Screening Module Fastening Pin With Torque-Limiting Tool Engagement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fastening arrangements for screening modules in screening equipment, such as thermoplastic pin and sleeve combinations, are prone to breakage due to over-torqueing and suffer from debris accumulation in narrow grooves, making them hazardous and difficult to maintain, 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 equipment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering 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 break due to over-torqueing from impact wrenches
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the geometric parameters of the pin head by providing engagement elements (ridges or grooves) at specific angles (30-60 degrees from the vertical axis). This angular parameter allows the handling tool to engage and rotate the pin without transmitting excessive torque that would cause breakage, while still achieving secure fastening.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary handling tool with complementary engagement elements that mediates between the operator and the pin. This tool allows controlled rotation and torque application, preventing direct over-torqueing of the pin while still achieving the required fastening force.
2Ease of operation
If parallel vertical grooves are provided on the pin head for tool engagement, then the pin can be driven into the sleeve using a screwing tool, but debris from screened material accumulates in the narrow grooves preventing efficient tool engagement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the orientation of the engagement elements from vertical (parallel to the pin axis) to inclined (at 30-60 degrees from the vertical axis). This asymmetric angular orientation prevents debris from settling horizontally into the grooves, making the structure easier to clean and maintain while still allowing proper tool engagement.
3Reliability
If conventional fastening methods are used in confined spaces between screen decks, then screening modules can be secured, but maintenance work becomes difficult and hazardous due to narrow confined spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the heavy mechanical system of sledge-hammers and large impact tools with a lighter screwing/fastening system that can be operated in confined spaces. The pin and sleeve combination with angular engagement elements allows use of compact power tools or manual screwdrivers, eliminating the need for large swinging motions required by hammers.
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 solution provides a safe, reliable, and easy-to-maintain fastening system that reduces the risk of accidents and allows for quick installation and dismantling of screening modules, even in confined spaces, while preventing breakage and debris accumulation, thus enhancing operational safety and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
an elongate second element comprising a head portion and a lower portion extending axially downwards from the centre of the head portion, the lower portion having threads arranged on the outer surface in a helical angle (β)
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2a
Figure 2b
AI summary
This disclosure relates to a fastening arrangement in the form of a pin and sleeve combination for fixing one or more screening media modules on top of screen support panel structure. The fastening arrangement comprises 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. Also described in the disclosure is 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.