SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MONITORING THE CONDITION OF A CONVEYOR BELT OF A CONVEYOR SYSTEM AND A CORRESPONDING CONVEYOR SYSTEM

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a system for monitoring the condition of a conveyor belt in a conveyor system. The system comprises a support shaft and at least one scraper segment arranged on the support shaft and connected to it in a torque-transmitting manner. The system also includes at least one stationary support with a bearing in which the support shaft is rotatably mounted. Furthermore, the system has a motion element arranged on the support and movably coupled to the support shaft, and a sensor for monitoring the condition of the conveyor belt.

[0002] Furthermore, the present invention relates to a method for monitoring the condition of a conveyor belt of a conveyor belt system using a system of the aforementioned type.

[0003] Furthermore, the present invention relates to a conveyor belt system comprising a conveyor belt and a system of the aforementioned type.

[0004] Conveyor belt systems use a moving conveyor belt to transport bulk materials, such as sand, gravel, coal, ore, from one place to another. When the bulk material falls off the conveyor belt at the end of a deflection, some residue sometimes remains stuck to the belt. A conveyor belt scraper device can include a scraper segment of the aforementioned type. The scraper segment serves to remove the bulk material adhering to the conveyor belt.

[0005] Typically, the first scraper segment(s) are located directly at the deflection roller of the conveyor belt and are known as primary scrapers. On the lower run of the conveyor belt, behind the primary scraper in the direction of travel, there is usually a secondary scraper.

[0006] The usually several adjacent scraper segments of a conveyor belt scraper device are interchangeably attached to a support shaft that is usually rotatable and often also linearly adjustable, and which can extend transversely to the conveyor belt.

[0007] An adjusting device may be provided. This is usually connected to one or both ends of the support shaft and may be designed, via a suitable lifting mechanism or pre-tensioned springs, to generate the necessary pre-tension for the conveyor belt scraper. The adjusting device sometimes includes a drive motor. The drive motor is then controlled by an electrical or electronic control system. When only one drive motor is mentioned, this includes a variant in which several drive motors are provided, in particular one drive motor at each end of the support shaft.

[0008] In In practice, there are established procedures for visually monitoring the condition of conveyor belts. However, this requires complex analysis of the measurement results and is also prone to errors, resulting in high operating, maintenance, and manufacturing costs. If damage or potential damage—for example, caused by adhering bulk material—is detected too late, it can lead to damage to the entire conveyor system, potentially resulting in a complete system failure and incurring consequential costs that are difficult to estimate. For instance, if bulk material enters the conveyor system's drive mechanism, the damage can be considerable.

[0009] Document CN 113 772 375 A discloses a conveyor system with a scraper device mounted on a support shaft. The support shaft is rotatably mounted in two stationary brackets. Both ends of the support shaft are equipped with a clamping device. Each clamping device includes, among other things, a clamping sleeve attached to the outer circumference of the support shaft. The clamping sleeve is connected to a connecting block with an adjustment hole. An adjusting rod is inserted into the adjusting hole. By adjusting the adjusting rod, the clamping sleeve can move relative to the adjusting rod over the connecting block. The adjusting rod is equipped with an adjusting assembly. This assembly includes two magnets, a spring, and a pressure sensor that can detect whether detached conveyor belt layers, blocks of material, small parts, etc., are present between the scraper device and the conveyor belt.

[0010] Document DE 10 2004 014084 A1 discloses a device , which includes the features of the preamble of claim 1, for monitoring a conveyor belt arrangement with a belt cleaner, wherein the belt cleaner is assigned at least one sensor which, during operation, detects at least one belt-specific parameter, thereby enabling the determination of a quantity characterizing the belt condition. This is intended to enable continuous condition monitoring of the conveyor belt.

[0011] Document DE 10 2018 123799 A1 discloses a belt wiper comprising a wiper element for cleaning a belt. The wiper element is pivotably mounted about a pivot axis. Additionally, a sensor with two sensor elements is provided for determining the pivot angle of the wiper element relative to the belt. The distance between the sensor elements represents the angular deflection of a pivot arm. The distance or angular deflection is determined by the non-contact sensor, which comprises an indexing element and a sensing element. The sensing element determines the position of the movable indexing element, which is mounted on a movable element coupled to the wiper element.

[0012] Damage to the conveyor belt should be detected as early, reliably, and automatically as possible, while false detections (where damage is assumed when none is actually present) should be avoided as much as possible. Ideally, when damage occurs, its position on the conveyor belt should be detected as precisely as possible.

[0013] The object of the present invention is therefore to provide a system or a method for the efficient or reliable monitoring of the condition of a conveyor belt of a conveyor belt system, in particular whereby disadvantages of the prior art are to be avoided or at least substantially reduced.

[0014] To solve this problem, the present invention provides a system for monitoring the condition of a conveyor belt in a conveyor belt system.

[0015] The system comprises a support shaft and several scraper segments arranged on the support shaft and connected to it in a torque-transmitting manner. The scraper segments can be arranged particularly close to one another on the support shaft. The scraper segments can be designed to ensure the removal of conveyed material adhering to the conveyor belt.

[0016] Furthermore, the system according to the invention comprises a stationary mounting with a retaining bearing in which the support shaft is rotatably mounted. A movement element of the system is also arranged on the mounting, wherein the movement element is movably coupled to the support shaft. In particular, the movement element is connected to the support shaft in a rotationally fixed and / or torsionally fixed manner.

[0017] According to the invention, the system has a sensor for monitoring the condition of the conveyor belt.

[0018] The wiper segments, the support shaft and the bracket as well as the moving element interact in such a way that a force acting on the wiper segments is transferred to the moving element, wherein the sensor is arranged and designed in such a way that the sensor detects a characteristic, in particular a physical, quantity of the moving element.

[0019] According to the invention, the sensor is fixedly arranged on the bracket.

