Modular Belt Support Modules for Conveyor Line Flexibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional conveyor systems are costly and complex to set up and convert due to the need for custom-made components, limiting flexibility and increasing operational expenses.
Innovation Solution
A modular conveyor section with injection-molded belt support modules that can be easily coupled to traverses, providing a wide belt contact surface and tool-free attachment, allowing for flexible configuration and cost-effective construction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If custom-made rails are used to support the conveyor belt, then the conveyor system provides stable support, but the cost of installation and conversion increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The continuous rail support is segmented into discrete, interchangeable modules that can be independently installed and removed. Each module consists of a base element fixed to the crossbeam and a separate support element that contacts the belt, allowing partial replacements without converting the entire system.
Solution Approach 2:
The support elements are designed as universal components that can be used across different conveyor configurations and positions. The same basic support element design can be applied to multiple crossbeams and conveyor sections, reducing the need for custom-made components for each specific location.
2Adaptability or versatility
If modular crossbeams with plug-in elements are used, then the conveyor system becomes more flexible, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The support system is divided into independent base elements and support elements that can be separately installed and configured. This segmentation allows flexible arrangement without requiring complex integrated components, as each element remains relatively simple in design.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of making the entire crossbeam modular with integrated plug-in elements, the invention inverts the approach by keeping the crossbeam structure simple and adding modular support elements that attach to it. This reverses the complexity from the structural component to the accessory component.
3Device complexity
If long rails are used to span multiple crossbeams, then the number of attachment points is reduced, but the customization cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The support elements are designed as universal components that can be installed at multiple crossbeam positions along the conveyor. The same support element design serves multiple functions across different locations, eliminating the need for custom-made rails of various lengths while maintaining reduced attachment requirements.
Data Source
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AI summary
A conveyor system (5) for transporting objects by means of a conveyor belt (2, 3, 4) and a method for constructing a conveyor system (10) are described. The conveyor system (10) has at least one belt support frame (10) with at least two longitudinal beams (11, 12) extending in a longitudinal direction (F) of the conveyor system and a number of crossbeams (14) extending transversely to the longitudinal direction (F) of the conveyor system. Belt support modules (20, 20') are coupled to the crossbeams (14), preferably in one piece, which extend in the longitudinal direction (F) of the conveyor system between at least two crossbeams (14) and each have a belt support surface (21) facing a conveyor belt (2, 3, 4) when in intended use. These belt support modules (20, 20') are essentially manufactured by an injection molding process.In addition, a belt support module (20, 20') for a conveyor line (10) and a conveyor system (1) with such a conveyor line (10) are described.