Elliptical force exciter

Abstract

There is disclosed a force exciter (40) for vibratory equipment for processing bulk material, comprising: a first shaft (1) provided at respective first shaft end portions (1a, 1b) with one or more eccentric first weight (10a, 10b) configured to rotate with the first shaft (1); a second shaft (2) provided at respective second shaft end portions with an eccentric second weight (20a, 20b) and an eccentric third weight (30a, 30b) each configured to rotate with the second shaft (2) A relative angular position of the second weight (20a, 20b) and the third weight (30a, 30b) of a respective second shaft end portion (2a, 2b) of the second shaft (2) is adjustable in a direction about the second axis (A2).

Description

[0001] ELLIPTICAL FORCE EXCITER

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present disclosure relates to force exciters for vibratory equipment, such as screening devices or vibratory feeders. Certain aspects of the present disclosure relates to elliptical force exciters for such equipment.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] As everybody knows, force exciters are essential components in vibrating equipment, utilized across various industries to generate controlled vibrations for material handling and processing. These force exciters, commonly referred to as “exciters” work by converting electrical energy into mechanical energy, creating vibrations that move materials, such as bulk materials, through screens, feeders, and other machinery. Exciters can produce linear, circular or elliptical motion, depending on the design, allowing for versatile applications. An advantage thereof is the control they offer over vibration parameters such as amplitude and frequency, making them suitable for a range of materials and processing requirements.

[0006] Among the various types of exciters, elliptical force exciters stand out due to their unique motion characteristics. Unlike traditional linear or circular motion exciters, elliptical exciters create an elliptical path of movement or motion path. This motion enhances the efficiency of material separation and movement, making them particularly effective for applications such as screening devices and vibrating feeders. The elliptical motion typically allows for improved stratification of materials, ensuring more effective sorting based on size or density.

[0007] Elliptical force exciters often come with adjustable parameters, enabling tuning of amplitude and frequency to match specific screen designs, bulk material properties and processing needs. To this end, some known exciters allows for the shape of the motion path to be adjusted by means of optional plug-in weights that can be inserted in the eccentric weights, thus adjusting a total mass of the eccentric weight. This adaptability contributes to their widespread use in industries like mining, recycling, and aggregates.

[0008] The components of an exciter are essential for generating controlled vibrations in vibrating equipment. At the heart of the exciter are the eccentric weight, which plays a crucial role by creating an imbalance when they rotate around an axis offset from the center. This imbalance generates the desired vibrational force, and adjusting the size and of the eccentric weights allows for modification of the amplitude and frequency of the vibrations.Powering the eccentric weights is the motor, which provides the necessary rotational energy. This motor may be an electric type or another form of actuator, depending on the design of the exciter. The entire assembly may be supported by a mounting frame, such as a cross beam, which connects the exciter to the vibrating equipment and is advantageously sturdy enough to endure the dynamic forces generated during operation.

[0009] To facilitate smooth rotation of the eccentric weights while minimizing friction, bearings are employed. Properly designed bearings are crucial for enhancing the longevity and efficiency of the exciter. The drive mechanism translates the motor’s rotational motion into the movement of the eccentric weights, which can involve gear systems or belts based on the specific design.

[0010] Additionally, many exciters are equipped with a control system that allows operators to adjust parameters like speed and amplitude, enabling them to optimize vibration characteristics for various applications. Together, these components work in unison to produce the desired vibrational effects, enhancing the performance of vibrating equipment across diverse industrial settings.

[0011] In summary, while exciters provide essential vibration capabilities across various applications, elliptical force exciters may offer enhanced efficiency and versatility, making them valuable for optimizing the performance of vibrating equipment in industrial settings.

[0012] A known configuration to achieve the elliptical path, for example in a two-shaft exciter, comprises having different total mass on the two shafts.

[0013] In view of the known exciters, the inventors of the present disclosure have devised a force exciter intended to facilitate standardization of exciters and / or improved customization and / or configuration of exciters to customer needs and applications. SUMMARY

[0014] There is disclosed an exciter for vibratory equipment, such as a screening device or a feeder for processing bulk material. The force exciter may be an elliptical force exciter. That is, configured to generate an elliptical motion path. The exciter comprises a first shaft. The first shaft has a first axis of rotation. The exciter is provided with one or more eccentric first weight at a respective first shaft end portion of two opposite first shaft end portions of the first shaft. The one or more first weight is configured to rotate with the first shaft, such as rotate at a first phase.

