Hydraulic Brake Module for Gravity Conveyor Speed Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Gravity overhead conveyors lack a reliable braking system to regulate conveying speed effectively, as existing solutions are either energy-intensive or not applicable to overhead systems, leading to inefficiencies and safety concerns due to varying friction conditions and the absence of drives.
Innovation Solution
A brake module for a gravity overhead conveyor featuring a hydraulic pump with gear wheels and a fluid channel system, including a throttle valve and high-viscosity oil, which automatically adjusts braking torque based on load and speed, ensuring wear-free and energy-efficient operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a gravity overhead conveyor is used without a braking system, then the structure remains simple and energy consumption is low, but the conveying speed cannot be regulated and collision risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the driving function and braking function into a single integrated brake module. The hydraulic pump that normally drives the carriage also serves as the braking mechanism when it generates hydraulic pressure to engage the brake shoes against the brake drum, eliminating the need for separate braking components and reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The brake module uses the carriage's own kinetic energy and hydraulic system to generate braking force. The hydraulic pump converts the rotational motion of the drive shaft into hydraulic pressure that automatically engages the brakes, creating a self-regulating system that does not require external braking components or additional energy input.
2Speed
If traditional centrifugal friction brakes or hydraulic brakes are installed in rollers, then conveying speed can be limited, but energy consumption increases and the system becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a hydraulic braking mechanism where the hydraulic pump generates pressure to engage brake shoes against a brake drum. This hydraulic system provides effective speed control by converting mechanical energy into hydraulic pressure, which then translates into braking force, offering precise speed regulation without the energy losses associated with traditional friction brakes.
3Productivity
If the conveying speed is increased to improve productivity, then the risk of collision between goods increases
Solution Approach 1:
The brake module incorporates a feedback mechanism where the hydraulic pump continuously monitors the rotational speed of the drive shaft and adjusts the hydraulic pressure accordingly. When the carriage approaches its maximum safe speed or when obstacles are detected, the system automatically increases hydraulic pressure to engage the brakes, providing real-time speed regulation that prevents collisions while maintaining high productivity.
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 brake module provides a self-regulating braking system that effectively manages conveying speed, reducing wear and energy consumption while maintaining operational efficiency across varying loads and speeds, addressing the limitations of existing technologies.
Implementation Method 1
A brake module 3 is proposed, in which a hydraulic pump is arranged, parts of which are connected to a first shaft
Implementation Method 2
featuring a hydraulic pump with gear wheels and a fluid channel system, including a throttle valve and high-viscosity oil
Implementation Method 3
Gravity has long been used to transport piece goods. This offers the advantage that no additional drives are required if the corresponding inclination of the conveyor section can be implemented
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The invention relates to a running carriage (1) having a brake module (3) for a suspended gravity conveyor. The brake module (3) has a housing (17), a first shaft (27) and a second shaft (33), wherein a hydraulic pump is arranged in the housing (17) of the brake module (3) and parts of said hydraulic pump are connected to the first shaft (27). The arrangement of a hydraulic pump in the brake module of the running carriage advantageously produces a running carriage which regulates its speed automatically by the use of a dynamic pressure.