[0020] The invention makes it possible to monitor the condition of the conveyor belt using the sensor, or to draw conclusions about the condition of the conveyor belt, preferably for damage detection. In tests carried out during the development of the invention, it was surprisingly found that a sensor, which can be arranged particularly on the mounting, can allow conclusions to be drawn about the condition of the conveyor belt by monitoring the moving element.

[0021] The fixed mounting of the sensor on the bracket allows it to interact with the moving element in a relatively simple manner, particularly when the sensor is positioned adjacent to the moving element. The sensor can preferably be located directly adjacent to the moving element. The moving element, in turn, can be movably, and in particular rotatably, mounted on the bracket. Thus, the bracket ensures interaction between the sensor and the moving element.

[0022] In particular, it may be provided, for example, that the scraper segments are in contact with the conveyor belt, whereby when contact is made with the area of ​​the conveyor belt in which damage is present, the interaction of the scraper segments and the conveyor belt is changed in such a way that the force acting on the scraper segments can be detected by the sensor through interaction with the movement element.

[0023] In particular, the moving element can also be movably, preferably pivotably, mounted on the bracket. Ultimately, the sensor can interact with the moving element in such a way that the sensor can at least indirectly detect a change in the position of the scraper end of one of the scraper segments facing the conveyor belt and / or a change in the contact force required to bring the scraper end into contact with the conveyor belt.

[0024] Preferably, a belt driving force applied by the conveyor belt to the wiping end of one of the wiping segments can be detected at least indirectly; in particular, changes in the belt driving force can be recorded.

[0025] During the development of the invention, it was discovered that these aforementioned changes could in turn indicate belt damage.

[0026] According to the invention, it is possible to enable economical, efficient and safe monitoring of the conveyor belt in a comparatively simple way.

[0027] In particular, according to the invention, conclusions can be drawn about the condition of the conveyor belt by means of the sensor and the interaction of the movement element and the sensor, preferably for damage detection.

[0028] The load data or measurement signals recorded by the sensor can be evaluated in particular, so that, for example, a check can be carried out to see if limit values ​​– which in particular limit a specified range – are not exceeded and / or fallen below.

[0029] In particular, the invention makes it possible to identify a potential damage event in a timely manner and, especially, to estimate the extent of any potential damage. This preferably ensures a significant reduction in the operating and maintenance costs of the entire conveyor system.

[0030] Preferably, the sensor can at least indirectly detect the movement of the moving element, allowing inferences to be drawn about the conveyor belt, since the moving element is connected to the support shaft and the support shaft, in turn, to the scraper segments. In particular, the sensor can detect when the support shaft or the scraper segments undergo a change such that the scraper segments are or have been brought out of contact with the conveyor belt.

[0031] In a particularly preferred embodiment of the present invention, the system includes an adjusting device by means of which the support shaft can be moved such that a surface of the scraper segments, in particular a scraper end, can be brought into contact with the conveyor belt, wherein the adjusting device is arranged and / or mounted on the holding device and is furthermore connected to the support shaft in a way that transmits torque. The moving element can be movably coupled to the adjusting device or be part of the adjusting device.

[0032] The adjusting device can, in particular, transmit an adjusting force to the wiper segments, which brings the wiping end of one of the wiper segments into contact with the conveyor belt. In the event of conveyor belt or belt damage, this adjusting force required by the adjusting device can change, in particular increase. According to the invention, such a change in the required adjusting force can then be detected, in particular by means of the motion element and the sensor.

[0033] The adjusting device can preferably be arranged and / or mounted on the bracket - in particular outside the conveyor belt - preferably at least indirectly on a deflection roller of the conveyor belt.

[0034] In particular, the sensor can detect when one of the scraper segments is or has been brought out of contact with the conveyor belt, and the contact force changes or has changed as a result.

[0035] Ultimately, the adjusting device can apply a preload force to the support shaft, which in turn brings the scraper segments and their scraping ends into contact with the conveyor belt at the desired preload. The preload must be high enough to reliably scrape off any remaining bulk material adhering to the conveyor belt, but preferably not too high to prevent damage to the conveyor belt by the scraper segments.

[0036] The positioning device can interact with one or more scraper segments.

[0037] In particular, the adjusting device is arranged on or connected to the support shaft and therefore interacts with the scraper segments arranged on the support shaft.

[0038] The moving element can preferably be designed as a freely rotatable lever mounted on the bracket or as a freely rotatable pendulum mounted on the bracket.

[0039] Preferably, the moving element is connected to the support shaft in a rotationally fixed and / or torsionally rigid manner, as previously explained. Such an arrangement of the moving element allows it to be coupled to the scraper segments via the support shaft, particularly in a preferred embodiment, especially when the scraper segments are rotationally fixed to the support shaft. Thus, the connection via the support shaft makes it possible to detect, or to register via the sensor, any change in the scraper segments that indicates conveyor belt damage.

[0040] Alternatively or additionally, the moving element can be connected to the support shaft in such a way that a load on the support shaft causes a translational movement of the moving element. Such an arrangement or connection between the moving element and the support shaft allows the condition of the conveyor belt to be monitored, at least indirectly, through the interaction between the support shaft and the scraper segments, and, on the other hand, through the interaction between the moving element and the support shaft via the sensor, due to the translational movement of the moving element.

[0041] Ultimately, a change in the translational movement of the moving element can, after appropriate evaluation, indicate damage to the conveyor belt, which can be determined by the measurement data recorded by the sensor.

[0042] In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that the sensor and the movement element are arranged and designed in such a way that, when the movement element moves, the movement element exerts a force on the sensor, in particular pushing against the sensor or pulling the sensor.

[0043] In the normal or unloaded state of the moving element, it may be provided that the moving element is out of contact with the sensor.

[0044] In principle, it can also be provided in other embodiments that the moving element is in contact with the sensor even in the normal or unloaded state.

