Hydrodemolition Shield Loop for Debris Containment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hydrodemolition apparatuses face challenges in preventing debris ejection vertically through gaps in the frame members during the reciprocation of the nozzle carrier, posing risks to equipment and personnel.
Innovation Solution
A shield system comprising a loop or belt that extends from one side of the nozzle carrier, loops over, and is secured to the opposite side, moving in response to the nozzle carrier's reciprocation to cover the gaps not covered by the nozzles, thereby preventing debris ejection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If rubber slats are used to cover the gaps between frame members, then debris ejection is reduced, but gaps remain exposed during nozzle carrier reciprocation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a flexible belt that dynamically moves with the nozzle carrier during reciprocation. The belt transitions from a static covering (rubber slats) to a dynamic system that follows the carrier's motion, ensuring continuous gap coverage while accommodating the reciprocating movement of the nozzles.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses a flexible belt made of elastomeric material to cover the gaps between frame members. This flexible film can deform and move with the nozzle carrier, providing continuous coverage unlike rigid rubber slats that leave gaps exposed during carrier reciprocation.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a fixed shield structure is used to cover gaps, then debris ejection is prevented, but the structure cannot accommodate nozzle carrier movement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the static shield structure into a dynamic system where the flexible belt moves with the nozzle carrier. This allows the shield to maintain its protective function while accommodating the full range of carrier reciprocation motion without interference.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible belt acts as an intermediary between the fixed frame structure and the moving nozzle carrier. It provides continuous shielding while allowing the carrier to reciprocate freely, mediating between the conflicting requirements of fixed protection and mobile operation.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If rubber slats are used to cover gaps, then some debris ejection is reduced, but vertical ejection through gaps persists
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible belt provides superior gap sealing compared to rigid rubber slats. Its ability to conform to the frame structure and move with the carrier ensures continuous coverage, eliminating the vertical ejection pathways that persist with slat-based systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The dynamic movement of the flexible belt with the nozzle carrier ensures that the gap coverage remains continuous and effective throughout the reciprocation cycle, unlike static rubber slats that fail to maintain coverage when the carrier moves to certain positions.
Data Source
AI summary
A shield system for a hydrodemolition apparatus has a loop whose ends are secured to opposite sides of a reciprocating nozzle carrier. The loop may be supported by a supporting structure surrounding the frame along which the nozzle carrier reciprocates. The loop overlays portions of one or more gaps through which one or more nozzles extend to work an underlying surface. The nozzles have access to the underlying surface through the gaps under the nozzle carrier, but the balance of the gaps are covered by the loop which is drawn or pushed by the nozzle carrier during reciprocation.