Conveyor Segment Coupling Mechanism for High Wall Mining
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing coupling mechanism for conveyor segments in high wall mining, which relies on loose wedges for securing hooks, is time-consuming, hazardous, prone to failure due to vibrations and tensions, and often results in wedges being dropped or stuck, posing risks to machinery and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A conveyor segment design with integrated locking means, such as resilient elements or springs, that secure the hook in a closed position, allowing for rapid and secure coupling and decoupling, suitable for automated processes, and featuring guiding and positioning means for improved alignment and stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If loose wedges are used to secure the hook in the closed position, then the coupling can be secured, but the coupling process becomes time-consuming and hazardous
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the loose wedge from the system and replaces it with an integrated locking mechanism. The locking means are built into the conveyor segment structure, eliminating the need for separate wedge components that require manual application and removal, thus reducing coupling time while maintaining security.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking means are designed to automatically secure the hook in the closed position without requiring external wedges. The integrated locking mechanism activates automatically when the hook is in the closed position, making the system self-servicing and eliminating manual wedge application steps.
2Reliability
If loose wedges are used to secure the hook, then coupling can be maintained, but the coupling is prone to failure due to vibrations and tensions
Solution Approach 1:
The locking means are merged with the conveyor segment structure itself, creating an integrated system where the locking mechanism and the segment are unified. This integration ensures that the locking mechanism moves and locks together with the segment under vibration and tension, maintaining stable coupling without the loose wedge detachment problems.
3Ease of operation
If loose wedges are used for securing hooks, then coupling can be achieved, but the wedges may get stuck or be dropped, posing risks to machinery
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the hazardous loose wedge from the system and replaces it with an integrated locking mechanism that is permanently attached to the conveyor segment. This eliminates the risk of wedges being dropped or getting stuck, as the locking means are fixed components that cannot detach or be lost.
4Stability of the object's composition
If multiple hooks and coupling elements are used, then coupling stability increases, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the coupling system into multiple independent hook-coupling element pairs distributed along the conveyor segment. Each pair operates independently but contributes to overall coupling stability. This segmentation allows the system to achieve enhanced stability through redundancy without requiring a single complex locking mechanism.
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
This solution enables faster, safer, and more reliable coupling and decoupling of conveyor segments, enhancing efficiency and safety in high wall mining operations by eliminating the need for loose wedges and improving stability and control during the mining process.
Implementation Method 1
the locking means comprise at least one resilient element for exerting a bias to the hook
Data Source
AI summary
A conveyor segment for use in a train of such conveyor segments in high wall mining is provided with at least one hook located and at least one coupling element, wherein the hook and the coupling element are suited for coupling, wherein the hook is moveable between an open position and a closed position, and the conveyor segment is provided with locking means for securing the hook in a closed position. An assembly includes at least two such conveyor segments. A method of coupling of such conveyor segments includes bringing the hook of a first conveyor segment in contact with a coupling element of second conveyor segment. A method of releasing such conveyor segments includes urging two coupled conveyor segments together while moving the hook from the closed position to the open position.