Sliding Band Multi-Elevator Grain Transfer System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing grain transfer systems require deep elevator pits for vertical conveying, leading to increased installation and maintenance costs, complexity, and power consumption, with difficult access for repairs, especially in challenging ground conditions.
Innovation Solution
A grain transfer system that allows direct installation of elevators onto the ground, eliminating the need for elevator pits and reducing the number of system components, power consumption, and physical area required, while facilitating easier access and maintenance by using sliding and driving members to transfer grains directly from horizontal to vertical conveyance units.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If elevators are installed inside deep elevator pits to enable vertical grain conveying, then grain transfer function is achieved, but installation cost, maintenance cost, and construction period increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional arrangement by placing the elevator inlet at ground level instead of inside a deep pit. The sliding band conveys grain horizontally from the inlet to the elevator boot, which is positioned at ground level, eliminating the need for deep excavation while maintaining vertical conveying capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a horizontal dimension by using a sliding band to convey grain horizontally from the inlet to the elevator boot. This dimensional change allows the system to avoid vertical excavation while still achieving the required grain transfer function.
2Adaptability or versatility
If distributors and flow pipes are added to distribute grain to multiple elevators, then grain distribution capability is improved, but system complexity and component quantity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The sliding band serves multiple functions: it conveys grain horizontally from the inlet to the elevator boot, and can be configured to serve multiple elevators. This multi-functional component reduces the need for separate distributors and flow pipes for each elevator.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the functions of the sliding band and the elevator inlet into a single integrated system. The sliding band directly feeds the elevator boot without requiring intermediate distributors or flow pipes, simplifying the overall system structure.
3Reliability
If elevator pits are drilled to minimum 4 meters depth, then vertical conveying is enabled, but access for repair operations becomes difficult and repair period increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional arrangement by positioning the elevator boot at ground level instead of inside a deep pit. This allows repair personnel to access the elevator components from ground level, eliminating the need to work in confined deep pits while maintaining vertical conveying capability.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple distributors and flow pipes are used for grain distribution, then grain distribution to multiple elevators is achieved, but total system cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sliding band is designed to serve multiple elevators simultaneously, reducing the need for separate distributors and flow pipes for each elevator. This multi-functional approach reduces the total number of components and lowers system cost.
Data Source
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AI summary
Invention particularly relates to a grain transfer system used in grain storage systems and providing installation of elevators enabling transfer of grain on axis extending vertical to ground directly on ground and thus not needing drilling of elevator pit, thus providing reduction of number of system components used for installation and maintenance operations period after installation, total, power need consumed for system operation and physical area used for installation.