Through-type hot air device with adjustable paper stabilizing frame

Abstract

A through-hot air device for drying or bonding paper or nonwoven products is provided. The device includes a through-hot air roller configured to rotate about a first axis, wherein the roller has a cylindrical surface, the cylindrical surface has a plurality of openings, and the plurality of openings are configured to allow air flow to pass therethrough. The device also includes an air distribution pipe positioned within the through-hot air roller. The air distribution pipe has a cylindrical surface, a first end and a second end, the cylindrical surface of the air distribution pipe has a plurality of openings, and the plurality of openings are configured to allow air flow to pass therethrough. The device also includes a first adjustable paper stabilizing frame associated with the air distribution pipe, the first adjustable paper stabilizing frame being configured to change the air flow passing through the air distribution pipe.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates in part to a through-air apparatus and method of use for manufacturing products, the through-air apparatus including an adjustable deckle. Background Art

[0002] "Through-air technology" is a term used to describe systems and methods that enable airflow through paper or nonwoven webs for the purpose of drying or bonding fibers or filaments. Examples include drying of nonwoven products (e.g., tea bags and specialty papers); drying and curing of glass fiber balls, filter papers, and resin-treated nonwovens; thermal bonding and drying of spunbond nonwovens; drying of spunlace webs; thermal bonding of geotextiles with or without bicomponent fibers; drying and curing interlining grades; and thermal bonding of absorbent cores with fusible bonding fibers. Drying of tissue paper is also another application of through-air technology.

[0003] Systems and methods related to through-air drying are often referred to by using the acronym "TAD." Systems and methods related to through-air bonding are often referred to by using the acronym "TAB."

[0004] Through-air equipment typically includes a fan / blower and a rigid, air-permeable cylindrical housing (i.e., a roll) configured to rotate about its central axis. The web is partially wrapped around the cylindrical housing, and as the web travels around the rotating housing, air flows through the wall of the cylindrical housing to treat the web. The wall of the cylindrical housing typically has a plurality of openings to allow air to pass through. Summary of the invention

[0005] In a first aspect, a through-hot air device for drying or bonding paper or nonwoven products is provided. The device includes a through-hot air roller configured to rotate about a first axis, wherein the roller has a cylindrical surface, the cylindrical surface has a plurality of openings, and the plurality of openings are configured to allow air flow to pass therethrough. The device also includes an air distribution pipe positioned within the through-hot air roller, the air distribution pipe having a cylindrical surface, a first end and a second end, wherein the cylindrical surface of the air distribution pipe has a plurality of openings, the plurality of openings being configured to allow air flow to pass therethrough. The device also includes a first adjustable paper stabilizing frame associated with the air distribution pipe, the adjustable paper stabilizing frame being configured to change the air flow passing through the air distribution pipe. The first adjustable paper stabilizing frame includes: a first floating plate configured to selectively cover a first portion of the plurality of openings in the air distribution pipe; and a first paper stabilizing frame wall, wherein the first paper stabilizing frame wall can move independently of the first floating plate.

[0006] In another aspect, a method of assembling a through-hot air device for drying or bonding paper or nonwoven products is provided. The method includes providing a through-hot air roller configured to rotate about a first axis, wherein the roller has a cylindrical surface having a plurality of openings configured to allow air flow to pass therethrough. The method also includes providing an air distribution duct positioned within the through-hot air roller, the air distribution duct having a first end, a second end, and a cylindrical surface having a plurality of openings configured to allow air flow to pass therethrough. The method also describes moving a first floating plate of a first adjustable paper stabilizing frame relative to the air distribution duct to change the air flow through the air distribution duct, wherein the first floating plate is configured to selectively cover a first portion of the plurality of openings in the air distribution duct, and wherein the movement of the first floating plate is initiated by movement of a first paper stabilizing frame wall of the first adjustable paper stabilizing frame, and wherein the first paper stabilizing frame wall can move independently of the first floating plate. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] Figure 1 is a side view of a penetrating hot air device according to one embodiment;

[0008] Figure 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the interior of a conventional through-type hot air device;