[0015] A second shaft is provided having a second axis of rotation, that may be parallel to the first axis.The second shaft is provided with one or more eccentric second weight at a respective second shaft end portion of two opposite second shaft end portions of the second shaft. The second weight is configured to rotate with the second shaft, such as at a second phase.

[0016] The second shaft is provided with one or more eccentric third weight at a respective second shaft end portion of two opposite second shaft end portions of the second shaft. The third weight is configured to rotate with the second shaft, such as with a third phase. The third phase may be different from the second phase.

[0017] In an embodiment, the first shaft and the second shaft are each provide with a same total weight. That is, the total weigh of the first weighs is the same as the total weigh of the second weights and the third weights.

[0018] In some embodiments a relative position of the second weight and the third weight of a respective second shaft end portion of the second shaft is adjustable, such as finitely adjustable or limited adjustable, about the second axis, such as in a direction about the second axis, between a plurality of relative positions of the second weight and the third weight.

[0019] In some embodiments the relative angular position is adjustable by means of one or more of cooperating first key configuration of the second shaft and second weight keyway configuration(s) of the second weight and cooperating second key configuration of the second shaft and third weight keyway configuration of the third weight

[0020] In some embodiments the relative angular position is adjustable such as to selectively configure the force exciter to generate one or more different elliptical vibration patterns, such as a plurality of different vibration patterns.

[0021] In some embodiments the second weight is configured to rotate with the second shaft at a second phase, the third weight is configured to rotate with the second shaft at a third phase, wherein the third phase is different from the second phase.

[0022] In some embodiments a phase difference between the second phase and the third phase is greater than 0 degrees and less than 90 degrees. The second weight keyway configuration may be configured such that the second weight may be angularly adjusted up to 90 degrees or up to 45 degrees. The third weight keyway configuration may be configured such that the third weight may be angularly adjusted up to 90 degrees or up to 45 degrees.In some embodiments the first weight is configured to rotate with the first shaft at a first phase, wherein the first phase is different from the second phase and the third phase. In some embodiments the first phase is between the second phase and the third phase. In some embodiments the order of symmetry is one for one or more of the first key configuration and the second key configurations of the second shaft in an axial plane of the second shaft.

[0023] In some embodiments the order of symmetry is one for the second weight keyway configurations in an axial plane of the second weight and / or the order of symmetry is one for the third weight keyway configuration in an axial plane of the third weight. In some embodiments the third weight positions comprises two to six third weight positions, such as three third weight positions.

[0024] In some embodiments the third weight positions are provided angularly within a circle sector of 180 degrees as seen in an axial plane of third weight.

[0025] In some embodiments the second weight positions comprises two to six second weight positions, such as three second weight positions.

[0026] In some embodiments the second weight positions are provided angularly within a circle sector of 180 degrees as seen in an axial plane of second weight.

[0027] In some embodiments a phase relationship between the second phase and the third phase is adjustable, such as by adjusting a relative position of the second weight and the third weight of a respective second shaft end portions about the second axis. In some embodiments a respective effective radius of rotation of a combined second weight and third weight of a respective second shaft end portion of the second shaft is adjustable.

[0028] Adjusting the relative position of the second weight and the third weight and / or the phase difference between the second weight and the third weight and / or the effective radius of rotation of the second weight and the third weight may comprise displacing the second weight and / or the third weight from a first original position in a first plane transverse the second axis and in a first direction parallel to the second axis, such as to a second plane that may be parallel the first plane, followed rotation of the displaced weight about the second axis, such as relative the second shaft, and displacing the displaced weight in a second direction opposite the first direction back to the first plane. There is disclosed a vibratory equipment, such as a screening machine or a feeder, for processing bulk material, the equipment comprising one or more exciter according to embodiments of the disclosure.In some embodiments, one or more of the first weight, the second weight and the third weight each comprises more than one weight member, such as a respective plurality of weight members. For example, the plurality of weight members may be fixedly attached to each other to form a unit.

[0029] As such, certain embodiments of the disclosure may facilitate elliptical motion path of the exciter.

[0030] As such, certain embodiments of the disclosure may facilitate flexibility in choice of motion path, for example using standardized eccentric weight or segment.

