Oval Drive Unit

Abstract

In some examples, an elliptical drive adjusts the phase angle of the unbalanced shaft or weight of the vibrating screen. The elliptical drive can include a yoke assembly including four plates, which allows for relative rotation of two shafts, which adjusts the phase angle. One of the two shafts can have a pulley drive driven by a motor. The elliptical drive can include two gears meshed with each other, each having a hub with a helical spline, which pairs with a corresponding helical spline of the two shafts. By rotating the actuator rod, the two gears can be moved axially of the two shafts, which can rotate the two shafts relative to each other, which results in a phase angle adjustment of the unbalanced weight or shaft of the vibrating mechanism of the vibrating screen.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 318,813, filed March 11, 2022. The present disclosure relates to the technical field of mineral processing. [Background technology]

[0002] Vibrating screens are sometimes used in mineral processing to separate desired materials or minerals from a feed. The feed passes over the vibrating screen, which is vibrated by an elliptical vibrating mechanism. The elliptical vibrating mechanism may be driven by an elliptical drive. As described below, the ability to adjust the elliptical vibrating mechanism to obtain the desired motion is advantageous in obtaining the desired materials.

[0003] In some examples, the elliptical motion is created by rotating two or more unbalanced shafts, weights, or other unbalanced mechanisms in opposing directions. The unbalanced weights may have different masses. For example, changing the phase angle of the unbalanced weights changes the angle of motion of the elliptical vibrating mechanism. Thus, being able to adjust the phase angle is desirable for vibrating screens in mineral processing. As described below, adjusting the phase angle may be accomplished using a yoke assembly mechanism.

[0004] In conventional machines, the drive mechanism or linkage would have to be mechanically disassembled and reassembled many times in a trial and error attempt to obtain the desired elliptical motion. In the present invention, the motion may be dynamically adjusted, for example, by observing the throw card in a throw card test where a crank handle is rotated to indicate the motion obtained through the adjustment. Additionally, some conventional machines allow adjustment during operation, but they rely on multiple motors operating at different speeds. The adjustment to the elliptical motion in the present invention may be entirely mechanical, which offers the benefit of simplicity and minimizes sensitive electrical components in very harsh environments. Also, in some embodiments, the elliptical drive may be mounted alongside the vibrating screen and adjusted while the elliptical drive is operating to obtain the desired motion.

[0005] An added benefit of the present invention is the ability to easily remove the stored kinetic energy inherent in these types of machines due to the unbalanced shaft (or mechanism or weight) of the vibrating screen for maintenance purposes. For example, when the drive belt is to be removed in a fixed location unit, as in a conventional machine, the unbalanced weight may be in a loaded or pulled position, and when the belt is removed, the weight will drop, creating an unsafe condition. In some embodiments of the present invention, the weight is easily adjusted via a crank handle to a neutral weight position, thereby removing the stored kinetic energy before anything is removed for safer maintenance operations. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Some embodiments include an elliptical drive device including a first shaft having a first external helical spline, a second shaft disposed parallel to the first shaft and having a second external helical spline, a first gear having a first hub with a first internal helical spline that mates with the first external helical spline of the first shaft, a second gear having a second hub with a second internal helical spline that meshes with the first gear and mates with the second external helical spline of the second shaft, and a first drive shaft coupled to the first shaft. The drive shaft includes a shaft, a third shaft arranged parallel to the second shaft, a second drive shaft arranged parallel to the first drive shaft and connected to the third shaft, a belt connecting the second shaft and the third shaft, a top plate arranged above the first gear and the second gear, a first threaded actuator rod arranged through the top plate, a front plate and a rear plate sandwiching the first gear and the second gear in the axial direction of the first shaft and the second shaft, and a bottom plate sandwiching the first gear and the second gear together with the top plate in a vertical direction perpendicular to the axial direction. In some examples, when the first threaded actuator rod rotates, the top plate, the bottom plate, the front plate, and the rear plate move axially together to cause the first shaft and the second shaft to rotate relative to each other.

[0007] The detailed description will now be set forth with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: The use of the same reference numbers in different drawings indicates similar or identical items or features. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] 1 illustrates an example of an elliptical drive and vibrating screen according to some embodiments.

[0009] [Diagram 2] FIG. 1 is an exploded view of an elliptical drive device according to some embodiments.

[0010] [Diagram 3]1 is a cutaway view illustrating elements of an elliptical drive according to some embodiments.

[0011] [Figure 4] 4 is a top down view of the cutaway portion shown in FIG. 3 according to some embodiments.

[0012] [Diagram 5] FIG. 2 is a partial cutaway view of a yoke assembly according to some embodiments.

