Scraper Conveyor

The scraper conveyor addresses the lack of visibility in conventional conveyors by measuring and adjusting chain tension, predicting maintenance, and operating intermittently to enhance operational efficiency and reduce energy consumption.

JP7761932B2Active Publication Date: 2025-10-29NIHON SHORYOKU KIKAI
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Patent Information

Application Number
JP2022003731
Authority / Receiving Office
JP · JP
Patent Type
Patents
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2022-01-13
Publication Date
2025-10-29
Estimated Expiration
2042-01-13

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Conventional conveyors lack visibility into the operation state, making it difficult to determine the amount of goods being conveyed, predict failures, and adjust chain tension accurately, leading to potential accidents and increased energy consumption.

Method used

A scraper conveyor that measures chain tension, displays it, and adjusts tension automatically, incorporating a data analysis system to predict maintenance needs and operate intermittently based on detected objects, with safety features to prevent jams and energy savings.

Benefits of technology

Enables visualization of conveyor operation, predicts maintenance needs, reduces accidents, and saves energy by adjusting tension and operating intermittently, contributing to decarbonization.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

To provide a scraper conveyor capable of visualizing conveyor operation, predicting failure, assisting operation, saving labor, decarbonizing and adjusting tension in chain take-up by measuring tension on the chain of the conveyor.SOLUTION: The present invention relates to a scraper conveyor in which a casing 11 having a bottom plate, a driving shaft 1 provided in the casing 11, a follower shaft 2 rotating following the rotation of the drive shaft 1, conveyor chains 10R and 10L transmitting the rotation connected from the driving shaft 1 to the follower shaft 2, and a scraper 9 attached to the conveyor chain, circulate and travel inside the casing to convey a conveyed article, wherein the driving shaft 1 of the scraper conveyor is provided with load cells 23R and 23L, a tension indicator 25, a recording device 26, a data analysis device 27, an operation support device 28, a scraper detector 29, and a vibration detector 30.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2
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Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a scraper conveyor.

[0002] In recent years, the introduction of "visualization" and "operation support systems" that utilize artificial intelligence etc. has progressed, and conveyors have evolved from the conventional system of simply "transporting" to conveyors that can "visualize operation," which allows users to know the state in which they are being operated and transported, "predict failures," "operation support," "labor saving," "decarbonization," and "take-up tension adjustment."

[0003] This relates to a scraper conveyor that measures the load on the conveyor chain of the scraper conveyor, measures the tension of the conveyor chain, displays the measured tension, and can also appropriately control rotation and operate intermittently.

[0004] The present invention also relates to a scraper conveyor that can adjust the tension to an appropriate level by taking up the chain based on the measured tension. Furthermore, based on the measured tension, it becomes possible to estimate the presence or absence, amount, etc. of the transported goods, thereby achieving efficient transport.

[0005] In addition, by providing a scraper position detector, the position at which the transported object is dropped from the preceding equipment can be adjusted, and at the bottom of the casing Vibration detector The present invention relates to a scraper conveyor that can be driven while saving energy by detecting the dropping of an object to be conveyed and operating the scraper conveyor intermittently based on the detection. [Background technology]

[0006] Conventionally, when conveying goods by conveyor, it is not possible to see inside the conveyor, and therefore it is not possible to see the amount of goods being conveyed, the state of conveyance, the driving state of the conveyor, etc., making it difficult to understand the operation of the conveyor. Therefore, by measuring the chain tension, it is possible to visualize the operation within the conveyor, predict chain wear and rail deformation, etc., and plan the timing of part replacement.

[0007] Furthermore, in the case of conveyors used at incineration plants, solid objects such as metal pieces and stones are mixed in with household waste, and these are often mixed directly into the ash after incineration, causing the scraper of the scraper conveyor to become caught between the scraper and the base plate. In such cases, the scraper conveyor must be stopped to check, and in 24-hour operation, problems may occur at night, requiring manual work such as rotating the scraper conveyor forward and backward to restore normal operation. In addition, in conveyors, take-up was performed by measuring the stretch of the chain, but it was difficult to detect the degree of stretch, and adjustments often had to be made by the worker's intuition.

[0008] It is also possible to measure the elongation of the chain and make adjustments accordingly, but it is very difficult to measure the length of the chain inside the casing. Chain slack varies depending on the shape of the conveyor, such as the levelness of the conveyor, whether the conveyor is long, whether the conveyor is inclined, and whether the angle of inclination is large. There are many different types of conveyors, so it is difficult to accurately determine the chain slack for each conveyor shape, and in many cases it is not possible to accurately determine it.

