Universal Dump Block Assembly for Dragline Rigging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional dragline rigging assemblies require different dump block configurations for various degrees of freedom, leading to the need for multiple dump block designs, which increases complexity and costs.
Innovation Solution
A universal dump block assembly with a frame assembly and adapter system that allows for multiple configurations, including rigid, swivel, and swing configurations, by utilizing a sheave pin and rotatable dump block sheave, and adapter attachments for mounting within the rigging assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If different dump block configurations are used for various degrees of freedom, then the desired movement flexibility is achieved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The dump block assembly is designed with a universal frame structure that can accommodate multiple configurations (rigid, swivel, swing) through a single standardized interface. The frame assembly includes multiple connection portions that can interface with different adapter types, allowing one dump block design to serve multiple functional requirements in the dragline rigging system.
Solution Approach 2:
The system is divided into modular components: a universal frame assembly and separate adapter portions. Each adapter type (rigid adapter, swivel adapter, swing adapter) provides specific movement characteristics while the frame assembly remains constant. This segmentation allows flexibility without increasing overall system complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple dump block designs are required for different rigging configurations, then the desired degrees of freedom are achieved, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By designing a universal frame assembly that can interface with multiple adapter types through standardized connection portions, the patent reduces the number of unique components that need to be manufactured. The frame assembly is produced once and can be used across all configurations, significantly reducing manufacturing complexity and cost compared to producing separate dump blocks for each configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the common structural elements of different dump block designs into a single universal frame assembly. The connection portions, sheave pin mounting, and frame structure are merged into one standardized design that serves all configurations, while only the adapter portions vary.
3Device complexity
If a universal dump block design is used for all configurations, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ability to provide specific degrees of freedom may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the universal frame assembly from the configuration-specific adapter portions. The frame assembly provides the common structural function, while the adapters provide the specific movement characteristics. This segmentation allows the universal design to maintain simplicity while the system as a whole achieves the required degrees of freedom through adapter variety.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter portions act as intermediaries between the universal frame assembly and the rigging assembly. These adapters translate the universal interface into configuration-specific movements (rigid, swivel, swing), allowing the simple frame design to achieve complex movement requirements without the frame itself needing to be complex.
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
Enables flexible configuration options within a single dump block design, reducing the need for multiple block types and simplifying the rigging assembly, while maintaining structural integrity and operational efficiency across different configurations.
Implementation Method 1
a dump block sheave (40) disposed between the first side frame (44) and the second side frame (46) and rotatably mounted on the sheave pin (48)
Data Source
AI summary
A dump block assembly for a dragline bucket rigging assembly including a frame assembly having a first side frame and a second side frame attached to and parallel to the first side frame. The first side frame includes a first attachment portion having a first upper connection portion, a first lower connection portion opposite the first upper connection portion, and a first central connection portion spaced apart from and in between the first upper connection portion and the first lower connection portion. The second side frame includes a second attachment portion having a second upper connection portion, a second lower connection portion opposite the second upper connection portion, and a second central connection portion spaced apart from and in between the second upper connection portion and the second lower connection portion.