Infinitely Variable Eccentric Device for Vibratory Compactor Amplitude Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing vibratory compactors require operators to manually change amplitude settings by dismounting the machine, leading to inefficiency when more than two settings are needed, as current systems rely on mechanical adjustments that are cumbersome and inconvenient.

Innovation Solution

An infinitely variable amplitude eccentric system that allows operators to adjust the spacing between eccentric weights within the compactor using a control input, employing a rack and pinion mechanism driven by an electromagnetic, electric, or hydraulic actuator, enabling amplitude changes without physical intervention.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If manual adjustment of amplitude settings is used, then device complexity is reduced, but productivity decreases due to operator intervention requirements

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveamplitude adjustment mechanismVSAvoidcompaction operation efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The system automatically adjusts amplitude settings based on compaction depth requirements without operator intervention. The controller receives depth information from sensors and autonomously modifies the vibration parameters, allowing the machine to serve itself in optimizing compaction parameters throughout the workflow.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces manual mechanical adjustment mechanisms with an automated control system that uses sensors, processors, and actuators to adjust amplitude. This substitution of mechanical manual operations with automated electromechanical systems resolves the contradiction by improving productivity while maintaining manageable device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Productivity

If automated amplitude adjustment is implemented, then productivity increases, but device complexity increases due to additional control systems

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecompaction operation efficiencyVSAvoidcontrol system structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The controller serves multiple functions: it monitors compaction depth via sensors, determines optimal amplitude settings based on depth requirements, and executes the adjustment of vibration parameters. This multi-functionality consolidates what could be separate complex systems into a single integrated control unit, increasing productivity while managing device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements a feedback loop where sensors continuously monitor compaction depth and provide this information to the controller. The controller then adjusts amplitude settings based on this feedback, creating a closed-loop control system that automatically optimizes compaction parameters without requiring complex manual intervention systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Adaptability or versatility

If frequent amplitude changes are needed, then adaptability increases, but loss of time increases due to manual adjustment requirements

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveamplitude setting flexibilityVSAvoidadjustment time
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The automated system enables continuous adjustment of amplitude settings as compaction progresses through different soil depths. Unlike manual adjustment that interrupts the compaction process, the automated system can modify parameters continuously or at optimal intervals without stopping work, maintaining adaptability while eliminating time loss.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

Solution Approach 2:

The controller pre-determines the optimal amplitude settings for different compaction depths based on stored parameters or real-time sensor data. This preliminary preparation of adjustment parameters allows the system to execute amplitude changes instantly when depth thresholds are reached, providing adaptability across different compaction stages without time loss.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

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

Enables convenient and efficient adjustment of compaction force by allowing operators to change vibration amplitude from the operating position, simplifying the process and improving work efficiency by eliminating the need for manual adjustments.

Implementation Method 1

The movement of the inner eccentric rod can be performed either by an electromagnetic field, electric actuator, or a hydraulic actuator.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic field: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

The movement of the inner eccentric rod can be performed either by an electromagnetic field, electric actuator, or a hydraulic actuator.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHydraulic pressure: Hydraulic Press

Implementation Method 3

The centrifugal force generated by the rotation of an eccentric weight in the drum of the compactor can be expressed as: F = m*ec*r*ec*ω*ec^2 where m ec r ec is the moment of the eccentric mass, ω ec is the angular frequency of rotation

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCentrifugal force: Centrifugal Force

Data Source

PatentEP3227496B1Infinitely variable eccentric device for vibratory compactor
Publication Date: 2021.01.27 VOLVO CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT AB
  • EP3227496B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3227496B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3227496B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A vibratory compactor that generates vibrations by rotation of eccentric masses is provided, which includes an inner eccentric rod positioned inside a roller drum of the vibratory compactor and provided with a rack formed on one side of the inner eccentric rod, a pinion engaged with the rack, a variable eccentric weight engaged with the pinion so that a distance between the variable eccentric weight and a rotation axis of the inner eccentric rod is changed as the pinion is rotated, and an outer eccentric tube including a hole formed thereon to guide movement of the rack back and forth and a support fixture formed thereon to fix a shaft of the pinion so that the pinion is rotated in engagement with the rack, wherein when the inner eccentric rod moves back and forth, the pinion that is engaged with the rack is rotated as much as the movement of the rack, and as a position of the variable eccentric weight is changed, an amplitude of vibration of the roller drum is changed.