[0009] The standards for chain slack were also unclear, making it difficult to adjust the chain in actual work sites. If the chain slack is too much, it can get caught on the rails, bending the rails or even causing the chain to break, leading to accidents.

[0010] On the other hand, if the chain is too tight, it will wear out and there will be no room for it to escape, which can increase the chance of it getting caught in the transported goods, and this often has a significant impact on the maintenance and lifespan of the conveyor. Furthermore, in the case of waste incineration plants, materials often fall intermittently from the inlet, so rather than running the conveyor all the time, it was necessary to operate it only when materials were being fed in, thereby reducing the amount of energy used for conveyor transport. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0011] [Patent Document 1] JP 2021-172480 (Patent Publication No. 2021-172480) Chain conveyor, incineration facility, melting facility This document describes a configuration in which a pair of distance sensors (left and right) are used to detect the difference in elongation of the left and right chains during operation, and the distance between adjacent flights is calculated at two locations (left and right) based on the measurement results of the distance sensors, and the difference in elongation of the pair of left and right chains is calculated from the calculation results. According to this document, only the elongation of the left and right chains is measured, and the tension applied to the chains is not taken into consideration. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0012] To enable a user to see the amount of conveyed objects, conveying state, driving state of the conveyor, etc. in the case of conveyance by the conveyor, and to grasp the operation of the conveyor. To achieve this, by measuring the chain tension, it is possible to visualize the operation within the conveyor, predict chain wear and rail deformation, etc., and plan when to replace parts.

[0013] In addition, when jamming occurs between the scraper and the bottom plate of the scraper conveyor, the scraper conveyor is automatically rotated forward and backward to restore normal operation. In addition, by understanding the changes in tension on the left and right conveyor chains, it is possible to grasp the slack in the conveyor chain and easily adjust the tension on the chain appropriately using the take-up device on the driven shaft.

[0014] Furthermore, by controlling the conveyor drive, energy savings can be achieved and wear on chains, rails, sprockets, etc. can be reduced, reducing running costs and contributing to decarbonization. [Means for solving the problem]

[0015] As a first invention, a scraper conveyor is provided which comprises a casing having a bottom plate, a drive shaft provided within the casing, a driven shaft which rotates in response to the rotation of the drive shaft, left and right conveyor chains which are connected to the driven shaft and transmit the rotation from the drive shaft, and scrapers attached to the left and right conveyor chains and transport the transported objects along the bottom plate. In this scraper conveyor, a motor with a reducer is attached to the drive shaft and operated in perfect synchronization, thereby synchronizing the left and right conveyor chains and moving the scraper parallel to the transport direction, and the rotation of the drive shaft is controlled, and a load cell is attached to the drive shaft so that the load applied to the left and right conveyor chains and the load applied to the motor with a reducer can be measured.

[0016] Also, as the first invention The scraper conveyor derives the tension applied to the left and right conveyor chains based on the values ​​measured by the load cell of the load applied to the left and right conveyor chains and the load applied to the motor with a reducer.

[0017] Furthermore, as the first invention The scraper conveyor is equipped with a data analysis device that analyzes the tension data based on the tension values ​​recorded in the recording device, and can determine the timing for chain replacement and the condition of the chain.

[0018] As the second invention The scraper conveyor is provided with tension indicators that display the tensions applied to the left and right conveyor chains.

[0019] As the third invention The scraper conveyor is provided with a recording device for recording the tension applied to the left and right conveyor chains.

[0020] As the fourth invention The scraper conveyor can transfer the tension data recorded in the recording device and the results analyzed by the data analysis device to a personal computer or smartphone using an internet line or a WiFi router.

[0021] As the fifth invention Based on the data on the tension applied to the left and right conveyor chains and the results of analysis by the data analysis device, the scraper conveyor is provided with an operation support device that determines that the transported object has become caught between the scraper and the bottom plate when the chain tension exceeds an upper limit value, and can operate the scraper in forward and reverse directions.

[0022] As the sixth invention The scraper conveyor has a safety device that monitors the tension applied to the left and right conveyor chains when the conveyor is started and during operation.

[0023] As the seventh invention The scraper conveyor can be operated by changing the speed of the scraper with a speed changer using an inverter in response to changes in the tension applied to the left and right conveyor chains.