[0031] As such, certain embodiments of the disclosure may aid in selecting motion path. As such, certain embodiments of the disclosure may facilitate that certain motion paths are avoided, for example motion path(s) that may be undesired from a processing perspective and / or detrimental to the vibratory equipment.

[0032] An eccentric weight used to generate vibration, may be seen as a weighted object that is offset from the center of rotation on a shaft or rotor. When the shaft rotates, the uneven distribution of mass creates a centrifugal force that produces vibrations, as has been explained hereinbefore.

[0033] In the context of an eccentric weight, the geometry is of significance for understanding how it generates vibration. The center of rotation may be seen as the point around which the shaft or rotor spins. It is usually located at the geometric center of the shaft. The center of mass may be seen as the average location of the mass of the eccentric weight. For a standard eccentric weight, the center of mass is positioned away from the center of rotation. The eccentricity may be seen as the distance between the center of rotation and the center of mass is referred to as the eccentricity. This distance determines the magnitude of the centrifugal force generated when the weight is rotated. The radius of rotation may be seen as the radius at which the center of mass is located from the center of rotation contributes to the force exerted during rotation. A larger radius results in greater centrifugal force, which translates to more pronounced vibrations.

[0034] When the shaft rotates, the offset mass causes a periodic change in the distribution of mass around the center of rotation, leading to the generation of vibrational forces in a radial direction. The larger the offset (eccentricity), the greater the resulting vibration amplitude.

[0035] The effective radius of rotation when dealing with two eccentric weights refers to a calculated radius that represents the combined effect of both masses (of the weights) as they rotate about a common center. Each weight has its own center of mass and islocated at a specific distance (eccentricity) from the center of rotation. Each mass generates a centrifugal force as it rotates, which depends on its mass and the square of its angular velocity. To find the effective radius of rotation, one may consider the contributions of both masses to the total force and how they interact. The effective radius can be calculated using a weighted average based on the forces or moments they create. This gives a single radius that represents the overall effect of the two masses in terms of the vibration generated. The effective radius helps simplify the analysis of systems with multiple eccentric weights, making it easier to predict the resultant vibration characteristics and optimize performance.

[0036] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS FIG. 1 is a front view of the force exciter according to an embodiment of the disclosure. FIG. 2 is an isometric view of the force exciter of FIG. 1.

[0037] FIG. 3 is a side view of the force exciter of FIG. 1.

[0038] FIG. 4 is a top view of the force exciter of FIG. 1.

[0039] FIG. 5 shows details of a second shaft assembly according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0040] FIG. 6 shows details of the second shaft assembly of FIG. 5.

[0041] FIG. 7 shows details of the second shaft of FIG. 5.

[0042] FIG. 8 shows details of a second shaft assembly according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0043] FIG. 9 shows details of the second shaft assembly of FIG. 8.

[0044] FIG. 10 shows details of the second shaft of FIG. 8.

[0045] FIG. 11 is a diagrammatic illustration of the first phase of the first weight according to an embodiment.

[0046] FIG. 12 illustrates the second phase of the second weight according to an embodiment. FIG. 13 illustrates the third phase of the third weight according to an embodiment. FIG. 14 illustrates the first phase according to an embodiment.

[0047] FIG. 15 is a diagrammatic illustration of the phase difference between the second phase vs. the third phase, according to an embodiment.

[0048] FIG. 16 shows a vibratory equipment according to an embodiment of the disclosure.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0049] Referring to FIG. 1 to FIG. 4, a force exciter 40 according to an embodiment is shown. The force exciter 40 may be for vibratory equipment for processing bulk material. The force exciter comprises a first shaft 1 having a first axis A1 of rotation. The force exciter 40 is provided with one or more eccentric first weight 10a, 10b or segment at respective first shaft end portions 1a, 1 b of the first shaft 1. The one or more first weight is configured to rotate with the first shaft 1 , such as rotate at a first phase P1.

[0050] A second shaft 2 is provided having a second axis A2 of rotation parallel to the first axis A1. The second shaft 2 is provided with an eccentric second weight 20a, 20b at respective second shaft end portions 2a, 2b of the second shaft 2. The second weight is configured to rotate with the second shaft 2, such as at a second phase P2. The second phase may be different from the first phase P1.

[0051] The second shaft 2 is provided with an eccentric third weight 30a, 30b at respective second shaft end portions 2a, 2b of the second shaft 2. Likewise, the third weight is configured to rotate with the second shaft 2, such as with a third phase P3. The third phase P3 may be different from the second phase P2. The third phase P3 may be different from the first phase P1.

