the first and second walls of a single-trough screening machine. Once the screening assembly is disposed between the wall 312a and the central member, the screening assembly can be moved along the length of the screening machine 300 until the pawl 336 and joint 338 on the first wall 312a pass through the through compression point 350a near the first edge 340 of the support plate 324, and the pawl 336 and joint 338 on the central member 316 (or the second wall of the single-trough machine) pass through the through compression point 350b near the second edge 342 of the support plate 324. More specifically, the joint 338 will be configured to pass through the alignment slots 354 of the respective through compression points 350, thereby correctly positioning the screening assembly relative to the screening machine. At this point, the actuator can be actuated to move the movable pawl 336 between a retracted position and an extended position. In the extended position, the pawl 336 applies a compressive force having a horizontal component and a vertically downward component to a through compression point 350a near the first edge 340 of the support plate 324. The horizontal component of the force pushes the support plate 324 against the fixed pawl 336 of the retaining hook assembly 330, which extends through the through compression point 350b near the second edge of the support plate 324. Continued advance causes the vertical component of the force applied by the movable pawl 336 and the fixed pawl 336 to compress the plate into a concave shape (e.g., against the underlying longitudinal beam 314). See also Figure 11A .

[0241] Figure 11B , Figure 15A and Figure 15B The diagram also shows the case where the plate 324 of the screening assembly 320 presses against various washers extending around the periphery of the support plate 324. Specifically, a first washer 319 may be disposed between the first edge 340 of the support plate 324 and the underlying support surface; a second washer 329 may be disposed between the second edge 342 of the support plate 324 and the underlying support surface; and a third and a fourth washer 317 (only one shown) may be disposed on the upper surface of the concave support surface 314 below the first and second ends 344, 346 of the support plate 324 (see [reference]). Figure 12CBecause the higher vertical component (i.e., the downward force component) provided by the compression assembly provides increased compressive force, the compressive force applied to the screening assembly and the gaskets pressing against all the underside of the screening machine can be increased. Increased force / pressure on the gaskets not only improves the seal between the screening assembly and the screening machine but also extends the gasket's lifespan because there is less movement (e.g., oscillation) of the screening assembly relative to the gasket. Therefore, less material can permeate between the support plate and the gasket. Reduced movement of the screening assembly relative to the screening machine also leads to improved screening performance. That is, when each screening assembly is more tightly secured to the screening machine, the vibrations provided by the screening machine are better transmitted to the material on top of the screening assembly.

[0242] Another benefit of the disclosed embodiments is that the screening assembly can omit the upward flanges located near one or both edges of the screening assembly, which were previously used to apply compressive force to the screening assembly. Removing this flange eliminates the possibility of material remaining behind it. Removing such a flange or groove, coupled with the increased compressive force, reduces or eliminates the phenomenon of material flowing down the edges of the screening assembly.

[0243] Figures 1A to 15B The pressure-bearing device can also produce support plates and screening assemblies without grooves and / or flanges on the edges. That is, the support plate can be formed from a flat plate. Since there is no need to attach specialized edge grooves to the edges of the support plate, the plate can be stamped or laser-cut. Furthermore, screening assemblies can be thinner because they do not include grooves along their edges. This allows for the packaging of more screening assemblies in a given size package. Additionally, eliminating grooves or flanges from the edges of the support plate provides additional usable surface area compared to a support plate of the same width with flanges or grooves for attaching the support plate to the screening machine. This additional usable surface area allows for the covering of an additional screening surface on the upper surface of the support plate, thereby increasing the processing capacity of each screening assembly. See also Figure 12A Note that the screening surface 326 includes 11 corrugated peaks across its width. Existing screening assemblies have the same width and include attachment grooves and / or flanges, utilizing a screening surface with ten corrugated peaks of the same size. Adding additional screening surface corrugated peaks to the top surface of the support plate results in an increase in the screening area of ​​approximately 5% to 12%. Therefore, the processing capacity of each screening assembly increases by a similar percentage. In other words, attaching the screening plate to the screening machine using the pressure device disclosed herein increases the screening area and screening capacity of the screening machine.

[0244] Another benefit of the pressure system disclosed herein is that all components of the compression assembly (except for a small portion of the pawl 336) are located below the screening assembly. Furthermore, all internal components of the compression assembly are located below the screening assembly. This reduces wear on these components (e.g., actuator rods) and lowers the maintenance requirements of the screening machine. In other words, by moving these components below the screening surface, they are not exposed to materials and fluids (e.g., pools) above the screening surface.

[0245] Figures 16A to 16C An embodiment of a screening machine is shown in cross-sectional view, referred to as screening machine 100 for ease of discussion. The cross-sectional portion may be related to... Figures 1A to 1C This is part of a screening machine similar to the screening machine 300, but other variations are possible. As shown, the screening machine 100 includes two screening assemblies 120a and 120b (hereinafter referred to as 120 unless specifically mentioned), disposed between the inner surfaces of spaced-apart wall members 112a and 112b (hereinafter referred to as 112 unless specifically mentioned). A central member 116 divides the screening machine 100 into two screening regions. That is, each screening assembly 120 includes a first edge disposed near the wall member 112 and a second edge disposed near the central member 116. Although the screening machine 100 is shown as having two screening assemblies engaged with the central member 116, defining two concave screening regions when the screen is compressed, the screening machine may have a single screening assembly defining a single concave screening region between the first and second walls 312. See, for example... Figure 1D .

[0246] Compression assemblies 122 are attached to the outer surfaces of wall members 112a and 112b. Each compression assembly 122 includes a retractable and expandable member. The compression assemblies may be similar to those described above regarding... Figure 13A and Figure 13B The compression assembly is discussed. However, the configuration of the pawl can vary. In use, the compression assembly 122 engages with a first side of the adjacent screening assembly 120 and pushes a second side of the screening assembly 120 against the central member 116 (or the second wall of a single-trough screening machine), while deforming the screening assembly 120 into a concave profile, pressing against one or more underlying concave support surfaces 114 (e.g., longitudinal beams). As described below, in one embodiment, the central member 116 or the second wall may have a hook that engages with the second side of the screening assembly 120.

[0247] Figure 16A A screening assembly 120 with a screening surface 126 is shown, while Figure 16B A screening machine 100 is shown with the screening surface 126 on the screening assembly 120 removed to expose the porous support plate 124 beneath the screening assembly 120. Figures 19A to 19CThe configuration of the screening assembly 120 and the support plate 124 is discussed in more detail in the description. Figure 16C A screening machine 100 is shown in which one of the screening components 120 is removed to expose a concave support surface 114 extending between the first wall 112a and the central support 116. (e.g., single-tank machine) Figure 1D A similar concave support extending between the first and second walls can be utilized. As shown, each concave support 114 has a first end attached to a wall member and a second end attached to a central support 116. As shown, the concave supports 114 are evenly spaced and parallel. However, other spacing can also be used. Each support 114 has a concave upper surface 115. Gaskets 117 (e.g., rubber or other compressible material) can be disposed on the concave upper surface 115 of each support 114. Thus, when the compression assembly 122 compresses the screening assembly 120 into a concave profile, the bottom surface of the screening assembly (e.g., the bottom surface of the support plate 124) can press against the gaskets 117 on the upper surface of the concave supports 114, thereby forming a seal between the screening assembly and the screening machine. The width of the gaskets allows for sealing the interface between two longitudinally arranged screening assemblies (not shown).