[0024] As the eighth invention The drive shaft is rotated forward, stopped, and reversed to measure the tension of the left and right conveyor chains, calculate the extension of the left and right conveyor chains, and adjust the take-up of the left and right conveyor chains according to a predetermined setting.

[0025] As the ninth inventionIn a scraper conveyor comprising a casing having a bottom plate, a drive shaft provided in the casing, a driven shaft that rotates following the rotation of the drive shaft, left and right conveyor chains that are connected to the driven shaft and transmit the rotation from the drive shaft, and a scraper attached to the left and right conveyor chains and transporting the transported objects along the bottom plate, a motor with a reducer is attached to the drive shaft and the drive shaft is operated in perfect synchronization, thereby synchronizing the left and right conveyor chains and moving the scraper parallel to the transport direction, and preventing the scraper from stopping at a position where the transported objects fall from the upstream equipment. Scraper position detector A scraper conveyor was installed.

[0026] As the 10th invention The scraper on the outward route side is stopped before the position where the transported object falls from the preceding stage equipment, and the scraper conveyor is configured such that the scraper is not located directly below the input chute.

[0027] As the 11th invention Detecting that the transported object has fallen to a position at the bottom of the casing where the transported object falls from the preceding stage device. Vibration detector A scraper conveyor was installed.

[0028] As the 12th invention The scraper conveyor is configured to operate intermittently based on the detection of the transported object by the vibration detector. [Effects of the Invention]

[0029] According to the present invention, the presence or absence, quantity, etc. of transported goods can be estimated based on the measured tension data, thereby realizing "visualization of operation." In addition, based on the tension measurement data, the movement of the scraper conveyor can be automatically controlled to operate intermittently or at a slower speed, thereby saving energy. Furthermore, wear on the chain, rails, and sprockets can be reduced, and reducing wear on the sprockets means that parts need to be replaced less frequently.The longer lifespan of parts means that the number of parts to be manufactured can be reduced, leading to decarbonization.

[0030] Furthermore, with this invention, the tension applied to the chain of the scraper conveyor can be measured, recorded, and the tension data analyzed based on the numerical tension value, thereby making it possible to determine the degree of engagement between the scraper and the bottom plate of the scraper conveyor, automatically rotating the drive shaft forward and backward, and automatically restoring normal operation, thereby providing operational support and contributing to work style reform.

[0031] Furthermore, the present invention makes it possible to measure and record the tension applied to the chain of a scraper conveyor, analyze the tension data based on the tension value, and determine the timing of chain replacement and the condition of the chain. Furthermore, based on the tension measurement, the chain elongation can be calculated and used as a guide for adjusting the take-up of the conveyor chain.

[0032] In addition, the system can detect falling objects and operate the conveyor intermittently, reducing running costs and contributing to CO2 reduction. Furthermore, by preventing the materials dropped from the preceding equipment from landing on the scraper on the return route of the scraper conveyor, it is possible to prevent the materials from accumulating at the end of the casing. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0033] [Figure 1] 1 is a plan view of a scraper conveyor according to the present invention; [Figure 2] 1 is a side view of a scraper conveyor according to the present invention; [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a front view of the drive shaft of the scraper conveyor of the present invention. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a plan view illustrating the connection between the conveyor chain and the scraper of the scraper conveyor of the present invention. [Figure 5]FIG. 1 is a plan view illustrating the connection between the conveyor chain and the scraper of the scraper conveyor of the present invention. [Figure 6] 1 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the state of a scraper in a casing of a scraper conveyor according to the present invention; [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating the relationship between the position of the scraper and the drop of the transported object according to the present invention. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating the relationship between the position of the scraper and the drop of the transported object according to the present invention. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating the relationship between the position of the scraper and the drop of the transported object according to the present invention. BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0034] 1, 2 and 3 are explanatory diagrams of the scraper conveyor of the present invention. In addition to the scraper conveyor of the present invention, it can also be used for conveyors that are driven by two conveyor chains on the left and right, such as flight conveyors, apron conveyors, bucket elevators and slat conveyors.

[0035] In Figure 1, 1 is the drive shaft, located inside the casing. R and L in the following symbols indicate the right and left sides, respectively. 2 is the driven shaft, which rotates via a conveyor chain in response to the drive from drive shaft 1. This driven shaft 2 rotates in response to the drive from drive shaft 1. 3R and 3L are head sprockets, corresponding to the left and right sides of drive shaft 1. 4 is a tail sprocket, corresponding to head sprockets 3R and 3L, respectively, and serves to transmit the drive from drive shaft 1 to driven shaft 2.

