Radiation-Crosslinked Conveyor Chain for Plastic Containers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing conveyor systems for plastic containers face increased friction issues due to the use of lighter plastic preforms and recycled materials, leading to sticking problems between containers and the conveyor belt, especially in dry-running systems without lubrication.
Innovation Solution
The use of radiation-crosslinked plastics with embedded spherical bodies or components like graphite to reduce friction and enhance sliding properties, allowing for effective transportation of containers without lubrication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-generated harmful factors
If dry-running conveyor systems are used without lubrication, then environmental pollution is reduced and cleaning requirements are minimized, but friction between containers and conveyor chain increases causing sticking problems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies radiation (gamma or electron beam) to change the physical-chemical parameters of the plastic conveyor chain material, inducing crosslinking that fundamentally alters the surface properties and reduces friction coefficient without requiring lubrication
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a composite structure by embedding spherical bodies (glass beads, ceramic balls, or plastic spheres) into the plastic matrix of the conveyor chain, combining the low-friction properties of the spherical surfaces with the structural integrity of the plastic material
2Weight of moving object
If lighter plastic preforms and recycled materials are used for containers, then weight is reduced and sustainability is improved, but friction and sticking between containers increases
Solution Approach 1:
The radiation treatment modifies the friction characteristics of the conveyor chain surface, creating a low-friction interface that accommodates the varying surface properties of different container materials including lightweight preforms and recycled plastics
Solution Approach 2:
The spherical bodies embedded in the conveyor chain act as intermediary elements between the conveyor and containers, providing a consistent low-friction contact surface that mediates the interaction between the conveyor and diverse container materials
3Force
If radiation crosslinking is applied to transport links, then friction is reduced and temperature resistance is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The radiation crosslinking is performed as a preliminary treatment during or after the molding process, preparing the plastic material with enhanced friction and temperature resistance properties before the conveyor chain is assembled and put into service
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical lubrication systems with a simpler radiation-treated plastic surface, eliminating the need for lubricant application mechanisms, reservoirs, and distribution systems
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 solution significantly reduces friction and wear, improves temperature resistance, and maintains good sliding properties, enabling efficient and lubrication-free transportation of plastic containers across conveyor systems.
Implementation Method 1
the transport or chain links (during their manufacture) are exposed to radiation, and in particular to gamma or beta radiation. As a result of this treatment, the molecular chains of the transport links are also homogeneously crosslinked inside the material.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3a~4b
AI summary
A device (1) for transporting containers (10), comprising a peripheral transport means (2) that forms a contact surface for the containers to be transported, said transport means (2) moving in a straight direction (L) in at least some sections and having a plurality of hingedly interconnected transport members (12), and a drive device (8) for driving the transport means (2). The transport members (12) are produced from a plastic to which radiation is applied in order to change its material structure and/or which has a plurality of spherical bodies embedded in its material structure.