Excavator Bucket with Roller Screen for Material Separation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for separating smaller material from larger material in excavation processes require multiple pieces of equipment and are hindered by debris accumulation, leading to inefficiencies and increased maintenance needs.

Innovation Solution

A mechanical bucket equipped with a removably secured roller screen assembly that allows for in-bucket separation of smaller material from larger material using a single piece of equipment, featuring a scraper device to manage debris and adjustable rotational speed for prolonged equipment life.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If multiple pieces of equipment are used for material separation (vehicle to collect, separating device to separate, vehicles to deliver), then material separation can be performed, but the process becomes time-consuming and requires multiple pieces of equipment

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvematerial separation efficiencyVSAvoidnumber of equipment pieces
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the collection function and separation function into a single integrated bucket system. The bucket includes a roller screen assembly that can be positioned at the bottom of the bucket, allowing material to be collected and separated in one device rather than requiring separate collection and separation equipment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The bucket is designed to perform multiple functions: it serves as both the collection container and the separation device. The roller screen assembly enables the bucket to separate materials by size while the vehicle moves and positions the bucket, eliminating the need for dedicated separation equipment.

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

2Productivity

If a separating device is used to separate smaller material from larger material, then material separation is achieved, but debris collects or becomes lodged in components and hinders proper functionality

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvematerial separation capabilityVSAvoidseparating device functionality
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The scraper device is positioned to automatically remove debris from the roller screen assembly during the bucket's operation. As the bucket moves or rotates, the scraper contacts the roller screen surface and removes accumulated debris, allowing the separation device to maintain its functionality without external intervention.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Reliability

If debris is removed from the separating device to maintain functionality, then proper separation can continue, but additional equipment is required to dislodge and remove debris

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveseparating device functionalityVSAvoidequipment for debris removal
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The scraper device for debris removal is integrated into the bucket structure rather than being a separate external device. The scraper is positioned within the bucket and contacts the roller screen assembly, combining the debris removal function with the existing bucket system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

4Productivity

If a roller screen assembly is activated to separate smaller material from larger material in the bucket, then separation is achieved, but the bucket must be designed to accommodate the roller screen assembly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvein-bucket separation capabilityVSAvoidbucket structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The roller screen assembly is designed as a separate, removable component that can be independently installed in the bucket. The assembly includes rollers with screens that can be positioned at the bottom of the bucket, allowing the separation function to be added without redesigning the entire bucket structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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 efficient separation of materials with reduced equipment needs and simplified debris management, enhancing operational efficiency and extending the life of the separation device.

Implementation Method 1

a roller screen assembly removably secured to a bottom portion of the bucket... adapted to separate smaller material from larger material of the material received within the bucket

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical screening: Filter (physical)

Data Source

PatentUS7445122B2Mechanical bucket
Publication Date: 2008.11.04 CURREY ALBERT BEN
  • US7445122B2 patent drawing
  • US7445122B2 patent drawing
  • US7445122B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A mechanical bucket for separating small material from larger material. The mechanical bucket includes a bucket adapted to receive and retain material within the bucket and a roller screen assembly removably secured to a bottom portion of the bucket. The material received within the bucket rests on the roller screen assembly when deactivated. The roller screen assembly is adapted to separate smaller material from larger material of the material received within the bucket when activated. The mechanical bucket may include a scraper device for removing debris from the roller screen assembly when the roller screen assembly is activated.