[0045] By applying a force, the sensor can detect whether there is damage to the conveyor belt and thus monitor its condition. Specifically, changes in force can be detected, which in turn allows conclusions to be drawn about the condition of the conveyor belt.

[0046] Preferably, the sensor is arranged and configured such that it detects a force exerted on it by the moving element. By detecting this force, the sensor is able to acquire measurement signals that can then be used for evaluation and to determine the condition of the conveyor belt. The force can be detected directly or indirectly. Indirect detection of the force means, in particular, that the sensor can detect a physical quantity that correlates with the exerted force.

[0047] In a further preferred embodiment, the sensor is arranged and configured such that it detects a change in the position or angular orientation of the moving element or an acceleration of the moving element. With such a configuration of both the moving element and the sensor, translational and rotational movement of the moving element, as well as acceleration, can be detected. Thus, alternatively or additionally to force, the displacement of the moving element or a change in its movement can also be used for damage detection. The sensor can therefore be configured in various ways, but in each case, it enables conclusions to be drawn about the condition of the conveyor belt.

[0048] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the sensor comprises a strain gauge or is configured as a strain gauge, force sensor, piezoelectric sensor, potentiometer, angle sensor, accelerometer, or magnetic proximity sensor. The aforementioned sensor configurations enable the condition of the conveyor belt to be monitored through the interaction between the moving element and the sensor. According to the invention, it has been found that different measuring principles can be used to determine the condition of the conveyor belt, in particular by detecting changes in the force exerted on the wiper segments. Ultimately, the sensor is specifically designed to allow for conveyor belt damage detection.

[0049] Designing the sensor as a strain gauge is particularly preferred because it ensures an efficient, cost-effective, and reliable measurement method. With a strain gauge, the force exerted on the sensor by the moving element can be detected, at least indirectly. This force can then be used to infer the condition of the conveyor belt.

[0050] Preferably, alternatively or additionally, the sensor is designed such that a deflection of the moving element can be measured, in particular wherein the sensor is designed as an optical sensor or ultrasonic sensor. The deflection of the moving element, which can be detected at least indirectly via the sensor, can also serve as an indicator of the condition of the conveyor belt and of a change in the wiper segments.

[0051] Preferably, the sensor is arranged in a housing within the mounting. The housing can at least partially surround the sensor and preferably protects it from external influences and / or mechanical damage. Furthermore, the housing can ensure that the sensor is protected from dirt, which accumulates particularly during operation of the conveyor system in the area of ​​the deflection roller. This can improve the wear resistance of the sensor.

[0052] The moving element preferably has a projection for interaction with the sensor. Preferably, an outer edge of the moving element, and more preferably of the projection, facing the sensor, is shaped like a segment of a circular arc or at least substantially like a segment of a circular arc. Such a design can ensure, in a relatively simple manner, the detection of either the deflection or the force exerted on the sensor by the moving element when it rotates.

[0053] Advantageously, the system includes a restoring element, preferably a spring, which is arranged on the holder and exerts a restoring force on the moving element when it is moved. The restoring element thus ensures that the moving element returns to its original position when moved. Alternatively, the restoring element can be designed so that the restoring force it applies must first be overcome before the moving element can move. This can initiate the movement of the moving element and, in particular, ensure that not every minor change in the applied force on the wiper end is detected, but preferably only a certain minimum degree of change in the wiper segments is recorded.Ultimately, the reserve can be used to define a lower limit that must first be overcome.

[0054] In a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, the system includes a communication device for transmitting information acquired by the sensor. This communication device can be spaced apart from or arranged outside the mounting. The communication device can also be arranged outside the conveyor belt. Accordingly, the communication device can also be considered an external communication device.

[0055] In another embodiment, the communication device can also be cloud-based.

[0056] Preferably, the communication device is a physical unit located near the conveyor system or conveyor belt, which evaluates information acquired by the sensor to monitor the condition of the conveyor belt. Ultimately, the communication device can evaluate the information acquired by the sensor and thus monitor the condition of the conveyor belt. Preferably, the evaluation can be performed in such a way that damage to the conveyor belt can be detected by the communication device. For this purpose, the information acquired by the sensor can also be compared with limit values ​​stored in the communication device.

[0057] Preferably, the communication device is connected to the sensor via a wired connection. In In further embodiments, it may also be provided that a wireless connection enables easy transmission of the measurement signals from the sensor.

[0058] The system preferably includes a measuring device for detecting the speed, direction of travel, and / or position of the conveyor belt. The measuring device may, in particular, include a measuring roller. The measuring roller may be arranged on the conveyor belt, preferably below it. The measuring roller enables the speed of the conveyor belt to be detected, preferably by the moving conveyor belt also moving or carrying the measuring roller, preferably by transmitting a torque to the measuring roller, whereby the speed of the conveyor belt can in turn be determined from the rotational speed of the measuring roller.

[0059] Furthermore, inductive sensors of the measuring device can be arranged on the measuring roller. These inductive sensors can interact, in particular, with an indicator medium that may be arranged on the conveyor belt. The indicator medium could, for example, be a metal strip arranged on the conveyor belt. This allows the position of the conveyor belt to be determined, for example, by relating the position of the indicator medium to the speed of the conveyor belt. The direction of travel of the conveyor belt, in turn, can be determined by the direction of rotation of the measuring roller.

[0060] In a further preferred embodiment, the measuring device is connected to the communication device for transmitting information acquired by the measuring device. Preferably, this allows the communication device to be configured such that information received from the measuring device and the sensor is linked, or can be linked, by the communication device in such a way that the position of damage on the conveyor belt can be detected. Such position detection can be achieved, for example, by utilizing the interaction between the inductive sensors and the indicator medium. However, the position can also be determined in other ways.

[0061] Linking the measurement data from both the measuring device and the sensor enables the conveyor belt operator to detect damage relatively quickly, allowing for timely repairs. This reduces the costs and effort required for conveyor belt maintenance.

