System and method for monitoring the state of a conveyor belt of a conveyor-belt installation, and a corresponding conveyor-belt installation

Abstract

The invention illustrates and describes a system (1) for monitoring the state of a conveyor belt (2) of a conveyor-belt installation (3), having - a carrying shaft (4, 4’), - a scraping segment (5, 5’), which is arranged on the carrying shaft (4, 4’) and is connected to the carrying shaft (4, 4’) for torque-transmitting purposes, - a fixed-position holder (8) with a retaining bearing (9), in which the carrying shaft (4, 4’) is rotatably mounted, - a movement element (11), which is arranged on the holder (8) and is coupled to the carrying shaft (4, 4’) in terms of movement, and - a sensor (10) for monitoring the state of the conveyor belt (2), wherein the scraping segment (5, 5’), the carrying shaft (4, 4’), the holder (8) and the movement element (11) interact such that a force acting on the scraping segment (5, 5’) is transmitted to the movement element (11), and wherein the sensor (10) is arranged, and designed, such that the sensor (10) senses a characteristic, in particular physical, variable of the movement element (11).

Description

[0001] System and method for monitoring the condition of a conveyor belt of a conveyor belt system and a corresponding conveyor belt system

[0002] The invention relates to a system for monitoring the condition of a conveyor belt in a conveyor belt system. The system comprises a support shaft and at least one stripping segment arranged on the support shaft and connected to the support shaft in a torque-transmitting manner. Furthermore, the system comprises at least one stationary support with a retaining bearing in which the support shaft is rotatably mounted. The system also has a movement element arranged on the support and coupled to the support shaft, and a sensor for monitoring the condition of the conveyor belt.

[0003] Furthermore, the present invention relates to a method for monitoring the condition of a conveyor belt of a conveyor belt system using a system of the aforementioned type.

[0004] Furthermore, the present invention relates to a conveyor belt system comprising a conveyor belt and a system of the aforementioned type.

[0005] Conveyor belt systems use a moving conveyor belt to transport bulk materials, such as sand, gravel, coal, ore, or the like, from one location to another. When the bulk material falls off the conveyor belt at the end of a deflection, a residue of the bulk material sometimes remains stuck to the conveyor belt. A conveyor belt scraper device can include a scraper segment of the type mentioned above. The scraper segment serves to scrape off bulk material adhering to the conveyor belt.

[0006] Typically, a first scraper segment or segments are located directly on the deflection roller of the conveyor belt, known as primary scrapers. On the lower run of the conveyor belt, there is usually a secondary scraper behind the primary scraper in the direction of travel of the conveyor belt.

[0007] The scraper segments of a conveyor belt scraper device, which are usually arranged several times next to each other, are replaceably attached to a support shaft which is usually rotatable and often also linearly adjustable and can extend transversely to the conveyor belt.

[0008] An adjusting device may be provided. This is usually connected to one or both ends of the support shaft and can be configured via a corresponding lifting structure or preloaded springs to generate the necessary preload for the conveyor belt scraper device. Sometimes the adjusting device includes a drive motor. The drive motor is then controlled by an electrical or electronic controller. While only one drive motor is mentioned here, this includes a variant in which multiple drive motors are provided, in particular one drive motor at each end of the support shaft.

[0009] In practice, control methods are known that can be used to visually monitor the condition of the conveyor belt. However, this requires complex evaluation of the measurement results and is also prone to errors, resulting in high operating, maintenance, and manufacturing costs. If damage or potential damage—for example, due to adhering bulk material—is detected too late, this can result in damage to the entire conveyor system, even leading to conveyor system failure, and result in consequential costs that are difficult to estimate. If, for example, bulk material gets into the drive system of the conveyor belt system, the damage can be considerable.

[0010] Conveyor belt damage should be detected as early, reliably, and automatically as possible, while misdetections (concluding that damage is present even though there is no damage) should be avoided wherever possible. When damage occurs, its location on the conveyor belt should preferably be detected as precisely as possible.

[0011] The object of the present invention is therefore to provide a system or a method for efficient or reliable monitoring of the condition of a conveyor belt of a conveyor belt system, in particular wherein disadvantages of the prior art are to be avoided or at least substantially reduced.

[0012] To solve this problem, the present invention provides a system for monitoring the condition of a conveyor belt of a conveyor belt system. The system comprises a support shaft and at least one stripping segment arranged on the support shaft and connected to the support shaft in a torque-transmitting manner. A plurality of stripping segments can also be provided, which can in particular be arranged adjacent to one another on the support shaft. The stripping segments can be designed to ensure the stripping of material adhering to the conveyor belt.

[0013] Furthermore, the system according to the invention comprises a stationary mount with a retaining bearing in which the support shaft is rotatably mounted. A movement element of the system is also arranged on the mount, wherein the movement element is coupled to the support shaft. In particular, the movement element is connected to the support shaft in a rotationally fixed and / or twist-resistant manner.

[0014] According to the invention, the system has a sensor for monitoring the condition of the conveyor belt.

[0015] The stripping segment, the support shaft and the holder as well as the moving element interact in such a way that a force acting on the stripping segment is transmitted to the moving element, wherein the sensor is arranged and designed in such a way that the sensor detects a characteristic, in particular a physical, variable of the moving element.

[0016] The invention makes it possible to use the sensor to monitor the condition of the conveyor belt or to draw conclusions about the condition of the conveyor belt, preferably for damage detection. In tests conducted during the development of the invention, it was surprisingly discovered that a sensor, which can be arranged in particular on the support, can enable conclusions about the condition of the conveyor belt by monitoring the moving element.

