Patent · US Expired

Force minimizing suspension system for rotary washer/extractors

US5218731A · kind A · utility

4Cited by
11References
5Claims
0Family size

Assignee

Inventor

Key dates

Filing dateSep 19, 1991
Grant dateJun 15, 1993
Priority date
Expiry dateSep 19, 2011

Classification

  • Technology area (CPC D)Textiles; Paper
  • CPC primaryD06B3/36
  • WIPO fieldChemical engineering
  • WIPO sectorChemistry

Abstract

A rotary washer/extractor for use with textiles and other materials includes a dynamically controlled suspension system for supporting the washer/extractor from a stationary frame to minimize forces exerted onto the frame and transmitted to the floor or other structure supporting the washer/extractor. The suspension system includes a plurality of supports extending between the frame and the washer/extractor at spaced apart locations in relation to the spin axis. At least one of the supports is a variable length member which may be continually adjusted to vary the distance between the frame and the washer/extractor and thereby minimize the forces caused by eccentric masses of textiles and washing fluids contained in the washer/extractor. A force sensor is provided for measuring the force acting between the washer/extractor and the frame. A processor is provided for receiving the measured force and generating an output response for varying the length of the support to minimize the value of the force and its vibratory effect on the frame. The suspension system is particularly useful for rotary washer/extractors having a drum rotating about horizontal as well as vertical axes and is es…

Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.