Movable Roller Assembly for Cable Transportation Load Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Cable transportation systems face issues with increased load and stress on trolleys and oscillation of haul cables due to the interaction with roller assemblies, which existing dampening systems fail to fully address.
Innovation Solution
A cable transportation system with a roller assembly featuring movable rollers connected by elastic members that adjust between two operating positions to support the haul cable and trolley, minimizing load variation and oscillation, and incorporating shock absorbers to dampen oscillations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If roller assemblies are used to support the haul cable, then the cable can be supported along the path, but the trolley load and stress increase when the cable is lifted off the rollers
Solution Approach 1:
The roller assembly is designed to be movable rather than fixed, allowing it to dynamically adjust its position and load bearing characteristics as the trolley passes by. The roller can move horizontally along the cable and vertically in response to trolley passage, distributing loads more effectively and reducing peak stresses on the trolley structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operational parameters of the roller assembly by allowing it to shift between different positions and load states. The roller moves from a static support position to an active engagement position with the trolley, changing the force distribution parameters to minimize trolley stress while maintaining cable support.
2Reliability
If roller assemblies are used to support the haul cable, then the cable can be supported along the path, but the haul cable oscillates and may jump the rolling track
Solution Approach 1:
The roller assembly acts as an intermediary element between the fixed support structure and the moving cable. By introducing this intermediate component that can move and absorb disturbances, the system isolates the cable from direct interactions that cause oscillation, while still providing necessary support.
Solution Approach 2:
The roller assembly is positioned and configured to anticipate and cushion cable disturbances before they develop into full oscillations. The movable roller provides preemptive support and damping, reducing the amplitude of cable vibrations and preventing them from reaching levels that would cause track jumping.
3Ease of operation
If the trolley lifts the haul cable off the rollers, then the trolley can move along the track, but stress between the trolley and rolling track increases
Solution Approach 1:
The roller assembly dynamically responds to trolley passage by moving out of the way and then returning to its support position. This dynamic behavior reduces the duration and intensity of contact stress between the trolley and rolling track, allowing smooth trolley movement while minimizing stress concentration.
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 effectively maintains consistent load distribution and minimizes haul cable oscillation, preventing the cable from jumping the track and ensuring smooth operation by distributing the load and damping roller oscillations.
Implementation Method 1
at least one elastic member located between the frame and the roller to enable the roller to assume a first operating position contacting the haul cable; wherein the at least one elastic member enables the roller to assume a second operating position lower than the first operating position and contacting the trolley
Implementation Method 2
the roller assembly comprises a shock absorber; the roller being connected to the frame utilizing the shock absorber. Any oscillation of the roller caused by passage of the trolley is thus damped.
Data Source
AI summary
A cable transportation system having a rolling track extending along a designated path; a trolley configured to roll along the rolling track; a haul cable extending along the designated path and selectively connectable to the trolley; and at least one roller assembly having a frame, a plurality of rollers fitted movably to the frame, and elastic members located between the frame and the rollers to enable the rollers to assume a first operating position contacting the haul cable, and a second operating position lower than the first operating position and contacting the trolley as the trolley runs along the roller assembly.