[0248] Figures 16A to 16C An embodiment of the screening machine 100 illustrates a "compression" device that horizontally (e.g., against a central support or a second wall) compresses the screening assembly and vertically downward against a concave support. In the compression embodiment, the compression assembly 122 on the wall member 112 includes movable / actuable hooks or pawls 136 that extend through a set of clamping points or through-compression points 152 disposed along the edge 142 of the support plate 124. See also Figure 19B and Figure 19C Pawls 136 (each pawl defining a hook in an embodiment) extend from the bottom surface of the plate through the support plate 124 to the upper surface of the plate. Actuation of the compression assembly 122 moves the pawls 136 between a first position (e.g., retracted) and a second position (e.g., extended), in which the pawls contact the compression surface of the support plate 124.

[0249] In one embodiment, a set of fixed fingers or hooks 130 are attached to the central support 116 (or the second wall member in the single-slot machine 10A) and extend through a corresponding set of clamping / penetrating compression points 150 disposed along opposite edges 140 of the support plate 124. See also Figure 17A , Figure 17B and Figure 19C The retaining hook 130 extends from the bottom surface of the support plate 124 to the upper surface of the support plate 124. The retaining hook can be mounted to the central support 116 using a mounting mechanism that includes a biasing element (e.g., a spring), similar to... Figure 9A and Figure 9BThe fixed compression piston assembly is shown. This allows the fixed finger or hook 130 to move slightly during the installation of the screening assembly. This also allows for slight adjustment of the stopping position of the fixed finger or hook 130.

[0250] When moved to the extended position, pawl 136 applies a compressive force "F" having a horizontal component "H" and a vertically downward component "V". See example Figure 17D A compressive force is applied to the compression surface 162 of the support plate 124. The vertical component V of the force F provides a downward force to the support plate 124, while the horizontal component H of the force F causes the plate 124 to move away from the wall member and abut against a retaining hook attached to the center member (or the second wall member in a single-tank machine). The applied compressive force may deflect the screening assembly into a concave shape while securing the screening assembly to the screening machine. Although the use of retaining hooks on the center wall (or the second wall member in a single-tank machine) has been discussed herein, it should be understood that in various embodiments, the opposing edges 140 of the plate may engage stops or stop surfaces 26 (e.g., channels) on the center member / second wall, and the retaining hooks may be omitted. Each of these components will be discussed further herein.

[0251] In the above embodiments, the support plate of the screening assembly is configured to interact with a movable piston, the movable piston contacting a mounting hole on the side edge of the support plate, as shown in Figures 3 to 4. Figure 8B As shown, or interacting with a pawl extending through the compression point of the support plate, as shown in Figures 11 to 17G. In an alternative embodiment, the support plate of the screening assembly can be configured to interact with both types of mounting devices.

[0252] Figure 18 A support plate 324 is shown, which includes a mounting hole 220 located on a first side edge 340, the mounting hole 220 being configured to receive [Figures 3 to 4]. Figure 8B The movable piston of the mounting device shown. The support plate 324 also includes a plurality of through compression points 350b located inside the second side edge 342, the plurality of through compression points being configured to accommodate the pistons of Figures 11 to 12. Figure 17G The mounting device shown has a movable or fixed pawl. Figure 18 The support plate shown can be used in a vibrating screen, which includes the components shown in Figures 3 to 4. Figure 8B The compression assembly with a movable piston on one side wall is shown in Figures 6F and 6G, as well as the fixed pawl 330 mounted on the second side wall or center stop of the twin-groove machine. Conversely, the same support plate can be used with a vibrating screen, which includes the components shown in Figures 11 to 12. Figure 17G The compression assembly with a movable pawl shown herein, and including as shown in Figures 3 to 4, are also included. Figure 8B The fixed compression piston shown is located on the opposite side wall or central stop of the screening machine.

[0253] Figure 19A , Figure 19B and Figure 19C Top views of the screening assembly 120, the screening assembly 120 with a portion of the screening surface 126 removed, and the support plate 124 are shown in the embodiments. As shown, the screening surface 126 is attached to the upper surface of the support plate 124. The support plate 124 is generally rectangular and has a first edge 140, a second edge 142, a first end 144, and a second end 146. The support plate 124 is typically formed of a sheet of metal, but other materials are also possible. The support plate 124 includes a plurality of flow holes 148 extending through the body of the support plate 124 and located within the body defined by the edges and ends. As described above, the support plate 124 supports the screening surface on its upper surface. This screening surface can be attached to the support plate 124 in any suitable manner. The flow holes 148 are configured to allow material that has passed through the supporting screening surface to pass through the support plate 124. Although the flow holes 148 shown in the figures are rectangular, it will be understood that the size, shape, and distribution of the flow holes on the support plate 124 can be varied. As previously described, a plurality of compression or through-hole points 150, 152 are arranged along the first edge 140 and the second edge 142 of the support plate 124. In an embodiment, the through-hole points 150, 152 may be arranged outside the flow hole 148 (e.g., relative to the centerline of the plate). In the illustrated embodiment, each of the through-hole points 150, 152 includes a clamping plate 160, as discussed further below.

[0254] like Figure 17A and Figure 17BAs shown, for clarity, half of the screening machine is removed, and retaining hooks 130 are attached to the central member 116 below a support surface 118 located at the upper end of the central member 116. The support surface 118 supports a first edge 140 of a support plate 124. A gasket 119 or other compressible seal may be provided between the first edge 140 of the support plate 124 and the support surface 118. The first end of each retaining hook 130 is attached to the central member 116 and extends away from the support surface 118 (e.g., a cantilever). The free end of each hook 130 extends upward such that when the first edge of the support plate 124 rests on the support surface 118, it can extend through a through compression point near the first edge 140 of the screening assembly 120. During installation, the screening assembly 120 can be positioned on the machine such that the retaining hooks 130 of the central member 116 (or the second wall) pass through the through compression point 150 on the first edge 140 of the support plate 124. Alternatively, if the fixing hook is omitted from the center member / second wall, the first edge 140 of the support plate 124 can be placed against a stop or stop surface. The screening assembly 120 can then be lowered, allowing the movable hook / pawl 136 located near the wall member 112 to pass through the through compression point 152 on the second edge 142 of the support plate 124. It is worth noting that combining the through compression point with at least the pawl on the wall member and / or the fixing hook on the center member (or the second wall member in a single-tank machine) can improve the positioning of the screening assembly along the length of the screening machine. That is, once the hooks 130, 136 are positioned by the screening assembly, the position of the screening assembly along the length of the screening machine is necessarily correct, thus eliminating the need for manual positioning of the screen plate along the machine length as before.

[0255] Once the screening assembly 120 is correctly positioned, the hook and pawl extend through the compression point, and the compression assembly 122 can be actuated to move the movable pawl 136 from the retracted position to the extended position. This is in Figure 17C and Figure 17D As shown in the image. Figure 17C As shown, each retaining hook 130 can be positioned via a through compression point 150 (shown in dashed lines) on the first edge 140 of the support plate 124, while each movable pawl 136 can initially be positioned via a through compression point 152 (shown in dashed lines) on the second edge 142 of the support plate 124. At this time, the support plate 124 can be substantially planar. Upon actuation, the movable pawl 136 can advance forward and / or rotate to apply a horizontal force to the support plate 124 (e.g., the side edge of the through compression point 152) and a downward force to the top surface of the support plate 124. See also Figure 17DThis causes the inner edge of the through compression point 150 along the first edge 140 of the support plate 124 to be pushed toward the retaining hook 130 extending through the through compression point 150. Continued advance and / or rotation of the hook / pawl 136 causes the support plate 124 to deflect against the concave profile of the concave support surface. See also Figure 17B and Figure 19B The downward angle of the compression rod of the compression assembly 122, combined with the inclined surfaces of the pawl 136 and hook 130, helps the support plate 124 deflect into a concave profile.

