Split Sprocket Assembly for Cleanable Floating Conveyor Shafts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional conveyor systems in food processing require cumbersome disassembly procedures for cleaning, especially in 'wet' industries like meat and dairy, where extensive disassembly is needed to prevent cross-contamination and ensure sanitation, and existing split sprockets lack flexibility in configuration for axial fixation and floating positions.
Innovation Solution
A split sprocket design comprising two identical sprocket portions with notches and mating faces that allow assembly in a first configuration for axial fixation and a second configuration for floating, enabling easy removal and reinstallation, and featuring a clamp for secure assembly without additional hardware.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If conventional single-piece sprockets are used, then the sprocket structure is simple and strong, but the disassembly and cleaning process is time-consuming and cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The sprocket is divided into two separate half-portions that can be detached from each other. This segmentation allows the sprocket to be quickly removed from the shaft by separating the halves, enabling rapid disassembly for cleaning without requiring removal of the entire shaft assembly, thus resolving the contradiction between structural simplicity and cleaning efficiency
2Ease of operation
If split sprockets with clamps or bolts are used, then the sprocket can be easily removed, but additional hardware increases device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening function is merged into the sprocket halves themselves through complementary protrusions and recesses that interlock when assembled. This eliminates the need for separate clamps or bolts, reducing device complexity while maintaining ease of removal through simple manual assembly and disassembly of the half-portions
3Stability of the object's composition
If sprockets are fixed axially to the shaft, then belt alignment is maintained, but thermal expansion of the belt cannot be accommodated
Solution Approach 1:
The sprocket is designed with the capability to transition between fixed and floating states. When assembled with protrusions engaging recesses, it provides axial fixation for alignment stability. When disassembled into separate halves, it allows the belt to expand and contract thermally, thus providing dynamic adaptability that resolves the contradiction between fixed alignment and thermal expansion accommodation
Data Source
AI summary
A split sprocket for use in a modular conveyor belt is disclosed. The split sprocket includes first and second portions that may be selectively arranged in a first configuration in which the sprocket maintains a fixed axial position on the shaft and a second configuration in which the sprocket can axially float along the shaft.