[0009] Figure 3A is a schematic cross-sectional view of a conventional through-type hot air device, showing an air flow pattern when the paper stabilizing frame is in a maximum position (i.e., a wide paper stabilizing frame);

[0010] Figure 3B is a schematic cross-sectional view of a conventional through-type hot air device, showing an air flow pattern when the paper stabilizing frame is in a minimum position (i.e., a narrow paper stabilizing frame);

[0011] Figure 4 A schematic cross-sectional view of a through-type hot air device with an adjustable paper stabilizing frame in a maximum position according to one embodiment is shown;

[0012] Figure 5 A schematic cross-sectional view of a through-type hot air device with an adjustable paper stabilizing frame in a minimum position according to one embodiment is shown;

[0013] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of a through-type hot air device having an adjustable paper stabilizing frame in a maximum width position according to one embodiment;

[0014] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 A detailed cross-sectional view of the circular area shown;

[0015] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of a through-type hot air device having an adjustable paper stabilizing frame in a minimum width position according to one embodiment;

[0016] Fig. 9 yes Figure 8 A detailed cross-sectional view of the device shown;

[0017] Fig.10 A schematic cross-sectional view showing a through-type hot air device with a multi-plate adjustable paper stabilizing frame in a maximum position; and

[0018] Fig.11 Shows Fig.10 A schematic cross-sectional view of a through-type hot air apparatus is shown, wherein the multi-plate adjustable paper stabilizing frame is in the minimum position. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0019] The present disclosure relates to a through-air hot air device configured to manufacture paper or nonwoven products. Those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that, depending on the environment in which the equipment is used, the through-air hot air device can be configured as a through-air dryer (TAD) and / or a through-air bonder (TAB). Those of ordinary skill in the art will also recognize that the through-air hot air device can be used to manufacture paper or nonwoven products, and paper or nonwoven products are rolled into their final product form. It should also be recognized that the product may not be rolled and / or may be cut into a final finished product. In addition, those of ordinary skill in the art will also recognize that the through-air hot air device can be configured to manufacture paper or nonwoven products, including but not limited to materials of various membranes, fabrics or web types, and the device can be used for various processes, which can include mass transfer, heat transfer, material displacement, web processing and quality monitoring, including but not limited to drying, thermal bonding, sheet transfer (sheet transfer, paper delivery), water extraction, web tensioning and porosity measurement.

[0020] The web (i.e., product) is usually in sheet form, and it is partially wound around a cylindrical shell (i.e., a through-type hot air roller). In one embodiment, the web is wound around a portion of the roller, and the range of its winding is 5° to 360° around the roller, usually between 180°-300°. The cylindrical wall of the through-type hot air roller usually has a plurality of openings, which are configured to allow air to pass through. The device includes a fan / blower to circulate air on the product, and the through-type hot air roller is usually positioned in a hood to optimize air flow characteristics. When the product travels around the rotating shell, the fan / blower circulates air through the wall of the cylindrical shell to process the product. In certain embodiments, a heater may be provided to increase the temperature of the air circulating through the through-type hot air roller.

[0021] Figure 1 An exemplary through-type hot air device 100 is shown in FIG. As shown, the through-type hot air device 100 includes a through-type hot air roller 120, which is configured to rotate around a first axis 130. The through-type hot air roller 120 has a first end 122 and a second end 124. One end of the roller can be connected to a motor and a drive assembly (i.e., a drive side), and the opposite end can be referred to as a tending side. The through-type hot air device 100 is typically a very large machine. For example, the through-type hot air roller 120 can have a length L between 1 foot and 30 feet, and a radius R between 1 foot and 10 feet.

[0022] The cylindrical wall of the roller 120 may be formed of an open rigid structure to allow air to flow therethrough. In one embodiment, the through-type hot air roller 120 may be a HONEYCOMB available from Valmet. like Figure 1 As shown, the apparatus may include an exhaust port 46 and a vacuum source 220 such that air flows through the cylindrical wall of the roller 120 and out through the exhaust port 46 .