[0256] To improve the engagement of the hook 130 and pawl 136 with the upper surface of the support plate 124, each of these components may include a recessed contact surface. That is, the contact surfaces of the hook 130 and pawl 136 may be recessed relative to the free tips of these components (e.g., measured from the centerline axis A-A' of the plate 124). See, for example... Figure 17C Specifically, the free tip 132 of hook 130 extends over the contact surface 134 of hook 130 (i.e., relative to the centerline axis A-A'). Similarly, the free tip 137 of pawl 136 extends over the contact surface 138 of pawl 136 (i.e., relative to the centerline axis A-A'). The undercuts (e.g., hook surfaces) obtained by hook 130 and pawl 136 allow each of these components to better engage the top surface of support plate 124.

[0257] exist Figures 17A-17D and Figures 19A-19C In the illustrated embodiment, the support plate 124 further includes a clamping plate 160 attached near the inner edge (e.g., measured from the centerline axis A-A') of each through compression point 150, 152. In this embodiment, the clamping plate 160 extends above the upper surface of the support plate 124 and is shaped to engage with the pawl 136 and / or hook 130. The clamping plate 160 can be attached to the support plate 124 in any suitable manner (e.g., adhesive, bolting, riveting, welding, etc.). Alternatively, the clamping plate 160 can be integrally formed with the support plate 124 (e.g., in sheet metal bending and forming processes or molding processes). Figure 17C and Figure 17D As shown, the contact surfaces 132 and 138 of the hook 130 and pawl 136 are angled and configured to contact the corresponding angled contact or compression surfaces 162 of their respective clamps 160 (i.e., once the pawl 136 advances to contact its clamp 160). The use of mating inclined surfaces on the hook 130 and pawl 130 with the clamp 160 allows for an increase in the compressive force transmitted to the plate 124.

[0258] In one embodiment, contact surfaces 132 and / or 138 are arranged at an acute angle Θ relative to the generally flat upper surface of the support plate 124 (i.e., before compression). In one embodiment, the included angle Θ is between about 5° and 85°. In another embodiment, the included angle Θ is between about 15° and 75°.

[0259] Although the figures show the use of a clamp 160 to improve the contact between the hook 130 and the pawl 136, it is understood that the clamp 160 may be omitted in other embodiments. In such embodiments, the hook 130 and the pawl 136 may directly contact the upper surface of the support plate 124. Figure 17E and Figure 17F An alternative embodiment of the movable pawl 136 is shown, wherein the pawl 136 includes a contact surface 138 formed at an inner angle below the free tip 137. In such an embodiment, the inner angle contact surface 138 can directly engage the inner edge of the compression orifice 152. A hook (not shown) can be configured similarly. It will be understood that various variations of the contact surface 138 can be utilized while still providing a horizontal force to the side surfaces of the screening assembly and a downward force to the top surface of the screening assembly and / or the support plate.

[0260] Figure 17G Another alternative embodiment is shown, in which the movable pawl 136 engages with an angled contact surface or compression surface 153 formed on the support plate 124. More specifically, the inner edge surface of the support plate 124 (e.g., the inner edge surface of the through compression point 152 measured from the centerline of the plate) may be formed at an angle Θ2 corresponding to an angle Θ1 of the contact surface 138 of the pawl 136. In one embodiment, these angles are equal. In other embodiments, these angles may be different.

[0261] Figure 20 A second edge 142 of the support plate 124 is shown, which is disposed near the wall member 112 of the screening machine. As shown, the second edge 142 of the support plate 124 rests on top of a support surface 128 attached to the inner surface of the wall member 112. In the illustrated embodiment, the support surface 128 is a horizontal flange of a corner bracket having a vertical member attached to the inner surface of the wall member 112. Other support surface configurations are also possible. A gasket or other compressible seal 129 may be disposed between the second edge 142 of the support plate 124 and the support surface 128. In this respect, the gasket / compressible seal (hereinafter referred to as a gasket) may be disposed around the entire periphery of the support plate 124 of the screening assembly. That is, a first gasket 119 may be disposed between the first edge 140 of the support plate 124 and the support surface 118 (see, for example...). Figure 17AThe second washer 129 may be disposed between the second edge 142 of the support plate 124 and the support surface 128 of the wall member, and the third and fourth washers 117 may be disposed on the upper surface of the concave support surface 114 below the first and second ends 144, 146 of the support plate 124 (see example). Figure 16C and Figure 17A The increased compressive force applied to the support plate 124 increases the compression of all gaskets. This increased pressure on the gaskets not only improves the seal but also extends gasket life because the screening assembly moves less relative to the gaskets, and less material can permeate between the support plate 124 and the gaskets.

[0262] Another benefit of the disclosed embodiments is that the screening assembly can omit the upward flange previously used to apply compressive force to the screening assembly. Therefore, removing this flange eliminates the possibility of material remaining behind it. Another benefit of this embodiment, by engaging the screening assembly from below, is that the screening area on the upper surface of the screening assembly can be increased. Furthermore, by moving the hooks and pawls below the panel and below the screening surface, these elements are not exposed to material and fluid above the screening surface. This arrangement reduces wear on these compression system components.

[0263] As previously mentioned, compression assemblies can be actuated in various ways, including manually, hydraulically, and pneumatically, but not exclusively. This article illustrates various methods for manually actuating compression assemblies. More specifically, Figure 21A and Figure 21B An embodiment of a compression assembly is shown, which uses a single detachable handle to actuate a single compression component. Figure 21C and Figure 21D An embodiment of a compression assembly is shown, which uses a single detachable handle to actuate two adjacent compression components. Figure 21E The connection of adjacent compression components is shown to allow for dual actuation using a single handle. Figures 21A-21E The reference numerals used in the figures and Figure 1A-1C The components of the screening machine are consistent. However, it should be understood that these devices for starting the compression assembly can be used with any publicly available screening machine.

[0264] like Figure 21A and Figure 21BAs shown, the detachable handle 400 may be formed with a first engaging end 402 and an elongated second end 404. The first engaging end 402 is configured to engage (e.g., be received within) a sleeve 379 of the actuator holder of the compression assembly 322. Once the first end 402 is inserted into the sleeve 379 of the actuator holder, the user can grasp the elongated second end 404 of the handle and use the handle 400, which has a bend between its first and second ends, to rotate the actuator holder, thereby actuating or deactivating a single compression assembly 322. A single handle 400 can be used to actuate and / or deactivate multiple compression assemblies.

[0265] Figure 21C and Figure 21D A dual handle 410 is shown, which can be used to actuate or deactivate adjacent compression assemblies 322a, 322b on the outer wall 312 of the screening machine 300. As described above, by lowering the compression assemblies below the screening assemblies, it has been found that the compression assemblies can be spaced more evenly along the outer wall of the screening machine. Therefore, due to this even spacing, a single handle can be configured to engage two (or more) adjacent compression assemblies to actuate or deactivate these adjacent assemblies. As shown, the handle 410 has two engaging ends 402a, 402b, each configured to receive within a sleeve 379a or 379b of one of the two adjacent compression assemblies 322a, 322b. A user can grasp a second end 406 of the handle (which can again be bent along its length) to rotate adjacent actuator supports, thereby actuating or deactivating two adjacent compression assemblies 322a, 322b.

