Mobile Classifier Dedusting Polycarbonate Granules

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing mobile classifiers for dedusting granules, particularly polycarbonate granules, face challenges in efficient operation at different locations and contamination prevention due to residual granules and dust, which can affect the quality of high-value polymers.

Innovation Solution

A mobile classifier with an integrated working platform, automatic control, and a base frame with a travelling mechanism, incorporating a conical docking flange, wind classifier, intermediate container, telescopic pipe, intake and exhaust-air systems, and a local control unit, allowing for ergonomic docking, efficient dedusting, and easy cleaning by flushing with water and compressed air.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If a stationary classifier is used to improve dedusting efficiency, then the dedusting performance is improved, but the classifier cannot be moved to different silo locations and requires complex cleaning procedures

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvededusting efficiencyVSAvoidmobility to different locations
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The classifier system is divided into a mobile classifier unit that can be transported to different silo locations and a stationary plant part that remains fixed. This segmentation allows the classifier to be moved between locations while maintaining its dedusting functionality, resolving the contradiction between stationary efficiency and mobility requirements

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

A base frame with travelling mechanism serves as an intermediary between the mobile classifier and different silo locations. This base frame provides the necessary support and mobility capabilities, enabling the classifier to efficiently service multiple locations without being permanently installed at each one

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If the classifier operates at multiple locations to improve versatility, then the adaptability is improved, but residual granules and dust cause contamination of high-value polymers

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveability to operate at different silo locationsVSAvoidcontamination by residual granules and dust
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The classifier is equipped with flushing devices that perform preliminary cleaning actions between operations at different locations. This preliminary flushing with water and compressed air removes residual granules and dust before the classifier processes high-value polymers, preventing contamination while maintaining versatility

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The mobile classifier is equipped with self-cleaning capabilities through integrated flushing devices that can clean the classifier itself without requiring external cleaning equipment. This self-service cleaning system ensures that residual granules and dust are removed between locations, preventing contamination of different products

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Adaptability or versatility

If the classifier is designed as a mobile unit with base frame and travelling mechanism, then the mobility is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemobility to different silo locationsVSAvoidcomplexity of base frame and travelling mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The base frame with travelling mechanism is designed as a universal platform that can accommodate the classifier at multiple silo locations. This multi-functional base frame serves both as structural support and as the mobility mechanism, reducing overall system complexity compared to having separate support and mobility systems

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

4Object-affected harmful factors

If flushing devices are added to clean the classifier, then the contamination prevention is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontamination by residual granules and dustVSAvoidcomplexity of flushing devices
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The flushing devices are merged with the mobile classifier unit, combining the cleaning function with the existing mobile structure. This integration allows the flushing system to utilize the mobile classifier's own resources (such as its base frame and positioning capabilities) rather than requiring separate fixed cleaning infrastructure, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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

Enables efficient dedusting at various locations with reduced contamination risk, ensuring high-quality polymer production by automatically adjusting parameters and ensuring thorough cleaning of the classifier.

Implementation Method 1

the granules are subjected prior to the filling or packaging process to a dedusting operation performed by air classification by means of a classifier (deduster)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAir classification: Aerodynamic Heating

Implementation Method 2

a base frame with an integrated working platform provided with a travelling mechanism

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical motion:

Implementation Method 3

easy cleaning by flushing with water and compressed air

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFluid flushing: Fluid Spray

Data Source

PatentUS8783465B2Mobile classifier
Publication Date: 2014.07.22 COVESTRO DEUTSCHLAND AG
  • US8783465B2 patent drawing
  • US8783465B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A mobile classifier (deduster) has docking devices, flushing devices and control for the dedusting of granules, in particular polymer granules, with preference polycarbonate granules. The mobile classifier can be set up at different locations underneath silos. To perform its function, the mobile classifier is technically connected to stationary pipelines, filters and fans.