[0036] Reference numeral 5 denotes a head side chain wheel, which is configured to transmit power from a motor with a reducer via a motor side chain wheel 6 in order to drive the drive shaft 1.

[0037] 7R and 7L are head bearings, which are provided to allow the drive shaft 1 to rotate smoothly. A tail bearing 8 is provided to allow the driven shaft 2 to rotate smoothly.

[0038] In Figures 2 and 3, 9 is a scraper that transports the transported object. Multiple scrapers 9 are provided at regular intervals. 10 (10R, 10L) is a conveyor chain that transmits the rotation of drive shaft 1, which moves scraper 9, to driven shaft 2.

[0039] Reference numeral 11 denotes a casing, which is a conveying path for conveyed objects. Reference numeral 12 denotes a bottom plate, which is a plate provided at the bottom of the casing 11. Reference numeral 13 denotes a rail, which guides the conveyor chains 10R and 10L and conveys the conveyed objects using the scraper 9.

[0040] 4 and 5 show the connection relationship between the scraper 9 and the conveyor chains 10R and 10L. The arrows in FIGS. 4 and 5 indicate the direction of travel of the scraper 9.

[0041] In Fig. 6, 13R and 13L are rails that serve as tracks for the conveyor chains 10R and 10L. 14R and 14L are guide plates that guide the conveyed objects when they are inserted.

[0042] In FIG. 2, 15 is a head stand and 16 is a leg. Reference numeral 17 denotes a charging chute, which charges the material into the casing 11 and transports it to a discharge chute 18 by the scraper 9. As shown in Figure 1, 19 is a motor with a reducer, which drives the drive shaft 1 via the motor-side chain wheel 6 and the head-side chain wheel 5. 20 is a motor base, 21 is a chain cover, and 22 is a roller chain.

[0043] In Figure 1, 23R and 23L are load cells attached to the head bearings 7R and 7L. Using these load cells 23R and 23L, it is possible to measure the loads on the head bearings 7R and 7L of the drive shaft 1 by performing mathematical calculations that exclude the weight of the head shaft. In Figure 2, 24 denotes the transported object.

[0044] The power generated by the motor with reducer 19 is transmitted to the head shaft by the roller chain 22, and by using the load cells 23R and 23L to determine the load on the motor, it is possible to determine the difference in tension between the left and right conveyor chains.In addition, by recording the load conditions on each side, it is possible to know the time when a transported object becomes pinched, etc.

[0045] Furthermore, even if a solid object gets caught between the scraper and the bottom plate on the right side (R side), causing a trip, it is possible to determine whether it is on the right side or the left side by using the load cells 23R and 23L.

[0046] It is also possible to attach a load cell to only the right or left side of the drive shaft 1. In this case, the motor's power value can be measured to measure the load. For example, this is possible if the calculation includes the motor load. The left and right chains can be distinguished by mechanical calculations.

[0047] By measuring the tension of the chain separately on the left and right sides, it is possible to keep an operating record and obtain information such as when an abnormality occurred or when an incident occurred that could cause the chain to break. This will enable accidents to be detected before they occur and also allow for the consideration of ways to resolve the issue.

[0048] In the present invention, by using the load cells 23R and 23L, it is possible to determine whether the problem is occurring on the left or right side of the conveyor chain.

[0049] In FIG. 2, a tension indicator 25 is attached which can display the tension of the chain calculated from the values ​​of the load cells 23R and 23L. Based on the indication of this tension indicator 25, the tension of the chain can be adjusted and take-up can be performed.

[0050] The tension indicator 25 can display the chain tension in real time. The tension indicator 25 is configured to display the following: (1) Left and right chain tension values (2) Indicates that the chain tension is within the set normal range. (3) Display when the set chain tension 1 upper limit is exceeded (4) Display when the set chain tension 2 upper limit is exceeded (identified as jamming)

[0051] Further, reference numeral 26 denotes a recording device that records the tension displayed on the tension indicator 25. For example, the recording device 26 can record using an SD card or the like, and the measured tension can be recorded and stored for several years. The following data is recorded in the recording device 26: (1) Values ​​of the left and right load cells (2) Left and right chain tension values (3) Indicates that the chain tension is within the set normal range. (4) Display when the set chain tension 1 upper limit is exceeded (5) Display when the set chain tension 2 upper limit is exceeded (identified as jamming)

[0052] Reference numeral 27 denotes a data analysis device, which analyzes tension data based on the tension values ​​recorded in the recording device 26, and is capable of determining the timing for chain replacement and the state of the chain. The records from the recording device 26 can be imported into a PC (for example, an SD card), and the data can be analyzed from multiple angles, such as graphing the values, comparing them with data from other conveyors, and observing occurrences of chain tension exceeding the upper limit, allowing for long-term recording and analysis of changes in chain tension.