[0052] In some embodiments a relative position of the second weight 20a, 20b and the third weight 30a, 30b of a respective second shaft end portion 2a, 2b of the second shaft 2 is adjustable, such as finitely or stepwise adjustable, about the second axis A2 between a plurality of relative positions.

[0053] Put differently, a position of at least one of the second weight 20a, 20b and the third weight 30a, 30b is adjustable relative the other of the second weight and the third weight and about the second axis A2.

[0054] The term relative position may comprise a relative position, such as a relative angular position, of a center of mass of a respective of the second weight 20a, 20b and the third weight 30a, 30b in relation to the second axis A2, as seen in a plane transverse the second axis A2.

[0055] Adjusting a position of the second weight 20a, 20b or third weight 30a, 30b may comprise displacing the weight 20a, 20b, 30a, 30b parallel to the second axis A2 and rotating the weight about the second axis A2. Rotating the weight about the second axis A2 may comprise rotating the weight relative to the second shaft 2, i.e. the second shaft may be stationary. For example, the weight 20a, 20b, 30a, 30b may firstly be displaced parallel to the second axis A2, such as in a direction away from the exciter40, and secondly rotated about the second axis A2, and thirdly displaced parallel to the second axis A2 in a direction towards the exciter 40.

[0056] In some embodiments a phase relationship between the second phase P2 and the third phase P3 is adjustable by adjusting a relative position of the second weight 20a, 20b and the third weight 30a, 30b of a respective second shaft end portions 2a, 2b about the second axis A2.

[0057] In some embodiments a respective effective radius of rotation R of a combined second weight 20a, 20b and third weight 30a, 30b of a respective second shaft end portion 2a, 2b of the second shaft 2 is adjustable.

[0058] The effective radius of rotation R may be adjustable by adjusting a relative position of the second weight 20a, 20b and the third weight 30a, 30b about the second axis A2. In some embodiments the effective radius of rotation R adjustable may comprise a position of the third weight 30a, 30b being adjustable relative to a position of the second weight 20a, 20b, such as between respective positions of a plurality of third weight positions 34, 34’, 34”, 35, 35’, 35”. The plurality of third weight positions may be angularly displaced about the second axis A2.

[0059] In some embodiments the effective radius of rotation R adjustable may comprise a position of the second eccentric weight 20a, 20b being adjustable relative to a position of the third eccentric weight 30a, 30b, such as between respective positions of a plurality of second weight positions 24, 24’, 24”, 25, 25’, 25”. The plurality of second weight positions may be angularly displaced about the second axis A2.

[0060] In some embodiments a position of the third weight 30a, 30b is adjustable relative to the second shaft 2 between a respective position of the plurality of third weight positions indicated by references 34, 34’, 34”, 35, 35’, 35” in FIG. 6 and FIG. 9.

[0061] In some embodiments a position of the second weight 20a, 20b is adjustable relative to the second shaft 2 between a respective position of the plurality of second weight positions indicated by references 24, 24’, 24”, 25, 25’, 25” in FIG. 6 and FIG. 9.

[0062] In some embodiments the plurality of second weight positions 24, 24’, 24”, 25, 25’, 25” comprise a finite number of predetermined positions, such as predetermined second weight positions.

[0063] Likewise, the plurality of third weight positions 34, 34’, 34”, 35, 35’, 35” may comprise a finite number of predetermined positions, such as predetermined third weight positions.Limiting the number of positions may facilitate that certain motion paths can be avoided. For example, potentially detrimental motion paths may be avoided by mechanically excluding certain positioning of the second weight and / or third weight.

[0064] With reference to FIG. 5 to FIG. 10, the second weight positions may be determined or dictated by a second weight keyway configuration 23, 23’ of the second weight 20a, 20b cooperating with a first shaft key configuration 26, 27 of the second shaft 2.

[0065] The third weight positions, indicated by references 34. 34’, 34” in FIG. 6 may be determined or dictated by a third weight keyway configuration 33, 33’ of the third weight 30a, 30b and a cooperating second shaft key configuration 26’, 27’ of the second shaft 2.