[0013] [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a top view of a portion of a yoke assembly according to some embodiments.

[0014] [Figure 7] FIG. 1 illustrates components of an elliptical drive and a yoke assembly enclosed within a housing, according to some embodiments.

[0015] [Figure 8] 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA of FIG. 7 in accordance with some embodiments.

[0016] [Figure 9] 8 is a cross-sectional view along BB of FIG. 7 in accordance with some embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0017] Some embodiments herein are directed to techniques and arrangements for adjusting the phase angle of the weights or shafts of the vibrating screen to obtain a desired elliptical motion of the elliptical vibration mechanism of the vibrating screen. In some embodiments, meshing gears, each having an internal helical spline disposed within the hub of the gear, mate with the external helical spline of the respective shaft. The shafts are coupled to respective drive shafts, which are coupled to an unbalanced shaft, weight, or other unbalanced mechanism that drives the elliptical drive mechanism of the vibrating screen. The gears are mounted in a yoke assembly to allow axial movement of the yoke assembly and gears along the shaft. By turning a crank handle, the yoke assembly moves axially (i.e., in the z-direction) along the shaft. Movement of the gears along the shaft rotates the drive shaft due to engagement of the internal helical spline and the external helical spline, thereby effecting the timing or phase angle of the unbalanced shaft or other unbalanced mechanism (or weight).

[0018] 1 shows an example of an elliptical drive 1 and a vibrating sieve 2 according to some embodiments. For example, rotation of an unbalanced shaft, weight, or other unbalanced mechanism of the vibrating sieve 2 is achieved by rotating the shaft of the elliptical drive 1. A drive motor 3 drives a first gear 6 and a second gear 10 that are meshed with each other. The first gear 6 is disposed on a first shaft 8 and the second gear 10 is disposed on a second shaft 12, which are disposed within a housing 30.

[0019] In some examples, the first shaft 8 is coupled to the first drive shaft 4 via the first coupling 32. The output of the first shaft 8 is connected to the unbalanced shaft or weight of the vibrating sieve by the first drive shaft 4 and the first coupling 32. In some examples, one or more shafts or couplings may be disposed between the first drive shaft 4 and the unbalanced shaft or weight. Furthermore, in some examples, the output of the second shaft 12 is transmitted to the third shaft 13 (i.e., jack shaft) via the belt 300. The third shaft 13 is coupled to the second drive shaft 5 via the second coupling 34. Then, the output of the third shaft 13 is connected to the unbalanced shaft or weight of the vibrating sieve by the second drive shaft 5 and the second coupling 34. Similarly, in some examples, one or more shafts or couplings may be disposed between the second drive shaft 5 and the unbalanced shaft or weight.

[0020] In some embodiments, the elliptical drive 1 is mounted outside or on the outside of the vibrating sieve 2. The vibrating sieve 2 has a base 200, and the elliptical drive 1 may have a base 250. In some examples, the base 250 of the elliptical drive 1 is independent and not connected to the base 200 of the vibrating sieve 2. In other examples, the base 250 of the elliptical drive 1 is attached or connected to the base 200 of the vibrating sieve 2. The attachment or connection may be performed using rivets, bolts, or screws, for example. Furthermore, the base 250 of the elliptical drive 1 may have a vertical leg 251 that supports the elliptical drive 1 above the ground or work surface. The base 250 of the elliptical drive 1 may also include a support structure 252 that extends toward the base 200 of the vibrating sieve 2 and in some examples is attached or connected to the base 200 of the vibrating sieve 2.

[0021] FIG. 2 illustrates an exploded view of an elliptical drive 1 according to some embodiments. In some examples, the elliptical drive 1 includes a yoke assembly 50 including a first gear 6 disposed on a first shaft 8 and a second gear 10 disposed on a second shaft 12, which are disposed within a housing 30. In some examples, the yoke assembly may be referred to as a phase angle adjustment device. The first gear 6 and the second gear 10 may rotate within an oil bath within the housing 30. Additionally, the first gear 6 and the second gear 10 may have a diameter of 13 inches and may be of the same size (e.g., width and diameter).

[0022] In some examples, a helical internal spline 14 is disposed on an inner surface of a bore or hub 16 of the first gear 6. The hub 16 with the internal spline 14 may extend outward in an axial (Z) direction beyond a front face 15 of the first gear 6 and a rear face 17 of the first gear 6. The helical internal spline 14 may mate or mesh with a helical external spline 18 disposed on a helical section 20 of the first shaft 8. In some examples, the length of the helical section 20 of the first shaft in the axial direction is longer than the axial length of the hub 16. A first front bearing 100 may be disposed around a portion of the outer surface of the hub 16 that extends outward beyond the front face 15 of the first gear 6. A first rear bearing 102 may be disposed around a portion of the outer surface of the hub 16 that extends outward beyond the rear face 17 of the first gear 6. Additionally, the face plate 36 may include a first bore 37 through which the first shaft 8 enters. Figure 2 further shows a first rear seal plate 142 connected to the housing 30, which will be described in more detail below.

