Modular Conveyor Module with Adjustable Frame for Remote Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conveyor belt systems used in mineral transportation face challenges in remote locations due to difficult and costly installation, lack of relocatability, and requirements for significant earthworks and skilled labor, with existing systems not being readily relocatable or easily transportable.
Innovation Solution
A modular conveyor system designed to be easily installed and relocated, comprising a conveyor module with an adjustable longitudinal main frame, support legs, and prefabricated conveyor componentry, compatible with standardized shipping containers for efficient transportation and simple assembly by non-specialist personnel, allowing for compact transportation and expansion for operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If conventional conveyor systems are installed in remote locations, then mineral transportation function is achieved, but installation cost and complexity increase significantly due to earthworks and skilled labor requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The conveyor system is divided into modular sections that can be independently transported and assembled. Each module contains complete functional units (drive units, idler sections, belt segments) that can be installed without requiring extensive earthworks or complex site preparation, directly reducing installation complexity and cost while maintaining transportation capability
Solution Approach 2:
The conveyor system incorporates adjustable and reconfigurable components including variable speed drive units, adjustable belt tensioning mechanisms, and modular section connections that allow the system to adapt to different terrain conditions without requiring fixed infrastructure or complex installation procedures
2Adaptability or versatility
If conveyor systems are designed for permanent installation, then structural stability is improved, but relocatability and reusability are lost
Solution Approach 1:
The conveyor is constructed from standardized modular sections with uniform connection interfaces that maintain structural integrity through precise mechanical coupling. Each module is designed to be both stable when installed and easily disconnected for relocation, achieving both structural stability and relocatability through consistent modular design
Solution Approach 2:
The modular conveyor system is designed for complete or partial disassembly and relocation to new sites. Components are engineered to be recovered intact through standardized connection points and protective mounting methods, enabling reuse at different geographical positions while maintaining structural stability at each location
3Productivity
If conveyor componentry is pre-assembled in large quantities, then transportation efficiency is improved, but storage space and assembly complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
Conveyor modules are designed with nested or collapsed configurations for transportation and storage. Belt sections can be folded or rolled within frame structures, idler units can be stacked or nested within drive section housings, and connection components can be integrated into module frameworks, maximizing transportation efficiency while minimizing storage volume requirements
Data Source
AI summary
A conveyor module 1, adapted to be releasably attached to at least one other conveyor module 1 to form a conveyor assembly 15. Each conveyor module 1 includes a substantially longitudinal main frame 4, said main frame 4 being adjustable between a first position (FIG. 3), in which said module 1 is compacted for transportation, and, a second position (FIG. 4), in which said module 1 is expanded for conveyor operation. A plurality of support legs 17 is provided to support said conveyor module 1 upon a substrate surface, each support leg being adjustable to facilitate adjustable alignment of said module 1. Conveyor componentry 12 is housed substantially within said main frame 1. The conveyor module 1 is preferably formed from or built to standardised shipping container (ISO) specifications.