[0266] Figure 21E Two adjacent compression assemblies 322a, 322b are shown connected to each other by a clamping bar 412. In this embodiment, the clamping bar 412 extends between and physically couples the actuator supports 376a, 376b of the two adjacent compression assemblies 322a, 322b. Therefore, rotation of one support 376a or 376b will cause rotation of the other support. Based on a similar principle, the two compression assemblies can be actuated by a single handle (e.g., see...). Figure 21D ).although Figure 21E The illustration shows the use of a single clamping bar 412 to attach two adjacent supports, but it is understood that two clamping bars could also be used to couple three supports. Furthermore, other methods of connecting the compression components for joint operation are also possible and fall within the scope of this disclosure.

[0267] Figure 21F and Figure 21G Another embodiment of the compression assembly 422 is shown, which can be used with any screening machine disclosed herein. Compression assembly 422 is a fluid-operated compression assembly (pneumatic or hydraulic). Assembly 422 and... Figures 13A-13DThe disclosed compression assembly shares a common inner wall component. Based on a similar principle, a pawl 336 is attached to the end of an actuator rod 374, which passes through an inner housing support 372 attached to the inner surface of the wall 312 of the screening machine. Instead of a manually operated support on the outer surface of the wall, the compression assembly 422 includes a pneumatic / hydraulic actuator 450 (hereinafter referred to as the pneumatic actuator) that engages the rear end of the actuator rod 374 and selectively advances and retracts the actuator rod. The pneumatic actuator 450 includes a housing 452 that engages with the outer surface of the wall 312. The pneumatic actuator housing 452 can be bolted to the inner housing support 372 through the wall 312. The housing 452 may include various seals (e.g., O-rings) to seal the interface between the actuator rod and a journal in the housing through which the actuator rod passes. The housing 452 includes an internal cylinder bore that receives a piston 454, which engages with the rear end of the actuator rod 374. Piston 454 is configured to move along the length of the cylinder bore to advance or retract actuator rod 374 and attached pawl 336. More specifically, valve 456 can selectively pressurize the cylinder bore region in front of piston 454 to retract piston, actuator rod 374, and pawl 336. A technician can then insert a panel into the screening machine. Valve 456 (e.g., a three-way valve) can then release the pressure within the cylinder bore. In this embodiment, a plurality of bias springs 458 are compressed between the rear surface of the piston and the end cap of the cylinder bore. The bias springs hold actuator rod 374 and pawl 336 in the extended position (e.g., locking the screening assembly to the base of the screening machine) without the application of pneumatic pressure, which would cause actuator assembly 422 to retract. That is, in the extended position, only spring force, without pneumatic pressure, holds actuator rod 374 and pawl 336 in the extended position. The size and number of springs 458 can be selected to maintain the desired compressive force on the screening assembly. However, it should be understood that variations are possible. For example, a similar pneumatic or hydraulic compression assembly can utilize pneumatic or hydraulic pressure to extend actuator rod 374 and pawl 336. In such an arrangement, pressure can be continuously maintained, or a mechanical lock can lock actuator rod 374 and pawl 336 in the actuated position.

[0268] Figure 22A and Figure 22B Another embodiment of the pressure screening assembly 620 is shown. More specifically, Figure 22A A top perspective view of the screening assembly 620 is shown. Figure 22BA bottom perspective view of the screening assembly 620 is shown; for clarity, a portion of the screening surface 626 has been removed from each view. As shown, the screening assembly includes a support plate 624, which is generally rectangular and has a first edge 640, a second edge 642, a first end 644, and a second end 646. The support plate 624 includes a plurality of flow holes 648 extending through the body of the support plate 624 and located within the support plate. However, as mentioned above regarding... Figures 12A-12C and Figures 19A-19C Unlike the pressure support plate discussed, the screening assembly 620 does not require through-compression points, although they may exist. Instead, the screening assembly 620 includes a plurality of supports 650 that engage with the support plate 624 of the screening assembly 620 and allow attachment to the compression assembly below. In one embodiment, each support 650 includes a flat portion 652 that can be attached (e.g., glued, welded, etc.) to the bottom surface of the support plate 624. The support 650 also includes a downwardly extending tab 654 having a hole 656 configured to engage with a hook member of a movable or fixed pawl. In one embodiment, each support 650 optionally includes an upwardly extending tab 658 that can engage with an edge surface (e.g., 640 or 642) of the support plate 624. In one embodiment, the length of the upwardly extending tabs 658 allows these tabs to engage with upward flanges formed along the length of the support plate edges 640, 642.

[0269] Figure 22C A screening assembly 620 is shown, positioned and compressed between the compression assembly 322 and the fixing hook assembly 330. The compression assembly 322 and the fixing hook assembly 330 are related to the above description... Figures 13A-13F The described compression assemblies are substantially similar, except that these components may use an improved pawl 636. As shown, the improved pawl 636 does not extend too far above assemblies 322 and 330. That is, since the improved pawl 636 does not need to pass through the support plate 624, the improved pawl 636 can have different upward dimensions. However, each improved pawl 636 may include a hook 632 and an angled contact surface 637. As shown, the tip of each hook 632 passes through a hole 656 in its corresponding mounting bracket 650. Advancement of the movable pawl 636 of the compression assembly 322 moves the screening assembly 620 until the periphery of the bracket hole 656 contacts the contact surface 637 of the opposing pawl 636. Continued advancement of the movable pawl 636 of the compression assembly 322 causes deformation of the screening assembly 620. Figure 15A and Figure 15BThe variations of the screening components discussed herein are substantially similar. Notably, the use of the support 650 and the improved ratchet 636 allows existing screening components (e.g., screening components with edge flanges) to be used with the pressure system of this disclosure.

[0270] Figure 234A and Figure 23B Another component that can be incorporated into any screening machine discussed in this disclosure is shown. More specifically, these figures illustrate a segmented base support 380 that supports the base rubber / gasket along the edges of the screening assembly and the edges of the screening assembly itself. Brief Reference Figure 15A and Figure 15B In one embodiment, the edges 340, 342 of the support plate 324 are supported above the first and second washers 319, 329, which are themselves supported by a segmented base support 380. In existing screening machines, the edges of the screening assembly and the inserted rubber / washers are typically supported by a single ledge or track (e.g., angle iron) that extends the length of the screening machine along its sidewalls and / or central member. Such existing track-type supports are often welded to the machine. Therefore, if a portion of the track is damaged (e.g., bent or worn), the entire track must be replaced.

[0271] like Figure 23A As shown, multiple segmented base supports 380 can be attached to the inner surface of the sidewall 312 of the screening machine. Similarly, multiple base supports 380 can be attached to the central member (e.g., in a twin-trough machine) or the second wall (e.g., in a single-trough machine) of the screening machine. In this embodiment, the segmented base supports 380 are each positioned above one of the compression assemblies 322. However, it should be understood that the segmented base supports 380 can have other dimensions. For example, a single base support 380 can span multiple compression assemblies 332, or span a retaining hook assembly on an opposing wall / central member.

[0272] like Figure 23B As shown, the segmented base support 380 includes an upper surface 660 that, when aligned with an adjacent segmented base support 380 and attached to the screening machine, forms a continuous ledge or track along the side wall and / or central member of the screening machine. The body of the base support 380 may include one or more holes 668 for securing the base support 380 to the side wall or central member of the screening machine. Due to the segmented nature of the base support 380, if one of the multiple base supports 380 forming the track is damaged, the damaged base support 380 can be individually removed and replaced.

