Helix delta-T Dynamic Analysis

 Typcial 3 dimensional graph of Belt Tensions along conveyor.

The conveyor dynamic analysis program allows designers to perform full flexible body conveyor design. The new program builds on the strong base formed by the Helix delta-T5 “Static” design program. This new version calculates the transient belt tensions and velocities during starting and stopping of a conveyor.

The program allows the user to input any number of drives, brakes, pulleys etc. and allows for input of drive torque / speed curves, delay times, braking torques, flywheels and inertia effects.

After the dynamic calculations have been performed, the user can view and print two dimensional and surface plot three dimensional graphs for belt tensions, belt velocities, strain rates and take-up movement versus time step for all points along the conveyor.

The dynamic calculation process uses sophisticated variable step Runge Kutta method integrators for solving the complex differential equations involved. The dynamic calculations are easy to use and engineers who have static conveyor design experience can perform these complex dynamic simulations using the software.

The program allows users to easily model the belt transient tensions and velocities during starting and stopping of conveyors, view the movement of the take-up pulley during starting and stopping, predict the maximum transient belt tensions at any point along the conveyor, as well as timing these transients.

Dynamic calculation results can be compared with the rigid body static calculations in the delta-T5. The program also allows users to predict the magnitude of transient loads on conveyor structures, calculate the torque loadings on gearboxes and couplings during starting and stopping, eliminate conditions that may cause equipment failures.

Dynamic tuning can also be performed by changing the start delay times on different drives. Users can add torque control or speed control on drive acceleration, add delay times for multiple drives for dynamic tuning, add flywheels to pulleys to optimise starting and stopping and add brakes to pulleys as required.

Typical Belt Velocities graph for a stopping conveyor - note how drive speed drops suddenly after power is cut. This causes low tension waves to propogate down the conveyor belt.

Click for delta-T5 Static Design Reports sample file or Dynamic Design Reports sample file.

Download a powerpoint presentation about the new Dynamic Analysis version by clicking here or download a Dynamic Analysis case study.

View a PDF file brochure on the new Dynamic Analysis version.

View a report showing how dynamic analysis can be used to determine loads on gearboxes and conveyor holdbacks  

Dynamic Analysis Gearbox and holdback loading sample report 

Helix Technologies has supplied and supported the conveyor dynamic analysis design program to many conveyor designers over the past 4 years.

You can see more details on what inputs are required for doing dynamic analysis in the Helix delta-T Demo Program.