A simulation study on conveying characteristics of particles on a vibrating plate with zigzag morphology

A harmonic horizontally vibratory conveying method based on a vibrating plate with zigzag morphology was proposed. Especially, the method is suitable for low gravity environment on lunar surface. In this paper, the feasibility of method and the effect of vibration conditions to particles unidirectional conveying characteristics were simulated by the discrete element method (DEM). The results indicate that the unidirectional conveying phenomenon occurs when the vibration strength (connected with amplitude and frequency) exceeds a certain value. And the velocity of particles transported in zigzag oblique direction increases obviously as the vibration strength rises.