Detachable Roller Assembly for Side-Flexing Conveyor Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conveyor chains with side-flexing capability experience increased friction and heat generation when following non-linear paths, leading to higher drive energy requirements and inefficient roller replacement due to damage.
Innovation Solution
A detachable roller assembly is integrated into the link module of the conveyor chain, allowing for quick and easy replacement of damaged rollers without needing to replace entire modules.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If rollers are permanently mounted on modules, then friction is reduced and heat generation is lessened, but when rollers are damaged the entire module must be replaced which is labor intensive and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The roller assembly is segmented from the module structure, allowing the roller to be independently replaced without replacing the entire module. The roller assembly includes a shaft with bearings that can be detached and reattached to the module, enabling maintenance of only the worn roller component while retaining the functional module body.
Solution Approach 2:
The roller is extracted as a separate replaceable component from the module. The roller assembly can be removed from the module and replaced with a new roller assembly, eliminating the need to replace the entire module when the roller wears or fails.
2Reliability
If modules are replaced when rollers are damaged, then damaged rollers are replaced, but this is inefficient and labor intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The roller assembly is segmented from the module structure, allowing the roller to be independently replaced without replacing the entire module. The roller assembly includes a shaft with bearings that can be detached and reattached to the module, enabling maintenance of only the worn roller component while retaining the functional module body.
Solution Approach 2:
Only the damaged roller assembly is discarded and replaced, while the rest of the module is recovered and retained in service. This selective replacement approach maintains reliability by replacing only the failed component rather than the entire module assembly.
3Adaptability or versatility
If sliding engagement is used between module and guide surface, then the conveyor can follow non-linear paths, but friction increases generating heat and requiring increased drive energy
Solution Approach 1:
A roller assembly acts as an intermediary between the module and the guide surface. The roller rotates against the guide surface, converting sliding friction into rolling friction, which significantly reduces the energy required for the conveyor to follow non-linear paths while maintaining the side-flexing capability.
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 reduces labor and costs associated with roller replacement while maintaining conveyor chain efficiency by minimizing friction and heat generation.
Implementation Method 1
Rollers having a horizontal or vertical axis of rotation and permanently mounted on one or more modules can be provided for engagement with the guide surfaces. The rollers reduce friction to lessen heat generation and power requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
A link module suitable for use in a conveyor chain intended for travel along an intended direction on a given path. The module includes a first eye and a second eye adjacent the first eye. The eyes define a space therebetween. A roller assembly extends into the space and is detachably mounted between the first and second eyes.