Segmented Actuator Switch for Bulk Material Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bulk material switches, particularly in pneumatic conveyor systems, face challenges in design complexity and manufacturing difficulties, limiting their versatility and efficiency in connecting multiple conveyor lines effectively.
Innovation Solution
A switch design featuring an actuator with a rotating connecting channel defined by multiple parts, allowing for easy assembly and alignment between an input opening and multiple output openings, enabling efficient transportation of granular materials using a gaseous transport medium, with the actuator composed of parts with recesses that avoid undercuts for simplified production and maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If existing bulk material switches are used to connect multiple conveyor lines, then the switching function is achieved, but the design complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator is divided into multiple separate parts (first part, second part, third part) that can be manufactured independently and then assembled. The connecting channel is formed by combining recesses from different parts, avoiding the need to manufacture a complex single-piece actuator with undercuts.
Solution Approach 2:
The recesses in the actuator parts are designed to nest together when assembled, forming the complete connecting channel. The recesses interlock like nested dolls, creating the functional channel structure through the combination of simpler individual components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If existing bulk material switches are used to connect multiple conveyor lines, then the switching function is achieved, but the manufacturing difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator is divided into multiple separate parts (first part, second part, third part) that can be manufactured independently using standard manufacturing processes without requiring complex undercut removal or specialized tooling.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of creating the connecting channel as a solid feature that requires undercut removal, the channel is created as a negative space formed by the combination of recesses from multiple parts. This inverts the manufacturing approach from adding material to removing it.
3Device complexity
If a single-piece actuator design is used, then the structure is simpler, but manufacturing becomes more difficult due to undercuts
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator is segmented into multiple parts that can be manufactured without undercuts. Each part has a simpler geometry that is easier to manufacture, and the segments are assembled to form the complete actuator with the connecting channel.
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting channel is formed by the combination of recesses from multiple parts rather than being a single continuous feature. This partial formation approach allows each part to be manufactured independently without requiring complex undercut geometry.
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 switch provides a versatile and efficient means to connect multiple conveyor lines, simplifying the transportation of granular materials like hot melt adhesive, enabling flexible supply to various processing stations with reduced manufacturing complexity and increased operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
enabling efficient transportation of granular materials using a gaseous transport medium
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5
AI summary
The invention relates to a switch (1) for a fuel, comprising an inlet opening (3) for introducing a fuel into an inlet side (2), and several outlet openings (5) for discharging the fuel to an outlet side (4). An adjusting element (6) comprising a connecting channel (7) is arranged between the inlet side (2) and the outlet side (4), said adjusting element can be adjusted such that the connecting channel (7) can connect the inlet opening (3) to one of the outlet openings (5). Said adjusting element (6) consists of at least two parts (9, 10), and the connecting channel (7) is defined, at least in sections, by both parts (9, 10) of the adjusting element (31, 32, 33, 34).