[0017] In particular, it can be provided, for example, that the stripping segment is in contact with the conveyor belt, wherein upon contact with the area of ​​the conveyor belt in which damage is present, the interaction of the stripping segment and the conveyor belt is changed such that the force acting on the stripping segment can be detected by the sensor through interaction with the movement element. In particular, the movement element can also be movably, preferably pivotably, mounted on the holder. Finally, in particular, the sensor can interact with the movement element such that the sensor can at least indirectly detect a change in the position of the stripping end of the stripping segment facing the conveyor belt and / or a change in the contact force that must be applied to bring the stripping end into contact with the conveyor belt.

[0018] Preferably, a belt entrainment force applied by the conveyor belt to the stripping end of the stripping segment can be detected at least indirectly, in particular changes in the belt entrainment force can be detected.

[0019] When the invention was developed, it was discovered that these aforementioned changes could indicate belt damage.

[0020] Accordingly, the invention makes it possible to enable economical, efficient and safe monitoring of the conveyor belt in a comparatively simple manner.

[0021] In particular, according to the invention, conclusions can be drawn about the condition of the conveyor belt by means of the sensor and by means of the interaction of the movement element and the sensor, preferably for damage detection.

[0022] The load data or measurement signals recorded by the sensor can in particular be evaluated so that, for example, a check can be carried out to determine whether limit values ​​- which in particular limit a specified range - have been undershot and / or exceeded.

[0023] In particular, the invention makes it possible to identify a potential damage event in a timely manner and, in particular, to estimate the extent of any potential damage. This preferably ensures a significant reduction in the operating and maintenance costs of the entire conveyor belt system.

[0024] Preferably, the sensor can at least indirectly detect a movement of the moving element, allowing conclusions to be drawn about the conveyor belt by connecting the moving element to the support shaft, and the support shaft, in turn, to the stripping segment. In particular, the sensor can detect when the support shaft or the stripping segment undergoes a change such that the stripping segment is or has been brought out of contact with the conveyor belt.

[0025] In a particularly preferred embodiment of the present invention, the system comprises an adjusting device by means of which the support shaft can be moved such that a surface of the stripping segment, in particular a stripping end, can be brought into contact with the conveyor belt. The adjusting device is arranged and / or mounted on the holding device and is further connected to the support shaft in a torque-transmitting manner. The movement element can be coupled to the adjusting device for movement or be part of the adjusting device.

[0026] The adjusting device can, in particular, transmit an adjusting force to the stripping segment, which brings the stripping end into contact with the conveyor belt. In the event of conveyor belt or belt damage, the adjusting force required by the adjusting device can change, in particular increase. Such a change in the applied adjusting force can then be detected according to the invention, in particular by means of the movement element and the sensor.

[0027] The adjusting device can preferably be arranged and / or mounted on the holder - in particular outside the conveyor belt - preferably at least indirectly on a deflection roller of the conveyor belt.

[0028] In particular, the sensor can detect when the scraper segment is or has been brought out of contact with the conveyor belt and as a result the contact force has changed or has changed.

[0029] Finally, the adjusting device can apply a preload force to the support shaft, which in turn brings the scraper segment, with its scraping end, into contact with the conveyor belt with the desired preload. The preload must be high enough to reliably scrape off any bulk material residue adhering to the conveyor belt, but preferably not too high, so that the conveyor belt is not damaged by the scraper segment. The adjusting device can interact with one or more scraper segments.

[0030] In particular, the adjusting device is arranged on the support shaft or connected to it and therefore interacts with the scraper segment(s) arranged on the support shaft.

[0031] Particularly preferably, the movement element can be designed as a freely rotatable lever mounted on the holder or as a freely rotatable pendulum mounted on the holder.

[0032] Preferably, the movement element is connected to the support shaft in a rotationally fixed and / or twist-proof manner, as previously explained. Such an arrangement of the movement element enables the movement element to be coupled to the stripping segment, particularly via the support shaft, in a particularly preferred embodiment, namely especially when the stripping segment is connected to the support shaft in a rotationally fixed manner. Thus, the connection via the support shaft makes it possible to detect or detect via the sensor any change in the stripping segment that indicates conveyor belt damage.

[0033] Alternatively or additionally, the moving element can be connected to the support shaft in such a way that a load on the support shaft causes a translational movement of the moving element. Such an arrangement or connection between the moving element and the support shaft enables the condition of the conveyor belt to be monitored at least indirectly through the interaction between the support shaft and the stripping segment, and on the other hand, through the interaction between the moving element and the support shaft by means of the sensor based on the translational movement of the moving element.

[0034] Ultimately, a change in the translational movement of the moving element can, after appropriate evaluation, indicate conveyor belt damage, which can be determined using the measurement data acquired by the sensor. In a further preferred embodiment of the inventive concept, the sensor and the moving element can be arranged and configured such that, upon movement of the moving element, the moving element exerts a force on the sensor, in particular by pushing against the sensor or pulling the sensor.

[0035] In the normal or unloaded state of the moving element, it can be provided that the moving element is out of engagement with the sensor.

[0036] In principle, however, it can also be provided in other embodiments that the moving element rests against the sensor even in the normal or unloaded state.

[0037] By applying a force, the sensor can determine whether the conveyor belt is damaged and thus monitor its condition. In particular, a change in force can be detected, which in turn can provide information about the condition of the conveyor belt.

[0038] Preferably, the sensor is arranged and configured such that it detects a force exerted on the sensor by the moving element. By detecting this force, the sensor is able to capture measurement signals, which in turn can be used for evaluation and to determine the condition of the conveyor belt. The force can be detected directly or indirectly. Indirect detection of the force is understood, in particular, to mean that the sensor can detect a physical quantity that correlates with the exerted force.

