Segmented Slat Conveyor Base and Insert Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing reciprocating slat conveyors face difficulties in efficiently mounting fixed slats onto a support structure, particularly due to the lack of easy access for fastener installation from above.
Innovation Solution
The improved conveyor design features fixed slats with a unique construction, including a base with upwardly extending side parts and wings, allowing access to the bottom from above, and a removable insert with ribs and grooves for secure fastening, enabling easy installation and potential replacement or repair.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If traditional fixed slat construction is used, then structural strength is maintained, but installation difficulty increases due to inability to access fastener locations from above
Solution Approach 1:
The fixed slat is divided into two separate components: a base portion and an insert portion. The base portion contains fastener-receiving openings for securing to the support structure, while the insert portion fits into the base to complete the slat structure. This segmentation allows fasteners to be installed from above through the open space, significantly easing installation while maintaining structural integrity through the interlocking base and insert design.
2Ease of operation
If open space is created between side parts for fastener access, then installation ease improves, but structural strength may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the slat into base and insert portions, the open space in the base does not compromise overall strength because the insert fills the central area and locks into the base structure. The fastener-receiving openings are positioned in the base portion where they provide access without creating weak points in the load-bearing path.
Solution Approach 2:
The insert is nested within the base structure, with the insert fitting into recesses in the base and being secured by fasteners. This nesting arrangement allows the open space in the base to be utilized for fastener access while the insert provides additional structural support, ensuring that strength is maintained despite the open configuration.
Data Source
AI summary
Movable conveyor slats (12) have side parts (74, 76) which rest on top parts of bearings (92). The bearings (92) have a generally U-shaped cross section and they fit on wings (52, 54, 54′) which extend outwardly and slope upwardly from the sides of a fixed conveyor slat (10, 10′). Fixed conveyor slats (10, 10′) have base portions (18, 18′) and upper insert portions (20, 20′). The inserts (20, 20′) have downwardly extending ribs (62, 64) on their sides which extend into upwardly opening grooves (48, 50) in the base portions (18). The movable slats (12) have web (80, 82) and lower flange portions (84, 86) which with the side parts (74, 76) of the slats (12) form laterally outwardly opening channels. The wings (52, 54, 54′) and the bearings (92) are received within the channels (88, 90).