[0023] Further, in some examples, a helical internal spline 22 is disposed within a bore or hub 24 of the second gear 10. The hub 24 with the internal spline 22 may extend outward in the axial (Z) direction beyond the front face 23 of the second gear 10 and the rear face 25 of the second gear 10. The helical internal spline 22 may mate or mesh with a helical external spline 26 disposed on the helical section 28 of the second shaft 12. In some examples, the length of the helical section 28 of the second shaft 12 in the axial direction is greater than the axial length of the hub 24. A second front bearing 104 may be disposed around a portion of the outer surface of the hub 24 that extends outward beyond the front face 23 of the first gear 6. A second rear bearing 106 may be disposed around a portion of the outer surface of the hub 24 that extends outward beyond the rear face 25 of the second gear 10. In some examples, multiple bearings may be disposed around the hubs 16, 24. Additionally, the face plate 36 may include a second bore 35 through which the second shaft 12 passes.

[0024] The external helical splines 18, 26 of each of the first and second shafts 8, 12 may be disposed in respective helical sections 20, 28 along a predetermined axial distance of the shafts 8, 12. In some examples, the first shaft 8 is approximately 28.5 inches overall, while the helical spline section 20 is approximately 7.5 inches long and about 4.5 inches in diameter.

[0025] In some implementations, a drive pulley 9 is disposed on one end of the first shaft 8. The drive pulley 9 may be disposed outside the face plate 36 and may be driven by the drive motor 3. Using the drive pulley 9, the drive motor 3 drives (rotates) the first shaft 8. Rotation of the first shaft 8 by the drive motor 3 then results in rotation of the first drive shaft 4. The first shaft 8 then rotates the first gear 6 due to the engagement of the helical splines 18 of the first shaft 8 with the internal helical splines 14 of the first gear 6. As the first gear 6 rotates, the second gear 10 is rotated (in the opposite direction). The rotation of the second gear 10 then rotates the second shaft 12 due to the engagement of the internal helical splines 22 of the second gear 10 with the external helical splines 26 of the second shaft 12. The second shaft 12 in turn drives a belt 300 which engages a drive pulley 302 , thereby causing the second drive shaft 5 to rotate.

[0026] FIG. 2 further illustrates a yoke assembly 50. In some examples, the yoke assembly 50 is movable axially of the first shaft 8 and the second shaft 12. For example, as the yoke assembly 50 moves axially, the first gear 6 and the second gear 10 move along the respective axes of the first shaft 8 and the second shaft 12 with the yoke assembly 50. By moving the first gear 6 and the second gear 10 axially while the internal helical spline 14 (of the first gear 6) is engaged with the external helical spline 18 (of the first shaft 8) and while the internal helical spline 22 (of the second gear 10) is engaged with the external helical spline 26 (of the second shaft 12), the respective drive shafts 4, 5 are rotated relative to one another. This effectively changes the timing or phase angle of the respective unbalanced shafts or weights (not shown) in the vibrating screen relative to one another. In some cases, this moves the major axis of the elliptical motion from an initial angle of vertical throw (e.g., 45 degrees) to an angle of horizontal throw (e.g., 0 degrees) and anywhere in between. This enhances the separation of materials traversing the sieve. Different types of materials, or material compositions, benefit more or less from aggressive angles of motion or throw.

[0027] In some embodiments, the yoke assembly 50 includes a front plate 60, a back plate 70, a top plate 80, and a bottom plate 90, among other elements, which are described below. For example, the front plate 60 and the back plate 70 may sandwich the first gear 6 and the second gear 10 in the axial (Z) direction. The top plate 80 and the bottom plate 90 may sandwich the first gear 6 and the second gear 10 in the vertical (Y) direction. In some embodiments, the front plate 60 and the back plate 70 may be essentially quadrilateral in shape and may have a thickness in the Z direction.

