Modular Belt Module with Integrated Axle Flanges for Skid Accumulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional skid buffer systems face inefficiencies in accumulating and transporting skids during assembly processes, particularly in situations where production cycles are uneven, leading to build-ups and increased downtime due to the need for complex guidance systems and high roller density.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of an integrated modular belt module with upstanding flanges accommodating axles and rollers, allowing for easy replacement and reduced wear, while maintaining consistent loading capabilities and maintenance intervals, and incorporating reinforcement ribs for enhanced strength and stiffness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If add-on rollers are provided on conveyor belts to support skids, then the density of support rollers increases, but the device complexity and guidance requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the roller support function directly into the modular belt links themselves, merging the conveyor belt and support roller functions into a single integrated component. This eliminates the need for separate add-on rollers and complex guidance systems, as the modular belts inherently provide structured support at regular intervals through their built-in roller accommodation features.
2Reliability
If conventional roller constructions are used to accumulate skids, then support is provided, but replacement complexity and downtime increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the conveyor system into modular belt links that can be independently replaced. Each modular link containing roller accommodation features is a discrete, replaceable unit, allowing quick substitution of worn or damaged sections without replacing entire conveyor belts or complex roller assemblies, thereby reducing downtime and simplifying maintenance.
3Strength
If high roller density is used for skid support, then loading capability improves, but maintenance frequency increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent provides roller support at specific localized positions within the modular belt link structure rather than continuous support. The modular design concentrates support functionality at key intervals where load transfer is most needed, maintaining adequate loading capability while reducing the overall number of rollers and support points that require maintenance compared to high-density continuous support systems.
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
This solution reduces downtime and maintenance costs by providing a modular, lightweight, and cost-effective conveyor system that maintains performance and longevity, with reduced friction and load transfer, allowing for efficient skid accumulation and transportation without the need for complex guidance systems.
Implementation Method 1
reduced friction and load transfer
Implementation Method 2
support means incorporate rollers such that when the skid is halted
Data Source
AI summary
Modular belt module of the type having a width, and a length, where the width and length defines a plane, and a thickness orthogonal to said plane, such that the basic module is limited by two longitudinal sides, and a front and rear side, where the module along front and rear sides is provided with eye parts, spaced by openings, such that an eye part on one edge fits inside an opening between two eye parts on an adjacent module, whereby apertures provided in the eye parts parallel to the front and rear sides overlap and may accommodate a hinge pin, characterized in that adjacent and parallel to the two longitudinal sides, upstanding flanges are provided, where each flange is provided with means for accommodating an axle, arranged parallel to the front and rear sides.