Abstract
Particles can move directionally in a trough with finlike asperities under longitudinal vibrations. Here, we present an analysis of the particle conveyance mechanism and the influence of the asperity shape on the particle conveyance capacity by employing a numerical simulation based on the discrete element method (DEM). A dynamic-static matching method is proposed to characterize the three microcontact parameters in the simulation: the restitution coefficient, static friction coefficient, and rolling friction coefficient. The simulation shows that the asymmetric force induced by the finlike asperities and its cumulative effect over time lead to the particle directional conveyance. The conveyance velocity increases with increasing vibration time and is related to the median coordination number. The asperity height and slope inclination angles determine the trough shape and distance between two asperities directly. An undersized or oversized distance reduces the steady conveyance velocity. We find the optimal distance to be between one and two particle diameters.
Highlights
In situ resource utilization (ISRU) is an important basis for establishing a future lunar base
Distinct from our previous work, in this study, we focused on the mechanism of particle directional conveyance and the influence of the finlike asperity size on the conveyance capacity using discrete element method (DEM) simulations
Mpsaz = Fz − mpsg cos θ, where mps is the mass of Selected particles (SP) and ax and az are the acceleration in the x-direction and z-direction, respectively
Summary
In situ resource utilization (ISRU) is an important basis for establishing a future lunar base. ISRU involves using lunar regolith and rock as building materials and manufacturing metal and oxygen from these raw materials [1,2,3]. A vibratory conveyor can transport high-temperature or corrosive materials because its trough can be readily made from a refractory and corrosion-resistant material. These properties make such conveyors widely preferred in the metallurgical and chemical industries. Materials cannot be transported directionally if the trough vibrates longitudinally in a sinusoidal form Such transport is enabled if the trough has an appropriate surface morphology, for example, a sawtooth texture [11]. This topic merits comprehensive study because of its potential value for improving the performance of current conveyors
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