Elastomeric Coupler for Rotatable Cutter Assembly Noise Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing rotatable cutter assemblies used in underground mining, particularly in roof bolt drilling, generate excessive noise and are prone to mechanical failure due to rigid connections and high mechanical forces.
Innovation Solution
A coupler with an elongate body and elastomeric layers and retainer elements that connects the drill steels, providing a sound dampening and flexible interface to reduce noise and mechanical stress, thereby enhancing durability and reducing vibrations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If rigid connections are used between drill steel components, then structural strength and stability are improved, but noise generation and mechanical failure increase
Solution Approach 1:
The coupler introduces an intermediate component with elastomeric elements between rigid drill steel components. This intermediary absorbs vibrations and dampens noise while maintaining the structural connection, resolving the contradiction between structural strength and noise generation.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupler incorporates elastomeric layers and flexible elements that replace rigid connections at critical interfaces. These flexible components reduce noise and vibration transmission while preserving the overall structural integrity of the drill steel assembly.
2Stability of the object's composition
If rigid connections are used between drill steel components, then structural stability is improved, but mechanical failure due to mechanical forces increases
Solution Approach 1:
The elastomeric elements in the coupler provide beforehand cushioning by absorbing and dissipating mechanical forces before they can cause damage to the drill steel components. This preemptive energy absorption prevents mechanical failure while maintaining structural stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupler changes the mechanical parameters at connection points by introducing elastomeric materials with different stiffness and damping characteristics. This parameter change allows the system to maintain overall stability while reducing stress concentrations that lead to mechanical failure.
3Object-generated harmful factors
If elastomeric layers are added to the coupler, then noise dampening is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The elastomeric layers are nested within the coupler structure, with multiple damping layers integrated into the single coupler component. This nesting approach provides effective noise dampening while maintaining a compact and relatively simple overall device structure.
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 solution effectively reduces noise exposure and mechanical failure in roof bolt drilling operations by absorbing and dissipating energy, minimizing wear and increasing the lifespan of components.
Implementation Method 1
The rearward body portion of the elongate body includes a first elastomeric layer formed thereon... which includes a second elastomeric layer formed thereon that is contiguous with the first elastomeric layer
Implementation Method 2
The rearward body portion of the elongate body further includes a plurality of elastomeric retainer elements formed about an outer periphery thereof
Data Source
AI summary
A coupler for use in connecting together in a driving relationship a first member and a second member in a rotatable cutter assembly includes an elongate body having an axial forward end and an axial rearward end, and the elongate body containing a longitudinal bore. The elongate body further includes a collar mediate of the axial forward end and the axial rearward end, a forward body portion axially forward of the collar wherein the forward body portion is configured to drivingly engage the first member and a rearward body portion rearward of the collar wherein the rearward body portion is configured to drivingly engage the second member. The rearward body portion of the elongate body includes an elastomeric layer formed thereon.