Multi-part sprocket wheel with snap-fit flanges

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing multi-part sprocket wheels require tools and bolts for assembly and replacement, leading to costly downtime and production delays due to the need for dismantling conveyor structures, especially in narrow spaces where operating with tools is difficult.

Innovation Solution

A multi-part sprocket wheel design featuring interleaving flanges with integral tabs and apertures that snap together without the need for screws or bolts, allowing for quick assembly and replacement around a drive axle without tools, using a tongue-and-groove mechanism with undercut cross-sectional shapes for a strong connection.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If sprocket wheels are made as single-piece units, then structural strength and reliability are improved, but replacement requires complete dismantling of conveyor structure leading to production downtime

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesprocket wheel reliabilityVSAvoidproduction downtime

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The sprocket wheel is divided into multiple segments that can be independently removed from the conveyor structure. Each segment can be detached without dismantling the entire conveyor, allowing rapid replacement while maintaining structural integrity during operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The sprocket wheel segments are designed to nest within each other during storage and transport, and can be quickly assembled around the drive shaft by sliding over the ends, enabling rapid replacement without complex assembly procedures.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Strength

If sprocket wheel parts are joined using bolts and screws, then connection strength is improved, but assembly requires tools and time-consuming procedures

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection strengthVSAvoidassembly ease

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

Traditional mechanical fastening systems (bolts, screws, nuts) are replaced with a friction-based friction-fit system. The segments are designed with precise dimensional tolerances that create sufficient friction force to maintain strong connections without requiring any fastening components or tools.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The sprocket wheel segments are designed to self-assemble through friction-fit connections. The precision-machined surfaces automatically align and secure the segments together when slid over the drive shaft, eliminating the need for external fastening operations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentEP2181947B1Replaceable multi part sprocket wheel

Publication Date: 2013.12.11 AMMERAAL BELTECH MODULAR AS

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AI summary

A multi part sprocket wheel (1) where each part (14) comprise a part of the wheels periphery (3) including one or more sprockets (2) and an interface section (9) with means for interconnecting the said parts around a drive axle characterized in that the means for interconnecting the said parts are integrated in each part.