[0028] In some implementations, the front plate 60 may have a first hole or bore 61 to allow a portion of the first shaft 8, such as the helical section 20, to pass through. The first hole 61 may engage with a first front bearing 100. Similarly, the front plate 60 may have a second hole or bore 62 to allow a portion of the second shaft 12, such as the helical section 28, to pass through. The second hole 62 may engage with a second front bearing 104. For example, the front plate 60 may be supported by a first front bearing 100 and a second front bearing 104 disposed on the hub 16 of the first gear 6 and the hub 24 of the second gear 10, respectively. In some cases, a gap or clearance may exist between the front face 15 of the first gear 6 and the front face 23 of the second gear 10 and the rear face 67 of the front plate 60.

[0029] Still further, in some embodiments, the back plate 70 may have a first hole or bore 71 to allow a portion of the first shaft 8, such as the helical section 20, to pass through. The first bore 71 may engage with a first rear bearing 102. Similarly, the back plate 70 may also have a second hole or bore 72 to allow a portion of the second shaft 12, such as the helical section 28, to pass through. The second bore 72 may engage with a second rear bearing 106. For example, the back plate 70 may be supported by the first rear bearing 102 disposed on the hub 16 of the first gear 6 and the second rear bearing 106 disposed on the hub 24 of the second gear 10. In some cases, a gap or clearance exists between the rear surface 17 of the first gear 6 and the rear surface 25 of the second gear 10 and the front surface 75 of the back plate 70.

[0030] In some examples, the top plate 80 may have an essentially quadrilateral shape and is disposed vertically above the first gear 6 and the second gear 10. An oil passage may be disposed in a top surface 81 of the top plate 80. The top plate 80 may also be of a predetermined width in the Z direction to maintain a proper spacing between the front plate 60 and the back plate 70. The top surface 81 of the top plate 80 may be uniform or flush with the top surface 63 of the front plate 60 and the top surface 73 of the back plate 70.

[0031] Still further, in some examples, the bottom plate 90 may be quadrilateral shaped and may be disposed vertically below the first gear 6 and the second gear 10. An oil passage may be disposed within the bottom plate 90. The bottom plate 90 may also be of a predetermined width in the Z direction to maintain a proper spacing between the front plate 60 and the back plate 70. The bottom surface 91 of the bottom plate 90 may be uniform or flush with the bottom surface 64 of the front plate 60 and the bottom surface 74 of the back plate 70. Still further, in some examples, the front plate 60 may be secured or fastened to the top plate 80 and the bottom plate 90 using rivets or the like, as discussed in more detail below. Similarly, the back plate 70 may be secured or fastened to the top plate 80 and the bottom plate 90 using rivets, bolts or the like, as discussed in more detail below.

[0032] Still further, in some embodiments, the yoke assembly 50 may be mounted to a plurality of actuator rods 51. In some cases, the actuator rod 51 may be disposed through a first rod hole or bore 82 in the top plate 80. The first rod bore 82 may span the width (Z) direction of the top plate 80 and may be threaded to match the threads 54 of the actuator rod 51. Similarly, another actuator rod 51 of the plurality of actuator rods may be disposed through a second rod hole or bore 83 in the top plate 80. The second rod bore 83 may span the width (Z) direction of the top plate 80 and may be threaded to match the respective threads of the actuator rod 51. The first rod bore 82 and the second rod bore 83 of the top plate 80 may be disposed at either end of the top plate 80 in the X direction.

[0033] Optionally, an actuator rod 51 may be disposed through a first rod hole or bore 92 in the bottom plate 90. The first rod bore 92 may span the width (Z) of the bottom plate 90 and may be threaded to match the threads of the respective actuator rod 51. Similarly, another actuator rod 51 of the plurality of actuator rods may be disposed through a second rod hole or bore 93 in the bottom plate 90. The second rod bore 93 may span the width (Z) of the bottom plate 90 and may be threaded to match the threads of the respective actuator rod 51. The first rod bore 92 and the second rod bore 93 of the bottom plate 90 may be disposed at either end of the bottom plate in the X direction. Thus, optionally, four actuator rods 51 may support the yoke assembly 50 and may be parallel to each other and to the axes of the first shaft 8 and the second shaft 12.

[0034] In some embodiments, as mentioned above, each of the actuator rods 51 has a threaded portion 54, described below, that is threaded into a respective portion of the yoke assembly 50, such as the top plate 80 and bottom plate 90, as shown in FIG. 2. Additionally, the rear end 53 of each of the actuator rods may be fitted with a sprocket 110. The sprocket 110 may accommodate a sprocket chain 120, which may be in a loop, for example, that is engaged around each sprocket 110.

[0035] Still further, in some examples, one of the actuator rods 52 has a member 58 that extends in the Z direction through the face plate 36. Additionally, the actuator rod member 58 may have a crank handle 38 attached thereto that, when turned, facilitates rotation of the actuator rod 52. In some examples, the crank handle 38 is 10 inches.