[0273] In the illustrated embodiment, the upper surface 660 of the base support 380 includes an optional recessed press-fit channel 662 for receiving a correspondingly shaped tab 672 formed on the bottom surface of the washer 670, which is supported on the upper surface 660 of the base support. See, for example... Figure 24A and Figure 24B In this arrangement, the top surface is separated by a recessed channel 662 and includes a rear surface / wall bracket 661 that abuts against the wall of the screening machine and a front surface / wall bracket 663 that extends into the interior of the screening machine. The press-fit channel 662 may include first and second opposing retaining ridges 664 to engage the side edges of the tabs at the bottom of the gasket. Once the gasket is press-fitted into the channel 662, the resulting interference fit improves the sealing of the wall / center components of the screening machine.

[0274] Figure 24A and Figure 24B The image shows the engagement of a base rubber or washer 670 with a base support 380, which is bolted to the wall 312 of the screening machine. One or more base supports may extend along the entire length of the machine wall. The washer 670 has a generally flat upper surface for engagement with the bottom surface of the upper support plate when the screening assembly is compressed onto the machine. See also... Figure 15A and 15B The washers 319 and 329 and the upper plate 324 are included. In the illustrated embodiment, the washer 670 also includes a tab 672 formed on its bottom surface, which is configured to be received within a recessed press-fit channel 662 of the base support 380. The rear edge or tail edge 674 of the washer is configured to engage with the wall 312 of the screening machine. First, the tail of the washer 670 is inserted ( Figure 24A Then tilt it so that the tail edge engages and presses against the side wall 312. Then snap the washer 670 into place, placing the groove 676 at the bottom of the washer on the front wall bracket 663 of the base support, so that the front lip 678 of the washer covers the front edge / lip of the base support.

[0275] Figure 24C and Figure 24D This diagram illustrates the use of a first base support 380a and a second base support 380b to form an improved corner seal in a prior art design. More specifically, the first base support 380a can be bolted continuously to the side wall 312 of the machine at the corner where the side wall 312 intersects the end wall 306. A first base rubber or washer 670a can be press-fitted into the first base support 380a. The second base support 380b can be attached to the end wall 306. The base rubber or washer 670b can be disposed within this support and can abut against the first washer 670a. In either case, the corner between the side wall 312 and the end wall 306 can be completely sealed, which was a problem in previous designs.

[0276] Figures 25A-25E An embodiment of the screening assembly 320 is further illustrated. As shown, the screening assembly 320 includes a screening surface 326 attached to a porous metal support plate 324 (e.g., steel or any other suitable metal), the porous metal support plate 324 having a first pair of opposing side edges 340 and 342 and a second pair of edges / ends 344 and 346, as well as an upper surface and a lower surface. The support plate 324 includes holes 348 defined by elongated metal strip-like portions or members 347 extending between the edges 340, 342 and shorter strip-like portions 349 extending longitudinally between the ends 344, 346. The holes 348 can be formed by a stamping operation and are approximately 1 square inch quadrilaterals with rounded corners, but they can also be any other desired shape or size. The strip-like portions 347 and 349 are approximately 1 / 10 inch wide, but they can be any desired width. The support plate 324 may have a width of approximately 2.5 feet and a length of approximately 3.5 feet, and its thickness may be approximately 1 / 16 inch. However, it should be understood that the dimensions of the support plate 324 may vary as needed to suit different screening machines. The width of each hole 348 is a fraction of the width of the support plate 324 between edges 340 and 342. The same applies to the relationship between the height of the hole and the length of the plate between ends 346 and 348. Although not shown, channel-shaped members may be formed or attached to one or both edges 340, 342 for attaching the support plate 324 to the screening machine. However, embodiments omitting such channel-shaped members may provide more screening area on the support plate 324, as the area originally covered by the channel members can be covered by additional screening surface.

[0277] like Figure 25D As shown, the screening surface 326 is formed by multiple screens bonded face-to-face. Therefore, the screening surface 326 includes a coarse screen 323 that provides support, with a mesh size between 6 and 20 mesh, or any other suitable size. A fine screen 325 is bonded to the coarse support screen 323, with a mesh size between 30 and 325 mesh, or any other suitable size. An even finer screen 327 is bonded to the fine screen 325, with a mesh size between 40 and 400 mesh, or any other suitable size. Preferably, the roughness of the middle fine screen 325 should be two US standard screen size levels coarser than the finer uppermost screen 327. The three layers of screens 323, 325, and 327 are bonded together by a molten plastic mesh 321 running through all three layers. Figure 25D As shown, the screening surface 326 is an undulating arc shape and has ridges 331 and grooves 333. The grooves 333 are bonded to the support plate 324 at 335 using a suitable adhesive (e.g., epoxy resin). Figure 25E As shown, this adhesion at 335 occurs in all areas of the lower side of the groove 333, contacting strips 347 and 349. The open end of the ridge 331 can be sealed or blocked by a cap that can be molded into place. The cap can be made of polyurethane or other plastics or synthetic materials.

[0278] In the preceding description, the screening assembly includes a screening surface attached to the top surface of a support plate. The support plate includes a through compression point engaged by a pawl of a compression mechanism to attach the screening assembly to a vibrating screen. In many cases, the screening surface is formed of a wire mesh assembly, which may include multiple layers of wire mesh and / or synthetic mesh, as well as an adhesive or binder.

[0279] In alternative embodiments, the configuration of the screening assembly may differ significantly. Instead of attaching the screening surface to the top of a support plate, the screening assembly is formed by connecting multiple screening units made of synthetic or plastic materials together to form a screening panel. End rods are then fixed to opposite ends of the screening panel, and the end rods have through compression points similar to those of the support plate in the previously described embodiments.

[0280] Various embodiments of synthetic or plastic screening units connected together to form screening panels are described in U.S. Patents 9,409,209, 9,884,344, 10,046,363, 10,259,013, 10,576,502, 10,835,926, 10,843,230, 10,933,444, 10,960,438, 10,967,401, and 10,000. The contents of all of these patents are described in 974,281, 10,981,197, 10,994,306, 11,000,882, 11,161,150, 11,198,155, 11,413,656, 11,426,766, 11,446,704, 11,471,913 and 11,471,914, and are all incorporated herein by reference.

[0281] The aforementioned patent discloses a screening assembly formed by connecting multiple individual screening units together. Each screening unit may include a screening element having a screening surface, which is attached to a support subgrid. Each screening unit's subgrid may include an attachment member configured to attach the subgrids together. By attaching the subgrids of multiple screening units together, a larger screening panel can be formed. End rods are then attached to the ends of the screening panel to form the screening assembly.

[0282] In some embodiments, the screening elements are formed from injection-molded plastic or synthetic materials (e.g., thermoplastics). Each screening element includes a plurality of elongated holes formed between adjacent elongated screening surface elements. Subgrids can also be formed from injection-molded plastic or synthetic materials (e.g., thermoplastics). However, subgrids can be formed from one or more materials different from the screening elements.

[0283] As described above, each screening unit is formed by attaching a screening element to a subgrid. Attachment members on the screening element and the subgrid can be used to attach the screening element to the subgrid. For example, holes on the screening element can accommodate corresponding protrusions on the subgrid, and vice versa. The screening element is then secured to the subgrid by fusing the protrusions and grooves together. This can be achieved by laser welding or other similar methods. Of course, the screening element can be attached to the subgrid in other ways, such as by adhesives or mechanical attachment mechanisms. In some embodiments, multiple screening elements can be mounted on a single subgrid to form a screening unit.