[0023] like Figure 1 As shown, the through-type hot air device 100 may further include a sleeve 150 extending around the through-type hot air roller 120 to provide support for the web 140 (i.e., product) having a width W. The sleeve 150 may be made of a flexible material, and it may be in the form of a sheet. Figure 1 As shown, the sleeve 150 can substantially cover the penetrating hot air roller 120. The sleeve 150 can be made of a wire, which can be fixed on the penetrating hot air roller 120 and is configured to rotate around the first axis 130 with the penetrating hot air roller 120. In another embodiment, a traveling wire and / or fabric can be used instead of the wire mesh sleeve 150 or in addition to the wire mesh sleeve.

[0024] Now go to Figure 2 , discloses the internal structure of the through-type hot air device 100 in more detail. There is an air distribution pipe 50 inside the through-type hot air roller 120, and the air distribution pipe 50 has a cylindrical surface with a plurality of openings, which are configured to allow air to flow through it. The size, shape and configuration of the plurality of openings in the air distribution pipe can be selected to provide the best air flow characteristics. As shown in the figure, air flows into the through-type hot air roller 120 and passes through the air distribution pipe 50. The exhaust port 46 can be set at one end or both ends of the device. Once entering the air distribution pipe 50, the air can flow along the first axis 130 and flow out through the exhaust port 46. Those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the web product 14 is partially wound around the through-type hot air roller 120, so that while the web product 14 is located on the through-type hot air device 100, the air flow dries, cures, bonds, heats and / or otherwise treats the web product 14. As shown in the figure, the device 100 can be placed in the cover 10 to optimize the air flow characteristics.

[0025] The width W of the web product 14 can vary based on a particular application. Stabilizing frames 60 can be disposed inside the apparatus 100 at each end of the air distribution tube 50, and the positions of these stabilizing frames 60 can vary based on the width W of the web product. These stabilizing frames 60 are essentially annular rings (i.e., walls) that can slide between a minimum position and a maximum position to change the air flow characteristics. These stabilizing frames 60 can slide along the air distribution tube, and they extend radially outward toward the penetrating hot air roller 120. An actuator (such as a stabilizing frame drive assembly) can be disposed on the apparatus to move the stabilizing frames.

[0026] The inventors have recognized the problems associated with conventional through-type hot air devices having the above-described paper stabilizing frame configuration. In particular, Figure 2 The paper stabilizing frame in the web 14 is only an axial barrier. Depending on the specific position of the paper stabilizing frame, the air flow pattern may not be uniform across the width of the web 14 as desired.

[0027] The purpose of the air distribution duct is to control the air flow so that the correct amount of air flows through the web 14 in all areas (i.e., uniform air flow). Failure to adequately control the air flow may result in uneven drying of the web 14. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that one or more of the following design considerations will influence the design of the air distribution duct: the paper permeability range encompassing the expected product range, the total air flow requirement (m / s), the total volume of air required (m / s), and the total volume of air required (m / s). 3 / s), roller diameter, air distribution pipe diameter, product width range on the through-air hot air device, paper stabilizing frame adjustment range, and local internal speed. In addition, the air distribution pipe can be designed based on a database of actual machines, computational fluid dynamics and / or in-house computer modeling and / or a laboratory scale model of the equipment.

[0028] Figure 3A and Figure 3B A conventional stabilizing frame 60 is shown in more detail. These figures show half of the apparatus 100, so only one end of the air distribution duct 50 is shown. Figure 3A The paper stabilizing frame 60 is shown in the maximum position (i.e., the wide paper stabilizing frame position). Figure 3B The paper stabilizing frame 60 is shown in a minimum position (i.e., a narrow paper stabilizing frame position). The size, shape, and configuration of the plurality of openings in the air distribution duct 50 may be selected to provide optimal air flow characteristics. Figure 3A and Figure 3B As shown, the air distribution duct 50 may include multiple regions, and the size, shape and / or structure of the multiple openings in each region may vary. Figure 3A As shown, in the maximum position, the paper stabilizing frame 60 is located at the distal end of the air distribution pipe 50. Figure 3BAs shown, in the minimum position, the paper stabilizing frame 60 is moved inwardly to a proximal position on the air distribution tube 50.

