Ladle Shroud Support Head Angular Orientation Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ladle shroud handling devices lack optimal angular orientation control, leading to inefficient casting processes, uneven wear distribution, and premature failure of the shroud due to random orientations during introduction into the casting installation.
Innovation Solution
A support head with control means for controlling the angular orientation of the ladle shroud, allowing it to be gripped and introduced in multiple orientations, reducing wear and enabling precise alignment with the casting installation, thereby improving handling efficiency and extending the shroud's lifespan.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a manipulator arm with gripper is used to manually position the ladle shroud, then the shroud can be introduced into the casting installation, but the angular orientation becomes random and cannot be precisely controlled
Solution Approach 1:
A support head is introduced as an intermediary device between the manipulator arm and the ladle shroud. This support head includes control means (such as notches or positioning elements) that engage with corresponding features on the shroud, enabling precise angular orientation control while maintaining ease of manual or automated operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the orientation parameter control from random/manual positioning to controlled positioning by introducing control means on the support head that define specific angular orientations. This allows the shroud to be introduced at predetermined angles relative to the casting installation.
2Device complexity
If the shroud is introduced in random orientations, then handling is simple, but wear on the internal wall becomes uneven and premature failure occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The support head is configured with control means that preliminarily determine the correct angular orientation of the shroud before it is introduced into the casting installation. This preliminary orientation control ensures that the shroud is always positioned optimally, distributing wear evenly across the internal wall and preventing premature failure.
3Productivity
If the shroud is equipped with apertures or outlet ducts for improved casting efficiency, then flow orientation is improved, but the shroud requires precise angular orientation control during introduction
Solution Approach 1:
The support head acts as a mediator that preserves and maintains the precise angular orientation of the shroud (with its apertures or outlet ducts) during the introduction process. The control means on the support head ensure that the oriented features on the shroud remain properly aligned with the casting installation, enabling improved casting efficiency without sacrificing orientation precision.
Data Source
AI summary
A support head capable of supporting a ladle shroud for casting liquid metal comprises a canal along which the metal can pass, extending essentially along an axis, the support head being designed for a tube handling device. Such a head comprises control means for controlling the angular orientation of the shroud with respect to the head, about an axis corresponding to the axis of the canal. A ladle shroud having defined control means is capable of collaborating with the support head.