Curved Conveyor Guide Roller Support
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conveyor systems face inefficiencies due to high frictional forces between carrier plates and guides, particularly in helical paths, which reduce driving efficiency and increase energy consumption.
Innovation Solution
The guide roller is supported in two directions, parallel and perpendicular to its axis of rotation, allowing for rolling without slip, minimizing friction and optimizing contact points to achieve low rolling resistance and improved efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If the guide roller is supported in one direction only, then the structure is simple, but frictional forces are high and driving efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The guide roller is supported in two perpendicular directions (radial and axial dimensions) rather than one direction, transforming a single-dimensional support system into a two-dimensional support system. This dual-directional support enables the guide roller to maintain optimal contact with the guide surface while reducing frictional forces through proper alignment and rolling motion.
2Productivity
If the guide roller has large slip, then the design is simpler, but driving efficiency is reduced and energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention optimizes geometric parameters including the radius ratio between guide roller and guide surface (R/r between 0.5-2.0), the angle alpha between the normal to the guide roller surface and the radial direction (10-45 degrees), and the positioning of contact locations to minimize slip and maximize rolling efficiency, thereby reducing energy consumption.
3Volume of moving object
If the axis of rotation is oriented perpendicular to the transport face, then the construction height is reduced, but the guide roller positioning becomes more critical
Solution Approach 1:
The invention specifies precise local geometric conditions at the contact locations, including the angle alpha (10-45 degrees) between the normal to the guide roller surface and the radial direction, and the radius ratio (R/r between 0.5-2.0), to ensure optimal rolling contact and minimize slip while maintaining compact construction.
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 configuration enhances driving efficiency by reducing friction between the carrier plate and guide, enabling high-speed operation with minimal slip and energy consumption, suitable for vertical conveyance with a compact design.
Implementation Method 1
the displacement of the guide roller with respect to the guide can be effected by rolling of the guide roller along the guide with low or without slip. This results in a lower friction between the carrier plate and the guide
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
The invention relates to a conveyor comprising a frame (1) which supports an endless conveyor belt movable along a curved transport path. The conveyor belt includes carrier plates (9) which are movably connected to each other. The frame (1) includes at least a guide (14) and at least a number of carrier plates (9) comprise at least a guide roller (11) rotatable about an axis of rotation (12). The guide roller (11) is radially and upwardly supported by the guide (14). The invention provides a conveyor with a high driving efficiency as a consequence of low resistance between the carrier plate (9) and the guide (14).