[0066] The second weight keyway configuration 23, 23’ and / or third weight keyway configuration 33, 33’ may comprise an aperture or slot extending through the respective weight. The slot may have a varying radius, for example formed by protrusions, such as substantially square or rectangular protrusions, formed by second weight grooves 24, 24’, 24”, 25, 25’, 25” and third weight grooves 34, 34’, 34”, 35, 35’, 35” respectively, the grooves distributed around an inner surface of the aperture, as illustrated in FIG. 6 and FIG. 9.

[0067] The first shaft key configuration 26, 26’ and / or the second shaft key configuration 27, 27’ may comprise one or more protrusion projecting in a radial direction of the second shaft beyond an outer surface of the second shaft 2, wherein a respective groove of the grooves 24, 24’, 24”, 25, 25’, 25”, 34, 34’, 34”, 35, 35’, 35” is configured to receive a respective protrusion.

[0068] As derivable from FIG. 5, FIG. 6 and FIG. 7, the second weight keyway configuration 23, 23’ may be configured to receive first key configuration 26 exclusively in a respective position of the plurality of second weight positions. Likewise, the third weight keyway configuration 33, 33’ may be configured to receive second key configuration 26’, 27’ exclusively in a respective position of the plurality of third weight positions. It should be appreciated that the feature of an adjustable third weight as has been explained herein is not inextricably linked to the feature of an adjustable second weight as has been explained herein. Rather, the disclosure allows for implementation of these features in isolation.

[0069] It has been further contemplated that one or more of the plurality of second weight positions may be dictated by the first shaft key configuration of the second shaft 26,Likewise, it has been further contemplated that one or more of the plurality of third weight positions may be dictated by the second key configuration of the second shaft 26’, 27’.

[0070] The first shaft key configuration 26, 27 and / or the second shaft key configuration 26’, 27’ may comprise a varying radius of the second shaft, for example formed by one or more protrusions, such as substantially square or rectangular protrusions or splines, such as substantially square or rectangular protrusions distributed around an outer surface of the second shaft.

[0071] Accordingly, the second weight keyway configuration 23, 33 may be configured to receive the first shaft key configuration 26, 27 exclusively in a respective position of the plurality of predetermined second weight positions.

[0072] Accordingly, the third weight keyway configuration 33, 33’ may be configured to receive the second shaft key configuration 26’, 27’ exclusively in a respective position of the plurality of predetermined third weight positions.

[0073] For example, the keyway configuration of the second weight and / or the keyway configuration of the third weight may comprise be formed by a throughgoing slot or aperture and one or more protrusion projecting radially from an inner surface of the slot.

[0074] Alternatively, or in addition, the second weight keyway configuration and the second shaft key configuration may comprise splines 23’, 33’, 27, 27’ configured to cooperate to determine the second weight positions, as shown in FIG. 8, FIG. 9 and FIG. 10. Alternatively, or in addition, the third weight keyway configuration and the second shaft key configuration may comprise splines 33’, 27’ configured to cooperate to determine the third weight positions, as shown in FIG. 8, FIG. 9 and FIG. 10.

[0075] The splines 23’, 33’, 27, 27’ may likewise be provided on an outer surface of the second shaft 2 and on a respective inner surface of the second weight 20a, 20b and / or the third weight 30a, 30b configured to engage with the splines of the second shaft 2. In some embodiments, adjusting the relative position between the second weight, such as second weight 20a, and the third weight, such as third weight 30a, may comprise displacing one of the second weight 20a and the third weight 30a axially along the second shaft 2, such in a first direction, which may be a distal direction or proximal direction relative the exciter 40, such as to disengage the weight keyway configuration 23, 23’, 33, 33’ from the key configuration 26, 26’, 27, 27’ of the second shaft 2, rotating the displaced weight about the second shaft rotational axis A2, and displacing the rotated weight in a second direction opposite the first direction, such as to anewengage the weight keyway configuration 23, 23’, 33, 33’ of the rotated weight with the key configuration of the second shaft 26, 26’, 27, 27’.

[0076] Of course, the relative position between the second weight, such as second weight 20a, and the third weight, such as third weight 30a, may likewise be set upon assembling of the exciter 40, i.e. upon mounting the respective second weights 20a, 20b and third weights 30a, 30b to the second shaft 2.

[0077] In some embodiments, a total combined mass of the one or more first weight 10a, 10b may be equal to a total combined mass of the second weight 20a, 20b and the third weight 30a, 30b. That is, there may be equal mass on each end portion 1a, 1b, 2a, 2b of the first shaft and the second shaft.