[0039] In a further preferred embodiment, the sensor is arranged and configured such that the sensor detects a change in the position or angular position of the moving element or an acceleration of the moving element. With such a configuration of both the moving element and the sensor, in particular a translational and rotational movement of the moving element or an acceleration can be detected. Thus, alternatively or in addition to the force, the deflection of the moving element or a change in the movement of the moving element can also be used to detect damage. The sensor can thus be configured in different ways, but in each case, in particular, enables conclusions to be drawn about the condition of the conveyor belt.In a particularly preferred embodiment, the sensor comprises a strain gauge or is designed as a strain gauge, force sensor, piezoelectric sensor, potentiometer, angle sensor, acceleration sensor, or magnetic proximity sensor. The aforementioned sensor designs make it possible to monitor the condition of the conveyor belt through the interaction between the movement element and the sensor. According to the invention, it has been found that different measuring principles can be used to determine the condition of the conveyor belt, in particular by changing the force exerted on the scraper segment. Finally, the sensor is designed in particular to enable conveyor belt damage detection.

[0040] The sensor design as a strain gauge is particularly preferred, as it can ensure an efficient, cost-effective, and reliable measurement method. With a strain gauge, the force exerted by the moving element on the sensor can thus be measured at least indirectly. The resulting force can thus be used to determine the condition of the conveyor belt.

[0041] Alternatively or additionally, the sensor is preferably designed such that a deflection of the moving element can be measured, in particular wherein the sensor is designed as an optical sensor or ultrasonic sensor. The deflection of the moving element, which can be detected at least indirectly via the sensor, can also serve as an indicator of the condition of the conveyor belt and a change in the stripping segment.

[0042] Particularly preferably, the sensor is arranged in a stationary manner on the holder. A stationary arrangement of the sensor on the holder enables the sensor to interact with the moving element in a comparatively simple manner, in particular wherein the sensor is arranged adjacent to the moving element. The sensor can preferably be adjacent to the moving element. The moving element, in turn, can be movably, in particular rotatably, mounted on the holder. The holder can thus ensure interaction between the sensor and the moving element. The sensor is preferably arranged in a housing of the holder. The housing can at least partially surround the sensor and preferably protects the sensor from external influences and / or mechanical damage. Furthermore, the housing can ensure that the sensor is protected from dirt, which particularly accumulates in the area of ​​the deflection roller during operation of the conveyor belt system.Accordingly, the wear resistance of the sensor can be improved.

[0043] The movement element can preferably have a projection for interaction with the sensor. An outer edge of the movement element, preferably of the projection, facing the sensor is preferably configured in the shape of a circular arc or at least substantially in the shape of a circular arc. Such a configuration can ensure, in a comparatively simple manner, detection of either the deflection of the movement element or the force exerted on the sensor by the movement element upon rotation of the movement element.

[0044] Advantageously, the system comprises a return means, preferably a spring means, which is arranged on the holder and exerts a return force on the moving element upon movement of the moving element. The return means can thus ensure that upon a corresponding movement of the moving element, it returns to its original position. Ultimately, however, the return means can also be provided such that the return force applied by the return means must first be overcome for movement of the moving element to occur. This can thus lead to the initiation of the movement of the moving element and, in particular, ensure that not every slight change in the contact force acting on the stripping end is detected, but preferably only a certain minimum amount of the change in the stripping segment is detected.Ultimately, the reset mechanism can set a lower limit that must first be overcome.

[0045] In a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, the system includes a communication device for transmitting information detected by the sensor. This communication device can be arranged at a distance from or outside the holder. The communication device can also be arranged outside the conveyor belt. Accordingly, the communication device can also be considered an external communication device.

[0046] In a further embodiment, the communication device can also be cloud-based.

[0047] However, it is preferred that the communication device be a physical device located near the conveyor system or conveyor belt, which evaluates information acquired by the sensor to monitor the condition of the conveyor belt. Ultimately, the communication device can evaluate the information acquired by the sensor and thus monitor the condition of the conveyor belt. The evaluation can preferably be carried out in such a way that damage to the conveyor belt can be detected by the communication device. For this purpose, the information acquired by the sensor can also be compared with limit values ​​stored in the communication device.

[0048] Preferably, the communication device is connected to the sensor via a wired connection. In further embodiments, a wireless connection can also be provided to enable easy transmission of the measurement signals from the sensor.

[0049] Particularly preferably, the system comprises a measuring device for detecting the speed of the conveyor belt, the running direction of the conveyor belt, and / or the position of the conveyor belt. The measuring device can, in particular, comprise a measuring roller. The measuring roller can be arranged on the conveyor belt, preferably underneath the conveyor belt. The measuring roller can enable the speed of the conveyor belt to be detected, preferably by the moving conveyor belt also moving or driving the measuring roller, preferably by transmitting a torque to the measuring roller, wherein the speed of the conveyor belt can, in turn, be determined by the rotational speed of the measuring roller.

[0050] In addition, inductive sensors of the measuring device can be arranged on the measuring roller. These inductive sensors can, in particular, interact with an indicator that can be arranged on the conveyor belt. The indicator can, for example, be a metal strip arranged on the conveyor belt. This can make it possible to determine the position of the conveyor belt, for example, by linking the position of the indicator to the speed of the conveyor belt. The running direction of the conveyor belt, in turn, can be determined by the direction of rotation of the measuring roller.

[0051] In a further preferred embodiment, the measuring device is connected to the communication device for transmitting information acquired by the measuring device. This preferably enables the communication device to be configured such that information received from the measuring device and the sensor is linked or can be linked by the communication device in such a way that the position of damage to the conveyor belt can be detected. Such detection of the position can be achieved, for example, by utilizing the interaction between the inductive sensors and the indicator means. In principle, however, the position can also be determined in other ways.

[0052] Linking the measurement data from both the measuring device and the sensor enables a conveyor belt operator to detect damage relatively quickly, allowing the damage to the conveyor belt to be repaired promptly. This reduces the costs and effort required for conveyor belt maintenance.