[0036] Thus, in some embodiments, turning the crank handle 38 rotates the actuator rod 52 with the member 58, which drives the sprocket 110 on the rear end 53 of the actuator rod 52. Rotating the sprocket 110 then drives the sprocket chain 120, which drives the other sprocket 110. This rotates the other actuator rod 51. As the actuator rod 51 rotates, the top plate 80 and the bottom plate 90 move axially along the threaded length of the actuator rod 51 according to the direction of rotation of the crank handle 38. This moves the front plate 60 and the back plate 70 together with the top plate 80 and the bottom plate 90, which effectively causes the first gear 6 to move axially along the first shaft 8 and the second gear 10 to move axially along the second shaft 12. This axial movement rotates the first and second shafts 8, 12 (due to their respective splined engagement, as described above), which in turn rotates the first and second drive shafts 4, 5, respectively, relative to one another, resulting in a phase shift. Thus, as the crank handles 38 are turned, the actuator rods 51 move together uniformly, essentially in sync, forcing the yoke assembly 50 to move uniformly.

[0037] Thus, since the first shaft 8 and the second shaft 12 are connected to the unbalanced shafts (and / or weights) of the vibrating sieve 2 via the respective first drive shaft 4 and second drive shaft 5, this moves the phase angle between the two (or more) unbalanced shafts (and / or weights) from a 90 degree stroke or vertical stroke position to a 0 degree stroke or horizontal stroke position. Furthermore, in use, driving of the first gear 6 (and second gear 10) by the drive motor does not change the axial position of the gears 6, 10 along their respective shafts 4, 5.

[0038] Additionally, in some embodiments, an indicator pin or cylindrical rod 40 may be disposed on the yoke assembly 50. For example, the indicator pin 40 may extend in the Z direction away from the top plate and extend through the front plate 60 and face plate 36. The indicator pin 40 may be used to indicate how much the phase angle has been adjusted. Additionally, there may be a gap between the front surface 65 of the front plate 60 and the face plate 36. This gap changes as the crank handle 38 is rotated.

[0039] FIG. 3 is a cutaway view showing elements of the elliptical drive 1 according to some embodiments. Some elements, such as the front plate 60 and the back plate 70, are not shown in the view of FIG. 4. As shown, the housing 30 can contain elements of the yoke assembly 50. This view also shows the crank handle 38 connected to a member 58 of the actuator rod 52. In some embodiments, the sprockets 110 are each attached to an actuator rod 51 that is disposed through the top plate 80, and each sprocket 110 can be disposed such that a portion of the sprocket chain 120 is disposed above the top surface 81 of the top plate 80. As shown, the sprockets 110 can be essentially cylindrical, with the outer surface of each of the sprockets 110 engaging the sprocket chain 120.

[0040] Additionally, a drive pulley 304 may be disposed on the rear end of the second shaft 12 and is axially and vertically aligned with a drive pulley 302 disposed on the rear portion of the third shaft 13. A belt 300 may engage drive pulleys 302 and 304 to transmit rotational force from the second shaft 12 to the third shaft 13 and maintain a phase angle between the two shafts.

[0041] In some embodiments, the third shaft 13 is supported by a support base 320. The support base 320 may be supported by the elliptical drive base 250 by one or more vertical legs 251. The support base 320 may be separate from a base structure, such as base structure 31, which supports the housing 30 and associated elements contained therein. Still further, the third shaft 13 may be supported by one or more mounted bearings 322.

[0042] FIG. 4 shows a top view of the cutaway portion shown in FIG. 3 according to some embodiments. FIG. 4 further shows a first rear bearing 102, which interfaces with the hub 16 of the first gear 6. The first rear bearing 102 is therefore coaxial with the first hole 71 of the rear plate 70. Also, in some embodiments, there are two or more bearings in addition to the first rear bearing 102. FIG. 4 further shows a second rear bearing 106, which interfaces with the hub 24 of the second gear 10. The second rear bearing 106 is therefore coaxial with the second hole 72 of the rear plate 70. FIG. 4 also shows that the rod rotates on brass flanged bushings 59 on each end of the rod and sits inside bores in the face plate 36 and housing 30, which will be explained in more detail below.

[0043] Figure 4 also shows a first front plate bearing 130 and a first rear housing bearing 132, which support the first shaft 8. In addition, Figure 4 shows a second front plate bearing 134 and a second rear housing bearing 136, which support the second shaft 12.

