Resilient Conveyor Chain Link for Sudden Load Absorption
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional conveyor chains experience wear and breakage due to abrupt or sudden loads, particularly in mining machines like continuous miners and chain haulage units, where the chain links lack sufficient resilience and shock absorption.
Innovation Solution
Incorporation of a deformable spring link in the conveyor chain that elastically deforms under loads parallel to the direction of travel, changing the distance between its ends, with a limiting body to prevent excessive deformation and protect against breakage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional rigid chain links are used, then the chain structure is simple and strong, but the chain experiences wear and breakage due to abrupt loads
Solution Approach 1:
The link is divided into distinct functional segments: rigid ends for structural integrity and connection, and a deformable portion for shock absorption. This segmentation allows each part to perform its specific function optimally while maintaining overall link strength
Solution Approach 2:
The link structure incorporates a deformable portion with modified geometric parameters (reduced cross-sectional area or optimized curvature) that allows controlled elastic deformation. This parameter change enables the link to absorb sudden loads through elastic strain while maintaining strength during normal operation
2Reliability
If a deformable portion is added to absorb shocks, then the chain resilience improves, but the link structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The deformable portion acts as a flexible element within the link structure, allowing elastic deformation to absorb shocks. This flexible portion is integrated into the rigid link structure, creating a hybrid design that combines the strength of rigid components with the shock-absorbing capability of flexible elements
Solution Approach 2:
The deformable portion is pre-configured with specific geometric characteristics that enable it to absorb sudden loads through elastic deformation before the load can cause damage to the chain. This beforehand cushioning capability is built into the link structure design, allowing it to automatically respond to abrupt loads without additional control mechanisms
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 deformable spring link acts as a shock absorber, minimizing wear and breakage of conveyor chain components by absorbing sudden loads and maintaining a predetermined distance, enhancing the chain's resilience and durability.
Implementation Method 1
The deformable portion is configured to elastically deform in response to loads exerted in a direction parallel to the direction of travel of the conveyor chain, thereby changing a distance between the first end and the second end
Implementation Method 2
The deformable spring link acts as a shock absorber, minimizing wear and breakage of conveyor chain components by absorbing sudden loads
Data Source
AI summary
A link is provided for a conveyor chain that is configured to convey material in a direction of travel. The link includes a first end coupled to a first adjacent link, a second end opposite the first end and coupled to a second adjacent link, and a deformable portion positioned between the first end and the second end. The deformable portion is configured to elastically deform in response to loads exerted in a direction parallel to the direction of travel of the conveyor chain, thereby changing a distance between the first end and the second end.