Modular Conveyor Sections With Tensioner Release for Rapid Decoupling
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional conveyor systems require complex and time-consuming maintenance due to intricate component networks, necessitating improved coupling and decoupling mechanisms for conveyor peripherals to minimize downtime and enhance operational efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A conveyor system with detachable conveyor sections and a power transmission assembly, featuring fasteners, conveyor frame drive pulleys, idler pulleys, and tensioners, allowing for easy assembly and reassembly of conveyor sections, and a method to facilitate easy coupling and decoupling of conveyor sections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional conveyor systems use complex networks of components and peripherals, then the system functionality and capability are improved, but the maintenance time and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The conveyor system is divided into modular detachable sections that can be independently accessed and maintained. Each section contains standardized components that can be quickly disconnected and replaced, transforming a complex monolithic system into manageable modules that reduce maintenance complexity while preserving full system functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The conveyor peripherals are designed with dynamic coupling mechanisms that allow quick connection and disconnection during maintenance operations. This dynamic design enables maintenance personnel to efficiently access, service, and replace components without disassembling the entire system, reducing maintenance time and complexity.
2Reliability
If conveyor peripherals are permanently connected to ensure system stability, then system reliability is improved, but maintenance time and downtime increase
Solution Approach 1:
The detachable sections are pre-configured with standardized coupling mechanisms and alignment features that enable rapid reconnection after maintenance. This preliminary preparation ensures that when maintenance is complete, the sections can be quickly reattached, minimizing downtime while maintaining system stability during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling mechanisms are designed to be self-aligning and self-securing, allowing maintenance personnel to quickly reconnect sections without requiring complex alignment procedures or specialized tools. This self-service design reduces reconnection time while ensuring proper alignment and system stability.
3Strength
If traditional coupling mechanisms are used for conveyor sections, then structural integrity is maintained, but assembly and disassembly time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism is segmented into discrete, standardized components including quick-connect elements, alignment guides, and locking features. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently, maintaining structural integrity through proper mechanical engagement while enabling rapid assembly and disassembly operations.
4Reliability
If complex maintenance procedures are followed to ensure thorough servicing, then system reliability is improved, but maintenance time and resource requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the conveyor into detachable sections with standardized components, the system allows maintenance personnel to focus on specific modules rather than servicing the entire system. This segmentation maintains reliability by ensuring each module can be thoroughly serviced while reducing overall maintenance time and resource requirements through targeted, modular maintenance procedures.
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
The system allows for easy and efficient maintenance and reduces downtime by allowing easy coupling and decoupling of conveyor systems, enhancing operational efficiency and reducing downtime.
Implementation Method 1
the tensioner of each power transmission assembly is configured to release tension of an associated drive belt for detaching the associated detachable conveyor section from the conveyor frame
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 2
AI summary
A conveyor system is disclosed. The conveyor system comprising, a conveyor frame and a plurality of detachable conveyor sections. Further, the conveyor frame has a plurality of zones and a pair of longitudinal side rails extending through at least one of the plurality of zones. Further, each zone of the conveyor frame is associated with a distinct detachable conveyor section of the plurality of detachable conveyor sections and includes a power transmission assembly. Further, each detachable conveyor section is detachably mounted to the pair of longitudinal side rails via a plurality of fasteners and includes a conveyor section drive pulley. Further, the power transmission assembly includes a conveyor frame drive pulley, an idler pulley, a tensioner, and a drive belt. Further, the tensioner of each power transmission assembly is configured to release tension of an associated drive belt for detaching an associated detachable conveyor section from the conveyor frame.