Roller Chain Lubricator With Internal Channels
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current lubrication methods for roller chains are inefficient, leading to wastage of lubricant due to overspray and non-uniform application, with bristle-based systems prone to clogging and mechanical issues.
Innovation Solution
A lubricating apparatus with strategically located internal channels that directs lubricant or cleaning solvent to specific locations on the chain, using a single or two-piece enclosure with anchor clips to maintain position and minimize waste, allowing for targeted application without removing the chain or extensive preparation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If bristle-based systems are used to apply lubricant to the chain, then the lubricant can be dispersed along the chain surfaces, but the bristles become clogged with old lubricant and debris, leading to mechanical issues and non-uniform application
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the bristle component entirely from the system, extracting the problematic element that caused clogging and mechanical issues. The enclosure now uses smooth internal surfaces and geometric features to direct lubricant flow without relying on bristles that could degrade or become clogged.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical bristle-based dispersion system with a fluid dynamics-based system using internal channels and surface geometry to direct lubricant flow. This substitution eliminates the mechanical wear and clogging issues associated with bristles while maintaining effective lubricant application.
2Reliability
If lubricant is sprayed onto the drive chain until saturated, then sufficient lubrication is achieved, but considerable lubricant is wasted through overspray and cleanup time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs internal channels and outlet ports strategically positioned to deliver lubricant precisely where needed on the chain. This localized delivery system ensures lubricant is applied only to specific areas requiring lubrication rather than saturating the entire chain and surrounding components, thereby reducing waste.
Solution Approach 2:
The enclosure acts as an intermediary device between the lubricant source and the chain. It captures the sprayed lubricant and redirects it through internal channels to the chain, preventing overspray from reaching surrounding components and reducing the need for cleanup.
3Manufacturing precision
If the drive chain is removed from equipment for lubrication, then thorough lubrication is possible, but the manual process wastes lubricant and increases maintenance time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the chain to be lubricated in situ without removal from the equipment. The enclosure is designed to fit over the mounted chain and deliver lubricant directly to the chain while it remains in its operational position, allowing the chain to service itself without requiring removal and reinstallation.
Solution Approach 2:
The enclosure is pre-configured with internal channels and outlet ports positioned to target specific lubrication points on the chain before lubrication begins. This preliminary arrangement ensures thorough lubrication is achieved immediately upon application, eliminating the need for chain removal and subsequent reinstallation time.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for lubricating or cleaning a drive chain during a maintenance operation is configured as an enclosure that is inserted over a mounted chain. The apparatus disperses lubricant/cleaning solvent to specific locations through channels formed within the enclosure. The channels are strategically located within the enclosure to ensure that the applied material is directed to specific locations along the chain. A conventional lubricant/solvent is introduced through one or more inlet ports formed in the enclosure, the inlet port(s) coupled to the internal channels to properly distribute the material.