[0053] The system preferably comprises a control device for controlling the conveyor belt system. The communication device can be connected to the control device in such a way that, upon detection of damage to the conveyor belt by the communication device, the control device shuts down the conveyor belt and / or the conveyor belt system and / or releases the scraper segment from the conveyor belt. This allows the user of the conveyor belt system to prevent further damage to the conveyor belt and to intervene relatively quickly to repair the damage to the conveyor belt. The control device thus leads to increased safety of the entire conveyor belt system.

[0054] In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, a manual clutch is arranged on the support shaft and preferably on the adjusting device, using which the rotational position of the support shaft and preferably of the moving element can be manually adjusted and fixed in the respectively set rotational position. In particular, by appropriately actuating the clutch, the stripping segment can be adjusted to the conveyor belt or released from the conveyor belt. The clutch thus enables an outsider to easily intervene to change the position of the stripping segment.

[0055] The adjusting device preferably comprises a drive element of an electric drive motor fixedly mounted on the support shaft, coupled to transmit torque. The drive element is preferably connected to the movement element in a rotationally fixed manner. The drive motor can also be provided in addition to the coupling or used as an alternative to it.

[0056] An adjusting device without a drive motor can also be provided according to the invention, in which case the preload forces acting on the stripping segment can be applied by the adjusting device.

[0057] The invention also relates to a method for monitoring the condition of a conveyor belt of a conveyor belt system. The method comprises, firstly, providing a system according to one of the aforementioned embodiments. Furthermore, according to the method and the invention, a characteristic variable of the moving element is detected. This characteristic variable of the moving element is detected in the particularly advantageous manner described above.

[0058] It is therefore understood that with regard to preferred embodiments and advantages of the method according to the invention, reference may be made to the aforementioned advantages and preferred embodiments of the system, which can also apply to the method according to the invention in the same way. Ultimately, the condition of the conveyor belt of the conveyor belt system is monitored in the method according to the invention, wherein the system according to the invention is used. How such a monitoring method can be carried out has already been explained in connection with the description of the system, so that further explanations in this regard can be omitted to avoid unnecessary repetition. In the method according to the invention, the support shaft is preferably moved in such a way that a surface of the scraper segment is in contact with the conveyor belt.In particular, when detecting the characteristic size of the moving element, the scraper segment is in contact with the conveyor belt.

[0059] Different measuring methods or principles can be used to measure the characteristic variable of the moving element, which in turn allows for a conclusion to be drawn about possible damage to the conveyor belt. In a first preferred embodiment, when the moving element moves, the moving element exerts a force on the sensor; in particular, the moving element presses against the sensor, pushes, or pulls the sensor. This force, or a variable correlating to this force, can be the characteristic variable to be detected by the sensor.

[0060] In a further preferred embodiment, a force exerted by the moving element on the sensor, a change in the position or angular position of the moving element or an acceleration of the moving element is detected.

[0061] Alternatively or additionally, a deflection of the moving element can be measured.

[0062] The above-mentioned measuring methods make it possible, in particular, to monitor the condition of the conveyor belt by recording the characteristic size of the moving element.

[0063] In a particularly preferred embodiment of the method, the communication device evaluates the information acquired by the sensor to monitor the condition of the conveyor belt. The evaluation is carried out in particular in such a way that damage to the conveyor belt can be detected by the communication device. Thus, the method according to the invention can, in particular, ensure damage detection on the conveyor belt.

[0064] Preferably, the measuring device at least indirectly detects the speed of the conveyor belt, the running direction of the conveyor belt, and / or the position of the conveyor belt. For this purpose, the measuring device can utilize the measuring roller and / or the inductive sensors as well as the indicator means, as already explained above. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a conveyor belt system comprising a conveyor belt and a system according to one of the aforementioned embodiments.

[0065] Also with regard to the conveyor belt system according to the invention, it is understood that, in order to avoid unnecessary explanations, reference may be made explicitly to the explanations regarding the method and / or the system, which equally apply to the present invention of the conveyor belt system without this requiring further explicit mention.

[0066] Further features, advantages and possible applications of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of exemplary embodiments with reference to the drawings and the drawings themselves. All described and / or illustrated features, individually or in any combination, form the subject matter of the present invention, regardless of their summary in the claims or their reference back to them.

[0067] It shows:

[0068] Fig. 1 is a schematic perspective view of a conveyor belt system according to the invention,

[0069] Fig. 2 is a schematic side view of parts of another

[0070] Embodiment of a conveyor belt system according to the invention,

[0071] Fig. 3 is a schematic side view of parts of another

[0072] Embodiment of a conveyor belt system according to the invention,

[0073] Fig. 4 is a schematic side view of parts of another

[0074] Embodiment of a conveyor belt system according to the invention,

[0075] Fig. 5 is a schematic side view of parts of another

[0076] Embodiment of a conveyor belt system according to the invention,

[0077] Fig. 6 is a schematic perspective exploded view of parts of a system according to the invention, Fig. 7 is a schematic perspective view of parts of a further embodiment of a system according to the invention,

[0078] Fig. 8 is a schematic perspective view of parts of another embodiment of a system according to the invention,

[0079] Fig. 9 is a schematic perspective view of parts of another embodiment of a system according to the invention,

[0080] Fig. 10 is a schematic representation of the interaction of certain components of a further embodiment of a system according to the invention,

[0081] Fig. 11 is a schematic representation of a method according to the invention,

[0082] Fig. 12 is a schematic bottom view of a conveyor belt according to the invention and

[0083] Fig. 13 is a schematic perspective view of a measuring device according to the invention.

[0084] Fig. 1 shows schematically a conveyor belt system 3 with a conveyor belt 2, in which a first embodiment of a system 1 according to the invention for monitoring the condition of the conveyor belt 2 is used.