[0062] Preferably, the system includes a control unit for the conveyor belt system. The communication device can be connected to the control unit in such a way that, upon detection of damage to the conveyor belt, the communication device shuts down the control unit, the conveyor belt, and / or the conveyor belt system, and / or releases the scraper segments from the conveyor belt. This allows the operator of the conveyor belt system to prevent further damage to the conveyor belt and enables relatively quick intervention to repair the damage. The control unit thus leads to increased safety for the entire conveyor belt system.

[0063] In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, a manual clutch is provided on the support shaft and preferably on the adjusting device, by means of which the rotational position of the support shaft and preferably of the moving element can be manually adjusted and fixed in the respective set rotational position. In particular, by appropriate actuation of the clutch, the scraper segments can be adjusted to or released from the conveyor belt. The clutch thus enables an external person to easily intervene and change the position of the scraper segments.

[0064] Preferably, the adjusting device has a drive element of an electric drive motor, which is fixedly mounted on the bracket and coupled to the support shaft to transmit torque. Preferably, the drive element is rotationally fixed to the moving element. The drive motor can also be provided in addition to, or used as an alternative to, the coupling.

[0065] An adjusting device without a drive motor can also be provided according to the invention, whereby the preload forces acting on the stripping segments can then be applied by the adjusting device.

[0066] The invention also relates to a method for monitoring the condition of a conveyor belt in a conveyor system. The method comprises, firstly, providing a system according to one of the aforementioned embodiments. Furthermore, a characteristic parameter of the moving element is detected according to the method and the invention. This characteristic parameter of the moving element is detected in the manner described above, which is particularly advantageous.

[0067] Therefore, it is understood that, with regard to preferred embodiments and advantages of the method according to the invention, reference may be made to the aforementioned advantages and preferred configurations of the system, which can also apply to the method in the same way according to the invention. Ultimately, the monitoring of the condition of the conveyor belt of the conveyor system is carried out in the method according to the invention, whereby the system according to the invention is used. It has already been explained in connection with the description of the system how such a monitoring method can be carried out, so that further explanations in this regard may be omitted to avoid unnecessary repetition.

[0068] In the method according to the invention, the support shaft is preferably moved such that a surface of the scraper segments is in contact with the conveyor belt. In particular, when the characteristic size of the moving element is detected, the scraper segments are in contact with the conveyor belt.

[0069] To measure the characteristic parameter of the moving element, which in turn allows conclusions to be drawn about potential damage to the conveyor belt, various measurement methods or principles can be provided. In a first preferred embodiment, when the moving element moves, it exerts a force on the sensor; in particular, the moving element pushes against the sensor, or pulls the sensor. This force, or a parameter correlated to this force, can in particular be the characteristic parameter to be detected by the sensor.

[0070] In another preferred embodiment, a force exerted on the sensor by the moving element, a change in the position or angular orientation of the moving element, or an acceleration of the moving element is detected.

[0071] Alternatively or additionally, a deflection of the moving element can be measured.

[0072] The aforementioned measurement methods make it possible, in particular, to monitor the condition of the conveyor belt by recording the characteristic size of the moving element.

[0073] In a particularly preferred embodiment of the method, the communication device evaluates the information acquired by the sensor to monitor the condition of the conveyor belt. The evaluation is carried out in such a way that damage to the conveyor belt can be detected by the communication device. Thus, the method according to the invention can, in particular, ensure damage detection on the conveyor belt.

[0074] Preferably, the measuring device is designed to detect the speed, direction of travel, and / or position of the conveyor belt, at least indirectly. The measuring device can utilize the measuring roller and / or inductive sensors, as well as the indicator medium, as explained above.

[0075] Furthermore, the present invention relates to a conveyor belt system comprising a conveyor belt and a system according to one of the aforementioned embodiments.

[0076] With regard to the conveyor belt system according to the invention, it is understood that, in order to avoid unnecessary explanations, explicit reference may be made to the explanations of the method and / or the system, which apply equally to the present invention of the conveyor belt system, without the need for further explicit mention.

[0077] Further features, advantages and possible applications of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of exemplary embodiments with reference to the drawing and the drawing itself.

[0078] It shows: Fig. 1 a schematic perspective view of a conveyor belt system according to the invention, Fig. 2 a schematic side view of parts of a further embodiment of a conveyor belt system according to the invention, Fig. 3 a schematic side view of parts of a further embodiment of a conveyor belt system according to the invention, Fig. 4 a schematic side view of parts of a further embodiment of a conveyor belt system according to the invention, Fig. 5 a schematic side view of parts of a further embodiment of a conveyor belt system according to the invention, Fig. 6 a schematic perspective exploded view of parts of a system according to the invention, Fig. 7 a schematic perspective view of parts of a further embodiment of a system according to the invention, Fig. 8 a schematic perspective view of parts of a further embodiment of a system according to the invention.Fig. 9 a schematic perspective view of parts of a further embodiment of a system according to the invention, Fig. 10 a schematic representation of the interaction of certain components of a further embodiment of a system according to the invention, Fig. 11 a schematic representation of a method according to the invention, Fig. 12 a schematic bottom view of a conveyor belt according to the invention, and Fig. 13 a schematic perspective view of a measuring device according to the invention.

[0079] Fig. 1 Figure 1 schematically shows a conveyor belt system 3 with a conveyor belt 2, in which a first embodiment of a system 1 according to the invention is used to monitor the condition of the conveyor belt 2.

[0080] Fig. 1 Figure 1 shows – in a schematic representation – the leading end of the conveyor belt system 3 for conveyed material 24. The conveyed material 24 can also be referred to as bulk material. The conveyor belt 2 has a conveyor section 25 and a return section 23 (lower run) below it. The conveyor belt 2 is arranged continuously around the conveyor belt system 3. In the transition area from conveyor section 25 to return section 23, the conveyor belt 2 runs around a deflection roller 26.

