Concave Conveyor Step Geometry for Compact Turnaround Sections
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional conveyor systems, such as moving walkways, require significant space for turnaround portions, particularly in height, which limits their construction size and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
The conveyance elements are designed with a bulged or arced inner side configuration, allowing them to be positioned closer to the axle, reducing the space needed for turnaround portions and overall dimensions by accommodating a rotating axle within a concave portion, which can be rounded or polygonal in shape, and manufactured using various materials and methods for optimized production.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If conventional flat conveyance elements are used, then structural simplicity is maintained, but the turnaround portion space and height are excessive
Solution Approach 1:
The inner side of the conveyance element is designed with a concave curvature that receives and accommodates the outer side of the axle. This curved geometry allows the conveyance element to be positioned closer to the axle center, reducing the turnaround radius and overall conveyor height while maintaining structural integrity through the distributed stress distribution enabled by the curved shape.
Solution Approach 2:
The concave portion of the conveyance element creates a nested arrangement where the axle is received within the concave space. This nesting allows the axle and conveyance element to occupy overlapping spatial volumes, minimizing the overall envelope dimension and reducing the space required for turnaround portions.
2Volume of moving object
If the conveyance element is positioned closer to the axle, then turnaround space is reduced, but the structural integrity may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The concave curvature on the inner side of the conveyance element distributes mechanical stresses more evenly across the structure during rotation and load-bearing operations. This curved geometry provides structural reinforcement that maintains strength while enabling closer positioning to the axle, resolving the contradiction between compactness and structural integrity.
Data Source
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AI summary
A conveyance element (20) for a conveyor (1), in particular for a people conveyor such as a moving walkway (2), is configured for being moved in a conveying direction and comprises an outer side (20a) configured for accommodating and supporting passengers; and an opposing inner side (20b) facing away from the outer side (20a). At least a portion of the inner side (20b) is a concave portion (32) having a concave shape along the conveying direction.