[0044] FIG. 5 is a partial cutaway view of the yoke assembly 50 according to some embodiments. In FIG. 5, a portion of the front plate 60 is cut away. FIG. 5 shows the hub 16 of the first gear 6 having the internal helical spline 14. FIG. 5 also shows a first front bearing 100 disposed about the hub 16. In some embodiments, the first front bearing 100 can engage with a first recessed portion 68, which is recessed into a portion of the rear surface 67 of the front plate 60 surrounding the periphery of the first hole 61. In other words, the recessed portion 68 can be a circular cutout portion of the rear surface 67 of the front plate 60. In some embodiments, the recessed portion 68 can be a rim, edge, or lip that accommodates the first front bearing 100. The first hole or bore 61 can be a stepped bore. Thus, a portion of the first front bearing 100 can be positioned within and engage the recessed portion 68, as shown. Furthermore, each bearing 100, 102, 104, and 106 may have a central rotating ball bearing including two outer plates, which are thrust plates that provide for axial forces as well as rotational forces. For example, FIG. 5 shows the outer plate 101 of the first front bearing 102.

[0045] FIG. 5 also shows the hub 24 of the second gear 10 having the internal helical spline 22, and the second front bearing 104 disposed about the hub 24. In some embodiments, the second front bearing 104 can engage with the second recessed portion 69, which is recessed into a portion of the rear surface 67 of the front plate 60 surrounding the periphery of the second hole 62. Similarly, the recessed portion 69 can be a circular cutout portion of the rear surface 67 of the front plate 60. In some embodiments, the recessed portion 69 can be a rim, edge, or lip that accommodates the second front bearing 104. The second hole or bore 62 can be a stepped bore. Thus, a portion of the second front bearing 104 can be located within and engage with the recessed portion 66, as shown. For example, FIG. 5 shows the outer plate 103 of the second front bearing 104.

[0046] Although not shown in FIG. 5 , the first hole 71 and the second hole 72 of the back plate 70 can also engage with the hub 16 and the hub 24, respectively, in a similar manner. For example, the first hole 71 can have a first recessed portion. In some embodiments, the first rear bearing 102 can engage with the first recessed portion, the first recessed portion being recessed into a portion of the front surface 75 of the back plate 70 surrounding the periphery of the first hole 71. In other words, the first recessed portion can be a circular cutout portion of the front surface 75 of the back plate 70. In some embodiments, the first recessed portion can be a rim, edge, or lip that accommodates the first rear bearing 102. Thus, a portion of the first rear bearing 102 can be located within and engage with the first recessed portion 76.

[0047] Similarly, in some embodiments, the second rear bearing 106 can engage with the second recessed portion, which is recessed into a portion of the front surface 75 of the back plate 70 surrounding the periphery of the second hole 72. The second recessed portion can be a circular cutout portion of the front surface 75 of the back plate 70. In some embodiments, the second recessed portion can be a rim, edge, or lip that accommodates the second rear bearing 106. Thus, a portion of the second rear bearing 106 can be located within and engage with the second recessed portion.

[0048] Figure 6 is a top view of a portion of the yoke assembly 50 according to some embodiments. Figures 5 and 6 show that in some examples, the front plate 60 and the back plate 70 can have one or more passages, such as passage 400 in the front plate 60, so that the actuator rod 51 does not contact the front plate 60 (or back plate 70). The passage 400 can be located on an edge, side, or corner of the front plate 60 and / or back plate 70.

[0049] 5 and 6 further show rivets 450, bolts, screws, pins, etc. disposed along the top and bottom edges of the front plate 60, which attach it to the top plate 80 and bottom plate 90, respectively. Although not shown in FIG. 5, similar rivets may be disposed along the top and bottom edges of the back plate 70, which attach it to the top plate 80 and bottom plate 90, respectively. FIGS. 5 and 6 also show the threaded portion 54 of each actuator rod 51. In addition, FIG. 5 shows a collar 55 disposed on each actuator rod 51. The collar 55 may be a split collar to maintain the axial position of the actuator rod 51.

[0050] FIG. 7 illustrates components of the elliptical drive 1 and yoke assembly 50 enclosed within a housing 30, according to some embodiments. For example, FIG. 7 illustrates the housing 30 connected to a face plate 36 using bolts or the like. FIG. 7 further illustrates a crank handle 38, a drive pulley 9 disposed on the exterior of the face plate 36. FIG. 7 also illustrates a third shaft 13 disposed on a third shaft support base 320. Some components have been described above and will not be described here for brevity.

