Ridge-Belt Gap Adjustment Mechanism for Jam-Free Grading
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current grading systems using ridge-belts face challenges in accurately adjusting the gap width during operation due to weight, speed, and side forces, leading to jamming and dysfunction of the adjusting mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a device with modified square screw threads, rounded crest rims, and an improved hollow structure in the adjusting screwing members, along with a guide mechanism that reduces friction, allows for precise and jam-free adjustment of the gap between ridge-belts, using a control device to manage pressure and rotation of the adjusting screwing shaft.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional screwing mechanisms are used for adjusting the gap between ridge-belts, then the adjusting device can be structurally simple, but the mechanism jams and becomes dysfunctional under weight, speed, and side forces during operation
Solution Approach 1:
The adjusting device is divided into multiple independent support members (first support member, second support member, etc.) that can be adjusted individually. Each support member has its own adjusting mechanism with screwing sections, allowing localized adjustment without affecting the entire system. This segmentation prevents jamming from propagating through the whole device and improves overall reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjusting mechanism uses a dynamic screwing system where the adjusting screwing shaft can rotate to change the gap width during operation. The screwing sections with rounded crest rims allow continuous adjustment while moving, enabling the system to adapt to changing operational conditions (weight, speed, side forces) without jamming, unlike static traditional mechanisms.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the gap width is adjusted during operation under weight and movement forces, then the grading process can be optimized, but the adjusting components get stuck or jam due to side forces and pressure
Solution Approach 1:
The screwing sections feature rounded crest rims instead of sharp edges. This curvature reduces stress concentration and prevents the screwing components from getting stuck under side forces and pressure. The rounded design allows smoother rotation and adjustment even when subjected to operational forces from belt weight and movement, eliminating jamming issues.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjusting mechanism allows continuous change of the gap width parameter during operation by rotating the adjusting screwing shaft. The screwing sections are designed to accommodate parameter changes under load, with the rounded crest rims enabling the mechanism to maintain smooth operation across the full range of gap adjustments despite varying operational conditions.
3Stability of the object's composition
If multiple support members are arranged alternately with adjusting members, then the gap adjustment can be distributed and stable, but the screwing mechanism experiences increased burden from weight and side forces
Solution Approach 1:
The total burden of supporting the ridge-belts is segmented across multiple alternating support members. Each support member carries a portion of the weight and side forces, reducing the burden on any single screwing mechanism. This distributed support structure maintains stability while preventing any one adjusting mechanism from becoming overloaded and jamming.
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
This solution enables accurate and continuous adjustment of the gap width between ridge-belts, preventing jamming and ensuring smooth operation, even under the weight and movement of the belts, thereby enhancing the grading process for sensitive products.
Implementation Method 1
Both the support members and the adjusting screwing members have a screwing section. The screwing sections are adapted for increasing or decreasing the gap between the support members and thereby between the ridge-belts when the adjusting screwing shaft is rotated.
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2
Figure 3A~4
AI summary
Apparatus (1) for grading sensitive products. The apparatus (1) treats the objects to be graded gently and is accurate and may be constructed so as to handle extremely large quantities. The grading apparatus (1) of the present invention has grading channels that are wider at the outlet than at the intake. A belt machine draws the objects forward between two inclined belts (3) which form the channel. An adjusting device (9) is implemented perpendicular underneath the belts (3) of the apparatus comprising alternatively arranged support members (10) and adjusting members (12) arranged on an adjusting screwing shaft (11). Both components comprise screwing sections (19, 18) which regulate an increase or a decrease in the gap between the support members (10) when the adjusting screwing shaft (11) is rotated.