[0081] A drive, not shown in detail, is connected to conveyor belt 2 and is intended to drive conveyor belt 2.

[0082] On conveyor belt 2 - specifically on the top of its conveyor belt section 25 - there is in Fig. 1 The conveyed material 24 is schematically indicated. For example, the conveyed material 24 can be bulk material such as sand, gravel, coal, ore or the like.

[0083] Below the conveyor belt 2 and not far from the deflection roller 26, a support shaft 4 of the conveyor belt system 3 and the system 1 can be seen. The support shaft 4 can have a hexagonal cross-section. Three scraper segments 5 are arranged on or attached to the support shaft 4, by way of example. The scraper segments 5 can ultimately be arranged on the support shaft 4 in different ways. Several scraper segments 5 are arranged on the support shaft 4 and are connected to it in a torque-transmitting manner. In particular, each scraper segment 5 is positively connected to the support shaft 4 in a torque-transmitting manner. Each scraper segment 5 can have a scraper end 6 located opposite a retaining end 22. Fig. 1 Figure 27 shows a so-called primary scraper 27, in which the scraping end 6 of each scraper segment 5 is positioned at least substantially below the deflecting roller 26 on the conveyor belt 2 at the lower run or in the area of ​​the return section 23.

[0084] Fig. 2 shows a primary wiper 27 and a so-called secondary wiper 28.

[0085] Fig. 1 Figure 8 further shows a bracket 8, which is fixedly arranged and in which the support shaft 4 is rotatably mounted in the illustrated embodiment. The support shaft 4 can be rotatably mounted on the bracket 8 via a retaining bearing 9. The rotatable mounting of the support shaft is provided about the longitudinal axis X of the support shaft 4, as can be seen from the Fig. 1 schematically evident.

[0086] System 1 further comprises a motion element 11. The motion element 11 is arranged on the bracket 8 and is movably coupled to the support shaft 4. In particular, the motion element 11 is designed according to the diagram in Fig. 1 In the illustrated and preferred embodiment, it is connected to the support shaft 4 in a rotationally fixed manner.

[0087] Alternatively or additionally, it can be provided that the moving element 11 is connected to the support shaft 4 in such a way that a load on the support shaft 4 causes a translational movement of the moving element 11.

[0088] Furthermore, system 1 includes a sensor 10, as shown schematically in Fig. 1 , but also in the Fig. 6 as in the Fig. 7 bis 9 The sensor 10 is designed to monitor the condition of the conveyor belt 2.

[0089] According to the in Fig. 1 and in the further illustrated and preferred embodiments, it is provided that the scraper segments 5, the support shaft 4, the holder 8 and the movement element 11 interact in such a way that a force acting on the scraper segments 5 is transferred to the movement element 11, wherein the sensor 10 is arranged and designed in such a way that the sensor 10 detects a characteristic, in particular physical, quantity of the movement element 11.

[0090] This value detected by sensor 10 can then allow conclusions to be drawn about the condition of conveyor belt 2 and thus monitor it.

[0091] For example, the sensor 10 can be designed to detect a change in the position of the moving element 11, which in turn allows conclusions to be drawn about the condition of the conveyor belt 2. For example, the belt driving force exerted by the conveyor belt 2 on the wiper segments 5 or the wiper end 6 of a wiper segment 5 changes. In particular, the belt driving force exerted on the wiper end 6 changes in the event of belt damage on the conveyor belt 2.

[0092] In the event of belt damage, the scraper segments 5 can become separated from the conveyor belt 2, which in turn leads to movement of the support shaft 4, which in turn causes movement of the motion element 11. Therefore, by analyzing the interaction or coupling between the scraper segments 5 and the motion element 11, and by determining the characteristic size of the motion element 11, it is possible to deduce the position of the motion element 11 and the force exerted by the conveyor belt 2 on the scraper segments 5.

[0093] Alternatively or additionally, it may also be provided that the characteristic quantity detected by the sensor 10 can allow a conclusion to be drawn about the adjusting force to be applied to the stripping segments 5 on the conveyor belt 2, which can be applied, for example, via an adjusting device 7.

[0094] In the in Fig. 1 In the illustrated and preferred embodiment, the system 1 further comprises an adjusting device 7. By means of the adjusting device 7, the support shaft 4 can be moved such that a surface of the scraper segments 5, in particular the scraper end 6 of a scraper segment 5, can be brought into contact with the conveyor belt 2, wherein the adjusting device 7 is arranged on the bracket 10 and is connected to the support shaft 4 in a torque-transmitting manner. The moving element 11 can be movably coupled to the adjusting device 7 or be part of the adjusting device 7.

[0095] The adjusting device 7 can be motor-driven, as is the case in Fig. 1 However, it doesn't have to be depicted. In In this context, the Fig. 7 and 9 an embodiment of the adjusting device 7 or the Fig. 9 of parts of the adjusting device 7 where no drive motor 21 is present. In this case, the adjusting can be carried out, for example, via a manual clutch 19, as will be explained later. The adjusting device 7 can also then be operated manually and may include spring assemblies or similar devices to hold the scraper segments 5 in place.

[0096] In the Fig. 6 The exploded view schematically depicts the movement element 11. The movement element 11 can be designed as a single piece or in multiple parts. In Fig. 6 It is shown that in the illustrated and preferred embodiment a multi-part design of the movement element 11 is provided, wherein the components of the movement element 11 can be rotationally fixed to one another in the installed state, as is the case with the Fig. 8 schematically shown. According to the in Fig. 6 In the illustrated embodiment, the movement element 11 is also part of the positioning device 7.

[0097] At the in Fig. 1 In the illustrated and preferred embodiment, the sensor 10 and the movement element 11 are arranged and designed such that, when the movement element 11 moves, the movement element 11 exerts a force on the sensor 10, in particular pressing against the sensor 10.