[0053] In addition, the tension data recorded in the recording device 26 and the results of analysis by the data analysis device 27 can be transferred to a personal computer or smartphone via an internet line or a Wi-Fi router. 28 is an operation support device that determines that an object being conveyed has become caught between the scraper and the bottom plate when the chain tension exceeds the upper limit, and operates the scraper forward and backward to disengage the object. Also, by determining the magnitude of the tension value, the amount of conveyed object can be estimated, and the operation of the scraper can be adjusted intermittently depending on the amount of conveyed object, thereby saving energy.

[0054] Furthermore, by constantly monitoring the tension on the left and right conveyor chains, it becomes possible to analyze any discrepancies between the left and right chains and to identify the causes. Specifically, the chain tension is (1) Average for the last second (2) Average, maximum, and minimum values ​​for one minute (3) Average, maximum, and minimum values ​​for one hour (4) Daily average, maximum, and minimum values It is possible to record the tension on both sides and also record alarm history data. Furthermore, analyzing this data will enable prediction of when and where problems will occur, leading to better improvements to the conveyor. It is also possible to monitor the aging of the conveyor.

[0055] It is believed that friction increases and tension changes due to wear on the conveyor chain and adhesion of transported materials, and by accumulating data from long-term operation of the monitoring device, it will be possible to plan future operations and be useful in reducing on-site personnel.

[0056] If a trip occurs due to a foreign object getting caught, the system automatically cycles forward and reverse, and performs recovery operations using conveyor control to assist conveyor operation. In this case, it will be possible to determine which side of the chain had greater tension at the time of jamming, making it easier to determine the cause.

[0057] Furthermore, by setting up WiFi, the data in the recording device 26 and data analysis device 27 can be monitored remotely and driving data can be easily obtained using a smartphone, etc.

[0058] Furthermore, based on the data on the tension applied to the left and right conveyor chains and the results of analysis by the data analysis device, if the chain tension exceeds an upper limit, it can be determined that the transported object is caught between the scraper and the bottom plate, and the operation support device 28 can operate the scraper in forward or reverse direction. Furthermore, by using the operation support device 28, it is possible to program the forward and reverse rotation operations to be performed automatically once a week, thereby providing a function of informing the user of take-up adjustment.

[0059] Furthermore, by monitoring the tension on the left and right conveyor chains, it can be used as a safety device when starting up and during operation of the conveyor. Common conveyor safety devices include shear pin type, torque limiter type, power detection type, and current detection type. With the shear pin type, if the shear pin breaks, it takes time to recover. Also, with the torque limiter type, operation stops due to slippage, so if it gets stuck, it is not possible to apply any more load.

[0060] In addition, when detecting power and current, the safety device is set based on the detected values, but due to the nature of induction motors, a starting current (about three times the rated current) flows when the motor is started. Therefore, if the safety setting is based on the current value and power, the safety device will activate at the start, so a start time is set so that the safety device will not activate during the set time at start-up. Generally, it is standard for conveyors to monitor the current value as a safety device, but to avoid the starting current of the induction motor, a time is required at start-up to ignore the starting current, which is set to about 2 seconds.

[0061] This leaves the conveyor without a safety device at start-up, which could potentially damage the conveyor. According to the present invention, the chain tension is monitored by the tension, so that it can function as a safety device from the start of operation and during operation, and troubles at the start can also be prevented. In addition, the scraper speed can be changed by changing the tension on the left and right conveyor chains using an inverter-based transmission, thereby saving energy.

[0062] Furthermore, a take-up is performed to adjust the tension of the chain based on the measured value of the chain tension measured by the load cells 23R and 23L. The method for adjusting the elongation of the conveyor chain is as follows:

[0063] Typically, the stretch of the conveyor chain is adjusted by turning a screw attached to the take-up device at the tail. Currently, it is difficult to determine the guidelines for adjusting the degree of chain stretch and tension, and workers have to rely on their own intuition.

