Automated Cleaning Head for Multi-Layer Belt Storage Buffers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cleaning systems for multi-layer belt buffers are inefficient and labor-intensive due to their inaccessible design and the need for manual operation, making it difficult to clean large, overhead belt sections during production without disrupting the process.
Innovation Solution
A cleaning device with a vertically adjustable cleaning head and integrated steam and suction system, attached to elevators, allows for automated cleaning of each belt level independently, enabling simultaneous operation with production and reducing water usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual cleaning is used for multi-layer belt buffers, then cleaning can be performed on individual belts, but the process is time-consuming and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning system is divided into multiple independent cleaning units, each equipped with a cleaning head that can be positioned at different heights to clean individual belts or multiple belts simultaneously. This segmentation allows flexible cleaning of each belt layer without requiring complete system shutdown.
Solution Approach 2:
The cleaning heads are mounted on vertically movable carriages that can be dynamically positioned along the belt buffer structure. This dynamic positioning enables the cleaning system to adapt to different belt configurations and clean multiple belts at different heights without manual repositioning.
2Area of stationary object
If cleaning is performed on overhead belt buffers, then space is saved, but the belts become difficult to access for cleaning
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning system is designed as a multi-functional apparatus that can clean belts at multiple heights and positions within the overhead buffer structure. The vertically adjustable cleaning heads and movable carriages provide universal cleaning capability across the entire belt buffer, maintaining space efficiency while enabling accessible cleaning.
Solution Approach 2:
The cleaning system introduces intermediary components including extension arms, movable carriages, and vertically adjustable heads that bridge the gap between the cleaning mechanism and the overhead belts. These intermediaries enable effective cleaning of inaccessible areas without requiring direct manual access to each belt.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the cleaning system is designed for closed chambers, then cleaning can be contained, but it is not suitable for multi-layer belt buffers
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using a closed chamber approach that constrains cleaning to a single plane, the invention transitions to a three-dimensional cleaning system with vertically movable carriages and adjustable cleaning heads. This dimensional change allows the cleaning system to access and clean belts at multiple heights within the overhead buffer while maintaining containment of cleaning media through targeted application and suction.
4Reliability
If systematic cleaning is performed on all belts, then hygiene is maintained, but production must be stopped
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning system enables continuous operation by allowing cleaning to be performed on individual belts or sections without requiring complete shutdown of the belt buffer. The independently controllable cleaning heads can clean specific belts while other belts continue to operate, maintaining production continuity while achieving systematic cleaning of all belts over time.
Solution Approach 2:
The cleaning system allows for preliminary cleaning of belts that are about to be taken out of service or during scheduled maintenance windows, while belts remaining in service continue to operate. This preliminary action approach maintains hygiene standards for cleaned belts without interrupting overall production.
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 system enables efficient, automated cleaning of multi-layer belt buffers during operation, reducing changeover times and product loss by allowing continuous production while maintaining cleanliness.
Implementation Method 1
a steam generator (16) arranged on the carriage (9), which generates steam for cleaning the conveyor belt (10)
Implementation Method 2
a suction unit (19), which is connected to the steam generator (16) and serves to loosen and suck away water
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 2
AI summary
In order to clean the belt in a belt storage buffer (1) that comprises a plurality of superposed belts, a cleaning agent is applied to a moving belt by means of a cleaning device (12), and sucked up together with the detached impurities. A device for performing this cleaning comprises a cleaning head (15) for applying and sucking up the cleaning agent, and a device for adjusting the height of the cleaning head to the level of the belt (2, 3) being cleaned, and for moving said cleaning head across the belt being cleaned.