Automated Locking Arrangement for Mineral Processing Apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing locking arrangements for processing apparatuses in mineral material processing plants are time-consuming and pose safety hazards, as they rely on manual insertion of bolts, and fail to prevent movement in side and longitudinal directions during processing or movement.
Innovation Solution
A locking arrangement using actuators to support a locking element on a beam or slot, engaging in a form-fitting manner to prevent movement in multiple directions, with hydraulic, electronic, or pneumatic cylinders, and a side locking element to secure the conveyor in place.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If manual insertion of bolts is used to lock the processing apparatus, then the locking mechanism is simple in structure, but the operation time is excessive and safety hazards arise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical bolt insertion system with an automated actuator system. The actuator automatically positions and secures the locking element into the slot, eliminating manual intervention while maintaining structural simplicity. This substitution resolves the contradiction by automating the locking process, thereby reducing operation time without significantly increasing device complexity.
2Device complexity
If manual locking with bolts is used, then the device structure remains simple, but operational safety is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The automated actuator system replaces manual bolt insertion, ensuring consistent and reliable locking engagement. The actuator provides controlled, precise positioning of the locking element, eliminating human error and safety hazards associated with manual operation. This maintains structural simplicity while significantly improving operational safety and reliability.
3Device complexity
If only vertical locking is implemented, then the locking mechanism is simpler, but it fails to prevent movement in side and longitudinal directions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extends the locking mechanism from single-dimensional (vertical) to multi-dimensional stabilization. The locking element is designed to engage with the slot in such a way that it prevents movement not only in the vertical direction but also in lateral and longitudinal directions. This dimensional expansion of the locking function achieves complete positional stability without requiring a proportionally complex multi-component system.
4Loss of time
If automated actuators are used for locking, then operation time is reduced and safety is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator system automates the locking process, dramatically reducing operation time and eliminating manual safety hazards. While this introduces mechanical complexity, the design integrates the actuator into the existing structural framework, using the slot and locking element geometry to provide multi-directional stabilization. This integration minimizes the increase in overall device complexity while achieving the benefits of automation.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution provides a safer, faster, and more robust locking mechanism that prevents conveyor movement in three directions, reducing wear and enhancing operational safety and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The first and/or the second actuator is a hydraulic, electronic or pneumatic cylinder.
Implementation Method 2
The first and/or the second actuator is a hydraulic, electronic or pneumatic cylinder.
Implementation Method 3
The lower surface of the slots may comprise a groove configured to engage the locking bar in a form fitting manner in order to hinder longitudinal movement of the processing apparatus.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3a~3b
AI summary
A mineral material processing plant and a locking method and a locking arrangement for a processing apparatus, comprising a first actuator (110) configured to raise and lower the processing apparatus;a support element (120) on a side of the processing apparatus comprising slots (130); a locking element (150); a second actuator (160) configured to move the locking element (150) when actuated; wherein the locking element (150) moved by the second actuator (160) is configured to engage a slot (130) so that the processing apparatus is locked at least in one direction.