[0029] Figure 3A and Figure 3B Also shown is the air flow pattern through the apparatus 100. As shown, the air flows through the web 14 and the through-type hot air roller 120. Figure 3B As shown in FIG. 1 , when the paper stabilizing frame 60 is in the minimum position, the air flow through the air distribution pipe can be substantially uniform. Figure 3A As shown, when the paper stabilizing frame is moved to the maximum position, the air flow may be uneven over the length of the air distribution tube 50. This is generally undesirable. As shown, the air may not flow evenly through each area of ​​the air distribution tube 50. After the air passes through the air distribution tube 50, the exhaust line (not shown) can pull the air to the right in a direction substantially parallel to the first axis 130. Figure 3A The arrows representing the air flow in the figure illustrate the problem of uneven air flow that may occur in a conventional paper stabilizing frame.

[0030] The inventors have recognized that there are problems associated with conventional paper stabilizing frame designs. Figure 3A As shown, when the paper stabilizing frame 60 is in its maximum position, the air flow resistance is too high at one end of the air distribution pipe. These areas of the air distribution pipe 50 located at each end of the air distribution pipe are difficult to design for all machine scenarios. The air speed in these areas may be too high or too low relative to the air speed in other areas.

[0031] The inventors have developed a new paper stabilizing frame configuration that solves some of the problems associated with conventional paper stabilizing frames in through-the-air hot air devices. Figure 4 FIG. 2 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a through-type hot air device 200 having a first adjustable paper stabilizing frame 160, which is configured to change the air flow through the air distribution pipe 50. Figure 4 , the first adjustable stabilizing frame 160 is shown in a maximum position. As shown, the first adjustable stabilizing frame 160 includes a first floating plate 162, which is configured to selectively cover a first portion of the plurality of openings in the air distribution tube 50. As described in more detail below, the floating plate 162 can be selectively moved to act as a sliding plate to provide a more uniform air flow over the web product for a range of web widths. As shown, the first adjustable stabilizing frame 160 also includes a first stabilizing frame wall 166, wherein the first stabilizing frame wall 166 can move independently of the first floating plate 162.

[0032] It should be recognized that Figure 4Only a portion of the through-type hot air device 200 is shown, and only one end of the air distribution pipe 50 is shown. As described in more detail below, the device may also include a second adjustable paper stabilizing frame 260 associated with the air distribution pipe 50 (see Figure 6 and Figure 8 ). The second adjustable stabilizing frame 260 may look substantially similar to the first adjustable stabilizing frame 160 and may include a second floating plate 262 configured to selectively cover a second portion of the plurality of openings in the air distribution duct 50. The second adjustable stabilizing frame 260 may also include a second stabilizing frame wall 266, wherein the second stabilizing frame wall 266 is movable independently of the second floating plate 262. In an illustrative embodiment, the first adjustable stabilizing frame 160 is positioned at a first end of the air distribution duct, such as Figure 4 It should be understood that Figure 6 In one embodiment shown, a second adjustable paper stabilizing frame 260 is positioned at the second end of the air distribution duct 50 .

[0033] like Figure 4 As shown, the first floating plate 162 may include a catch 164 positioned on each end of the first floating plate 162, wherein each catch 164 is configured to limit the movement of the first paper stabilizing frame wall 166. Figure 6 As shown, the second floating plate 262 may also include a lock 264 positioned on each end of the second floating plate 262, wherein each lock 264 is configured to limit the movement of the second paper stabilizing frame wall 266. As described in more detail below, in one embodiment, the locks 164, 264 are also configured to contact the paper stabilizing frame walls 166, 266, so that the movement of the paper stabilizing frame walls 166, 266 initiates the movement of the corresponding floating plate 162, 262, and the floating plate and its corresponding paper stabilizing frame wall can both slide together. In this regard, the paper stabilizing frame walls 166, 266 can selectively move with the floating plates 162, 262.

