Screening Module Fastening Assembly With Torque-Limiting Pin Head

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing fastening arrangements for screening modules in screening equipment, such as thermoplastic pin and sleeve combinations, are prone to breakage due to over-torque and debris accumulation, posing safety risks and operational challenges, especially in confined spaces.

Innovation Solution

A torque-limiting pin and sleeve assembly with radially distributed engagement elements, such as grooves or protrusions, that prevent over-torqueing and facilitate easy cleaning, allowing for safe and efficient installation and dismantling using standard tools without hazardous instruments.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a thermoplastic pin and sleeve combination is used for fastening screening modules, then the need for sledge-hammers and large physical force is eliminated, but the pin may breakage due to over-torque from impact wrenches

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefastening operationVSAvoidpin strength
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The pin head geometry is changed from traditional vertical grooves to inclined grooves at a specific angle (α). This parameter change in the groove orientation creates a mechanical disengagement mechanism that limits the maximum torque that can be applied, preventing pin breakage while still allowing efficient fastening operation with standard impact wrenches.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Ease of operation

If parallel vertical grooves are provided on the pin head for tool engagement, then the handling tool can engage with the pin, but debris accumulates in the grooves preventing efficient engagement

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetool engagementVSAvoiddebris accumulation
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The groove geometry is changed from symmetric vertical grooves to asymmetric inclined grooves. The inclination creates a self-cleaning effect where debris is prevented from accumulating in the groove, maintaining consistent tool engagement efficiency over time while still providing adequate torque transmission during fastening operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

3Ease of operation

If the pin head grooves are made narrow for tool engagement, then the tool can engage with the pin, but the grooves become difficult to clean and debris accumulates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetool engagementVSAvoidmaintenance cleaning
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSEase of repair

Solution Approach 1:

The groove dimensions and orientation are modified with specific parameters: inclination angle (α) between 5-45 degrees, width (w1) between 2-10mm, and length (l1) between 10-50mm. These parameter changes create grooves that are both tool-engagement effective and maintenance-friendly, allowing easy cleaning while providing sufficient tool grip.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS12123449B2Fastening arrangement for screening assembly
Publication Date: 2024.10.22 SANDVIK SRP
  • US12123449B2 patent drawing
  • US12123449B2 patent drawing
  • US12123449B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A fastening arrangement in the form of a pin and sleeve combination is provided for fixing one or more screening media modules on top of screen support panel structure. The fastening arrangement includes a pin capable of being screwed into a sleeve, the pin being provided with engagement elements capable of connecting with complementary projections on a handling tool for facilitation of installing and dismantling the fastening arrangement. A method for fastening the screening media module on to the screen support panel structure, and a screening equipment housing the same for separating solid materials according to size is also provided.