[0064] Drive roller chains have two chain wheels in a simple arrangement, making them easy to see and easy to determine slack, so there are guidelines for them. However, in the case of conveyors, it is not easy to deal with this problem because they are often not straight, and are often placed in cases or covered.

[0065] To keep conveyors in good condition, it is necessary to install a take-up. The adjustment length is usually set at about 1.5 to 2 pitches of the chain. It is important to leave the chain with an appropriate amount of slack so that it is not too tight. Too much tension on the chain will accelerate chain wear, and too much slack can cause the chain to ride up onto the sprocket teeth and cause malfunctions.

[0066] The frequency of chain adjustment depends on the initial stretch until the chain breaks in (initial stretch) and the wear between the pins and bushes after use, so to always maintain the appropriate chain tension, it is necessary to make appropriate adjustments by taking up the chain. An example of how many times to check and adjust the chain when operating for 8 hours a day is as follows: When using for long periods of time, people tend to neglect to check the take-up, which can cause the chain to sag and lead to accidents, so it is important to check it regularly.

[0067] Once a day within one week of starting operation Within one month of starting operation, twice a week After one month, twice a month

[0068] Also, when the chain speed is high or the daily operating hours are long, inspection intervals should be shortened, while when the chain speed is low, inspection intervals should be extended.

[0069] If you cannot adjust it enough with the take-up, remove two links to shorten the overall length and eliminate excess slack in the chain. Also, try to adjust the take-up as evenly as possible on both sides.

[0070] The method for measuring the chain tension and adjusting the take-up is as follows:

[0071] [Table 1]

[0072] As shown in Table 1, the drive shaft is rotated in the following order: forward rotation → stop → reverse rotation. R1: R side time, L1: L side time R2: R side time, L2: L side time (1) Forward rotation During forward rotation, the chain tension is maximum on the outward path and minimum on the return path. (2) Next, stop the forward rotation. (3) Next, when the situation reverses When the chain is reversed, no tension is generated while there is slack in each chain, and when the slack disappears and the chain is taut, the tension during reversal can be measured with a load cell.

[0073] [Table 2]

[0074] [Table 3]

[0075] Tables 2 and 3 are tables that illustrate the measured changes in conveyor chain elongation. Table 2 shows the values ​​during trial operation, and Table 3 shows the values ​​during maintenance. 10 is a graph showing the difference in the generation time of tension on the L side and tension on the R side. The chain elongation can be calculated from the values ​​during trial operation and maintenance. R2-R1=T1(seconds) L2-L1=T2 (seconds) If the chain moves x mm in 1 second, the chain elongation can be calculated from the values ​​of T1 and T2.

[0076] If the chain is too tight and there is no slack, tension will be generated immediately when the chain is rotated forward, stopped, and then reversed, and this will be detected.

[0077] For example, specifically, the operation is as follows. Let's say the chain is stretched 100mm. If the conveyor is moving at a speed of 1 m / min, then in 1 second, 1000 mm / 60 sec = 16.7 mm / sec. At 100 mm, chain tension will be generated after 100 / 16.7 = 5.9 seconds. If this is the appropriate condition, adjust by tightening the take-up by 100 mm.

[0078] However, there is also slack in the roller chain connecting the motor and head shaft, so this needs to be taken into consideration.

[0079] By knowing the chain tension, it is possible to detect how many objects are loaded on the entire length of the conveyor and how much is being transported, and it is possible to detect the presence or absence of objects and estimate the amount of objects to some extent.In addition, by controlling the conveyor drive in accordance with the amount of objects being transported, it is possible to achieve energy savings and reduce wear on the chain, rails, etc.

[0080] In the case of conveyors at waste incineration plants, materials are often supplied intermittently from the upstream equipment, so it is desirable to drive the conveyor intermittently only when materials are on the conveyor.

[0081] [Table 4]

[0082] By detecting the tension of the chain, the conveyor is normally operated at a slow speed, and when the transported goods are supplied intermittently, an increase in the tension of the chain is detected, it is assumed that the transported goods have fallen, and the conveyor is operated at an increased speed. After that, when the chain tension decreases, the conveyor is operated at a slower speed. The decrease in chain tension is also related to the ash discharge from the conveyed material at the head.

[0083] In this way, by detecting the tension of the chain, it is possible to detect the presence or absence of an object being conveyed and adjust the speed of the conveyor. It is also possible to set the timer to operate intermittently for a set period of time when an increase in chain tension is detected.The conveyor can also be operated intermittently if the ON / OFF of the upstream equipment is received as a signal.

