ABSTRACT
Object methods have been implemented into the modelling of a belt conveyor. Elements of a conveyor (belt segments, roller idlers, pulleys etc.) are considered as objects. The different types of a chosen object (e.g. an idler) are then considered as descendant objects. Virtual methods for calculation the needed quantities (e.g. minimum allowed belt tension, the resistance to motion, etc.) are applied to a specific object. Using the object modelling method together with the in-house developed set of algorithms for identification of the resistance to motion of a belt conveyor enables to model the new layout of a belt conveyor. The method has been applied for the analysis of standard belt conveyors and the all-new belt conveyor with the innovative bottom to top belt drive transfer layout. Digital experiments have been performed on the basis of the laboratory measurements.
