Gel Elastomer Conveyor Belt for Metal Workpiece Holding
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conveyor belts used in metalworking processes face challenges in reliably and efficiently holding metal workpieces during processing, particularly in continuous operations, as existing solutions like magnetization and suction devices are complex, energy-intensive, and not all workpieces can be fixed effectively.
Innovation Solution
A conveyor belt material with a support side made of gel elastomer, such as polyurethane gel elastomer, provides a high holding force and adhesive properties, ensuring workpieces are securely positioned and transported without slipping, using a flexible and durable material that adapts to the workpiece surface and is easy to clean.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If magnetization and suction devices are used to hold workpieces on conveyor belts, then the holding force is improved, but the device complexity and energy consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical holding devices (magnetization and suction devices) with a gel elastomer material that provides holding force through its inherent viscoelastic properties. The gel elastomer layer on the conveyor belt surface naturally adheres to workpieces through contact pressure and material deformation, eliminating the need for additional mechanical holding systems while maintaining effective workpiece fixation during transport and processing
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the material parameter of the conveyor belt surface from rigid solid materials to soft gel elastomer material. This parameter change enables the surface to adapt its mechanical properties (deformation, compliance, adhesion) to provide sufficient holding force through the gel's viscoelastic characteristics rather than through complex mechanical devices
2Force
If magnetization and suction devices are used to hold workpieces on conveyor belts, then the holding force is improved, but the energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces energy-consuming mechanical holding devices with a passive gel elastomer material system. The gel elastomer provides holding force through its inherent material properties (viscoelasticity, adhesion, deformation) without requiring external energy input, thereby eliminating the energy consumption associated with magnetization devices and suction systems while maintaining effective workpiece holding
Solution Approach 2:
The gel elastomer material serves itself by providing holding force through its own material properties rather than requiring external energy sources or active control systems. The material's natural adhesion and deformation characteristics enable it to hold workpieces passively during conveyor operation without additional energy input
3Stability of the object's composition
If solid surface materials are used for conveyor belts, then the structural stability is improved, but the adhesion properties for workpieces deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a composite structure combining a stable carrier material (providing structural integrity) with a gel elastomer layer (providing adhesion properties). The carrier material maintains the conveyor belt's structural stability and mechanical strength, while the gel elastomer layer bonded to its surface provides the necessary adhesion and deformation characteristics for effective workpiece holding, thus combining the advantages of both material types
4Duration of action of stationary object
If the gel elastomer surface is covered or overlaid with other materials, then the durability is improved, but the adhesion effect is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different material qualities to different locations/functions: the carrier material provides structural durability, while the exposed gel elastomer surface provides adhesion. The gel elastomer layer is deliberately left uncovered on the workpiece-contact surface to maintain adhesion properties, while the carrier material underneath provides the structural foundation and durability
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 gel elastomer conveyor belt ensures reliable and efficient surface processing of metal workpieces with high adhesive forces, easy detachment, and low material and energy inputs, maintaining processing quality and reducing the need for additional holding devices.
Implementation Method 1
Gel elastomers are surprisingly well-suited for conveyor belt materials, offering exceptional reliability and durability. In particular, gel elastomers are characterized by comparatively high adhesion properties for objects placed on them.
Implementation Method 2
Furthermore, it is advantageous that the gel elastomer, due to its comparatively low deformation and low compliance, adapts to a certain extent to the surface of the workpiece placed upon it. Any surface deformation that may occur during this process, affecting the otherwise smooth surface of the gel elastomer in its unloaded state, advantageously returns to its original shape quickly after the workpiece is removed.
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4~6
AI summary
Disclosed is a conveyor belt material for making a movable conveyor belt (1) onto which objects such as workpieces can be placed for conveying purposes. According to the invention, a supporting side (1a) of the conveyor belt material on which objects are to be placed is formed on the basis of a gel elastomer.