Modular Conveyor Belt Deflection Frame for Mine Tunnel Junctions
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing conveyor belt deflection devices are limited in ease of installation, belt tension control, axial alignment, stress management, and adjustability, particularly in confined spaces like mines, making them inadequate for forming an effective 'bridge' between upstream and downstream conveyor systems.
Innovation Solution
A three-dimensional adaptable conveyor belt support frame with modular, rigid sections that allow for horizontal slewing, vertical pivoting, and multiple translational movements, equipped with belt adjusters to ensure precise belt alignment and tension management, enabling the apparatus to be positioned at tunnel junctions with varying orientations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If existing belt deflection devices are used, then material transport between locations is achieved, but the devices are limited in ease of installation and mounting within confined regions
Solution Approach 1:
The frame assembly is divided into multiple frame sections that can be independently positioned and adjusted. Each frame section can be mounted separately to the conveyor belt, allowing the device to be installed in confined regions by assembling sections in a staged manner rather than requiring complete disassembly and reassembly of a single rigid structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame sections are made moveable relative to one another through articulation mechanisms, allowing the configuration of the frame assembly to be dynamically adjusted during installation and operation. This enables the device to adapt to various confined spatial constraints and tunnel geometries while maintaining structural integrity for material transport.
2Manufacturing precision
If existing belt deflection devices are used, then belt deflection is achieved, but control of belt tension and axial alignment over rollers is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The frame sections serve multiple functions: they provide structural support for the conveyor belt, enable precise axial alignment through adjustable roller mounting positions, and facilitate belt tension control through integrated adjustment mechanisms. This multi-functionality achieves precise belt control without requiring separate complex systems for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame sections are pre-configured with roller mounting positions and adjustment mechanisms that enable precise belt alignment to be established during the installation process itself, rather than requiring extensive post-installation adjustment. The articulation mechanisms are pre-designed to provide the necessary degrees of freedom for achieving optimal belt tension and alignment.
3Reliability
If existing belt deflection devices are used, then belt deflection is achieved, but stress in the belt is not adequately managed
Solution Approach 1:
The moveable frame sections with articulation mechanisms allow dynamic adjustment of the belt path and roller positions to optimize stress distribution. The frame can adapt its configuration to accommodate variations in belt tension and loading conditions, preventing excessive stress concentration at fixed points while maintaining reliable belt operation.
4Adaptability or versatility
If existing belt deflection devices are used, then deflection function is achieved, but available range of belt adjustment between sections is limited
Solution Approach 1:
By dividing the frame assembly into multiple adjustable frame sections, the device provides a wide range of belt adjustment capabilities. Each section can be independently positioned and articulated, allowing the conveyor belt to be configured for various deflection angles and positions to bridge gaps between different tunnel orientations and conveyor systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame sections provide adjustment capabilities in multiple dimensions through their articulation mechanisms, allowing movement not only in the horizontal plane but also in vertical and angular dimensions. This multi-dimensional adjustability enables the belt deflection device to accommodate complex tunnel junction geometries and form effective bridges between conveyor systems with varying orientations.
5Adaptability or versatility
If existing belt deflection devices are used, then material transport is achieved, but the devices cannot adequately form an effective bridge between conveyor systems with varying orientations
Solution Approach 1:
The articulation mechanisms enable the frame sections to be dynamically positioned and adjusted to match the specific geometry of tunnel junctions and conveyor system orientations. This dynamic adjustability allows the device to form effective bridges between conveyor systems with varying horizontal and vertical orientations without requiring custom-designed solutions for each configuration.
Data Source
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AI summary
Conveyor belt deflection apparatus for deflecting a conveyor belt to extend between a first longitudinal direction and a second longitudinal direction. The apparatus comprises a set of belt deflector rollers and supporting frame sections. A plurality of belt adjusters are mounted at different regions of the apparatus to provide a different respective translational adjustment of the belt as it travels from a first section to a second section.