Modular Conveyor Belt Idler Support for Single-Side Maintenance
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Solution Overview
Problem
The maintenance of conveyor belt idler rollers is challenging due to close spacing of support frames and proximity to adjacent structures, which limits access and requires tilting or disconnection of multiple frames, especially when one side is inaccessible.
Innovation Solution
A support apparatus for conveyor belts that allows frames and rollers to be installed and removed from one side, using modular elements with sliding and hinged connections, enabling easy access and minimal interference with adjacent components, and includes a ramp for guiding rollers past obstructions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If support frames are spaced at close intervals (8 to 12 inch centers) to minimize belt deflection, then belt support stability is improved, but ease of maintenance deteriorates because removal of a frame requires tilting it toward adjacent frames which limits access space
Solution Approach 1:
The support system is divided into modular frames that can be independently removed from the continuous support structure. Each frame is a discrete unit that can be accessed and serviced without affecting the entire conveyor support system, allowing maintenance personnel to work on individual frames without tilting or disconnecting multiple adjacent frames.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame removal operation is enabled by accessing the conveyor belt from the top side rather than from underneath. This dimensional change in access approach allows frames to be removed without the spatial constraints that would exist if accessing from below, eliminating the need to tilt frames toward adjacent structures.
2Stability of the object's composition
If conventional support frames are used that require tilting for removal, then structural stability is maintained, but device complexity increases during maintenance because multiple adjacent frames may need to be disconnected and repositioned
Solution Approach 1:
The frame is extracted as a removable module from the continuous support structure. The frame can be completely removed from beneath the conveyor belt and serviced independently, eliminating the need to tilt or reposition adjacent frames during maintenance operations.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of tilting the frame toward adjacent frames for removal (conventional approach), the invention allows removal from the opposite side - accessing the frame from the top of the conveyor belt. This inverted access approach simplifies maintenance by eliminating the need to work in the limited space between adjacent frames.
3Area of stationary object
If one side of the conveyor belt is inaccessible due to adjacent structures, then space utilization is improved, but ease of maintenance deteriorates because anchor bolts and frame access are blocked
Solution Approach 1:
The invention enables maintenance access from the top dimension of the conveyor belt rather than requiring access from the bottom side. This allows service personnel to reach anchor bolts and frame components from the accessible top side, eliminating the need for physical access to the blocked bottom side near walls or structures.
Data Source
AI summary
A support for a conveyor belt is provided. The support has a series of frames that may be installed beneath the underside of the conveyor belt to support the underside of the belt in a trough-shaped arrangement. Each frame supports a guide element, such as a roller, slider bar or bearing block, that permits the belt to ride over the frames. The frames may be installed beneath the belt and removed from beneath the belt from one side of the conveyor belt. Installation and removal of the components require minimal side clearance beneath the belt. As a result, the support may be installed and removed with minimal interference from adjacent structures or fixtures beneath the belt.