[0034] Figure 5 FIG. 2 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the through-type hot air device 200, wherein the first adjustable paper stabilizing frame 160 shown in dashed lines moves to the minimum paper stabilizing frame position. In other words, the first adjustable paper stabilizing frame 160 moves to the minimum paper stabilizing frame position. Figure 4 The maximum paper stabilization frame position shown is Figure 5 The first adjustable stabilizing frame 160 and the second adjustable stabilizing frame 260 may be movable between the minimum stabilizing frame position and the maximum stabilizing frame position. It is conceivable that the adjustable stabilizing frames 160 and 260 may be moved to an intermediate position so that the distance between the first stabilizing frame wall 166 and the second stabilizing frame wall 266 (see Figure 6 and Figure 8) can be determined based on the width of the product to be positioned on the device.

[0035] Additional details are provided below, but in one embodiment, Figure 4 The device shown is configured so that the movement of the first paper stabilizing frame wall 166 to the right minimizes the distance between the two paper stabilizing frames. Figure 4 As shown, initially, the first paper stabilizing frame wall 166 can move independently of the first floating plate 162. In other words, the first floating plate 162 can remain stationary while the first paper stabilizing frame wall 166 moves inwardly along the floating plate 162. After the first paper stabilizing frame wall 166 moves a distance approximately equal to the width of the first floating plate 162, the first paper stabilizing frame wall 166 contacts the lock 164 on the right end of the first floating plate 162, and thus further movement of the first paper stabilizing frame wall 166 also causes the first floating plate 162 to slide therewith. Figure 5 The minimum stabilizing frame position is shown in dashed lines. The width of the area outside the sheet width on the air distribution duct 50 can vary between about 2 inches and 60 inches wide. In one embodiment, the end area of ​​the air distribution duct can be about 2-25 inches wide. However, in this configuration, with the addition of the first floating plate 162, the effective width of this area is essentially doubled to about 4-50 inches. As described above, the end area of ​​the plate of the air distribution duct 50 can be configured to have different sizes, shapes and / or layouts of multiple openings compared to other areas on the air distribution duct 50. The addition of the movable first floating plate 162 and the second floating plate 262 enables the area to be effectively expanded as needed to provide a more uniform airflow on the web 14.

[0036] Figure 6 Another view of the through-type hot air device 200 including both the first adjustable paper stabilizing frame 160 and the second adjustable paper stabilizing frame 260 is shown. Figure 6 , the first adjustable stabilizing frame 160 and the second adjustable stabilizing frame 260 are shown in their maximum positions, and the first floating plate 162 and the second floating plate 262 are positioned just above the end regions located on the air distribution duct 50 . Figure 7 Shows Figure 6 A close-up detailed cross-section of the circled section. In contrast, Figure 8 A through-type hot air device 200 is shown, wherein the first adjustable paper stabilizing frame 160 and the second adjustable paper stabilizing frame 260 are shown to be in their minimum positions, and the first floating plate 162 and the second floating plate 262 are moved inwardly so that the floating plates 162, 262 are spaced apart from the end region located on the air distribution duct 50 (i.e., not positioned directly above it). Fig. 9 Shows Figure 8 A close-up detailed cross-sectional view of a portion of the device.

[0037] like Figure 6-Figure 9 As shown, the through-type hot air device 200 may include a paper stabilizing frame bracket 310, which is configured to slide the first paper stabilizing frame wall 166 and the second paper stabilizing frame wall 266. As shown, the paper stabilizing frame bracket may include an L-shaped member having one end that can move with the first paper stabilizing frame wall 166 or the second paper stabilizing frame wall 266, and the other end that can be slidably coupled to the tube 40 and can move along the first axis 130. Those skilled in the art will recognize that a conventional paper stabilizing frame bracket 310 may be used, as the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0038] The device 200 may also include an actuator (such as a paper stabilizing frame driving assembly positioned at one end of the device 200), the actuator being configured to move the first adjustable paper stabilizing frame 160 from the first position (ie, Figure 6 The maximum position shown) moves to a second position (i.e., such as Figure 8 310). The actuator can also be configured to move the second adjustable paper stabilizing frame 260 from the first position to the second position. In one embodiment, the actuator is coupled to the paper stabilizing frame bracket 310 and is configured to move the first adjustable paper stabilizing frame 160 and the second adjustable paper stabilizing frame 260 together. The independent movement of each adjustable paper stabilizing frame is also expected, as the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The actuator can be configured to move the first floating plate 162 and the second floating plate 262 in a direction substantially parallel to the first axis 130. As shown, each paper stabilizing frame wall 166, 266 is positioned between two locks 164, 264. Therefore, when the actuator starts the movement of the first paper stabilizing frame wall 166 and the second paper stabilizing frame wall 266, the first paper stabilizing frame wall 166 and the second paper stabilizing frame wall 266 contact one of the locks 164, 264, which can then cause the first floating plate 162 and the second floating plate 262 to move together with the paper stabilizing frame wall. It should be understood that in this configuration, the sliding movement of the paper stabilizing frame wall 166, 266 can be limited by the horizontal distance between the two locks located on each plate 162, 262. For example, as described above, in one embodiment, the horizontal sliding movement of the paper stabilizing frame wall 166, 266 is approximately twice the width of the first floating plate 162 or the second floating plate 262.

