Multi-Wedge Friction Stabilizer for Seismic Tensile Dissipation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mechanical dynamic friction stabilizers in underground mining operations are inadequate in dissipating tensile forces during seismic events, potentially leading to catastrophic rock wall or ceiling collapse.
Innovation Solution
A friction stabilizer design featuring an outer sheath with multiple internally directed fixed wedges and an internal rod with engaging wedges, where the rod extends between the fixed wedges, allowing tensile forces to be dissipated through a wedging action, with a preferred construction using high tensile steel or twisted steel cable and specific dimensions for enhanced effectiveness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a single fixed wedge is used in the sheath, then the structure is simple, but the tensile force dissipation capability is insufficient during seismic events
Solution Approach 1:
The single fixed wedge is divided into multiple fixed wedges (first fixed wedge and second fixed wedge) positioned at different locations within the sheath. Each wedge engages with corresponding engaging wedges on the rod to distribute and dissipate tensile forces through multiple independent friction interfaces, thereby enhancing reliability without requiring a completely new system architecture
Solution Approach 2:
The solution transitions from a single-point force dissipation mechanism to a multi-point distributed mechanism by positioning fixed wedges at different axial locations along the sheath. This spatial distribution creates multiple engagement zones that collectively dissipate energy through combined friction actions, effectively adding a dimensional aspect to the force dissipation capability
2Strength
If the rod is made from high tensile steel with larger diameter, then the tensile strength is improved, but the weight and installation difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The rod is segmented into multiple engaging wedge elements distributed along its length. Each engaging wedge interacts with corresponding fixed wedges to create distributed frictional force dissipation. This segmentation allows the rod to achieve high effective tensile strength through cumulative friction resistance while maintaining a manageable diameter and weight for installation
Solution Approach 2:
The engaging wedges on the rod act as intermediary elements that translate axial tensile forces into radial friction forces at multiple contact points with the sheath. This mechanical transformation allows the rod to dissipate large tensile forces through friction without requiring excessive rod diameter or weight, facilitating easier handling and installation
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 design effectively dissipates tensile forces during seismic events, preventing rock collapse by distributing the force through multiple wedging actions, providing enhanced stability and safety in mining operations.
Implementation Method 1
The wedging action of the wedge 24 against the fixed wedge 26 acts to dissipate this tensile force
Implementation Method 2
a tensile force applied to the sheath causes a wedging action of the first engaging wedge against the first fixed wedge and the second engaging wedge against the second fixed wedge
Data Source
AI summary
A friction stabilizer for supporting a rock ceiling in an underground mining environment is disclosed. The friction stabilizer has an external sheath and an internal rod. The internal rod is about 15% of the length of the external sheath. The internal rod has wedges at either end, arranged to engage with complementary wedges welded to the inside of the sheath.