Conveyor Frame Assembly with Integrated Rail Projections
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional track frame assemblies for conveyor systems are time-consuming to assemble, require modification for compatibility with various conveyor chains, lead to abrasion and misalignment issues, and are costly due to the need for shape and dimension changes in frame members and rails.
Innovation Solution
A track frame assembly with a simplified design featuring a frame member with flat surfaces, outer and inner projections, and rail fixtures that allow easy assembly and adjustment, enabling compatibility with various conveyor chains without direct contact and reducing noise, while maintaining strength and precision.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If conventional track frame assembly with multiple metallic frame members and coupling clamps is used, then structural strength is maintained, but assembly time increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate components (frame members and coupling clamps) into a single integrated frame member with built-in coupling features. The U-shaped structure incorporates engagement protrusions and recesses that eliminate the need for separate clamps, reducing assembly time while maintaining structural integrity through the unified design.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame member is segmented into functional zones: the U-shaped main body provides structural support, while integrated engagement protrusions and recesses provide coupling functionality. This segmentation allows the single component to perform multiple functions that previously required separate parts, reducing complexity without sacrificing strength.
2Adaptability or versatility
If track rail is installed to cover bent plate portion and folded-back portion, then frame member strength is maintained, but compatibility with various conveyor chains is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The track rail is designed with a universal interface that accommodates various conveyor chain types without requiring modifications to the frame member. The rail's engagement features are standardized to work with different chain configurations, enhancing compatibility while the frame member's integrated coupling structures maintain installation strength through direct mechanical engagement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the compatibility function from the frame member's geometric configuration and transfers it to the track rail. This allows the frame member to focus on providing structural strength while the rail handles the variability needed for different conveyor chains, resolving the contradiction between strength and adaptability.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If engaging projection of conveyor chain contacts metallic guide directly, then guidance function is achieved, but abrasion and metal powder scattering occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary material or coating between the metallic guide surface and the conveyor chain's engaging projection. This intermediary layer reduces direct metal-to-metal contact, minimizing abrasion and metal powder generation while maintaining the guidance function through the intermediate contact surface.
4Manufacturing precision
If frame members and track rails are installed with tight constraints, then misalignment is prevented, but assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The frame member is pre-formed with integrated engagement protrusions and recesses that automatically align during assembly. This preliminary configuration of coupling features ensures proper alignment is achieved through the design itself rather than requiring complex installation procedures or additional alignment tools, maintaining precision while reducing complexity.
Data Source
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AI summary
A track frame assembly is provided which includes a frame member A formed from an elongated metallic channel, a pair of elongated synthetic resin-made track rail members B each fixed in place on a predetermined surface of the frame member A, and a plurality of rail fixtures C with which the pair of track rail members B can removably be fixed to the frame member A. Each of the track rail members B includes a retaining projection 13 having a retaining recess 13a formed therein, the pair of track rail members B is disposed for the retaining recesses 13a to be opposite to each other and each chain element of the conveyor chain E has a pair of engaging projections 31 which are formed to slide in contact in the respective retaining recesses 13a in the track rail members B in pair, thus the conveyor chain E being smoothly movable without disengagement from the pair of track rail member B. Thus, the track frame assembly can be formed from a reduced number of parts and designed lightweight because of its structural simplicity, is easy to assemble, can retain ample strength and precision, is easy to handle and maintain and inexpensive.