[0039] like Figure 6 As shown, in one embodiment, the air distribution duct 50 is concentric with the penetrating hot air roller 120. In other words, both the air distribution duct 50 and the penetrating hot air roller 120 are centered along the first axis 130. Figure 6 As shown above, and also as Figure 2As outlined, in one embodiment, the tube 40 is positioned along the first axis 130, and the air distribution tube 50 is radially supported by the tube 40, such as using the tube support 48 and the primary roller bearing 42. The above-described adjustable paper stabilizing frame is described as being used with a stationary air distribution tube 50. It is also contemplated that the adjustable paper stabilizing frame can be used with a rotating air distribution tube, as the present disclosure is not limited in this regard.

[0040] As described above, some aspects of the present disclosure relate to a through-type hot air device that can achieve uniform air flow for webs of various widths. Therefore, it should be appreciated that the first floating plate and the second floating plate can be designed to provide uniform air flow at both the minimum stabilizing frame position and the maximum stabilizing frame position. Many of the drawings in this application are cross-sectional views, so the floating plates appear flat. However, it should be understood that in one embodiment, each floating plate 162, 262 is cylindrical and is sized to extend around the outer diameter of the air distribution tube 50.

[0041] In one embodiment, the first floating plate 162 has a cylindrical surface with a plurality of openings therethrough, wherein the first floating plate 162 is configured to change the air flow through the air distribution tube 50. In another embodiment, the first floating plate 162 has a cylindrical solid surface configured to reduce the air flow through a first portion of the air distribution tube 50. In one embodiment, the first floating plate 162 and the second floating plate 262 each have a cylindrical surface with a plurality of openings therethrough, wherein the first floating plate 162 and the second floating plate 262 are configured to change the air flow through the air distribution tube 50. In another embodiment, the first floating plate 162 and the second floating plate 262 each have a cylindrical solid surface, wherein the first floating plate 162 and the second floating plate 262 are configured to reduce the air flow through a second portion of the air distribution tube 50.

[0042] In one embodiment, the first paper stabilizing frame wall 166 has an annular shape extending outwardly from the air distribution pipe 50 to the penetrating hot air roller 120. In one embodiment, the second paper stabilizing frame wall 266 also has an annular shape extending outwardly from the air distribution pipe 50 to the penetrating hot air roller 120. It should be understood that there should be at least a minimum spacing between the inner diameter of the penetrating hot air roller 120 and the outermost surface of the paper stabilizing frame walls 166, 266 to provide clearance when the penetrating hot air roller rotates about the first axis 130 during operation.

