Telescopic Conveyor Frame Segmentation and Pivot Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Telescopic conveyors face challenges in installation efficiency, control of the extendable frame, and durability of winch and rope systems, particularly when dealing with cambered booms, which complicates material loading and transportation.
Innovation Solution
A conveyor apparatus with a base frame and an extendable frame, where the extendable frame is supported by the base frame and features a drive assembly with pivotable frame parts and securing arrangements, allowing for controlled extension and retraction, and the ability to switch between straight and cambered configurations using actuators and distance limiters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If bolts are used to fasten the plurality of sections making up the base frame and/or extendable frame, then the frame sections are securely connected, but the assembly process becomes cumbersome and time consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The frame is divided into multiple sections that can be assembled separately and then connected. The coupling mechanism allows each section to be independently positioned and then quickly secured, reducing the overall assembly time while maintaining connection strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling mechanism transitions from a static bolted connection to a dynamic assembly process where sections can be moved into position and then locked. The coupling allows for adjustment and positioning before final securing, making the assembly process more flexible and faster.
2Length of moving object
If a winch and wire rope system is used to extend and retract the extendable frame, then the telescopic movement is achieved, but the system is time consuming to install and offers less than optimum control
Solution Approach 1:
The winch and wire rope system is replaced with a direct mechanical coupling system that provides more precise control. The new system uses interlocking mechanical elements rather than flexible rope, offering better control and response during extension and retraction operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling mechanism is designed to be self-aligning and self-securing during the extension and retraction process. The mechanical elements automatically engage and disengage without requiring complex control systems, improving ease of operation while maintaining reliable telescopic movement.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the extendable frame is made with a cambered boom configuration, then material loading onto ships is enabled, but the operator is restricted by the angle at which the boom extends relative to the base frame
Solution Approach 1:
The boom configuration is made dynamically adjustable rather than fixed. The coupling mechanism allows the boom to be positioned at different angles relative to the base frame, enabling operators to optimize the extension angle for different loading scenarios while maintaining the cambered configuration when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The geometric parameters of the boom extension are made variable through the coupling mechanism. Operators can change the angle and position parameters of the boom relative to the base frame, providing flexibility in material loading operations while maintaining the structural integrity of the cambered design.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the cambered boom is designed with an arcuate frame structure, then material loading capability is improved, but the conveyor becomes difficult to transport
Solution Approach 1:
The arcuate cambered boom structure is divided into multiple straight or gently curved sections that can be easily transported and then assembled. The coupling mechanism allows these sections to be connected to form the complete cambered configuration, making transportation easier while preserving the functional benefits of the cambered design.
Data Source
AI summary
A conveyor apparatus comprising a base frame and an extendable frame, wherein the extendable frame is supported by, and typically within, the base frame. A drive assembly configured to displace the extendable frame with respect to the base frame between an extended state and a retracted state. The extendable frame comprises a plurality of frame parts in an end-to-end arrangement, the at least two adjacent frame parts are pivotably coupled together for pivoting about a transverse axis that is perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the extendable frame.