Spherical Elastomeric Mounts for Axial Load Isolation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Gyratory sifters face efficiency losses due to axial motion transmission from the vibrating screen to the platform, which dissipates energy and reduces the effectiveness of the sorting process.

Innovation Solution

The use of rod assemblies with spherical bearing assemblies and elastomeric material to minimize axial loads and allow for angular movement, preventing vertical forces on the screen assembly and maximizing horizontal movement, thereby reducing energy dissipation and enhancing sorting efficiency.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of energy

If a universal joint is used to connect the shaft to the platform, then some vibrations are minimized from passing to the platform, but axial motion is permitted that transmits loads to the platform and reduces sifter efficiency

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveenergy dissipation to platformVSAvoidangular movement capability

Core Design Contradiction:

Loss of energyVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the physical parameters of the joint by replacing the universal joint mechanism with elastomeric isolators that have specific durometer hardness values and dimensional parameters. This allows the joint to provide vibration isolation while preventing axial motion transmission, resolving the contradiction between energy loss reduction and operational capability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses composite elastomeric materials with specific durometer ratings (e.g., 60 Shore A, 70 Shore A) to create isolators that combine the properties of flexibility for angular movement with rigidity to prevent axial motion transmission. This composite material approach resolves the contradiction by providing both vibration isolation and motion control.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #40Composite materials

2Stability of the object's composition

If rigid connections are used to support the screen assembly, then structural stability is maintained, but axial forces are transmitted to the platform causing energy loss

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestructural stabilityVSAvoidenergy dissipation through axial loads

Core Design Contradiction:

Stability of the object's compositionVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces elastomeric isolators as intermediary elements between the screen assembly and platform. These isolators mediate the connection by providing structural support and stability while simultaneously absorbing axial forces and preventing their transmission to the platform, thus resolving the contradiction between structural stability and energy loss.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the mechanical parameters of the connection system by replacing rigid connections with elastomeric isolators having specific durometer hardness values. This parameter change allows the system to maintain structural stability through the elastomeric material's inherent properties while preventing axial force transmission that causes energy loss.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Force

If elastomeric material with high durometer hardness is used, then axial force absorption is improved, but angular movement capability is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaxial force absorptionVSAvoidangular movement range

Core Design Contradiction:

ForceVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by using different durometer hardness values in different regions or for different isolator positions. For example, softer elastomeric material (lower durometer) is used where angular movement is required, while harder material (higher durometer) is used where axial force absorption is critical. This resolves the contradiction by optimizing each location's properties for its specific functional requirement.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

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

This configuration maximizes the efficiency of the sifting process by minimizing vertical movements and absorbing axial forces, leading to improved separation of aggregates by size without energy loss.

Implementation Method 1

an elastomeric material disposed between the inner bearing member and the outer bearing member

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

Each of the first spherical bearing assembly and the second spherical bearing assembly include an outer bearing member, an inner bearing member disposed within a cavity defined by the outer bearing member

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectBall bearing: Ball Bearing

Data Source

PatentEP3648904B1Spherical elastomeric mounts

Publication Date: 2023.03.22 M I LLC(US)

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AI summary

An apparatus includes an outer bearing member defining a cavity and an inner bearing member disposed within the cavity. The inner bearing member includes a spherical surface and a rod attachment opening defined in the spherical surface. The apparatus also includes an elastomeric material disposed within the cavity adjacent to the spherical surface.