[0098] Preferably, the sensor 10 can be arranged and configured such that it can detect a force exerted on it by the moving element 11. The force can be detected directly or indirectly. In particular, quantities that correlate with the force exerted on the sensor 10 by the moving element 11 can also be determined.

[0099] In particular, the sensor 10 is arranged and configured such that it can detect a change in the position or angular orientation of the moving element 11 or an acceleration of the moving element 11. This is provided in embodiments not shown in detail.

[0100] Sensor 10 can be installed in the Fig. 1 The illustrated and preferred embodiment is designed as a strain gauge. In In further embodiments, the sensor 10 can also have a strain gauge or be designed as a force sensor, piezoelectric sensor, potentiometer, angle sensor, accelerometer or magnetic proximity sensor.

[0101] In a further embodiment, not shown in detail, it is provided that a deflection of the motion element 11 can be measured, in particular if the sensor 10 is designed as an optical sensor or ultrasonic sensor.

[0102] In the Fig. 4 In the illustrated and preferred embodiment, the sensor 10 is arranged in a fixed position on the holder 8.

[0103] In Fig. 2 It is shown that ultimately two adjusting devices 7 and 7' are provided for both the primary wiper 27 and the secondary wiper 28. In In this context, it is understood that the aforementioned statements regarding the adjusting device 7 of the primary wiper 27, as shown schematically in the Fig. 1 The illustration shown also applies in the same way to the adjusting device 7' of the secondary wiper 28, without requiring further explanation. Ultimately, the system 1 can be provided on both the primary wiper 27 and the secondary wiper 28 and, in particular, can be configured according to the embodiments described above and below.

[0104] The system 1 of the secondary wiper 28 can also have a support shaft 4' and at least one wiper element 5' which is arranged on the support shaft 4'.

[0105] Out of Fig. 6 It can be seen schematically that, according to a depicted and preferred embodiment, the movement element 11 has a projection 12 for interacting with the sensor 10, which is explained in more detail in particular in the Fig. 8 As shown, the outer edge 13 of the moving element 11 or the projection 12, facing the sensor 10, is at least substantially arc-shaped and / or curved and / or angled. This design of the outer edge 13 allows the sensor 10 to detect movement or force of the moving element 11 in a relatively simple manner, thus enabling conclusions to be drawn about the state of the conveyor belt 2. The projection 12 ensures that not the entire moving element 11 has to contact the sensor 10, but rather only a predefined area, which can be designed according to the type of sensor 10.

[0106] The projection 12 can be designed such that, for example, a minimum force or distance must be overcome before it interacts with the sensor 10. This minimum force or distance was determined, in particular, through tests carried out during the development of the invention. If such a distance or force is overcome, damage to the conveyor belt 2 is to be assumed. The sensor 10 should then also detect movement or a force on the moving element 11, so that belt damage can be detected in time.

[0107] It is not shown in detail that this is in Fig. 1 The illustrated and preferred system 1 comprises a restoring means arranged on the bracket 8, which exerts a restoring force on the moving element 11 when the moving element 11 is moved. Such a restoring means can thus ensure, after the moving element 11 has deflected, that a renewed belt damage and a renewed belt damage detection can be ensured via the moving element 11 and through the interaction between the moving element 11 and the sensor 10.

[0108] In the Fig. 1 In the illustrated and preferred embodiment, a communication device 14 is provided. The communication device 14 serves to transmit information detected by the sensor 10. In particular, the sensor 10 can be connected to the communication device 14 by a wire. The communication device 14 can be arranged externally from the holder 8, as shown schematically in the Fig. 1 The communication device 14 can preferably be designed such that it evaluates the information acquired by the sensor 10 to monitor the condition of the conveyor belt 2, preferably in such a way that damage to the conveyor belt 2 can be detected by the communication device 14.

[0109] In further embodiments not shown in detail, the communication device 14 may also be connected to an external server or cloud where the corresponding evaluation of the measurement data acquired by the sensor 10 for seatbelt damage detection can be carried out. In this case, the communication device 14 may have appropriate transmission means for transmitting data to the server or cloud, preferably ensuring wireless transmission.

[0110] In the Fig. 12 und 13 It is shown that system 1 can include a measuring device 15. Thus, the Fig. 13 A measuring roller, which is part of the measuring device 15 and can be arranged below the conveyor belt 2, for example on the return section or on the underside of the conveyor belt section 25. Ultimately, the measuring device can be used to detect the speed of the conveyor belt 2, the direction of travel of the conveyor belt 2, and / or the position of the conveyor belt 2. The measuring roller can thus be used to determine the aforementioned parameters by rotating the roller.

[0111] With regard to the position of the conveyor belt 2, it can further be provided that the measuring device 15 has an indicator medium 31 which is arranged on the conveyor belt 2 or on the conveyor belt 24, as shown by the Fig. 12 This indicator medium 31 can then interact with sensors of the measuring device 15 and thus be arranged in a specific section of the conveyor belt 2. If the speed of the conveyor belt 2 and the direction of rotation are known, determining this allows conclusions to be drawn about which position of the conveyor belt 2, for example, is currently engaging the scraper segments 5, or in which area the scraper segments 5 of the conveyor belt 2 are currently arranged.

[0112] The measuring device 15 can be equipped with the communication device 14 for transmitting information acquired by the measuring device 15, as schematically shown in the Fig. 10 The communication device 14 is preferably designed such that information received from the measuring device 15 and the sensor is linked within the communication device 14 in such a way that the location of damage on the conveyor belt 2 can be detected. This is made possible by the fact that the information acquired by the sensor 10 can, in turn, determine when damage to the conveyor belt 2 has occurred. The information acquired by the measuring device 15 then makes it possible to determine in which area of ​​the conveyor belt 2 this damage is located. This can be done, for example, by determining the speed of the conveyor belt 2, its direction of travel, and its position.

