Slipform Paver Auger Cleaning via Self-Service Spraying

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing slipform pavers face challenges in effectively cleaning their conveying devices, particularly auger conveyors, which prevents thorough cleaning of all areas.

Innovation Solution

Incorporating a cleaning device with a guiding device and adjustable spraying devices, driven independently of the motor drive system, to ensure comprehensive cleaning of the conveying device, including the use of high-pressure nozzles and a controller for automated operation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If a cleaning device is added to the conveying device, then cleaning quality is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecleaning qualityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The cleaning device is integrated onto the conveying device itself, allowing the conveying device to clean itself. The cleaning device moves along with the conveying device and can access all areas including hard-to-reach spots, eliminating the need for separate external cleaning equipment while improving cleaning quality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The cleaning device is designed to perform multiple functions: it can clean different areas of the conveying device (auger, hopper, etc.), and can be moved to various positions along the conveying device. This multi-functional design improves cleaning quality without requiring multiple separate cleaning systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Area of stationary object

If the cleaning device is made movable along the conveying device, then cleaning coverage is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecleaning coverageVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The cleaning device is designed to be movable along the conveying device rather than fixed. It can be positioned at different locations and moved to access all areas of the conveying device including the auger and hopper regions, thereby improving cleaning coverage while maintaining manageable complexity through standardized movement mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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 improves cleaning quality by allowing even and thorough cleaning of the conveying device, enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of the cleaning process.

Implementation Method 1

The cleaning device (22) comprises at least one spraying device (26), in particular a high-pressure nozzle

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHigh-pressure spray: Fluid Spray

Data Source

PatentUS20240352685A1Slipform Paver
Publication Date: 2024.10.24 WIRTGEN GMBH
  • US20240352685A1 patent drawing
  • US20240352685A1 patent drawing
  • US20240352685A1 patent drawing

AI summary

Slipform paver for the construction of pavements or structures made of concrete, comprising at least one machine frame, at least two travelling devices, wherein the at least two travelling devices are each connected to the machine frame by means of at least one height adjustment device, at least one motor drive system, which at least drives the at least two travelling devices, at least one working device for the construction of pavements or structures, at least one conveying device for the purpose of transporting concrete to the at least one working device, it is provided that at least one cleaning device is provided on the conveying device for the purpose of cleaning the conveying device.