Multi-mode Wheel Assembly for Radial Conveyor
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Solution Overview
Problem
Radial conveyors with dual sets of wheels increase complexity and cost, and existing solutions do not efficiently transition between transport and operational modes without separate wheel sets.
Innovation Solution
A radial conveyor apparatus with multi-mode wheel assemblies that pivot between radial and transport modes, allowing the same wheel assemblies to facilitate both radial movement and transport by adjusting their position and engagement with the ground, eliminating the need for separate wheel sets.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If two sets of wheels are provided for radial conveyor, then transport capability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The wheel assembly is designed to perform multiple functions: it can pivot to a first orientation for radial movement during conveyor operation, and to a second orientation for transport mode. This single multi-functional wheel assembly replaces what would traditionally require two separate sets of wheels, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining both operational capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The wheel assembly incorporates a pivoting mechanism that allows dynamic reconfiguration between operational and transport modes. The ability of the wheel assembly to change its orientation dynamically enables the conveyor to adapt between different functional states without requiring separate fixed wheel sets for each mode
2Adaptability or versatility
If two sets of wheels are provided for radial conveyor, then transport capability is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By designing a single wheel assembly that can serve both radial movement and transport functions through pivoting, the manufacturing cost is reduced compared to producing and installing two separate sets of wheels. The multi-functional design consolidates components and reduces material requirements while maintaining full operational capability in both modes
3Adaptability or versatility
If wheel assemblies pivot between modes, then versatility is improved, but structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pivot mechanism integrates the wheel assembly directly with the conveyor support structure, merging the wheel mounting function with the structural framework. This integration reduces the number of separate components and connections needed compared to attaching independent wheel sets, thereby reducing structural complexity while enabling mode transition capability
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3~4
AI summary
A radial conveyor (10) has a multi-mode wheel assembly located at each side of its chassis (16). Each wheel assembly (30) is movable with respect to the chassis between a non-deployed state and a deployed state. In the non-deployed state the wheel assemblies support transport of the radial conveyor. In the deployed state the wheel assemblies support radial movement of the conveyor (12). The wheel assemblies can also be raised and lowered with respect to the chassis. This allows the ground clearance of the chassis, and the overall height of the radial conveyor to be adjusted, as well as facilitating transition between operating modes.