[0284] The attachment members configured on the grid to attach sub-grids together may include clips and clamping holes. A clip on one sub-grid is received in a clamping hole on an adjacent sub-grid to attach two screening units together. Of course, various other devices for attaching screening units together can also be used to assemble multiple screening units into a larger screening assembly.

[0285] Screening units can have various shapes. In some cases, each screening unit can have a flat, planar shape. In other cases, screening elements can be attached to pyramidal subgrids to form pyramidal screening units. Screening assemblies consisting of multiple screening units can all be composed of the same type of screening units. Alternatively, screening assemblies can be formed by a combination of planar screening units and pyramidal screening units.

[0286] Figure 26 A screening assembly 700 is shown, which is formed by combining a planar screening unit 702 and a pyramidal screening unit 704. Figure 26 Only one corner of the screening assembly 700 is shown. A larger screening assembly 700 will include multiple rows of planar screening units 702 located between rows of pyramidal screening units 704. Each row of planar screening units is formed by multiple planar screening units 702 arranged end-to-end. Similarly, rows of pyramidal screening units are formed by multiple pyramidal screening units 704 arranged end-to-end. The sub-grids of the individual screening units 702, 704 are attached to each other by attachment mechanisms (e.g., clips and clip holes) to form the larger screening assembly.

[0287] End rods 710 are attached to the opposite ends of the assembled planar screening unit 72 and pyramidal screening unit 704. Each end rod includes a plurality of through compression points 712, similar to the through compression points of the support plate in the embodiment described above.

[0288] exist Figure 26 In the illustrated embodiment, the last row of planar screening units 702 and the last row of pyramidal screening units 704 are mounted to the top surface 714 of the receiving base 711 of the end rod 710. The end rod 710 has an attachment mechanism configured to mate with the corresponding attachment mechanisms of the planar screening units 702 and the pyramidal screening units 704. For example, an attachment protrusion 716 on the distal end of the receiving base 711 is configured to mate with a corresponding hole in the planar screening unit 702 and / or the pyramidal screening unit 704. Similarly, clamping holes 718 are formed in the inner surface 712 of the end rail 713 of the end rod 710. The clamping holes 718 are similar to the clamping holes on the sub-grids of the planar screening units 702 and the pyramidal screening units 704. Therefore, the clamping holes 718 are configured to mate with protrusions already provided on the existing screening units 702 / 704.

[0289] Figure 27 The diagram shows that the end rod 710 is mounted near the side edge of the assembly of the planar screening unit 702 and the pyramidal screening unit 704. Figure 28 The end rod 710 is shown after it is fixed to the screening units 702 and 704. A similar end rod 710 will be installed on the other side of the assembly of screening units 702 and 704. The resulting screening assembly 700 can then be installed on a vibrating screen having the compression mechanism described above, in a manner substantially the same as that of the screening assembly formed by the support plate and the screening surface.

[0290] The compression mechanism applies a compressive force to the inner edge of the compression point 722 of the end rod. This compressive force pushes the end rods 710 at opposite ends of the screening assembly 700 together. Therefore, the same compressive force used to secure the screening assembly 700 to the vibrating screen is also used to push the individual screening units 702, 704 together, thereby helping the screening assembly 700 maintain its structural integrity.

[0291] The end bar 710 may be formed of metal or synthetic material. Each end bar 710 may also have a composite structure including reinforcing elements such as carbon fiber or glass fiber.

[0292] In the foregoing embodiments, the end rod 710 is attached to the screening units 702 and 704 using at least some of the attachment mechanisms on the screening units 702 and 704 for attaching the screening units 702 and 704 to each other. However, alternative or additional attachment devices can be used to secure the end rod 710 to the components of the screening units 702 and 704. For example, the end rod 710 can be attached to the screening units 702 and 704 by adhesive, welding, fusion, using various fasteners, or a combination of these attachment devices.

[0293] Vibrating screens typically have an elongated screening zone with an inlet and an outlet. Multiple screening components are mounted along the length of the screening zone. In a single-trough embodiment, each screening component extends across the entire width of the screen's interior, and multiple screening components are arranged along the length of the screening zone. In a double-trough embodiment, each screening component extends across a portion (e.g., half) of the screen's width. In such embodiments, groups of parallel screening components are arranged along the length of the screening zone.

[0294] The material to be screened is deposited at the input end of the screening zone, and the screening assembly vibrates to propel the material along the length of the screening zone to the output end. The screening assembly mounted on the screening zone can be configured to form a continuous screening surface at an angle to the horizontal (e.g., the inlet end is higher than the outlet end). An inclined screening surface may facilitate the movement of material from the input end to the output end under gravity. Other configurations are also possible.

[0295] Screening components can be made from a variety of different materials. These different materials can give the screening components different properties. Generally, screening components made of plastic or synthetic materials may withstand more of the wear and tear associated with screening operations than those made of woven wire mesh. On the other hand, screening components made of wire mesh may have better screening and dewatering properties than those made of plastic or synthetic materials.

[0296] Conditions within the screening zone of a vibrating screen vary along its length. The entire quantity and weight of the material to be screened are deposited at the inlet end of the screening zone. Therefore, the screening assembly or component at the inlet end bears the full weight of all the input material to be screened, resulting in the greatest wear. As the material travels along the length of the screening zone, fluid and smaller particles fall through the screening assembly. Consequently, the quantity and weight of material traveling along the downstream portion of the screening zone (e.g., the second half) are less than those traveling along the upstream portion (e.g., the first half). Therefore, screening assemblies installed along the downstream portion of the screening zone experience less wear than those installed along the upstream portion.

[0297] Embodiments of this disclosure relate to systems, apparatus, and methods for minimizing the overall wear of a set of screening assemblies mounted along the length of a vibrating screen while maintaining the desired screening and dewatering characteristics of the vibrating screen. In one embodiment, a screening system, screen, and screening method are provided, wherein different types of screening assemblies are mounted along the length of a screening zone of the screen. In one embodiment, plastic or synthetic screening assemblies are mounted at the inlet end of the screening zone and along the initial portion (e.g., the first half) of the length of the screening zone. Such plastic or synthetic screening assemblies are better able to withstand the greater loads experienced by screening assemblies located at the initial or inlet portion of the screening zone compared to screening assemblies made of woven wire mesh. Furthermore, woven wire mesh screening assemblies are mounted along the latter half (e.g., the second half) of the length of the screening zone. As previously stated, screening assemblies mounted along the outlet portion of the screening zone are not subject to the same level of wear as those mounted at the inlet portion of the screening zone. Therefore, wear is not a primary factor when the woven wire mesh screen element is located at the outlet portion of the screening zone.

[0298] Figure 29A and Figure 29B A front and rear perspective view of a screening machine 300 is shown, in which different types of screening assemblies are installed along the length of the screening area of ​​the screening machine. In the illustrated embodiment, the screening machine has two sets of parallel screening assemblies arranged along the length of the screening machine. For ease of discussion, only one set of screening assemblies is described. The parallel sets may be substantially identical. Furthermore, this description also applies to single-trough screening machines (e.g., Figure 1D The single screening unit extends along the screening area of ​​the machine.