[0113] In particular, the measuring device can have 15 inductive sensors, which are preferably arranged on the measuring roller. These inductive sensors can interact in particular with the indicator means 31, which is preferably a metal strip, and thus determine the position of this indicator means 31 on the conveyor belt 2.

[0114] In Fig. 10 The schematic representation shows that a control device 16 is provided. The control device 16 can be part of the system 1. The control device 16 can be configured to control the conveyor belt system 2, wherein the communication device 14 is connected to the control device 16 in such a way that, upon detection of damage to the conveyor belt 2, which can be done by the communication device 14, the control device 16 shuts down the conveyor belt 2 and / or the conveyor belt system 3 and / or that the scraper segments 5 on the conveyor belt 2 are released.

[0115] Furthermore, a manual clutch 19 may be provided, as is the case, among other things, in Fig. 4 As shown. Using the manual clutch 19, the rotational position of the support shaft 4 and, in particular according to the illustrated and preferred embodiment, also of the movement element 11 can be manually adjusted. In The rotational position of each set position can then be fixed, in particular by means of the coupling 19. By actuating the coupling 19, the wiper segments 5 are in the Fig. 4 in the illustrated and preferred embodiment, attachable to the conveyor belt 2 and / or detachable from the conveyor belt 2.

[0116] The coupling 19 is also used in the Fig. 6 bis 8 A more detailed explanation.

[0117] Fig. 1 The figure also shows a drive for the support shaft 4. At least one drive element 20 of a drive motor 21 is provided, preferably coupled to one end of the support shaft 4 to transmit torque. It is not shown in detail that a control system for the drive motor 21 may also be provided. Typically, such a control system can be an electronic control system, in particular with corresponding control software.

[0118] By appropriately controlling the drive motor 21, the scraper segments 5 with their scraper end 6 can be positioned against the conveyor belt 2 or released from the conveyor belt 2 - i.e., removed from the conveyor belt 2.

[0119] The drive motor 21 can be mounted in a fixed position or movably on the bracket 8. In the Fig. 1 In the illustrated embodiment, the drive motor 21 is not arranged directly on the bracket 8, but can ultimately displace relative to the bracket 8, although it is at least indirectly mounted on it. The drive element of the drive motor 21 is coupled to the drive element 20 in a suitable manner.

[0120] The drive motor 21 can have any configuration; for example, it can be a hydraulic or pneumatic drive motor. An electric drive motor 21 is preferred, and preferably an electric linear drive motor 21.

[0121] In principle, it is also conceivable to implement the present invention without a drive motor 21, in which case the positioning of the stripping segments 5 to the conveyor belt 2 can be carried out in another way, for example manually.

[0122] In the illustrated and thus preferred embodiment, the manual coupling 19 is connected to the support shaft 4 in a rotationally fixed manner and to the drive element 20 in a manually adjustable and lockable way. Using the coupling 19, the rotational relative position of the support shaft 4 and the drive element 20 of the drive motor 21 can be manually adjusted. For the rotationally fixed connection of the manual coupling 19 to the support shaft 4, in Fig. 4 The figure shows that a multi-sided recess 30 and the manual coupling 19, with a fixing screw therein, are provided. The fixing screw allows support shafts 4 of different sizes to be equipped with one and the same manual coupling 19.

[0123] The manually adjustable and lockable connection of the manual coupling 19 with the drive element 20 is located in the upper area, slightly above the support shaft 4. According to the preferred design, the connection of the coupling 19 to the drive element 20 features a stepped indexing mechanism 17 and a stepless fine adjustment 18. The semicircular toothed arc of the indexing mechanism 17 is visible, and above this arc, a locking pin 29 engages the indexing mechanism 17 from above at the corresponding position. This locking pin can be fixed to the drive element 20.

[0124] The locking bolt 29 can ultimately sit in the detent 17, as shown by the Fig. 7 This shows that the relative position of the manual clutch 19 is fixed with respect to the drive element 20.

[0125] The locking bolt 29 is not visible in the other figures because it is covered by the drive element 20.

[0126] According to the preferred design, the manual clutch 19 can be operated by hand alone, i.e., without tools. A pull handle can be provided for this purpose, with which the locking bolt 29 can be pulled upwards.

[0127] When the locking bolt 29 is pulled upwards with the handle, it disengages from the detent 17. The drive element 20 can then be pivoted. When the handle is subsequently released, the locking bolt 29 is, according to the preferred embodiment, pushed back into the detent 17 by spring force.

[0128] If the locking bolt 29 is already engaged in the detent 17, fine adjustment 18 is still possible using the two adjusting screws located on the left and right, which allow for corresponding changes. For example, if you want to pivot the drive element 20 to the left relative to the support shaft 4, you tighten the left screw of the fine adjustment 18 and loosen the right screw; if you want to pivot to the right, you do the opposite.

[0129] In Fig. 11 A method according to the invention is illustrated. According to the method, the condition of a conveyor belt 2 of a conveyor belt system 3 can be monitored. For this purpose, according to the method according to the invention, it is provided that, in a first step A, a system 1 according to one of the aforementioned embodiments, as previously described in connection with the Fig. 1 bis 10 as well as Fig. 12 bis 13 as described, will be provided.

[0130] In process step B, it can then be provided that a characteristic size of the movement element 11 is recorded, as has already been discussed previously.

[0131] In this context, a first embodiment may provide that, during movement of the moving element 11, the moving element 11 exerts a force on the sensor 10, in particular by pushing against or pulling on the sensor 10. This force is detectable by the sensor 10, in particular at least indirectly.

[0132] In a further, particularly alternative, embodiment of process step B, a force exerted by the moving element 11 on the sensor 10, or a change in the position or angular orientation of the moving element 11, or an acceleration of the moving element 11 can be detected.

[0133] Alternatively or additionally, a deflection of the movement element 11 can be measured.

[0134] In step C, the measuring device 15 can also detect the speed, direction of travel, or position of the conveyor belt 2, at least indirectly, in particular via the indicator medium 31 and the measuring roller. This information can preferably be transmitted to the communication device 14.

