Pivotable Belt Connector for Thermoplastic Conveyor Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for connecting endless belts, such as conveyor belts made of thermoplastic materials, result in significant downtime due to the time-consuming welding process and mechanical fasteners that limit tension and are prone to detachment.
Innovation Solution
A belt connector system with pivotable links that connect the ends of the belt, allowing for two degrees of freedom and forming a rigid portion, which reduces downtime and maintains tension by threading into the belt material for secure engagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If welding is used to connect belt ends, then a continuous loop is formed, but significant downtime occurs due to preparation and waiting time
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into separate components (first connector, second connector, and connecting link) that can be independently inserted and assembled, eliminating the need for time-consuming welding preparation and allowing rapid assembly to form a continuous loop
Solution Approach 2:
The connectors are pre-formed with cavity-receiving structures that allow them to be directly inserted into prepared cavities in the belt ends, eliminating the need for on-site welding preparation and reducing downtime
2Loss of time
If mechanical fasteners are used to connect belt ends, then downtime is reduced, but the amount of tension that can be applied is significantly limited
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting link employs a spherical pivot interface that rotates into engagement with the connectors, distributing tension forces evenly across the joint and enabling the mechanical fastener to withstand high tension loads comparable to welded joints
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting link is designed to rotate from an inserted position to a locked engagement position, dynamically transitioning to bear full tension loads, allowing the fastener to maintain high tension capacity while enabling rapid assembly
3Productivity
If mechanical fasteners are used to connect belt ends, then assembly is faster, but the connector tends to creep and become detached
Solution Approach 1:
The connector design incorporates features that prevent creep and detachment before they can occur: the spherical pivot interface provides mechanical locking, and the cavity-receiving structures create interference fits that resist withdrawal forces, addressing retention issues before they manifest during operation
Data Source
AI summary
A belt and belt connector is provided for forming a continuous belt loop. The belt connector includes a first element insertable into a first end of the belt and a second element insertable into a second end of the belt. The first element may include exterior threads for positively engaging the interior of the belt. Additionally, the belt connector may include a connecting link that connects the first and second elements so that the first and second elements are pivotable relative to one another. Additionally, the connecting link may be configured to that the first element is pivotable relative to the connecting link about a first pivot axis and the connecting link may be pivotable relative to the second element about a second pivot axis that is transverse the first pivot axis.