[0299] like Figure 29A and Figure 29BAs shown, the screening machine 800 uses first and second plastic or synthetic screening assemblies 810a and 810b (hereinafter referred to as 810 unless otherwise specified), which are installed in the machine between the inlet ends 801 of the screening area and extend into the first half of the screening area. Additionally, the screening machine 800 uses first and second wire mesh screening assemblies 812a and 812b (hereinafter referred to as 812 unless otherwise specified), which are located between the outlet end 4 of the screening area and the center of the screening area. In this embodiment, the four screening assemblies 810a, 810b, 812a, and 812b collectively cover the screening area of ​​each slot of the screening machine. In use, the material to be screened is fed into the inlet end 801 of the machine and enters the upper surface of the first plastic / synthetic screening assembly 812a. Due to the vibration of machine 800, material passes over the surfaces of the first plastic / synthetic screening assembly 810a, the second plastic / synthetic screening assembly 810b, the first wire mesh screen 812a, and the second wire mesh screen 812b, and flows out from the outlet end 804 of machine 800. As previously mentioned, the plastic / synthetic screening assembly 810 is more resistant to wear at the inlet end of the screening area than the wire mesh screen assembly 812. Furthermore, as the material to be screened passes along the screening area, a first portion of the fluid in the material passes through the plastic / synthetic screening assembly 810, while the material itself travels along the plastic / synthetic screening assembly 810. When the material passes through the wire mesh screen assembly, a second portion of the fluid in the material passes through the wire mesh screen assembly 812.

[0300] A screening machine 800 (e.g., a mixer 800) using a combination of a plastic / synthetic screening assembly 810 and a wire mesh screening assembly 812 can achieve screening and dewatering efficiency at least as high as a screening machine using a full set of wire mesh screening assemblies. Furthermore, the wire mesh screening assembly 812 of the mixer 800 experiences less wear compared to a screening machine using a full set of wire mesh screening assemblies. Therefore, the wire mesh screening assembly 812 of the mixer does not require frequent replacement, further reducing machine downtime and improving its overall efficiency. In addition, the average screen life is also increased.

[0301] Figure 29C and 29D They are shown respectively Figure 29A and 29BEnd views and partial end views of the screening machine 800 are shown. As these figures illustrate, the plastic / synthetic screening assembly 810 and the wire mesh screening assembly 812 can also have different physical configurations. As shown, in one embodiment, the plastic / synthetic screening assembly 810 and the wire mesh screening assembly 812 can each utilize an undulating or corrugated screening surface, wherein the screening surface has alternating peaks and valleys. In the illustrated embodiment, the peak height of the plastic / synthetic screening assembly 810 is greater than the peak height of the wire mesh screening assembly 812. However, it is understood that the screening assemblies can have a common configuration. Furthermore, although the screening surfaces of the screening assemblies 810 and 812 are each shown as undulating or corrugated surfaces, it is understood that the screening surfaces can have other configurations (e.g., substantially flat).

[0302] The plastic / synthetic screening assembly 810 may have a screening surface made of synthetic materials such as polyurethane, thermoplastic polymers (e.g., polyurethane), and thermosetting polymers, but is not limited thereto. Molded polyurethane filters are described in U.S. Patent 9,908,150, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. For example, thermosetting and thermoplastic polymer screens are described in U.S. Patent Publication US-20210354173, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0303] The wire mesh screening assembly 812 may include one or more layers of woven mesh material. This woven mesh material may be attached to an underlying support plate by gluing, welding, or mechanical fastening. An exemplary wire mesh screening assembly is described in U.S. Patent 7,228,971, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0304] Figure 30AThe diagram illustrates an arrangement of plastic / synthetic screening components 820 and wire mesh screening components 830 on a dual-screening zone screener, as well as an arrangement of a single-screening zone screener. In this arrangement, each machine includes a first synthetic screening component 820a located at the machine inlet / feed end and a second synthetic screening component 820b located immediately downstream of the first synthetic screening component 820a. The first wire mesh screening component 830a is located downstream of the second synthetic screening component 820b. Finally, the second wire mesh screening component 830b is located downstream of the first wire mesh screening component 830a and near the outlet / discharge end. In this arrangement, the dual-screening zone machine uses two sets of parallel synthetic screening components 820a, 820b and two sets of parallel wire mesh screening components 830a, 830b, while the single-screening zone machine uses two synthetic screening components 820a, 820b and two wire mesh screening components 830a, 830b. In this respect, half of the screening area (i.e., the inlet / upstream half) is covered by a synthetic screening assembly, and the other half of the screening area (i.e., the outlet / downstream half) is covered by a wire mesh screening assembly.

[0305] Figure 30B and Figure 30C An alternative arrangement of the screening components is shown. More specifically, Figure 30B An arrangement is shown in which the screening machine uses three composite screening components 820a, 820b and 820c and a single wire mesh screening component 830a located at the outlet end. Figure 30C An arrangement is shown in which the screening machine uses a composite screening assembly 820a located at the inlet end and three wire mesh screening assemblies 830a, 830b and 830c. Other variations are also possible for machines with different numbers of screening assemblies.

[0306] Although the above discussion has primarily focused on screening machines with concave support surfaces (such as longitudinal beams or partitions) where the screening components are compressed into a concave shape, it should be noted that various aspects of different compression devices can be used with screening machines of different configurations. For example, a compression device can be used with a screening machine having a flatter base portion (e.g., less concave or even flat).

[0307] All directional references (e.g., positive, negative, up, down, upward, downward, left, right, left-right, top, bottom, above, below, vertical, horizontal, clockwise, and counterclockwise) are used for identification purposes only to aid the reader's understanding of this disclosure and do not impose limitations, particularly on the location, orientation, or use of any aspect of this disclosure. As used herein, the phrases “configured as,” “configured for,” and similar phrases indicate that the subject device, apparatus, or system is designed and / or constructed (e.g., by appropriate hardware, software, and / or components) to achieve one or more specific target purposes, rather than that the subject device, apparatus, or system is merely capable of performing the target purpose. Connection terms (e.g., “attachment,” “coupling,” “connection,” etc.) should be interpreted broadly and may include intermediate members between elements and relative movement between elements. Therefore, connection terms do not necessarily imply that two elements are directly connected and fixed to each other. All content contained in the foregoing description or shown in the figures should be construed as illustrative only and not limiting. Changes to details or structure may be made without departing from the scope of this disclosure as defined in the appended claims.

[0308] Any patent, publication, or other disclosed material that is referenced and incorporated herein by reference is incorporated in whole or in part only to the extent that the incorporated material does not conflict with any existing definitions, statements, or other disclosures set forth in this disclosure. Therefore, to the extent necessary, the disclosures expressly stated herein supersede any conflicting material incorporated herein by reference. Any material or part thereof that is referred to as incorporated herein by reference but conflicts with any existing definitions, statements, or other disclosures herein is incorporated only to the extent that the incorporated material does not conflict with any existing disclosures.

Claims

1. A screening assembly for screening materials, comprising: A support member having a front edge and a rear edge, as well as a first side edge and a second side edge, wherein the support member includes a plurality of support elements connected to each other to form the support member; A screening surface, which is fixed to the top of the support member, is formed of plastic or synthetic material and has multiple screening openings; as well as A plurality of mounting holes are provided on a first side edge of the support member, wherein each of the plurality of mounting holes includes at least one compression surface, the at least one compression surface being at least partially recessed into the first side edge of the support member and configured to receive a compressive force for securing the screening assembly to the screening machine.

2. The screening assembly according to claim 1, wherein the support member includes a first clamping bar attached to a first side of the support member and a second clamping bar attached to a second side of the support member, and wherein the first plurality of mounting holes are located in the first clamping bar.

