Indentation Rolling Resistance of Conveyor Belts based on Maxwell Model

In order to obtain accurate results from computer simulation of the dynamic behavior of conveyor belts an accuracy description of the resistance forces, especially the indentation rolling resistance, is necessary. Since the indentation rolling resistance can account for the major part of the total rolling resistance, it is important to calculate it using a proper method. A new full two-dimensional semi-analytical method based on Maxwell model is developed to rigorously and efficiently simulate and solve the indentation rolling resistance of conveyor belts. In this method, the solution is expanded into a set of Fourier series, a so-called Maxwell model characterizing the viscoelastic properties for the belt cover material is used to relate Fourier coefficients, and a special boundary element is developed to handle the rolling contact boundary condition. A verification example is given to validate the methodology.