Variable-Throw Crank Mine Door Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mine door mechanisms are complex, expensive, and operate at slow speeds due to their hydraulic or pneumatic designs, which can impede mine operations and require substantial time for repairs.
Innovation Solution
A mine door system utilizing a variable-throw crank mechanism that adjusts its length to apply varying forces and speeds for efficient door movement, leveraging pressure zones in the mine passageway to switch between configurations and optimize door opening and closing sequences.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If hydraulic or pneumatic mechanisms are used to open mine doors, then the door can be moved reliably, but the mechanism becomes complex and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex hydraulic or pneumatic mechanisms with a simpler variable-throw crank mechanism that uses the existing air pressure differential in the mine passageway to automatically open the door. The crank mechanism converts the pressure differential into rotational motion, eliminating the need for external power sources and complex control systems while maintaining reliable door opening functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The door opening mechanism utilizes the natural air pressure differential between the high pressure zone and low pressure zone in the mine passageway to power the door opening process. The system is self-actuating, requiring no external power source or manual intervention, thereby simplifying the overall system while ensuring reliable operation based on the inherent pressure conditions in the mine environment.
2Force
If hydraulic or pneumatic mechanisms are used to open mine doors, then the door can be moved with controlled force, but the operating speed becomes slow
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a variable-throw crank mechanism that dynamically adjusts its operational characteristics based on the door's position and the pressure differential. The mechanism provides high force during the initial door opening phase when resistance is greatest, then transitions to higher speed as the door opens and resistance decreases, optimizing both force application and operating speed throughout the door opening sequence.
3Reliability
If complex hydraulic or pneumatic mechanisms are used, then the door can be opened reliably, but repair time increases substantially
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex hydraulic or pneumatic systems with a mechanically simple variable-throw crank mechanism that has fewer moving parts and no external power requirements. This simplification dramatically reduces potential failure points and makes the system easier to maintain and repair, while the self-actuating nature based on pressure differentials ensures continued reliable operation.
4Force
If the door is moved at slow speeds to handle heavy weight, then the door can be opened safely, but valuable time is wasted
Solution Approach 1:
The variable-throw crank mechanism dynamically adapts its performance characteristics throughout the door opening sequence. It delivers high force when the door is closed and resistance is maximum, then progressively increases speed as the door opens and resistance decreases. This dynamic adjustment allows the heavy door to be opened safely while minimizing total opening time, thereby improving productivity without compromising safety.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanism changes its operational parameters (throw length, force application point, rotational speed) as the door opens. The variable throw allows the crank to optimize the mechanical advantage at different door positions, providing maximum force when needed and higher speed when the door is lighter, thus improving overall opening efficiency while maintaining safe operation throughout the sequence.
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 reduces complexity and cost, increases operating speed, and minimizes downtime by automatically adjusting force and speed based on load conditions, ensuring smooth transitions and efficient door movement.
Implementation Method 1
using a resistance pressure associated with the high and low pressure zones in the mine passageway to convert the variable-throw crank mechanism from the first configuration to the second configuration
Data Source
AI summary
A method of opening a mine door leaf installed in a mine passageway having a high pressure zone and a low pressure zone. The method includes the steps of operating a variable-throw crank mechanism in a first configuration having a first crank length to apply a first force to the mine door leaf to move at a first speed, operating the variable-throw crank mechanism in a second configuration having a second crank length less than the first crank length to apply a second force greater than the first force to the mine door leaf to move at a second speed slower than the first speed, and using a resistance pressure associated with the high and low pressure zones in the mine passageway to convert the variable-throw crank mechanism from the first configuration to the second configuration.