Surface Compactor Square Wave Excitation System

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing surface compactor excitation systems, particularly in roller compactors, face limitations in generating efficient vibrational forces due to size constraints and a focus on variations in amplitude, frequency, and phase, with traditional methods like rotating eccentric masses being inefficient in achieving optimal compaction efficiency.

Innovation Solution

A surface compactor with an excitation system that combines the vibrational forces generated by multiple eccentric masses rotating at different frequencies and moments to produce a substantially square wave vibrational displacement or force, enhancing compaction efficiency by increasing the time of peak amplitude application on the compacting surfaces.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If traditional rotating eccentric mass excitation systems are used, then the device structure is simple, but the compaction efficiency is low due to insufficient peak amplitude duration

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecompaction efficiencyVSAvoidexcitation system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The excitation system is segmented into multiple independent rotating eccentric masses (first, second, and third eccentric masses) that can be controlled separately. Each mass generates a sine wave vibrational force at a different frequency, allowing the system to construct a square wave pattern through combination of these segmented components, thereby increasing peak amplitude duration while maintaining manageable structural complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs periodic action by rotating the eccentric masses at different frequencies (first frequency for first mass, second frequency for second mass, third frequency for third mass) to generate sine wave forces that combine into a square wave pattern. This periodic combination of forces at different frequencies creates extended peak amplitude duration, directly improving compaction efficiency

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

2Adaptability or versatility

If linear actuators are used to generate vibrations, then variable amplitude and frequency capabilities are achieved, but size constraints prevent commercialization in roller compactors

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevariable amplitude and frequency capabilityVSAvoidexcitation system volume
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the linear actuator mechanical system with a rotating eccentric mass system. Instead of using linear actuators that generate vibrations through linear motion, the invention uses rotating masses that generate vibrational forces through centrifugal action. This substitution maintains the ability to achieve variable amplitude and frequency capabilities while dramatically reducing the volume required, making the system suitable for roller compactor applications

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The rotating eccentric mass system serves multiple functions: it generates vibrational forces, allows variable amplitude control through mass distribution and rotation speed, provides frequency control through rotation rate, and enables square wave pattern generation through combination of multiple masses. This multi-functionality replaces what would otherwise require separate systems, reducing overall volume while maintaining adaptability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Productivity

If sine wave vibrational forces are used, then the excitation system operates smoothly, but the compaction efficiency is reduced due to limited peak amplitude duration

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecompaction efficiencyVSAvoidvibrational force waveform stability
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses periodic action by combining sine wave forces from multiple eccentric masses rotating at different frequencies (first, second, and third frequencies) to construct a square wave pattern. The periodic rotation of each mass at its designated frequency creates a stable yet efficient vibrational pattern with extended peak amplitude duration, improving compaction efficiency while maintaining waveform stability through controlled periodic motion

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs preliminary action by pre-configuring the frequencies and amplitudes of the individual sine wave forces from each eccentric mass before combination. The first, second, and third eccentric masses are set to rotate at specific frequency ratios and amplitude proportions that will construct the desired square wave pattern, ensuring stable and efficient compaction without requiring real-time waveform adjustment

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

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 significantly improves compaction efficiency by extending the duration of peak amplitude application on the compacting surfaces, thereby reducing operation time and enhancing substrate compaction, while being adaptable for various types of compactors including roller and plate compactors.

Implementation Method 1

an excitation system that combines the vibrational forces generated by multiple eccentric masses rotating at different frequencies and moments to produce a substantially square wave vibrational displacement or force

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCentrifugal force: Centrifugal Force

Implementation Method 2

generates a substantially square wave vibrational displacement or force that vibrates the least one compacting surface

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical vibration: Vibration

Data Source

PatentUS9926675B2Surface compactor and method of operation
Publication Date: 2018.03.27 VOLVO CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT AB
  • US9926675B2 patent drawing
  • US9926675B2 patent drawing
  • US9926675B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention relates to a surface compactor and a method of operating a surface compactor. The surface compactor is provided with at least one compacting surface for compacting a substrate an excitation system that generates a substantially square wave vibrational displacement or force that vibrates the least one compacting surface during compaction to increase the compaction rate of the substrate.