[0051] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view along AA of FIG. 7 according to some embodiments. FIG. 8 shows a first front plate bearing 130 disposed within the first bore 37 of the face plate. The first front plate bearing 130 can support the first shaft 8. The first bore 37 of the face plate can be a stepped bore. A drive pulley 9 is also shown fitted to an end portion of the first shaft 8. As shown, a portion of the first shaft 8 (e.g., the helical section 20) can have a larger diameter than other portions of the first shaft 8, such as the end portion to which the drive pulley 9 is fitted or the other end. Additionally, FIG. 8 also shows a rear housing bearing 132 disposed within a bore of the housing 30 to support the first shaft 8.

[0052] 8 also shows a first front seal plate 140 disposed around an end portion of the first shaft 8, and a rear seal plate 142 disposed around a rear portion of the first shaft 8. Both seal plates 140, 142 are connected to the housing 30 via bolts or the like.

[0053] Similarly, although not shown in the view of FIG. 8 but shown in FIG. 4, a second front plate bearing 134 may be disposed within the face plate second bore 35. The second front plate bearing 134 may support the second shaft 12. The face plate second bore 35 may be a stepped bore. Additionally, a portion of the second shaft 12 (e.g., the helical section 28) may have a larger diameter than other portions of the second shaft. Additionally, a second rear housing bearing 136 may be disposed within a bore of the housing 30 to support the second shaft 12.

[0054] Additionally, although not shown in the view of Figure 8, a second front seal plate may be disposed about an end portion of the second shaft 12 and a second rear seal plate may be disposed about a rear portion of the second shaft 12. Either second seal plate may also be connected to the housing 30 via bolts or the like.

[0055] Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along line BB of Figure 7, according to some embodiments. For example, Figure 9 shows the first shaft 8, the housing 30, and the face plate 36. Figure 9 also shows two of the actuator pins 51. A brass step flange bushing 59 may be disposed on each end of each actuator pin 51. The face plate 36 may also have a bore 42 for the brass step flange bushing 59. Additionally, the housing 30 may have a bore 44 for the brass step flange bushing 59.

[0056] Furthermore, the above described elliptical drive 1 is also applicable to three or more shaft vibrating sieves, whereby the other main shafts are driven or tied together using belts.

[0057] Although the subject matter has been described in language specific to structural features and / or methodological acts, it is to be understood that the subject matter defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features or acts described. Rather, the specific features and acts are disclosed as exemplary forms of implementing the claims.

Claims

1. a first shaft having a first external helical spline; a second shaft disposed parallel to the first shaft and having a second external helical spline; a first gear having a first hub with a first internal helical spline that mates with the first external helical spline of the first shaft; a second gear having a second hub with a second internal helical spline that meshes with the first gear and mates with the second external helical spline of the second shaft; a first drive shaft coupled to the first shaft; a third shaft disposed parallel to the second shaft; a second drive shaft disposed parallel to the first drive shaft and coupled to the third drive shaft; a belt connecting the second shaft and the third shaft; a top plate disposed above the first gear and the second gear; a first threaded actuator rod disposed through the top plate; a front plate and a rear plate that sandwich the first gear and the second gear in an axial direction of the first shaft and the second shaft; a bottom plate that, together with the top plate, holds the first gear and the second gear in a vertical direction perpendicular to the axial direction; and Equipped with An elliptical drive device, wherein as the first threaded actuator rod rotates, the top plate, the bottom plate, the front plate, and the back plate move together in the axial direction, causing relative rotation of the first shaft and the second shaft relative to one another.

2. The front panel is fixed to the top panel and the bottom panel, The rear plate is fixed to the top plate and the bottom plate. The elliptical driving device according to claim 1 .

3. A plurality of threaded actuator rods including the first threaded actuator rod. Further equipped with the first threaded actuator rod and at least one other threaded actuator rod of the plurality of threaded actuator rods are disposed within the top plate; At least two other threaded actuator rods of the plurality of threaded actuator rods are disposed within the base plate; The elliptical driving device of claim 1 , wherein each of the plurality of threaded actuator rods is disposed parallel to an axis of the first shaft and the second shaft.

4. a plurality of sprockets disposed on each of the plurality of threaded actuator rods; a chain disposed within a loop that engages each of the plurality of sprockets; The elliptical driving device of claim 3 , further comprising:

5. as the first threaded actuator rod rotates, the sprocket and the threaded actuator rod each rotate, thereby moving the top plate, the bottom plate, the front plate, and the back plate in the axial direction; An elliptical driving device according to claim 4.

6. a first bearing disposed on the first hub of the first gear; a second bearing disposed on the first hub of the first gear; and a third bearing disposed on the second hub of the second gear; and a fourth bearing disposed on the second hub of the second gear; and Further equipped with the front plate is disposed on the first bearing and the third bearing; The elliptical driving device of claim 1 , wherein the back plate is disposed on the second bearing and the fourth bearing.