[0135] In step D, it is specifically provided that the communication device 14 extends the information acquired by the sensor 10 for monitoring the condition of the conveyor belt 2, in particular in such a way that damage to the conveyor belt 24 or conveyor belt 2 can be detected by the communication device 14.

[0136] In the evaluation of the measurement data in step D, it can also be provided that the communication device 14 links the information from the sensor 10 with the transmitted measurement data of the measuring device 15, so that in particular a detected belt damage can also be assigned a position on the conveyor belt 2.

[0137] If necessary, step E provides that the wiper segments 5 are released from conveyor belt 2 if belt damage is detected, or that the conveyor belt system 3 is switched off. However, such a shutdown is only to be carried out if damage to conveyor belt 2 is detected.

[0138] In process steps A to D, or during the execution of the process, it may be provided that the support shaft 4 is moved in such a way that a surface of the scraper segments 5 is in contact with the conveyor belt 2.

[0139] As previously explained, the Fig. 1 A section of a conveyor belt system 3 according to the invention, comprising a conveyor belt 2 and a system 1 according to one of the aforementioned embodiments. The conveyor belt system 3 itself is also part of the present invention. Bezugszeichenliste:

[0140] 1 System 2 Conveyor belt 3 Conveyor belt system 4 Support shaft 4' Support shaft 5 Scraper segment 5' Scraper segment 6 Scraper end 7 Adjustment device 7' Adjustment device 8 Bracket 9 Bracket bearing for 4 10 Sensor 11 Motion element 12 Projection of 11 13 Outer edge of 11 14 Communication device 15 Measuring device 16 Control device 17 Indexing 18 Fine adjustment 19 Coupling 20 Drive element 21 Drive motor 22 Holding end 23 Return section 24 Conveyed material 25 Conveyor belt section 26 Deflection roller 27 Primary scraper 28 Secondary scraper 29 Detent pin 30 Multi-sided recess 31 Indicator Longitudinal axis of 4

Claims

1. System (1) for monitoring the condition of a conveyor belt (2) of a conveyor belt system (3), comprising - a support shaft (4, 4'), - a plurality of scraper segments (5, 5') arranged on the support shaft (4, 4') and connected to the support shaft (4, 4') in a torque-transmitting manner, - a stationary mounting (8) with a mounting bearing (9) in which the support shaft (4, 4') is mounted so as to be rotatable about a longitudinal axis (X) of the support shaft (4, 4'), - a movement element (11) arranged on the mounting (8) and coupled in a movable manner to the support shaft (4, 4'), and - a sensor (10) for monitoring the condition of the conveyor belt (2), wherein the scraper segments (5, 5'), the support shaft (4, 4'), the mounting (8) and the movement element (11) interact in such a way that a force acting on the scraper segments (5, 5') is transmitted to the movement element (11), and wherein the sensor (10) is arranged and configured in such a way that the sensor (10) detects a characteristic, in particular physical, variable of the movement element (11), characterized in that the sensor (10) is arranged in a fixed position on the mounting (8).

2. System according to claim 1, characterized in that the sensor (10) is arranged in a housing of the mounting (8).

3. System according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sensor (10) and the movement element (11) are arranged and configured in such a way that when the movement element (11) moves, the movement element (11) exerts a force on the sensor (10), namely pressing against the sensor (10).

4. System according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sensor (10) is arranged and designed in such a way that the sensor (10) detects a force exerted on the sensor (10) by the movement element (11).

5. System according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sensor (10) has a strain gauge or is configured as a strain gauge.

6. System according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the system (1) has a communication device (14) for transmitting information detected by the sensor (10), which is arranged at a distance from the mounting (8), wherein the communication device (14) evaluates information detected by the sensor (10) for monitoring the condition of the conveyor belt (2) in such a way that damage to the conveyor belt (2) can be detected by the communication device (14).

7. System according to claim 6, characterized in that the system (1) has a measuring device (15) for detecting the speed of the conveyor belt (2), the direction of travel of the conveyor belt (2) and / or the position of the conveyor belt (2), wherein the measuring device (15) is connected to the communication device (14) for transmitting information detected by the measuring device (15), and wherein the communication device (14) is configured such that information received by the measuring device (15) and from the sensor (10) are linked together by the communication device (14) in such a way that the position of damage to the conveyor belt (2) can be detected.

8. System according to claim 7, characterized in that the measuring device (15) has a measuring roller, wherein inductive sensors (10) of the measuring device (15) are arranged on the measuring roller.

9. System according to claim 6, characterized in that the system (1) has a control device (16) for controlling the conveyor belt system (3), wherein the communication device (14) is connected to the control device (16) in such a way that, when damage to the conveyor belt (2) is detected by the communication device (14), the control device (16) switches off the conveyor belt (2) and / or the conveyor belt system (3) and / or releases the scraper segments (5, 5') from the conveyor belt (2).

10. Method for monitoring the condition of a conveyor belt (2) of a conveyor belt system (3), comprising: - providing a system (1) according to one of claims 1 to 9, and - detecting a characteristic variable of the movement element (11).

11. Method according to claim 10, wherein, when the movement element (11) moves, the movement element (11) exerts a force on the sensor (10), namely presses against the sensor (10).

12. Method according to claim 10 or 11, wherein a force exerted by the movement element (11) on the sensor (10) is detected.

13. Method according to one of claims 10 to 12, wherein the communication device (14) evaluates the information detected by the sensor (10) for monitoring the condition of the conveyor belt (2) in such a way that damage to the conveyor belt (2) can be detected by the communication device (14).

14. Method according to one of claims 10 to 13, wherein the measuring device (15) detects the position of the conveyor belt (2) at least indirectly.

15. Conveyor belt system (3) with a conveyor belt (2), characterized by a system (1) according to one of claims 1 to 9.