Magnetic Sorting of Mixed Ferrous Articles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing separation systems using magnetic properties are not capable of effectively distinguishing and separating selected magnetically attractable articles from a stream that includes both selected and non-selected magnetically attractable articles.
Innovation Solution
A sorting apparatus with a conveyor system and an array of magnets, where a sensor identifies selected magnetically attractable articles and selectively activates the magnets to divert them into a different trajectory while allowing non-selected articles to continue on the original path, utilizing either electro-magnets or permanent magnets with a controller to manage the magnetic fields and trajectories.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If constant magnetic attraction/repulsion forces are applied to the entire stream of articles, then magnetically attractable articles can be separated from non-magnetically attractable articles, but selected magnetically attractable articles cannot be distinguished from non-selected magnetically attractable articles
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from static constant magnetic fields to dynamic selectively actuatable magnetic fields. The magnets are arranged in an array and can be individually activated or deactivated based on real-time sensor detection, allowing the system to adapt its magnetic attraction forces dynamically to different article positions and types in the stream.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the magnetic field application by dividing the stream into individual article positions and applying magnetic forces selectively to specific segments. The array of magnets can be controlled independently to target only the desired magnetically attractable articles while leaving others unaffected, enabling precise separation of selected articles from non-selected ones.
2Measurement precision
If selective activation of magnets is implemented to separate selected articles, then separation precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical separation systems with a controlled electromagnetic field system. Instead of using mechanical devices to physically separate articles, the system uses an array of electronically controllable magnets that can be activated or deactivated through electrical signals, simplifying the mechanical complexity while improving separation precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces sensors as intermediaries between the article stream and the magnetic field control system. The sensors detect properties of articles and transmit this information to the controller, which then activates the appropriate magnets. This intermediary detection system enables precise control without requiring direct mechanical interaction with each article.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the conveyor launches articles off the discharge end for separation, then selected articles can be diverted into different trajectories, but the system requires precise timing and positioning control
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by having sensors detect and identify articles of interest before the conveyor launches them off the discharge end. The system processes sensor data in advance to determine which articles should be separated, and only then activates the appropriate magnets at the optimal moment to divert selected articles into different trajectories.
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 system efficiently separates selected magnetically attractable articles from a mixed stream, ensuring accurate recovery of valuable materials like copper windings by precisely controlling the magnetic attraction and diversion of articles based on their properties.
Implementation Method 1
an array of magnets arranged inside of the endless loop for interacting with the stream of articles as the stream of articles passes off the discharge end
Implementation Method 2
a discharge end configured to launch the stream of articles off the conveyor
Data Source
AI summary
A sorting apparatus is provided for sorting selected magnetically attractable articles from a stream of articles including non-selected magnetically attractable articles. The apparatus may include a conveyor for conveying the stream of articles. The conveyor may include a conveyor belt formed in an endless loop including a discharge end configured to launch the stream of articles off the conveyor. A conveyor guide may be located inside of the endless loop adjacent the discharge end. The conveyor guide may be configured to support the conveyor belt such that the conveyor belt slides on the conveyor guide along a downwardly curved path. An array of magnets may be arranged inside of the endless loop for interacting with the stream of articles as the stream of articles passes off the discharge end.