[0084] Next, the scraper position detector and vibration detector will be described. In FIG. 2, 29 is a scraper position detector, which serves to adjust the position so that the material conveyed from the input chute 17 does not get caught on the scraper 9 in the return state (on the return route). Reference numeral 30 denotes a vibration detector, which is provided directly below the input chute 17 for the transported goods and is capable of detecting the input of the transported goods from the preceding equipment.

[0085] 7, 8 and 9 are diagrams illustrating the relationship between the position of the scraper and the drop of the transported object according to the present invention. The scrapers 9 in Figures 7, 8 and 9 are designated by the symbols 9(1), 9(2), 9(3), 9(4), 9(5), 9(6), 9(7), 9(8), 9(9), 9(10) and 9(11) respectively depending on the position of the scraper.

[0086] 7, 8 and 9, the direction of movement of the scraper 9 is indicated by an arrow. A: Direction of scraper travel on the return trip B: Direction of scraper travel on the outbound side

[0087] FIG. 7 shows the relationship between the position of the scraper and the drop of the transported object that may occur when the scraper 9 is constantly moving. When the material 24 is fed from the feed chute 17, if the scraper 9(1) on the return path is approaching the position of the feed chute, the material 24 will overlap the scraper 9(1). The scraper then moves in the direction of arrow A, passes the position of 9(2), and the material 24 is carried to the tail side, where it is turned around by the tail sprocket 4 and accumulates at the end of the casing 11.

[0088] Furthermore, the transported goods 24 are dropped onto the scraper 9(4) on the outward route side, so that the transported goods 24 are fed in separately to the front and rear of the scraper 9(4). In this case, the transported material 24 may contain materials (iron pieces, rubble, etc.) 31 that may become trapped, and when the amount of materials that may become trapped is small, they tend to become trapped in the scraper. In order to prevent this, it is effective to increase the amount of materials transported by the scraper at one time.

[0089] In Figure 8, the scrapers on the return path are at positions 9(5) and 9(6), and the scrapers on the forward path are at positions 9(7) and 9(8). The scraper positions are adjusted by a scraper position detector 29. In other words, to prevent the scraper from stopping at the position where the transported object falls from the previous equipment, Scraper position detector 29 shall be set. In addition, the scraper on the outbound side is stopped just before the position where the transported items fall from the upstream equipment, so that the scraper is not located directly below the input chute.

[0090] In this case, the transported object 24 fed from the feed chute 17 does not get caught on the scrapers 9(5), 9(6) on the return route, and the transported object is not carried to the tail side. In addition, since the scrapers on the outbound side are located at positions 9(7) and 9(8), the transported items and the items 31 that may get caught can be fed in without getting caught in the scrapers on the outbound side.

[0091] In FIG. 9, the scraper 9 (11) on the outward path is capable of conveying the conveyed object and the object 31 that may become caught together. In this case, scraper 9(11) in FIG. 9 transports a larger amount of material than scrapers 9(4) and 9(3) in FIG. 7, so there is a lower possibility of jamming. When operating intermittently without using an inverter, Vibration detectorThe conveyor can be operated when the input of the transported object from the preceding equipment is detected at 30.

[0092] In the case of intermittent operation, a scraper position detector 29 is placed before the input chute 17 of the preceding equipment, and the returning scraper 9 is stopped at a position where it will not be covered by the transported material flowing from the input chute 17, so that it can be driven so that the transported material is not carried to the tail side. This prevents the transported material from piling up on the tail side.

[0093] In the case of the upper return type, operation is turned on after the transported object falls, and the operation time can be determined by checking the scraper position and turning it off by a timer. When the next article is about to fall, the chute from the preceding equipment is adjusted, and if the scraper 9 is in the fall position, the scraper position detector 29 can prevent the article from falling.

