Elastomeric Conveyor Joint for Axial Force Dissipation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conveyor systems with non-linear tracks experience mechanical failures due to axial forces that cause flexural fatigue in joints, leading to frequent maintenance and repair needs, as existing solutions like slip joints and ball joints are inadequate in dissipating these forces.
Innovation Solution
The use of an elastomeric joint with a counter bore and elastomeric insert that absorbs and dissipates axial forces by elastically adjusting within the joint housing, connecting conveyor carriers to maintain a consistent speed and reduce maintenance requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional rigid joints are used to connect conveyor carriers, then the structural integrity and alignment of the conveyor system are maintained, but the joints experience flexural fatigue and deteriorate quickly under axial forces in non-linear conveyor systems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical state and mechanical properties of the joint material from rigid to elastomeric. The elastomeric insert allows the joint to dynamically change its stiffness and damping characteristics in response to axial forces, absorbing energy through elastic deformation while maintaining structural connectivity. This parameter change enables the joint to withstand flexural fatigue without deteriorating.
Solution Approach 2:
The joint employs a composite structure combining elastomeric material with metal components (joint housing, carrier attachments). The elastomeric insert provides flexibility and force absorption, while the metal components maintain structural integrity and connection strength. This composite approach resolves the contradiction between durability and structural integrity.
2Force
If slip joints are used at periodic locations to mitigate forces, then some force dissipation is achieved, but slack builds up in the conveyor train and forces are not dissipated at individual joints
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using occasional slip joints, the patent segments the force mitigation function to every individual joint in the conveyor train. Each joint contains an elastomeric insert that independently absorbs axial forces, distributing the force dissipation function uniformly across all joints rather than concentrating it at periodic locations. This eliminates slack buildup while achieving force mitigation.
3Ease of manufacture
If ball joints with Teflon coating are used to protect from frictional forces, then wear protection is provided, but the joint cannot dissipate axial forces and the coating wears out quickly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical friction-based force transmission of ball joints with an elastomeric deformation-based force absorption system. Instead of relying on low-friction surfaces (Teflon coating) to minimize wear, the elastomeric material directly absorbs axial forces through elastic deformation, eliminating the need for wear-prone coatings while providing superior force dissipation.
4Measurement precision
If rigid joints are used to maintain conveyor carrier alignment, then tracking accuracy is improved, but timing irregularities occur due to inability to accommodate non-linear track movements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from static rigid joints to dynamic elastomeric joints that can adapt their configuration in response to track geometry changes. The elastomeric material allows controlled deformation and recovery, enabling the conveyor train to dynamically accommodate curves and inclines while maintaining carrier alignment and timing synchronization throughout continuous operation.
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 elastomeric joint effectively absorbs and dissipates axial forces, reducing joint deterioration, noise, and maintenance needs, allowing for longer uninterrupted operation of conveyor systems.
Implementation Method 1
an elastomeric insert positioned inside the counter bore... that absorbs and dissipates axial forces by elastically adjusting within the joint housing
Data Source
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Figure 3A
AI summary
The technology disclosed provides a joint for connecting carrier units together so as to dissipate and absorb axial forces experienced by the carrier units. The joint may be comprised of a joint housing (102) and an elastomeric insert (112). The housing may be comprised of a body portion (114) and a head portion and the head portion (103) may include an annular flange (104) in which the elastomeric insert is configured to be secured. The elastomeric joint is capable of absorbing and dissipating horizontal, rotational, and vertical forces experienced by the carrier units in non-linear travel along a track.