Foldable Conveyor Pivot Joint for Aggregate Processing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional mobile aggregate processing apparatus face challenges with auxiliary conveyors that add width, require additional machinery for installation and removal, and compete for space, especially when folding is desired.
Innovation Solution
A belt-type conveyor with a pivotable design that folds compactly about its base, using a pivot joint and actuating means to rotate between deployed and storage states, allowing it to be positioned obliquely and beneath other conveyors in a folded state, reducing spatial requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If auxiliary conveyors are mounted on the apparatus to increase processing capability, then productivity is improved, but the width of the apparatus increases and space is consumed
Solution Approach 1:
The auxiliary conveyor is designed to be movable between a deployed position for processing and a folded position for compact storage. The conveyor can be pivoted about its base and rotated about its longitudinal axis, transforming from a static space-consuming structure to a dynamic component that adapts its configuration based on operational needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The conveyor is positioned obliquely to the longitudinal axis of the apparatus rather than perpendicular to it. This oblique arrangement at an angle between 30 and 60 degrees allows the conveyor to utilize three-dimensional space more efficiently, projecting both laterally and longitudinally, thereby reducing the lateral width requirement while maintaining processing capability.
2Area of stationary object
If conventional side conveyors are folded against the apparatus to reduce width, then the width is reduced, but they compete for space and cannot all be folded simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The auxiliary conveyor uses oblique positioning and multi-axis rotation to fold into a compact configuration that utilizes vertical and longitudinal space rather than lateral space. This allows multiple conveyors to be folded simultaneously without competing for the same lateral space, as each conveyor can be positioned at different oblique angles.
Solution Approach 2:
When folded, the auxiliary conveyor is positioned beneath the main conveyor, creating a nested arrangement where the auxiliary conveyor fits into the space under the main conveyor structure. This nesting allows both conveyors to be stored in a compact configuration without interfering with each other.
3Area of stationary object
If auxiliary conveyors are made removable to save space, then space is reduced, but additional machinery and vehicles are required for installation and removal
Solution Approach 1:
The conveyor is designed with pivotable and rotatable joints that allow it to be easily deployed and folded using the apparatus's own hydraulic or mechanical actuation systems. This eliminates the need for external cranes or heavy machinery, as the conveyor can be positioned and stored using the apparatus's existing movement capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The auxiliary conveyor is integrated with the apparatus's own actuation systems, allowing it to be deployed, folded, and positioned using the apparatus's own hydraulic rams and drive mechanisms. This self-service capability eliminates the need for external machinery and reduces the complexity of installation and removal operations.
Data Source
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AI summary
An aggregate processing apparatus (90) comprising a conveyor (10) having its base (11) coupled to the apparatus, the coupling (40) allowing the conveyor t pivot about a first axis that is substantially parallel with the longitudinal axis of the conveyor, and to pivot substantially at the base towards and away from said apparatus. The conveyor is actuatable between a deployed state (fig 4) in which it projects from said apparatus, and a folded state (fig 5) in which it is disposed substantially against said apparatus.