7. a housing that accommodates at least the first gear, the second gear, and the front plate; Further equipped with The elliptical driving device of claim 1 , wherein the first threaded actuator rod has an axially extending member and has a distal end outside of the housing.

8. a housing that accommodates at least the first gear, the second gear, and the front plate; a pin disposed on the top plate, the pin extending in the axial direction and having a distal end outside the housing; The elliptical driving device of claim 1 , further comprising:

9. a housing that accommodates at least the first gear, the second gear, and the front plate; a drive pulley disposed on the first shaft and outside the housing; The elliptical driving device of claim 1 , further comprising:

10. a length in the axial direction of a first helical section of the first shaft including the first helical external spline is greater than an axial length of the first hub of the first gear; a length in the axial direction of a second helical section of the second shaft including the second external helical spline is longer than an axial length of the second hub of the second gear; The elliptical driving device according to claim 1 .

11. 1. A method for adjusting a vibration mechanism of a vibrating sieve, comprising: providing a first shaft having a first external helical spline; providing a second shaft disposed parallel to the first shaft and having a second external helical spline; providing a first gear having a first hub with a first internal helical spline mating with the first external helical spline of the first shaft; providing a second gear having a second hub with a second internal helical spline that meshes with the first gear and mates with the second external helical spline of the second shaft; providing a first drive shaft coupled to the first shaft; providing a third shaft disposed parallel to the second shaft; providing a second drive shaft disposed parallel to the first drive shaft and coupled to the third drive shaft; providing a belt connecting the second shaft and the third shaft; providing a top plate disposed above the first gear and the second gear; providing a first threaded actuator rod disposed through the top plate; providing a front plate and a rear plate that sandwich the first gear and the second gear in an axial direction of the first shaft and the second shaft; providing a bottom plate that sandwiches the first gear and the second gear together with the top plate in a vertical direction perpendicular to the axial direction; moving the top plate, the bottom plate, the front plate, and the back plate together in the axial direction by rotating the first threaded actuator rod to effect relative rotation of the first shaft and the second shaft with respect to one another; A method for adjusting a vibration mechanism, comprising:

12. fixing the front panel to the top panel and the bottom panel; fixing the back plate to the top plate and the bottom plate; The method of tuning a vibratory mechanism of claim 11 further comprising:

13. providing a plurality of threaded actuator rods including the first threaded actuator rod; placing the first threaded actuator rod and at least one other threaded actuator rod of the plurality of threaded actuator rods within the top plate; disposing at least two other threaded actuator rods of the plurality of threaded actuator rods within the base plate; positioning each of the plurality of threaded actuator rods parallel to an axis of the first shaft and the second shaft; The method of tuning a vibratory mechanism of claim 11 further comprising:

14. providing a plurality of sprockets disposed on each of the plurality of threaded actuator rods; placing a chain in a ring surrounding each of the plurality of sprockets; The method of tuning a vibratory mechanism of claim 13 further comprising:

15. as the first threaded actuator rod rotates, the sprocket and the threaded actuator rod each rotate, thereby moving the top plate, the bottom plate, the front plate, and the back plate in the axial direction; 15. A method for tuning a vibratory mechanism according to claim 14.

16. placing a first bearing on the first hub of the first gear; disposing a second bearing on the first hub of the first gear; placing a third bearing on the second hub of the second gear; placing a fourth bearing on the second hub of the second gear; placing the front plate on the first bearing and the third bearing; placing the back plate on the second bearing and the fourth bearing; The method of tuning a vibratory mechanism of claim 11 further comprising:

17. providing a housing that accommodates at least the first gear, the second gear, and the front plate; providing an axially extending member on the first threaded actuator rod, the member having a distal end outside of the housing; The method of tuning a vibratory mechanism of claim 11 further comprising:

18. providing a housing that accommodates at least the first gear, the second gear, and the front plate; placing a pin on the top plate, the pin extending in the axial direction and having a distal end outside the housing; The method of tuning a vibratory mechanism of claim 11 further comprising:

19. providing a housing that accommodates at least the first gear, the second gear, and the front plate; disposing a drive pulley on the first shaft outside of the housing; The method of tuning a vibratory mechanism of claim 11 further comprising:

20. a length in the axial direction of a first helical section of the first shaft including the first helical external spline is greater than an axial length of the first hub of the first gear; a length in the axial direction of a second helical section of the second shaft including the second external helical spline is longer than an axial length of the second hub of the second gear; 12. A method for tuning a vibratory mechanism according to claim 11.

Images