Multi-Part Conveyor Axle for Cleanable Sleeve Interfaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing axles or shafts used in conveyor belts, particularly in food processing machines, do not allow for effective cleaning of the space between the axle and bushings without extensive dismantling work.
Innovation Solution
The axle is designed in multiple parts, allowing for cleaning agents to be introduced between the parts, with partial shafts arranged next to each other and potentially twisted or connected, and a sleeve that can be rotated and moved for easy access and cleaning, ensuring the axle and sleeve can be cleaned without dismantling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the axle is designed as a single solid piece, then the structural strength and stability are improved, but the cleanability of the intermediate space deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The axle is divided into multiple partial shafts (first partial shaft, second partial shaft, third partial shaft) that are arranged next to each other with spacing. This segmentation creates accessible intermediate spaces between the partial shafts and bushings, allowing cleaning agents to reach areas that would otherwise be inaccessible in a solid single-piece axle design.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the partial shafts are arranged close together, then the structural stability is improved, but the accessibility for cleaning deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The partial shafts are arranged at specific distances from one another, creating localized gaps in certain regions while maintaining overall structural stability. The spacing between partial shafts (first, second, and third partial shafts) is optimized to provide cleaning access without compromising the axle's load-bearing capacity or rotational stability.
3Ease of operation
If the axle is designed with multiple parts, then the cleanability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The axle is segmented into multiple partial shafts that can be manufactured separately and then assembled. This segmentation enables cleaning access while the modular design actually simplifies manufacturing and assembly compared to creating complex cavities or channels in a single solid piece. The partial shafts can be produced using standard machining processes and connected through simple joining methods.
4Stability of the object's composition
If the sleeve is fixed on the axle, then the positional stability is improved, but the cleanability of the axle surface deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The sleeve is designed to be movable along the axle rather than fixed, allowing it to be displaced to expose different portions of the axle surface for cleaning. The sleeve can be moved axially to provide access to the intermediate spaces between partial shafts and bushings, then repositioned or secured at desired locations during operation. This dynamic positioning capability enables both cleanability and operational stability.
Data Source
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AI summary
Axle (1) or shaft, wherein the axle (1) is formed in multiple parts.