Stacker Reclaimer Boom Support via Segmented Steel Rings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing stacker/reclaimers face issues with expensive and long-delivery slewing bearings, labor-intensive replacements, and difficult emergency slewing control, particularly due to heavy and costly concrete center columns and unreliable motor braking systems.
Innovation Solution
The stacker and reclaimer booms are supported directly on steel support rings that can be easily maintained and replaced, allowing for a lighter and cheaper steel center column construction, with hydraulic slewing cylinders and brakes for secure emergency slewing control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a slewing bearing with diameter up to 2.5 meters is used to support the stacker boom, then the boom can be properly supported and turned, but the cost increases significantly and the delivery time extends up to approximately 2 years
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the support function into multiple support points (at least two support points) along the center column instead of using a single large slewing bearing. This segmentation allows the use of smaller, more readily available support structures that can be manufactured and delivered much faster while collectively providing the necessary support and rotational capability for the stacker boom.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces guide rails as intermediary elements between the stacker boom and the center column. These guide rails facilitate controlled movement and positioning while reducing the load and complexity requirements on individual support points, enabling the system to function without a large slewing bearing.
2Reliability
If a slewing bearing is used to support the stacker boom, then the boom can be turned, but the replacement becomes very labor-consuming and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
By dividing the support system into multiple smaller support points rather than one large sleving bearing, the invention makes maintenance and replacement much more manageable. Individual support points can be accessed and replaced independently without requiring complex disassembly procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The guide rails serve as intermediaries that simplify the connection between the stacker boom and the center column, making it easier to detach and replace support components. The guide rails provide a standardized interface that facilitates maintenance operations.
3Ease of operation
If the brake of the electric motor is opened for emergency slewing, then the boom can move freely in high wind, but the risk of damage to the electric motor or slewing gear increases due to uncontrollable slewing speed
Solution Approach 1:
The guide rails act as mechanical intermediaries that provide controlled guidance for the stacker boom during emergency slewing operations. They allow the boom to move in response to wind forces while maintaining controlled speeds and preventing runaway motion that could damage motors or gears.
Solution Approach 2:
The guide rail system enables the stacker boom to self-regulate its movement during emergency conditions. The physical constraints of the guide rails automatically limit slewing speed without requiring active brake control or motor intervention, allowing the system to safely handle high wind conditions through passive mechanical guidance.
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 solution eliminates the need for costly slewing bearings, reduces construction weight and cost, and ensures safe and controlled operation in high winds, enabling efficient and secure material handling with improved rigidity and reduced maintenance needs.
Implementation Method 1
the stacker and/or reclaimer booms are supported directly on the center column of the stacker/reclaimer against support wheels or rings, respectively, turning together with the boom
Implementation Method 2
hydraulic slewing cylinders and brakes for secure emergency slewing control
Implementation Method 3
brakes with grippers. The grippers of the brakes in their turn are fastened by means of a spring when there is no pressure in the cylinders and open when the pressure is on to the grippers
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2a~2b
Figure 3a~3b
AI summary
An apparatus for storing loose material such as wood chips, bark or corn to a pile comprises a center column (30), whereto a stacker boom is supported so as to be rotatable about a vertical axis of the center column (30). A slewing motion of the stacker boom is achieved by pulling or pushing a support flange (70) fastened to the center column, by means of slewing cylinders (66) and slewing grippers (68).