[0085] Fig. 1 shows a schematic representation of the front end of the conveyor belt system 3 for conveyed material 24. The conveyed material 24 can also be referred to as bulk material. The conveyor belt 2 has a conveyor belt section 25 and a return section 23 (lower run) located below it. The conveyor belt 2 is arranged in an endless loop within the conveyor belt system 3. The conveyor belt 2 runs around a deflection roller 26 in the transition area from the conveyor belt section 25 to the return section 23.

[0086] A drive (not shown in detail) is connected to the conveyor belt 2, which is intended to drive the conveyor belt 2. On the conveyor belt 2—specifically, on top of its conveyor belt section 25—the conveyed material 24 is schematically indicated in Fig. 1. For example, bulk material such as sand, gravel, coal, ore, or the like can be transported as the conveyed material 24.

[0087] Below the conveyor belt 2 and not far from the deflection roller 26, a support shaft 4 of the conveyor belt system 3 and the system 1 can be seen. The support shaft 4 can have a hexagonal shape in cross-section. Three stripping segments 5 are arranged on or on the support shaft 4, for example. The stripping segments 5 can ultimately be arranged on the support shaft 4 in different ways.

[0088] At least one stripping segment 5 is arranged on the support shaft 4 and is connected to the support shaft 4 in a torque-transmitting manner. In particular, the stripping segment 5 (singular here also stands for plural) is positively connected to the support shaft 4 in a torque-transmitting manner. The stripping segment 5 can have a stripping end 6 located opposite a holding end 22. Fig. 1 shows a so-called primary stripper 27, in which the stripping end 6 of the stripping segment 5 is positioned on the lower run or in the region of the return section 23 at least substantially below the deflection roller 26 on the conveyor belt 2.

[0089] Fig. 2 shows a so-called secondary wiper 28 in addition to a primary wiper 27.

[0090] Fig. 1 further shows a holder 8, which is preferably arranged in a stationary manner and in which the support shaft 4 is rotatably mounted in the illustrated embodiment. The support shaft 4 can be rotatably mounted on the holder 8 via a retaining bearing 9. The rotatable mounting of the support shaft can be provided in particular about the longitudinal axis X of the support shaft 4, as is schematically shown in Fig. 1.

[0091] The system 1 further comprises a movement element 11. The movement element 11 is arranged on the holder 8 and is coupled for movement to the support shaft 4. In particular, according to the preferred embodiment shown in Fig. 1, the movement element 11 is connected to the support shaft 4 in a rotationally fixed manner. Alternatively or additionally, it can be provided that the movement element 11 is connected to the support shaft 4 in such a way that a load on the support shaft 4 causes a translational movement of the movement element 11.

[0092] In addition, the system 1 comprises a sensor 10, as shown schematically in Fig. 1, but also in Fig. 6 and Figs. 7 to 9. The sensor 10 is designed to monitor the condition of the conveyor belt 2.

[0093] According to the embodiments shown in Fig. 1 and in the further preferred embodiments, it is provided that the stripping segment 5 (here both singular and plural are meant), the support shaft 4, the holder 8 and the moving element 11 interact in such a way that a force acting on the stripping segment 5 is transmitted to the moving element 11, wherein the sensor 10 is arranged and designed in such a way that the sensor 10 detects a characteristic, in particular physical, variable of the moving element 11.

[0094] This value detected by the sensor 10 can then allow a conclusion to be drawn about the condition of the conveyor belt 2 and can therefore be monitored.

[0095] For example, the sensor 10 can be configured to detect a change in the position of the moving element 11, which in turn allows a conclusion to be drawn about the condition of the conveyor belt 2. For example, the belt gripping force exerted by the conveyor belt 2 on the stripping segment 5 or the stripping end 6 changes. In particular, the belt gripping force exerted on the stripping end 6 changes in the event of a belt defect on the conveyor belt 2.

[0096] In the event of belt damage, the scraper segments 5 may become spaced apart from the conveyor belt 2, which in turn leads to a movement of the support shaft 4, which in turn results in a movement of the moving element 11. Accordingly, the interaction or coupling between the scraper segment 5 and the moving element 11 and the detection of the characteristic variable of the moving element 11 can enable a conclusion to be drawn about the position of the moving element 11 or the force exerted by the conveyor belt 2 on the scraper segment 5. Alternatively or additionally, it can also be provided that the characteristic variable detected by the sensor 10 can enable a conclusion to be drawn about the adjustment force to be applied to the conveyor belt 2 to adjust the scraper segments 5, which can be applied, for example, via an adjustment device 7.

[0097] In the preferred embodiment illustrated in Fig. 1, the system 1 further comprises an adjusting device 7. By means of the adjusting device 7, the support shaft 4 can be moved such that a surface of the stripping segment 5, in particular the stripping end 6, can be brought into contact with the conveyor belt 2, wherein the adjusting device 7 is arranged on the holder 10 and connected to the support shaft 4 in a torque-transmitting manner. The movement element 11 can be coupled to the adjusting device 7 in terms of movement or be part of the adjusting device 7.

[0098] The adjusting device 7 can be motor-driven, as shown in Fig. 1, but this is not required. In this context, Figs. 7 and 9 show an embodiment of the adjusting device 7, and Fig. 9 shows parts of the adjusting device 7, in which no drive motor 21 is present. In this case, adjustment can be effected, for example, via a manual clutch 19, as will be explained later. The adjusting device 7 can also be operated manually, in particular, and can comprise spring arrangements or the like for holding the stripping segment 5 in place.

[0099] Fig. 6 shows a schematic exploded view of the movement element 11. The movement element 11 can be constructed in several parts or in one piece. Fig. 6 shows that, in the illustrated and preferred embodiment, a multi-part design of the movement element 11 is provided, wherein the components of the movement element 11 can be connected to one another in a rotationally fixed manner in the installed state, as schematically shown in Fig. 8. According to the embodiment illustrated in Fig. 6, the movement element 11 is also a component of the adjusting device 7.