[0078] As such, the eccentric weights according to embodiments herein may be provided in shape of eccentric weight elements, for example eccentric segments as illustrated in the appended drawings.

[0079] FIG. 11 shows an exemplary position of the first weight 10a, 10b wherein the first weight has a first phase P1. Likewise, FIG. 12 shows an exemplary second weight position corresponding to a second phase P2 of the second weight 20a, 20b and FIG.

[0080] 13 shows an exemplary third weight position corresponding to a third phase P3 of the third weight 30a, 30b. As derivable from FIG.12 and FIG. 13, the second phase P2 is different from the third phase P3. Also, the first phase P1 is different from the second phase P2 and the third phase P3. In the embodiment shown, the first phase P1 is between the second phase P2 and the third phase P3. The relative position between the second weight 20a, 20b and the third weight 30a, 30b, as seen in a plane transverse the second shaft rotational axis A2, translates to a phase difference PD between the second phase P2 and the third phase P3. As derivable from FIGS 11 to 13, the first phase P1 may be halfway between the second phase P2 and the third phase P3. Put differently, a respective phase differential between the first phase P1 and a respective of the second phase P2 and the third phase P3 may be the same. In other words, one or more of the second weight positions 24, 24’, 24”, 25, 25’, 25” and the third weight positions 34, 34’, 34”, 35, 35’, 35” may correspond or translate to the relative position of the second weight 20a, 20b and the third weight 30a, 30b of a respective end portion 2a, 2b of the second shaft 2. The relative position may correspond to the phase difference PD between the second weight and the third weight, as diagrammatically illustrated in the phase diagram of FIG. 15. As such, by providing one or more second weight positions and / or one or more third weight positions, various phase differences PD may be achieved. In particular, the second weight positions and / or one or more third weight positions may be configured to obtain a number ofdifferent phase differences PD, such as two to four different phase differences, in the range of 0 degrees < PD < 90 degrees. By this configuration, the key of the second shaft and the keyway of the second weight and / or third weights may be configured to obtain a number of pre-selected vibration patterns. By this configuration, vibration patterns, such as unwanted vibration patterns, may be avoided or excluded by disabling the option to mount and / or adjust the second weights and / or third weights with relative angular position resulting in such (unwanted) vibration patterns.

[0081] Referring to FIG. 14, the first phase P1 of the first weight 10a, 10b is diagrammatically illustrated. Referring to FIG. 15, the second phase P2 of the second weight 20a, 20b and the third phase P3 of the third weight 30a, 30b are diagrammatically illustrated. As derivable from FIG. 15, the phase difference PD between the second phase P2 and the third phase P3 may be greater than 0 degrees and less than 90 degrees.

[0082] Referring again to FIG. 1 to FIG. 4, in certain embodiments the second weight may be provided in a second plane L2 transverse the second axis A2, and the third eccentric weight is provided in a parallel third plane L3 displaced from the second plane L2, as shown for example in FIG.3.

[0083] In some embodiments the at least one first weight 10 is provided in a first plane L1 transverse the rotational axis of the first shaft A1 and displaced one or more of the second plane L2 and the third plane L3, preferably in between the second plane L2 and the third plane L3.

[0084] In some embodiments the first shaft 1 and the second shaft 2 are supported in a common bearing case 3 arranged respectively between respective end portions of the first shaft 1 a, 1 b and the second shaft 2a, 2b.

[0085] In some embodiments the first shaft 1 and the second shaft 2 are in driving engagement such as to be rotatable in opposite directions.

[0086] In some embodiments the second weight 20a, 20b and the third weight 30a, 30b are substantially similar, or essentially identical in terms of geometry and / or shape.

[0087] One or more or all of the first weight, the second weight and the third weight may be metal, such as steel or iron.

[0088] FIG. 16 shows a vibratory equipment 50, in shape of a screening machine, for processing bulk material. The screening machine comprising one or more force exciter according to embodiments of the disclosure.In some embodiments the one or more force exciters 40 is a plurality of force exciters mounted to a transverse beam 51. The transverse beam may be attached to respective side walls 52 of the vibratory equipment 50.

[0089] Definitions and general preferences

[0090] Where used herein and unless specifically indicated otherwise, the following terms are intended to have the following meanings in addition to any broader (or narrower) meanings the terms might enjoy in the art:

[0091] Unless otherwise required by context, the use herein of the singular is to be read to include the plural and vice versa. The term "a" or "an" used in relation to an entity is to be read to refer to one or more of that entity. As such, the terms "a" (or "an"), "one or more," and "at least one" are used interchangeably herein.