3. The screening assembly according to claim 1, wherein each of the first plurality of mounting holes includes a first compression surface and a second compression surface intersecting at a compression angle, the compression angle being recessed within a first side edge of the support member.

4. The screening assembly of claim 1, wherein each of the first plurality of mounting holes includes an alignment groove extending to a first side edge of the support member.

5. The screening assembly of claim 1, further comprising a second plurality of mounting holes disposed on a second side edge of the support member, wherein each of the second plurality of mounting holes comprises at least one compression surface, the at least one compression surface being at least partially recessed in the second side edge of the support member and configured to receive a compressive force for securing the screen assembly to the screening machine.

6. The screening assembly of claim 5, wherein the support member is configured such that when a compressive force having a component pointing toward the centerline of the support member is applied to at least one compression surface of each of the first plurality of mounting holes and the second plurality of mounting holes, the support member bends into a concave shape such that the center of the support member is below the first side edge and the second side edge of the support member.

7. The screening assembly according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of support elements comprises: First, multiple planar support elements; as well as The second set of multiple pyramid-shaped support elements.

8. The screening assembly of claim 7, wherein the first plurality of planar support elements are connected to each other to form an elongated strip of planar support elements having a first side edge, wherein the second plurality of pyramidal support elements are attached to each other to form an elongated strip of pyramidal support elements having a second side edge, and wherein the first side edge of the elongated strip of the planar support elements is attached to the second side edge of the elongated strip of the pyramidal support elements.

9. The screening assembly of claim 7, wherein the first plurality of planar support elements are connected to each other to form an elongated strip of a plurality of planar support elements having a first side edge and a second side edge, wherein the second plurality of pyramidal support elements are attached to each other to form an elongated strip of a plurality of pyramidal support elements having a first side edge and a second side edge, and wherein the elongated strips of planar support elements and the elongated strips of pyramidal support elements are connected to each other in an alternating manner to form support members.

10. The screening assembly of claim 1, wherein the screening surface comprises a plurality of injection-molded screening elements attached to a support element, wherein the plurality of screening elements cooperate to form the screening surface.

11. A screening assembly for screening materials, comprising: A support member having a front edge and a rear edge, as well as a first side edge and a second side edge; The screening surface is fixed to the top of the support member; as well as A plurality of mounting holes are provided on a first side edge of the support member, wherein each of the plurality of mounting holes includes at least one compression surface, the at least one compression surface being at least partially recessed into the first side edge of the support member and configured to receive a compressive force for securing the screening assembly to the screening machine.

12. The screening assembly of claim 11, wherein the support member includes a first clamping bar forming a first side edge of the support member, and wherein the first plurality of mounting holes are located in the first clamping bar.

13. The screening assembly of claim 11, wherein each of the first plurality of mounting holes includes a first compression surface and a second compression surface intersecting at a compression angle, the compression angle being recessed within a first side edge of the support member.

14. The screening assembly of claim 11, wherein each of the first plurality of mounting holes includes an alignment groove extending to a first side edge of the support member.

15. The screening assembly of claim 1, further comprising a second plurality of mounting holes disposed on a second side edge of a support member, wherein each of the second plurality of mounting holes comprises at least one compression surface, the at least one compression surface being at least partially recessed in the second side edge of the support member and configured to receive a compressive force for securing the screen assembly to the screening machine.

16. The screening assembly of claim 15, wherein the support member is configured to bend into a concave shape such that the center of the support member is below the first and second side edges of the support member when a compressive force having a component pointing toward the centerline of the support member is applied to at least one compression surface of each of the first plurality of mounting holes and the second plurality of mounting holes.

17. The screening assembly of claim 1, wherein the screening surface comprises a plurality of injection-molded screening elements attached to the top of a support member, wherein the plurality of screening elements cooperate to form the screening surface.

18. A method for forming a screening assembly for screening materials, comprising: A plurality of support elements are provided, the plurality of support elements being formed of plastic or synthetic materials; Multiple support elements are connected to each other to form a support member having a front edge and a rear edge, as well as a first side edge and a second side edge, wherein a first plurality of mounting holes are provided on the first side edge of the support member, each of the first plurality of mounting holes including at least one compression surface, the at least one compression surface being at least partially recessed into the first side edge of the support member, the at least one compression surface being configured to receive a compression force for securing the screening assembly to the screening machine; as well as The screening surface is attached to the top of the support member.

19. The method of claim 18, further comprising attaching a first clamping strip to a first side of the support member and attaching a second clamping strip to a second side of the support member, wherein the first plurality of mounting holes are located in the first clamping strip.

20. The method of claim 18, wherein each of the first plurality of mounting holes includes a first compression surface and a second compression surface intersecting at a compression angle, the compression angle being recessed within a first side edge of the support member.

21. The method of claim 18, wherein each of the first plurality of mounting holes includes an alignment groove extending to a first side edge of the support member.

22. The method of claim 18, wherein the support member further comprises a second plurality of mounting holes disposed on a second side edge of the support member, wherein each of the second plurality of mounting holes comprises at least one compression surface, the at least one compression surface being at least partially recessed in the second side edge of the support member and configured to receive a compressive force for securing the screening assembly to the screening machine.

23. The method of claim 18, wherein providing a plurality of support elements includes providing a first plurality of planar support elements and providing a second plurality of pyramidal support elements.

24. The method of claim 23, wherein the plurality of support elements are interconnected to form a support member, comprising: The first plurality of planar support elements are connected to each other to form a strip of planar support elements having a first side edge and a second side edge; The second plurality of pyramid-shaped support elements are attached to each other to form a slender strip of a plurality of pyramid-shaped support elements having a first side edge and a second side edge; as well as The elongated strips of the planar support element and the elongated strips of the pyramidal support element are connected to each other in an alternating manner to form a support member.

25. A method for forming a screening assembly for screening materials, comprising: A support member formed of plastic or synthetic material having a front edge and a rear edge, as well as a first side edge and a second side edge, such that a first plurality of mounting holes are provided on the first side edge of the support member, wherein each of the first plurality of mounting holes includes at least one compression surface, the at least one compression surface being at least partially recessed into the first side edge of the support member, and wherein the at least one compression surface is configured to receive a compressive force for securing a screening assembly to a screening machine; as well as The screening surface is attached to the top of the support member.

26. The method of claim 25, wherein forming the support member comprises: Provide the first clamping bar; as well as The first clamping strip is attached to the support member such that the first clamping strip forms a first side edge of the support member, wherein the first plurality of mounting holes are located in the first clamping strip.

27. The method of claim 25, wherein forming the support member comprises forming such a support member that each of the first plurality of mounting holes includes a first compression surface and a second compression surface intersecting at a compression angle, the compression angle being recessed within a first side edge of the support member.

28. The method of claim 25, wherein forming the support member comprises forming such a support member that each of the first plurality of mounting holes includes an alignment groove extending to a first side edge of the support member.

29. The method of claim 25, wherein forming the support member comprises forming such a support member as to include a second plurality of mounting holes disposed on a second side edge of the support member, wherein each of the second plurality of mounting holes includes at least one compression surface, the at least one compression surface being at least partially recessed in the second side edge of the support member, each of the at least one compression surface being configured to receive a compressive force for securing a screen assembly to a screening machine.

30. The method of claim 25, wherein attaching the screening surface to the top of the support member comprises attaching a plurality of injection-molded screening elements to the top of the support member, wherein the plurality of support elements cooperate to form the screening surface.

Images