Integrated Fluid-Passage Boom for Drilling and Bolting Tools
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional drilling and bolting rigs require complex fluid power systems and external hoses, which can lead to complications and constraints in movement and operation.
Innovation Solution
A boom system for supporting a drilling and bolting tool that incorporates a fluid passage within the boom structure, allowing for actuation of the tool using pressurized fluid, and includes actuators and flow distributors to facilitate translational and rotational movements without external hoses, utilizing a single pump system for distributed hydraulic control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If external hoses and complex fluid power systems are used to actuate the drilling and bolting tool, then the tool can be powered and controlled, but the system complexity increases and movement constraints are introduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the fluid passage directly into the boom structure, merging the hydraulic supply system with the mechanical support structure. This eliminates the need for separate external hoses and reduces system complexity while maintaining full actuation capability of the drilling and bolting tool.
Solution Approach 2:
The boom structure serves multiple functions: it provides mechanical support for the drilling and bolting tool, acts as a fluid conduit for hydraulic power transmission, and enables positional adjustment. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components and simplifies the overall system.
2Reliability
If multiple external hoses are connected to the drilling and bolting rig for fluid power actuation, then the tool can be actuated, but wear and maintenance requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The fluid passage is integrated into the boom structure as a built-in conduit rather than using separate external hoses. This single integrated passage replaces multiple separate fluid conduits, reducing wear points and maintenance requirements while maintaining reliable fluid power transmission.
3Use of energy by moving object
If a single pump system with distributed hydraulic control is used, then power requirements are reduced, but the fluid distribution system must be precisely controlled
Solution Approach 1:
The boom structure itself serves as the fluid distribution network, with the integrated passage automatically routing hydraulic fluid to the actuator. This self-service approach eliminates the need for complex external distribution systems while enabling single-pump operation.
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
Enhances operational efficiency, stability, and safety by reducing the need for external hoses, minimizing wear, and improving responsiveness, while allowing for multiple degrees of freedom in tool positioning and reducing power requirements.
Implementation Method 1
a fluid passage extending through the first portion and configured to convey pressurized fluid to actuate the tool
Implementation Method 2
an actuator for moving the second portion relative to the first portion parallel to the longitudinal axis
Implementation Method 3
the shaft support includes at least one bearing engaging an inner surface of the first portion and supporting the shaft relative to the first portion
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
Figure 4
AI summary
A boom for supporting a drilling and bolting tool includes a first portion including a first end and a second end, a longitudinal axis extending between the first end and the second end; a second portion including a proximal end and a distal end, the proximal end supported for translational movement relative to the first portion in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis, the distal end configured to support the drilling and bolting tool; an actuator for moving the second portion relative to the first portion parallel to the longitudinal axis; and a fluid passage for conveying pressurized fluid between the first end of the first portion and the drilling and bolting tool adjacent the distal end of the second portion, the fluid passage positioned within the first portion and the second portion.