[0092] As used herein, the term "comprise," or variations thereof such as "comprises" or "comprising," are to be read to indicate the inclusion of any recited integer (e.g. a feature, element, characteristic, property, method / process step or limitation) or group of integers (e.g. features, element, characteristics, properties, method / process steps or limitations) but not the exclusion of any other integer or group of integers. Thus, as used herein the term "comprising" is inclusive or open- ended and does not exclude additional, unrecited integers or method / process steps.

[0093] Embodiments disclosed herein may generally be combined unless otherwise stated or apparent from the context.

[0094] Equivalents

[0095] The foregoing description details presently preferred embodiments of the present invention. Numerous modifications and variations in practice thereof are expected to occur to those skilled in the art upon consideration of these descriptions. Those modifications and variations are intended to be encompassed within the claims appended hereto.

Claims

1. CLAIMS1. A force exciter (40) for vibratory equipment for processing bulk material, comprising:a first shaft (1 ) having a first axis (A1 ) of rotation and provided at respective first shaft end portions (1a, 1b) of the first shaft (1) with one or more eccentric first weight (10a, 10b) configured to rotate with the first shaft (1 );a second shaft (2) having a second axis (A2) of rotation parallel to the first axis (A1), the second shaft (2) provided at respective second shaft end portions (2a, 2b) of the second shaft (2) with an eccentric second weight (20a, 20b) and an eccentric third weight (30a, 30b) each configured to rotate with the second shaft (2);wherein a relative angular position of the second weight (20a, 20b) and the third weight (30a, 30b) of a respective second shaft end portion (2a, 2b) of the second shaft (2) is finitely adjustable in a direction about the second axis (A2).

2. The force exciter according to claim 1, wherein the relative angular position is adjustable by means of one or more of cooperating first key configuration (26) of the second shaft (2) and second weight keyway configuration(s) (23) of the second weight (20a, 20b) and cooperating second key configuration (26’) of the second shaft (20a, 20b) and third weight keyway configuration (33) of the third weight3. The force exciter according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the relative angular position is adjustable such as to selectively configure the force exciter to generate one or more different elliptical vibration patterns, such as a plurality of different vibration patterns.

4. The force exciter according to any preceding claim 1 to 3, wherein the second weight (20a, 20b) is configured to rotate with the second shaft (2) at a second phase (P2), the third weight (30a, 30b) is configured to rotate with the second shaft (2) at a third phase (P3), wherein the third phase (P3) is different from the second phase (P2).

5. The force exciter according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 4 wherein a phase difference between the second phase (P2) and the third phase (P3) is greater than 0 degrees and less than 90 degrees.

6. The force exciter according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 5, wherein the first weight (10a, 10b) is configured to rotate with the first shaft (1 ) at a first phase (P1), wherein the first phase (P1) is different from the second phase (P2) and the third phase (P3).

7. The force exciter according to the preceding claim 6, wherein the first phase (P1) is between the second phase (P2) and the third phase (P3).

8. The force exciter according to any preceding claim 1 to 7, wherein the order of symmetry is one for one or more of the first key configuration (26) and the second key configurations (26’) of the second shaft in an axial plane of the second shaft.

9. The force exciter according to any preceding claim 1 to 8, wherein the order of symmetry is one for the second weight keyway configurations (23) in an axial plane of the second weight (20a, 20b) and / or the order of symmetry is one for the third weight keyway configuration (33) in an axial plane of the third weight.

10. The force exciter according to any preceding claim 1 to 9, wherein said adjustable relative angular position of the second weight (20a, 20b) and the third weight (30a) comprises one or more ofa) a position of the third weight (30a, 30b) being adjustable, relative to a position of the second weight (20a, 20b), between respective positions of a plurality of third weight positions (34, 34’, 34”, 35, 35’, 35”), such as a plurality of fixed third weight positions, being angularly displaced about the second axis (A2), andb) a position of the second weight (20a, 20b) being adjustable, relative to a position of the third weight (30a, 30b), between respective positions of a plurality of second weight positions (24, 24’, 24”, 25, 25’, 25”), such as a plurality of fixed second weigh positions, being angularly displaced about the second axis (A2).

