The research reported by this thesis concerns the operation of Post Office parcel conveyors. It evaluates the behaviour of straight belt conveyors using different parcel loadings. Empirical parcel data supplied by the Post Office is used for the development of a computer-based simulation model. An important problem in parcel conveying is the variability in size, shape and homogeneity of parcels, which may lead to conveyor jamming. Because of statutory requirements for parcel handling by the Royal Mail, it is not possible to carry out physical tests. This research demonstrated the feasibility of parcel conveyor simulation models with computing equipment current in 1970-1975. It established that jamming was unlikely in straight conveyors loaded with parcels conforming to Post Office recommendations. Non-conforming parcels could cause jams, particularly with humid atmospheric conditions. It was established that the continuum theory of Jenike, which assumes the conveyor to be filled with an 'Ideal' material, could not be extended to parcel conveyors. This precludes the use of finite element analysis for solution of this problem. The model established by this research can be developed further, to deal with changes in the direction and cross-section of belt conveyors and additional parcel characteristics.
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:bl.uk/oai:ethos.bl.uk:471051 |
| Date | January 1979 |
| Creators | Rourke, J. W. |
| Contributors | New, R. W. : Lowe, P. H. |
| Publisher | Brunel University |
| Source Sets | Ethos UK |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | Electronic Thesis or Dissertation |
| Source | http://bura.brunel.ac.uk/handle/2438/7297 |
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