Steering System for Conveyor Trains Using Linkage Mechanisms
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional steering systems for conveyor trains in mining applications are costly due to the need for pivotally connected axles and require a high mine ceiling, making them unsuitable for low-profile operations and frequent adjustments in curved or zigzag courses.
Innovation Solution
A steering system with transversely aligned propelling devices and power actuators that allow for automatic steering of conveyor vehicles without vertical pivot axes, using sensors and controllers to adjust steering angles based on distance traveled and intercar angles, enabling efficient navigation in low-profile configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If pivoted axles with vertical pivot axes are used for steering, then steering capability is achieved, but system cost and height requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical pivoted axle system with a parallel mechanism consisting of four linkages connected to a common pivot point. This substitution eliminates the need for vertical pivot axes and complex pivoted axles, thereby reducing system height and cost while maintaining steering capability through coordinated linkage movement.
Solution Approach 2:
The steering system is divided into multiple independent linkages (four linkages in total) that are connected to a common pivot point. Each linkage can be independently controlled, allowing the system to achieve complex steering movements through coordinated action of simpler individual components, thus reducing the complexity of any single component.
2Ease of operation
If conventional steering systems with multiple pivot devices are used, then steering control is achieved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple pivot functions into a single common pivot point where all four linkages converge. This consolidation reduces the number of separate pivot devices and associated components needed, thereby simplifying the manufacturing process and reducing overall system cost while maintaining full steering control capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The common pivot point serves multiple functions simultaneously - it is the rotation point for all four linkages, the reference point for coordinate transformations, and the center of the steering mechanism. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components and reduces manufacturing complexity.
3Length of stationary object
If high ceiling space is provided for pivoted axles, then steering mechanism fits, but adaptability to low mining seams is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a vertical stacking arrangement (requiring height) to a horizontal spreading arrangement (using width and length). The four linkages are arranged horizontally around a common pivot point rather than vertically, allowing the steering mechanism to fit within low ceiling constraints while maintaining full steering functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of having the pivot axis vertical (conventional approach), the patent inverts the arrangement by having all linkages converge to a common pivot point in a horizontal plane. This inversion allows the mechanism to operate effectively in low-ceiling environments where vertical space is constrained.
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 system reduces costs by eliminating the need for pivotally connected axles and allows for reliable, automatic steering of conveyor vehicles in low-profile mining environments, facilitating easier movement and adjustments in curved or zigzag courses.
Implementation Method 1
at least one angle sensor for measuring a selected intercar angle between the or each pair of adjacent vehicles and generating a first electrical signal indicative thereof
Implementation Method 2
mechanisms for determining the current steering angle of each of the selected pair and the at least the two further pairs of propelling devices and generating respective second electrical signals indicative thereof
Data Source
AI summary
A steering system and method are capable of steering a plurality of vehicles arranged in a train with adjacent vehicles pivotally connected to each other for movement about a vertical axis. Each vehicle has a pair of steerable wheels with one pair at one end of the train being a selected leading pair having its steering angle determined by an operator. An electrical control system automatically steers all of the wheels trailing behind the leading pair. Vehicle angle sensors measure intercar angles between adjacent vehicles and provide this information to the control system. An indicator provides the controller with the current distance traveled by the train. Wheel angle sensors provide signals indicative of the current steering angle for each wheel pair. The controller adjusts the actual steering angle for each trailing pair to a desired angle by calculating adjustments based on the measurement inputs.