11. The force exciter according to any preceding claim 1 to 10, wherein the third weight positions (34, 34’, 34”, 35, 35’, 35”) comprises two to six third weight positions12. The force exciter according to any preceding claim 1 to 11, wherein the third weight positions (34, 34’, 34”, 35, 35’, 35”) are provided angularly within a circle sector of 180 degrees as seen in an axial plane of third weight.

13. The force exciter according to any preceding claim 1 to 12, wherein the second weight positions (24, 24’, 24”, 25, 25’, 25”) comprises two to six second weight positions.

14. Wherein the second weight positions (24, 24’, 24”, 25, 25’, 25”) are provided angularly within a circle sector of 180 degrees as seen in an axial plane of second weight.

15. The force exciter according to any preceding claim 1 to 14, wherein one or more ofa) a position of the third weight (30a, 30b) is adjustable relative to the second shaft (2) between the respective positions of the plurality of third weight positions (34, 34’, 34”, 35, 35’, 35”), andb) a position of the second weight (20a, 20b) is adjustable relative to the second shaft (2) between the respective positions of the plurality of second weight positions (24, 24’, 24”, 25, 25’, 25”).

16. The force exciter according to any preceding claims 2 to 15, wherein one or more of said plurality of second weight positions (24, 24’, 24”, 25, 25’, 25”) and said plurality of third weight positions (34, 34’, 34”, 35, 35’, 35”) comprise a finite number of predetermined or fixed positions or predetermined and fixed positions.

17. The force exciter according to any preceding claim 2 to 16, wherein one or more ofa) the plurality of second weight positions (24, 24’, 24”, 25, 25’, 25”) are determined by cooperating key configurations of the second shaft (26, 27) and keyway configurations the second weights (23, 23’), andb) the plurality of third weight positions (34, 34’, 34”, 35, 35’, 35”) are determined by cooperating key configurations of the second shaft (26’, 27’) and keyway configurations of the third weights (33, 33’).

18. The force exciter according to claim 10 to 17, wherein one or more of a) the second weight keyway configuration (23, 23’) is configured to receive a first key configuration (26) of the second shaft (2), preferably the second weight keyway configuration (23, 23’) is configured to receive the first key configuration (26) exclusively in a respective position of the plurality of second weight positions, and b) the third weight keyway configuration (33, 33’) is configured to receive a second key configuration (26’, 27’) of the second shaft (2), preferably the third weight key configuration (33, 33’) is configured to receive the second key configuration (26’, 27’) exclusively in a respective position of the plurality of third weight positions.

19. The force exciter according to any one of the preceding claims 2 to 18, wherein one or more of the key configurations and keyway configurations comprises splines (23’, 33’, 27, 27’), preferably the splines (23’, 33’, 27, 27’) are provided on an outer surface of the second shaft (2) and on a respective inner surface of the secondweight (20a, 20b) and the third weight (30a, 30b) configured to engage with the second shaft (2).

20. The force exciter according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 19, wherein a total combined mass of the one or more first weight (10a, 10b) is equal to a total combined mass of the second weight (20a, 20b) and the third weight (30a, 30b).

21. The force exciter according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 16, wherein the second weight is provided in a second plane (L2) transverse the second axis (A2), and the third eccentric weight is provided in a parallel third plane (L3) displaced from the second plane (L2), preferably the at least one first weight (10) is provided in a first plane (L1) transverse the rotational axis of the first shaft (A1) and displaced one or more of the second plane (L2) and the third plane (L3), preferably in between the second plane (L2) and the third plane (L3).

22. The force exciter according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 21, wherein the first shaft (1 ) and the second shaft (2) are supported in a common bearing case arranged respectively between respective end portions of the first shaft (1a, 1b) and the second shaft (2a, 2b).

23. The force exciter according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 22, wherein the first shaft (1) and the second shaft (2) are in driving engagement such as to be rotatable in opposite directions.

24. The force exciter according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 23, wherein the second weight (20a, 20b) and the third weight (30a, 30b) are substantially similar, or essentially identical in terms of geometry or weight or geometry and weight.

25. A vibratory equipment (50), such as a screening machine or a feeder, for processing bulk material, the equipment comprising one or more force exciter (40) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 24.

26. The vibratory equipment (50) according to the preceding claim 25, wherein the one or more force exciters is a plurality of force exciters (40) mounted to a transverse beam attached to respective side walls of the vibratory equipment.

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