Stitched Belt Connector Assembly for Quiet, Repairable Conveyor Joints
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing conveyor belt connections are complex, expensive, noisy, and difficult to repair, especially in agricultural machines, where durability and flexibility in maintenance are crucial.
Innovation Solution
A belt connector system with a seam connection between belt ends, using a thread to penetrate both ends in multiple stitches, allowing for easy replacement and repair, with optional reinforcement through fabric layers and embedded steel plates or bushings for enhanced durability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If conventional belt connection methods are used, then the belt can be connected, but the connection becomes complex and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The belt connector is divided into separate components (connector body, fastening elements, reinforcement elements) that can be independently manufactured and assembled. This segmentation simplifies the overall connection system while maintaining reliability through modular assembly of specialized components.
Solution Approach 2:
The belt connector employs composite construction combining different materials (metal fastening elements, polymer reinforcement layers, fabric straps) to achieve both structural integrity and simplified connection mechanics. The composite structure distributes loads effectively while keeping the connection system manageable.
2Ease of repair
If conventional belt connection methods are used, then the belt can be connected, but the repair process becomes difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The connector's segmented design allows individual components to be replaced independently. If a connector shows wear or damage, only the affected connector elements need to be removed and replaced, not the entire belt assembly, significantly reducing repair time and effort.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector incorporates pre-positioned fastening elements and reinforcement structures that are prepared in advance during manufacturing. This preliminary preparation enables quick field repairs without requiring complex on-site assembly procedures or specialized equipment.
3Object-generated harmful factors
If conventional belt connection methods are used, then the belt can be connected, but noise is generated during operation
Solution Approach 1:
The belt connector introduces intermediary elements (buffering components, damping structures, flexible connection elements) between the belt ends and fastening mechanisms. These intermediaries absorb vibrations and reduce noise generation while maintaining the structural strength needed for reliable belt operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector uses composite material construction combining noise-damping polymers with strength-providing metal or fabric elements. This composite approach simultaneously reduces operational noise through vibration absorption and maintains connection strength through the rigid or high-tensile components.
4Ease of manufacture
If simple seam connection is used, then the connection is simple to form, but durability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The connector separates the joining function (seam connection) from the strengthening function (fastening elements and reinforcement layers). The seam provides simple initial joining, while additional modular components add durability without complicating the basic manufacturing process.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector incorporates pre-attached reinforcement elements and fastening mechanisms that are prepared during connector manufacturing. This preliminary action ensures durability is built-in from the start, while the seam connection itself remains simple to form during belt assembly.
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 system provides a simple, durable, and flexible connection that maintains belt continuity, reduces noise, and allows for easy maintenance by enabling quick replacement of damaged components.
Implementation Method 1
one thread each penetrates both the outer end and the respective belt end in multiple stiches
Implementation Method 2
the thread is held also by the fabric under tensional load
Implementation Method 3
the respective steel plate is embedded, at least in part, into the polymer layer of the belt connector
Implementation Method 4
at least one fastening element, for example, a rivet or a screw, is inserted through the aligning connecting holes so as to create the lock connection
Implementation Method 5
at least one fastening element, for example, a rivet or a screw, is inserted through the aligning connecting holes
Implementation Method 6
an articulated lock connection can be formed, where the generation of noise is avoided due to the embedding of the bushings in the polymer layer
Implementation Method 7
a connecting rod is inserted precisely fitting into the aligned bushings in a lateral direction so as to create the lock connection
Implementation Method 8
an end region of the fabric layer within the polymer layer is folded back over a middle region of the fabric layer
Implementation Method 9
the middle region and the end region of the fabric layer are sewn together
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a belt as a continuous tension means for conveyor belts including a fabric layer and a first and a second belt end interconnected via a belt connector, the belt connector comprising a first exterior end and second exterior end connected or connectable there to lying opposite one another in a longitudinal direction at the belt connector, where the first exterior end of the belt connector is connected to the first belt end and the second exterior end of the belt connector to the second belt end.The present disclosure provides that between the respective exterior end of the belt connector and the respective belt end of the belt in each case a seam connection is formed, where in each case a thread penetrates both the respective exterior end and the respective belt end in multiple stitches.