[0094] When the vibration detector 30 detects that an object has fallen from the upstream equipment, the conveyor can be controlled to operate intermittently. Operation is stopped by measuring a fixed time using a timer. [Industrial Applicability]

[0095] This invention is a conveyor that can measure the tension on the conveyor chain to determine the operating and transport conditions, enabling "visualization of operation," "prediction of failures," "operational support," "labor saving," and "decarbonization." This conveyor can be used for chain take-up. It also controls the scraper position according to the falling of the transported object, and can control the conveyor drive according to the presence or absence of the transported object and the transport amount. [Explanation of symbols]

[0096] 1 drive shaft 2 Driven axis 3R, 3L head sprocket 4 tail sprocket 5 Head side chain wheel 6 Motor side chain wheel 7R, 7L head bearing 8 Tail bearing 9 Scraper 10R, 10L conveyor chain 11 Casing 12 Bottom plate 13 Rail 14 Guide plate 15 Head stand 16 legs 17 Throw-in shots 18 Discharge Chute 19 Motor with reducer 20 Motor Base 21 Chain cover 22 Roller chain 23R, 23L load cells 24 Transported goods 25 Tension indicator 26 Recording Devices 27 Data analysis equipment 28 Driving assistance devices 29 Scraper position detector 30 Vibration detector 31 Transported materials that may become trapped (iron pieces, rubble, etc.)

Claims

1. A scraper conveyor comprising: a casing having a bottom plate; a drive shaft provided in the casing; a driven shaft that rotates in response to the rotation of the drive shaft; left and right conveyor chains that are connected to the driven shaft and transmit the rotation from the drive shaft; and scrapers attached to the left and right conveyor chains that transport objects along the bottom plate, A motor with a reducer is attached to the drive shaft, By operating the drive shafts in perfect synchronization, the left and right conveyor chains can be synchronized, and the scraper can be moved parallel to the conveying direction. Controlling the rotation of the drive shaft, A load cell is attached to the drive shaft to measure the loads applied to the left and right conveyor chains and the load applied to the motor with a reducer; deriving tensions applied to the left and right conveyor chains based on values ​​measured by the load cells of the loads applied to the left and right conveyor chains and the load applied to the motor with speed reducer; This scraper conveyor is characterized by being equipped with a data analysis device that analyzes tension data based on the tension values ​​applied to the left and right conveyor chains, allowing the timing of chain replacement and chain condition to be determined.

2. 2. The scraper conveyor according to claim 1, further comprising tension indicators for indicating tensions applied to the left and right conveyor chains.

3. 2. The scraper conveyor according to claim 1, further comprising a recording device for recording tensions applied to the left and right conveyor chains.

4. The scraper conveyor according to claim 3, characterized in that the tension data recorded in the recording device and the results of analysis by the data analysis device can be transferred to a personal computer or a smartphone using an internet line or a Wi-Fi router.

5. 2. The scraper conveyor according to claim 1, further comprising an operation support device that determines, based on data on the tension applied to the left and right conveyor chains and the results of analysis by the data analysis device, that an object being conveyed has become caught between the scraper and the bottom plate when the chain tension exceeds an upper limit value, and can operate the scraper in forward or reverse direction.

6. 2. The scraper conveyor of claim 1, further comprising a safety device for monitoring tension on the left and right conveyor chains during start-up and operation of the conveyor.

7. 2. The scraper conveyor according to claim 1, wherein the speed of the scraper can be changed by a transmission using an inverter in response to changes in tension applied to the left and right conveyor chains.

8. 2. The scraper conveyor according to claim 1, wherein the drive shaft is rotated forward, stopped, and reversed to measure the tension of the left and right conveyor chains, calculate the elongation of the left and right conveyor chains, and adjust the take-up of the left and right conveyor chains according to a predetermined setting.

9. A scraper conveyor comprising: a casing having a bottom plate; a drive shaft provided in the casing; a driven shaft that rotates in response to the rotation of the drive shaft; left and right conveyor chains that are connected to the driven shaft and transmit the rotation from the drive shaft; and scrapers attached to the left and right conveyor chains that transport objects along the bottom plate, A motor with a reducer is attached to the drive shaft, By operating the drive shafts in perfect synchronization, the left and right conveyor chains can be synchronized, and the scraper can be moved parallel to the conveying direction. A scraper conveyor characterized in that a scraper position detector is provided to prevent the scraper on the return path from stopping at the position where the transported object falls from the preceding equipment.

10. 10. The scraper conveyor according to claim 9, wherein the scraper on the outgoing path is stopped before a position where the transported object falls from the upstream equipment.

11. 10. The scraper conveyor according to claim 9, further comprising a vibration detector for detecting the dropping of the transported object at a position on the bottom of the casing where the transported object falls from the upstream equipment.

12. 12. The scraper conveyor according to claim 11, wherein the scraper conveyor is operated intermittently based on detection of the conveyed object by the vibration detector.

Citation Information

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