Magnetic Coupling for Folding Conveyor Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing coupling mechanisms for folding conveyors in construction machines, such as cold plans, often fail to securely hold the conveyor in a folded position, leading to hydraulic fluid leakage and inadequate retention during transport.
Innovation Solution
A coupling mechanism using a magnet member secured to at least one of the conveyor portions, which selectively couples the second conveyor portion to the first portion in the stowed position, providing enhanced retention and stability through magnetic attraction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If counterbalance valves are used for hydraulic cylinders to hold the conveyor in a folded position, then the conveyor can be retained in position, but the retention is inadequate and results in hydraulic fluid leakage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical hydraulic counterbalance valve system with a magnetic coupling system. The magnet member creates a magnetic field that directly couples the first and second conveyor portions in the folded position, eliminating the need for hydraulic pressure to maintain retention. This substitution of magnetic field for hydraulic mechanical system resolves the leakage issue while providing adequate retention force.
2Force
If hydraulic cylinders with counterbalance valves are used, then the conveyor can be held in folded position, but the retention force is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical parameter from hydraulic pressure to magnetic field strength. The magnet member generates a magnetic field whose strength can be optimized to provide sufficient coupling force between the conveyor portions. This parameter change allows for adjustable and reliable retention force that is consistently maintained without the limitations of hydraulic systems.
3Reliability
If a complex coupling mechanism is used to secure the conveyor, then retention is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential retention function from the complex hydraulic coupling mechanism and implements it through a simple magnet member. By removing unnecessary mechanical components, linkages, and hydraulic control systems, the design achieves reliable retention with minimal complexity. The magnet member alone provides the coupling function without requiring additional mechanisms.
4Ease of operation
If traditional coupling mechanisms are used, then the conveyor can be folded, but the mechanism is not simple or cost-effective
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a magnet member that is simpler, more reliable, and cost-effective compared to traditional hydraulic coupling mechanisms. The magnetic coupling system eliminates expensive hydraulic components, seals, and control systems while providing equally or more reliable retention. The simplicity of the magnet member makes the overall system more cost-effective and easier to maintain.
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 magnetic coupling mechanism effectively secures the conveyor in both working and stowed positions, preventing hydraulic fluid leakage and ensuring reliable retention during transport, while being simple, efficient, and cost-effective, and can be retrofitted with minimal modifications to existing systems.
Implementation Method 1
The magnet member is configured to selectively couple the second conveyor portion to the first conveyor portion in the stowed position
Data Source
AI summary
A construction machine is provided. The machine includes a frame and a power source mounted on the frame. The machine also includes a milling drum configured to be driven by the power source. The machine further includes a conveyor mounted on the frame. The conveyer includes a first conveyor portion having a first end and a second end. The first end is mounted on the frame. The conveyer also includes a second conveyor portion having a third end and a fourth end. The third end is mounted on the second end of the first conveyor portion. The second conveyor portion is configured to move between a working position and a stowed position. The conveyer further includes a magnet member secured to one of the first and second conveyor portion. The magnet member is configured to couple the second conveyor portion to the first conveyor portion in the stowed position.