Mobile Stacker Reclaimer Adapter for Bunker Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bulk material handling systems require separate machines for stacking and reclaiming, with reclaimers being unsuitable for use in bunkers due to their large size and rail-based mobility.
Innovation Solution
A mobile stacker and reclaimer combination with a detachable adapter that converts the mobile stacker into a mobile reclaimer, allowing for simultaneous collection and feeding of bulk materials, enabling efficient handling within bunkers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate machines are used for stacking and reclaiming bulk materials, then each machine can be optimized for its specific function, but the device complexity and equipment needs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines a stacker and reclaimer into a single integrated machine that can perform both stacking and reclaiming operations. The stacker/reclaimer includes a conveyor system with a boom that can operate in stacking mode (conveying material to a stockpile) and reclaiming mode (conveying material from the stockpile), eliminating the need for separate machines while maintaining functional capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The stacker/reclaimer is designed as a multi-functional device that can switch between stacking and reclaiming operations. The conveyor boom can be positioned and oriented to perform either function, and the system includes components like the hopper, conveyor belt, and support structure that serve both stacking and reclaiming purposes, reducing equipment complexity while maintaining reliability
2Reliability
If traditional reclaimers are used in bunkers, then reclaiming can be performed, but the large size and rail-based mobility make them unsuitable for bunker environments
Solution Approach 1:
The stacker/reclaimer uses a mobile platform with wheeled or tracked conveyance means instead of fixed rail-based systems, allowing it to move dynamically within bunker environments. The conveyor boom is also designed to be movable and adjustable, enabling the machine to adapt to different bunker configurations and access various stockpile locations without requiring extensive infrastructure modifications
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from the traditional horizontal rail-based reclaimer design to a mobile system that operates in multiple dimensions within the bunker. The wheeled or tracked base provides mobility across the bunker floor, while the adjustable conveyor boom extends vertically and horizontally to access stockpiles, creating a three-dimensional operating capability that better suits confined bunker spaces
3Productivity
If a single machine performs both stacking and reclaiming operations, then operational efficiency improves and equipment needs reduce, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The stacker/reclaimer is designed with modular components that can be independently controlled for stacking and reclaiming functions. The conveyor system is divided into sections that can operate semi-independently, allowing one portion to stack while another portions recovers material, thereby improving productivity through coordinated multi-function operation without requiring excessive overall system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The hopper serves as an intermediary component that facilitates both stacking and reclaiming operations. During stacking, material flows from the conveyor into the hopper and then to the stockpile; during reclaiming, the hopper receives material from the stockpile and feeds it back to the conveyor system. This intermediary structure enables the single machine to efficiently switch between functions while managing the complexity of dual operations
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to equipment for handling bulk materials. In a particular form, the present disclosure relates to equipment for use in stockpiling grains in a bulk storage system of the type commonly referred to as a bunker, although its application is not so limited. In one aspect, there is provided a mobile stacker and reclaimer combination comprising a mobile stacker, and a mobile reclaimer which is movable independently to the mobile stacker, wherein in use, the mobile reclaimer simultaneously collects a bulk material and feeds this to the mobile stacker.