Rock Bolt Assembly Electrical Indicator for Coupling Verification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rock bolt assemblies for mining and construction lack a reliable method to ensure that the coupling between two bolt sections is complete and sufficient, making it difficult to verify proper installation.
Innovation Solution
A rock bolt assembly with an electrical indicator system, comprising two shaft sections, a coupler, an electrical conductor, and electrical terminals, which provides a visual or electrical indication when the shaft sections are properly coupled.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If two bolt sections are joined end-to-end by a coupling to achieve sufficient length for deep holes, then the bolt can be installed in deep holes, but it becomes difficult to verify that the coupling is complete and sufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical verification methods with an electrical indication system. Electrical contacts are positioned such that when the coupling is properly engaged, the contacts make electrical connection, providing a visible or measurable electrical signal that confirms proper coupling without requiring mechanical inspection of the hidden coupling area.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary electrical indication system between the coupling mechanism and the verification process. The electrical contacts act as intermediaries that translate the mechanical state of coupling into an observable electrical signal, allowing indirect verification of the coupling status.
2Ease of operation
If the coupling is made invisible by placing it inside the hole, then the installation space is optimized, but the ability to detect and measure coupling completeness is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes mechanical detection methods with an electrical detection system. Instead of requiring visual or physical inspection of the coupling inside the hole, electrical contacts provide an electrical signal that can be detected from outside the hole, making detection as easy as checking electrical continuity.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrical indication system serves as an intermediary that translates the hidden mechanical coupling state into an observable electrical signal accessible from outside the hole, bridging the gap between the hidden coupling and the external verification process.
3Ease of manufacture
If the outer shaft section is rotated to engage the coupling, then the coupling can be formed, but there is no reliable indication that the coupling is complete
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where electrical contacts provide real-time electrical indication during the coupling process. As the outer shaft section is rotated to engage the coupling, the electrical contacts make or break contact, providing immediate feedback about the coupling status to guide the installation process and confirm completion.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces subjective mechanical judgment of coupling completion with objective electrical measurement. The electrical indication system provides precise, measurable feedback about coupling status, eliminating the uncertainty associated with manual rotation and engagement.
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 electrical indicator system ensures that the coupling of rock bolt sections is verified correctly, enhancing the reliability and safety of rock bolt installations by providing a clear indication of proper coupling.
Implementation Method 1
an electrical conductor insulated from the outer shaft section and extending from the dead end of the outer shaft section to the head at the live end of the outer shaft section; an electrical contact arrangement at the dead end of the outer shaft section, the electrical contact arrangement configured to electrically interconnect the outer shaft section and the conductor when the inner and outer shaft sections are coupled
Data Source
AI summary
A rock bolt assembly provides an indication of a coupling. The rock bolt assembly includes two shaft sections, namely inner and outer shaft sections. A coupler is configured to couple the two shaft sections together at proximate ends. An electrical conductor is insulated from the outer shaft section and extends from the dead end of the outer shaft section to the head at the live end of the outer shaft section. An electrical contact arrangement is provided at the dead end of the outer shaft section, configured to electrically interconnect the outer shaft section and the conductor when the inner and outer shaft sections are coupled. Electrical terminals are provided at the head and connected respectively to the outer shaft section and to the conductor, the electrical terminals being electrically interconnected or continuous when the outer shaft section and the conductor are electrically interconnected.