[0100] In the preferred embodiment shown in Fig. 1, it is provided that the sensor 10 and the movement element 11 are arranged and designed such that when the movement element 11 moves, the movement element 11 exerts a force on the sensor 10, in particular presses against the sensor 10.

[0101] Preferably, the sensor 10 can be arranged and configured such that the sensor 10 can detect a force exerted by the moving element 11 on the sensor 10. The force can be detected directly or indirectly. In particular, variables can also be determined that correlate with the force exerted by the moving element 11 on the sensor 10.

[0102] In particular, the sensor 10 is arranged and configured such that the sensor 10 can detect a change in the position or angular position of the moving element 11 or an acceleration of the moving element 11. This is provided in embodiments not shown in detail.

[0103] In the preferred embodiment shown in Fig. 1, the sensor 10 can be designed as a strain gauge. In further embodiments, the sensor 10 can also comprise a strain gauge or be designed as a force sensor, piezoelectric sensor, potentiometer, angle sensor, acceleration sensor, or magnetic proximity sensor.

[0104] In a further embodiment, not shown in detail, it is provided that a deflection of the movement element 11 is measurable, in particular if the sensor 10 is designed as an optical sensor or ultrasonic sensor.

[0105] In the preferred embodiment shown in Fig. 4, the sensor 10 is arranged stationary on the holder 8.

[0106] Fig. 2 shows that ultimately two adjusting devices 7 and 7' are provided for both the primary scraper 27 and the secondary scraper 28. In this context, it is understood that the aforementioned statements regarding the adjusting device 7 of the primary scraper 27, as schematically shown in Fig. 1, can equally apply to the adjusting device T of the secondary scraper 28, without this requiring further explanation. Finally, the system 1 can be provided both on the primary scraper 27 and on the secondary scraper 28 and can be designed in particular according to the embodiments described above and below. The system 1 of the secondary scraper 28 can then also have a support shaft 4' and at least one scraper element 5' arranged on the support shaft 4'.

[0107] Fig. 6 schematically shows that, according to an illustrated and preferred embodiment, the moving element 11 has a projection 12 for interacting with the sensor 10, which is shown in more detail in particular in Fig. 8. In particular, an outer edge 13 of the moving element 11 or of the projection 12 facing the sensor 10 is at least substantially shaped like a circular arc and / or is curved and / or angled. Such a design of the outer edge 13 makes it possible for a movement or a force of the moving element 11 to be detected by the sensor 10 in a comparatively simple manner, which allows a conclusion to be drawn about the condition of the conveyor belt 2. The projection 12 thus ensures that not the entire moving element 11 has to abut or strike the sensor 10, but in particular a predetermined area, which can be designed according to the type of sensor 10.

[0108] The projection 12 can be designed such that, for example, a minimum force or distance must be overcome before it can interact with the sensor 10, which was determined in particular based on tests conducted during the development of the invention. If such a distance or force is overcome, damage to the conveyor belt 2 can be assumed. The sensor 10 should then also detect a movement or a force of the moving element 11, so that belt damage can be detected in a timely manner.

[0109] What is not shown in more detail is that the preferred system 1 shown in Fig. 1 has a restoring means which is arranged on the holder 8 and exerts a restoring force on the moving element 11 when the moving element 11 moves. Such a restoring means can therefore ensure, after the moving element 11 has deflected, that a further belt failure and a further belt failure detection can be ensured via the moving means 11 and through the interaction between the moving means 11 and the sensor 10. In the preferred embodiment shown in Fig. 1, a communication device 14 is provided. The communication device 14 serves to transmit information detected by the sensor 10. In particular, the sensor 10 can be connected to the communication device 14 by wire. The communication device 14 can be arranged externally of the holder 8, as shown schematically in Fig.1. The communication device 14 can preferably be designed such that it evaluates the information acquired by the sensor 10 to monitor the condition of the conveyor belt 2, preferably such that damage to the conveyor belt 2 can be detected by the communication device 14.

[0110] In further embodiments not shown in detail, it can also be provided that the communication device 14 is connected to an external server or an external cloud, in which the corresponding evaluation of the measurement data acquired by the sensor 10 for belt damage detection can be carried out. The communication device 14 can then have corresponding transmission means for transmission to the server or the cloud, so that a wireless transmission can preferably be ensured.

[0111] Figs. 12 and 13 illustrate that system 1 may include a measuring device 15. Fig. 13 shows a measuring roller, which is a component of measuring device 15 and can be arranged below conveyor belt 2, for example, on the return section or on the underside of conveyor belt section 25. Ultimately, the measuring device can be provided for detecting the speed of conveyor belt 2, the direction of travel of conveyor belt 2, and / or the position of conveyor belt 2. Thus, the measuring roller can be used to determine the aforementioned variables by rotating the roller.

[0112] With regard to the position of the conveyor belt 2, it can further be provided that the measuring device 15 has an indicator means 31 which is arranged on the conveyor belt 2 or on the conveyor belt 24, as shown in Fig. 12. This indicator means 31 can then interact with sensors of the measuring device 15 and thus be arranged in a specific section of the conveyor belt 2. If the speed of the conveyor belt 2 and the direction of rotation are known, a determination in this regard makes it possible to draw conclusions about which position of the conveyor belt 2, for example, is currently engaging the scraper segments 5 or in which area the scraper segments 5 of the conveyor belt 2 are currently arranged.

[0113] The measuring device 15 can be designed with the communication device 14 for transmitting information detected by the measuring device 15, as shown schematically in Fig. 10. Preferably, the communication device 14 is designed such that information received from the measuring device 15 and from the sensor is linked in the communication device 14 such that the position of damage to the conveyor belt 2 can be detected. This is made possible by the fact that the information detected by the sensor 10 can in turn determine when damage to the conveyor belt 2 has occurred. The information detected by the measuring device 15 then makes it possible to determine in which area of ​​the conveyor belt 2 this damage is present. This can be done, for example, by determining the speed of the conveyor belt 2, the direction of travel and the position of the conveyor belt 2.

