Modelling and simulation of rigid bodies transportation by means of rotating flexible rollers

The paper deals with a modelling and simulation approach intended to the solution of a problem of rigid bodies transportation using rotating rollers. It is motivated by problematic phenomenon of ceramic tiles transportation inside long kilns during firing. The row of tiles, which is initially straight at the kiln beginning, is coming out curved at the kiln end or after the passage through a certain part of the kiln. The main aim of the work is the development of the modelling and simulation method for the verification of the problems arising from the tile movement through very long kilns and for the understanding of the problem causation. The multibody dynamics approach is chosen for the development of a comprehensive methodology for the numerical simulation of the tiles and rollers movement. Two approaches to the modelling of the system of tiles and rollers using the SIMPACK simulation tool are shown in the paper. The more suitable one is based on the Polygonal Contact Model developed for the fast and efficient contact analysis between complexly shaped rigid bodies. It can be concluded that the problems of the curved row of tiles are influenced by the flexibility of bent rollers and also occur for ideally cylindrical rollers. The presented simulation methodology can be generally used for the investigation of similar transportation systems.