Removable Impeller Hub Segmented Rings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mixing devices face challenges with permanent impeller attachment, large opening requirements, and sanitation issues due to non-removable impeller hubs, which hinder convenient replacement and cleanliness.
Innovation Solution
A removably attachable impeller hub system comprising a first and second hub ring, a key piece, and a lock pin, allowing secure attachment and detachment while maintaining sanitary properties, with O-rings for sealing and a convex domed design to facilitate cleaning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If impellers are welded directly onto the shaft, then the attachment is permanent and secure, but replacement or substitution of different impellers is not convenient
Solution Approach 1:
The hub is divided into two separate hub rings that can be independently assembled onto the shaft. The first hub ring is attached to the shaft using keys and lock pins, while the second hub ring is fastened to the first hub ring using bolts, creating a modular assembly that can be easily disassembled and reconfigured with different impellers.
Solution Approach 2:
The hub design transitions from a permanent welded attachment to a dynamic, removable connection. The use of removable keys, lock pins, and bolts allows the hub and impellers to be easily attached and detached, providing operational flexibility while maintaining secure attachment during mixing operations.
2Ease of operation
If a removable hub design is used, then impeller replacement is convenient, but the hub and impeller assembly may not be as sanitary due to gaps and crevices
Solution Approach 1:
The hub rings feature convex domed surfaces instead of flat or concave surfaces. This curvature eliminates crevices and gaps where material could accumulate, making the structure easier to clean and more sanitary while maintaining the removable design for impeller replacement.
Solution Approach 2:
The design applies different surface qualities to different parts of the hub. The convex domed surfaces are specifically designed to be smooth and crevice-free for sanitary reasons, while the fastening areas (bolt holes, keyways) are localized to specific regions and can be accessed for cleaning or maintenance.
3Ease of operation
If all impellers are mounted to a single removable hub, then the hub can be detached, but the hub and impeller assembly is quite large and still needs to fit through the opening in the vessel
Solution Approach 1:
The hub is segmented into two separate hub rings that can be assembled and disassembled independently. This allows the impellers to be attached to one hub ring, which can then be detached from the shaft and removed through the vessel opening, while the other hub ring remains on the shaft for future use.
Solution Approach 2:
The dual hub ring design provides dynamic flexibility in assembly configuration. The hub rings can be assembled in different sequences and configurations, allowing operators to optimize the assembly size for removal through the vessel opening while maintaining secure attachment during operation.
4Ease of operation
If a removable hub design is used, then impeller replacement is convenient, but the attachment mechanism may be complex
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment mechanism is segmented into standardized, modular components: keys for torque transmission, lock pins for axial positioning, and bolts for securing the hub rings together. Each component performs a specific function and can be independently assembled or replaced, simplifying the overall complexity through functional decomposition.
Solution Approach 2:
The hub ring design uses universal, standard fastening components (keys, lock pins, bolts) that can be used across different impeller and hub configurations. This multi-functionality allows the same attachment mechanism to secure various impeller types and sizes, reducing the need for specialized components and simplifying the overall system.
Data Source
AI summary
A hub mounting assembly for mounting a plurality of impellers onto a shaft has a first hub ring and a second hub ring. A first key piece is adapted to engage with the shaft and engage with at least one of the hub rings, and a first lock pin is adapted to engage with the shaft and engage with at least one of the hub rings. In the installed state, the first hub ring is adapted to be fastened to the second hub ring, to trap the key piece and lock pin in a position so that the hub rings together form a hub that is locked against rotation and axial movement with respect to the shaft.