[0114] In particular, the measuring device 15 can comprise inductive sensors, which are preferably arranged on the measuring trap. These inductive sensors can interact, in particular, with the indicator means 31, which is preferably a metal strip, and thus determine the position of this indicator means 31 on the conveyor belt 2.

[0115] Fig. 10 schematically shows that a control device 16 is provided. The control device 16 can be a component of the system 1. The control device 16 can be designed to control the conveyor belt system 2, wherein the communication device 14 is connected to the control device 16 in such a way that, upon detection of damage to the conveyor belt 2, which can be done via the communication device 14, the control device 16 switches off the conveyor belt 2 and / or the conveyor belt system 3 and / or that the stripping segment 5 on the conveyor belt 2 is released.

[0116] Furthermore, a manual clutch 19 can be provided, as shown, among other things, in Fig. 4. Using the manual clutch 19, the rotational position of the support shaft 4 and, in particular according to the illustrated and preferred embodiment, also of the movement element 11, can be manually adjusted. In the respectively set position, the relative rotational position can then be fixed, in particular, by means of the clutch 19. By actuating the clutch 19, the stripping segment 5, in the preferred embodiment shown in Fig. 4, can be adjusted to the conveyor belt 2 and / or released from the conveyor belt 2 again.

[0117] The coupling 19 is also shown in more detail in Figs. 6 to 8.

[0118] Fig. 1 further shows a drive for the support shaft 4. At least one drive element 20 of a drive motor 21 is provided, coupled to the support shaft 4, preferably at one end of the support shaft 4, in a torque-transmitting manner. Not shown in detail is the fact that a control system for the drive motor 21 may also be provided. Typically, such a control system can be an electronic control system, in particular with appropriate control software.

[0119] By appropriately controlling the drive motor 21, the stripping segment 5 can be positioned with its stripping end 6 against the conveyor belt 2 or can be released from the conveyor belt 2—that is, removed from the conveyor belt 2. The drive motor 21 can be arranged stationary or movable on the holder 8. In the exemplary embodiment shown in Fig. 1, the drive motor 21 is not arranged directly on the holder 8, but can ultimately be displaced relative to the holder 8, yet is at least indirectly mounted on it. The drive element of the drive motor 21 is coupled to the drive element 20, in particular in a suitable manner.

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

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

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

[0123] The manually adjustable and fixable connection of the manual clutch 19 to the drive element 20 is provided in the upper area slightly above the support shaft 4. For this purpose, according to the preferred teaching, the connection of the clutch 19 to the drive element 20 has a stepwise adjustable ratchet 17 and a continuously variable fine adjustment 18. One can see the partially circular toothed arc of the ratchet 17 and, above the toothed arc of the ratchet 17, a locking pin 29 engaging from above into the ratchet 17 at the corresponding point, which can be fixed to the drive element 20.

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

[0125] In the other figures, the locking bolt 29 cannot be seen because it is covered by the drive element 20.

[0126] According to the preferred teaching, the manual clutch 19 can be operated solely by hand, i.e., without tools. For this purpose, a pull handle can be provided with which the locking pin 29 can be pulled upwards.

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

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

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

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

[0131] In this context, a first embodiment may provide that, upon movement of the movement element 11, the movement element 11 exerts a force on the sensor 10, in particular by pressing against the sensor 10 or pulling the sensor 10. This force can be detected by the sensor 10, in particular at least indirectly.

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

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

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

[0135] In step D, it is provided in particular that the communication device 14 expands the information acquired by the sensor 10 to monitor the condition of the conveyor belt 2, in particular in such a way that damage to the conveyor belt

[0136] 24 or conveyor belt 2 can be detected by the communication device 14.

[0137] When evaluating the measurement data in step D, it can also be provided that the communication device 14 links the information from the sensor 10 with the transmitted measurement data from the measuring device 15, so that in particular a position on the conveyor belt 2 can also be assigned to a detected belt damage.

[0138] If necessary, in step E, the scraper segment 5 is subsequently released from the conveyor belt 2 if belt damage is detected, or the conveyor belt system 3 is shut down. However, such a shutdown is only applicable if damage to the conveyor belt 2 is detected.

[0139] In process steps A to D or when carrying out the process, it can be provided that the support shaft 4 is moved in such a way that a surface of the scraper segment 5 is in contact with the conveyor belt 2.

[0140] As previously explained, Fig. 1 shows a section of a conveyor belt system 3 according to the invention, comprising a conveyor belt 2 and a system 1 according to one of the aforementioned embodiments. The conveyor belt system 3 itself is also a component of the present invention.

[0141] List of reference symbols:

[0142] 1 System 16 control device

[0143] 2 conveyor belt 17 grid

[0144] 3 Conveyor belt system 18 Fine adjustment

[0145] 4 Support shaft 19 Coupling

[0146] 4' support shaft 25 20 drive element

[0147] 5 Scraper segment 21 Drive motor

[0148] 5' scraper segment 22 holding end

[0149] 6 Stripping 23 Return section

[0150] 7 Adjustment device 24 Conveyed material

[0151] T Adjustment device 30 25 Conveyor belt section

[0152] 8 Bracket 26 Deflection roller

[0153] 9 Holder bearing for 4 27 primary wipers

[0154] 10 Sensor 28 Secondary wiper

[0155] 11 Moving element 29 Locking bolt

[0156] 12 projection of 11 35 30 polygonal recess

[0157] 13 Outer edge of 11 31 Indicator agent

[0158] 14 Communication device

[0159] 15 Measuring device X longitudinal axis of 4

Claims

Patent claims:

1. System (1 ) for monitoring the condition of a conveyor belt (2) of a conveyor belt system (3), with - a support shaft (4, 4'), - a scraper segment (5, 5') arranged on the support shaft (4, 4') and connected to the support shaft (4, 4') in a torque-transmitting manner, - a stationary holder (8) with a holding bearing (9) in which the support shaft (4, 4') is rotatably mounted, - a movement element (11) arranged on the holder (8) and coupled to the support shaft (4, 4') and - a sensor (10) for monitoring the condition of the conveyor belt (2), wherein the stripping segment (5, 5'), the support shaft (4, 4'), the holder (8) and the moving element (11) interact in such a way that a force acting on the stripping segment (5, 5') is transmitted to the moving element (11), and wherein the sensor (10) is arranged and designed in such a way that the sensor (10) detects a characteristic, in particular physical, variable of the moving element (11).

2. System according to claim 1, wherein the system comprises an adjusting device (7) by means of which the support shaft (4, 4') can be moved such that a surface of the stripping segment (5, 5') can be brought into contact with the conveyor belt (2), wherein the adjusting device (7) is arranged on the holder (8) and is connected to the support shaft (4, 4') in a torque-transmitting manner, and wherein the movement element (11) is coupled in terms of movement to the adjusting device (7).

3. System according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the movement element (11) is connected in a rotationally fixed manner to the support shaft (4, 4').

4. System according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the movement element (11) is connected to the support shaft (4, 4') in such a way that a load on the support shaft (4, 4') causes a translational movement of the movement element (11).

5. System according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the sensor (10) and the movement element (11) are arranged and designed such that when the movement element (11) moves, the movement element (11) exerts a force on the sensor (10), in particular presses against the sensor (10) or pulls the sensor (10).

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

7. System according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the sensor (10) is arranged and designed such that the sensor (10) detects a change in the position or angular position of the moving element (11) or an acceleration of the moving element (11).

8. System according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the sensor (10) comprises a strain gauge or is designed as a strain gauge, force sensor, piezoelectric sensor, potentiometer, angle sensor, acceleration sensor or magnetic proximity sensor.

9. System according to one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the sensor (10) is designed such that a deflection of the movement element (11) can be measured, in particular wherein the sensor (10) is designed as an optical sensor (10) or ultrasonic sensor.

10. System according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the sensor (10) is arranged in a fixed position on the holder (8), in particular in a housing of the holder (8).

11. System according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the movement element (11) has a projection (12) for interacting with the sensor (10), in particular wherein an outer edge (13) of the movement element (11) facing the sensor (10) is formed in the shape of a circular arc.

12. System according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the system (10) comprises a return means which is arranged on the holder (8) and in the event of a Movement of the moving element (11) exerts a restoring force on the moving element (11).

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

14. System according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the system (10) comprises a measuring device (15) for detecting the speed of the conveyor belt (2), the running direction of the conveyor belt (2) and / or the position of the conveyor belt (2), in particular wherein the measuring device (15) comprises a measuring roller arranged on the conveyor belt (2).

15. System according to claim 13 and 14, wherein the measuring device (15) is connected to the communication device (14) for transmitting information detected by the measuring device (15), preferably wherein the communication device (14) is designed such that information received from the measuring device (15) and from the sensor (10) is linked to one another by the communication device (14) such that the position of damage to the conveyor belt (2) can be detected.

16. System according to claim 14 or 15, wherein the measuring device (15) has a measuring roller, in particular wherein inductive sensors (10) of the measuring device (15) are arranged on the measuring roller.

17. System according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the system (10) has a control device (16) for controlling the conveyor belt system (3), wherein the communication device (14) is connected to the control device (16) in such a way that when damage to the conveyor belt (2) is detected by the communication device (14), the control device (16) switches off the conveyor belt (2) and / or the conveyor belt system (3) and / or releases the stripping segment (5, 5') from the conveyor belt (2).

18. System according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a manual clutch (19) is arranged on the support shaft (4, 4') and preferably on the adjusting device (7), by means of which the rotational position of the support shaft (4, 4') and preferably of the movement element (11) can be manually adjusted and fixed in the respectively set rotational position, in particular wherein by corresponding actuation of the clutch (19) the stripping segment (5, 5') can be adjusted to the conveyor belt (2) or can be released from the conveyor belt (2).

19. System according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the adjusting device (7) has a drive element (20) of an electric drive motor (21) arranged in a fixed position on the holder (8), which drive element (20) is coupled to the support shaft (4, 4') in a torque-transmitting manner, preferably wherein the drive element (20) is connected in a rotationally fixed manner to the movement element (11).

20. A method for monitoring the condition of a conveyor belt (2) of a conveyor belt system (3), comprising: - Providing a system (10) according to one of claims 1 to 19 and - detecting a characteristic size of the moving element (11).

21. The method according to claim 20, wherein the support shaft (4, 4') is moved such that a surface of the stripping segment (5, 5') is in contact with the conveyor belt (2).

22. Method according to claim 20 or 21, wherein, upon movement of the movement element (11), the movement element (11) exerts a force on the sensor (10), in particular presses against the sensor (10) or pulls the sensor (10).

23. Method according to one of claims 20 to 22, wherein a force exerted by the moving element (11) on the sensor (10), a change in the position or angular position of the moving element (11) or an acceleration of the moving element (11) is detected.

24. Method according to one of claims 20 to 22, wherein a deflection of the movement element (11) is measured.

25. Method according to one of claims 20 to 24, wherein the communication device (14) transmits the information acquired by the sensor (10) to monitor the condition of the conveyor belt (2), in particular such that damage to the conveyor belt (2) can be detected by the communication device (14).

26. Method according to one of claims 20 to 25, wherein the measuring device (15) at least indirectly detects the speed of the conveyor belt (2), the running direction of the conveyor belt (2), and / or the position of the conveyor belt (2).

27. Conveyor belt system (3) with a conveyor belt (2) and a system (10) according to one of claims 1 to 19.