[0043] Furthermore, a person of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that in one embodiment, the adjustable paper stabilizing frame may be used on a through-type hot air dryer, and in another embodiment, the adjustable paper stabilizing frame may be used on a through-type hot air bonding machine, as the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0044] Fig.10 and Fig.11 A schematic cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a through-type hot air device 200A is shown. The through-type hot air device 200A is similar to the through-type hot air device 200 described above and therefore has similar reference numerals. However, the through-type hot air device 200A is characterized by a multi-plate first adjustable paper stabilizing frame 160A, which is configured to change the air flow through the air distribution duct 50. Fig.10 In FIG. 1 , the multi-plate first adjustable paper stabilizing frame 160A is shown to be in the maximum position, while in FIG. Fig.11 In the figure, the multi-plate first adjustable paper stabilizing frame 160A is shown in the minimum position. As shown in the figure, the multi-plate first adjustable paper stabilizing frame 160A includes a first floating plate portion 162A and a second floating plate portion 162B, each of which is movable and configured to selectively cover a portion of the plurality of openings in the air distribution duct 50. As described above with respect to Figure 4-Figure 9 As discussed above with respect to the first floating plate 160 shown, the first floating plate portion 162A and the second floating plate portion 162B can be selectively moved to act as sliding end regions to provide a more uniform air flow over the web product for a range of web widths. As shown, the multi-plate first adjustable paper stabilizing frame 160A also includes a first paper stabilizing frame wall 166, wherein the first paper stabilizing frame wall 166 can move independently of the first floating plate portion 162A and the second floating plate portion 162B. In addition, each of the first floating plate portion 162A and the second floating plate portion 162B can include the above-mentioned lock 164 on one or both ends. Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that in addition to the multi-plate first adjustable paper stabilizing frame 160A being able to increase the overall width of the paper stabilizing frame, Figure 10-11 The through-type hot air device 200A shown in FIG. 2 may be substantially similar to Figure 4-Figure 9 The inventors contemplate that the multi-plate first adjustable paper stabilizing frame 106A may include two, three, four or more movable plate portions 162A, 162B, as the present disclosure is not limited thereto. Figure 10-11 It can be seen that these multiple plate portions 162A, 162B can be stacked on top of each other. Figure 10-11 Only a portion of the through-type hot air device 200A is shown, but it should be understood that a multi-plate second adjustable paper stabilizing frame may be provided on an opposite end of the device 200A.

[0045] Some aspects of the present disclosure relate to a method of assembling a through-hot air device for drying or bonding paper or nonwoven products. The method includes providing a through-hot air roller configured to rotate about a first axis, wherein the roller has a cylindrical surface having a plurality of openings configured to allow air flow to pass therethrough. The method also includes providing an air distribution duct positioned within the through-hot air roller, the air distribution duct having a first end and a second end and a cylindrical surface having a plurality of openings configured to allow air flow to pass therethrough. The method also includes moving a first floating plate of a first adjustable paper stabilizing frame relative to the air distribution duct to change the air flow through the air distribution duct, wherein the first floating plate is configured to selectively cover a first portion of the plurality of openings in the air distribution duct, and wherein movement of the first floating plate is initiated by movement of a first paper stabilizing frame wall of the first adjustable paper stabilizing frame, wherein the first paper stabilizing frame wall can move independently of the first floating plate.

[0046] In one embodiment, the method may further include: moving a second floating plate of the second adjustable paper stabilizing frame relative to the air distribution duct to change the air flow through the air distribution duct, wherein the second floating plate is configured to selectively cover a second portion of the plurality of openings in the air distribution duct, and wherein movement of the second floating plate is initiated by movement of a second paper stabilizing frame wall of the second adjustable paper stabilizing frame, wherein the second paper stabilizing frame wall can move independently of the second floating plate.

[0047] The method may also include: wherein both the first adjustable paper stabilizing frame and the second adjustable paper stabilizing frame can be moved between a minimum paper stabilizing frame position and a maximum paper stabilizing frame position, so that the distance between the first paper stabilizing frame wall and the second paper stabilizing frame wall can be positioned based on the width of the product to be positioned on the device.

[0048] Although several embodiments of the present invention have been described and illustrated herein, a person of ordinary skill in the art will readily conceive of various other methods and / or structures for performing the functions and / or obtaining the results and / or one or more advantages described herein, and each of such variations and / or modifications is considered to fall within the scope of the present invention. Those skilled in the art will recognize or be able to determine many equivalents of the specific embodiments of the present invention described herein using no more than routine experimentation. Therefore, it should be understood that the aforementioned embodiments are presented only by way of example and fall within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents; the present invention may be implemented in a manner different from that specifically described and claimed. The present invention relates to each individual feature, system, article, material and / or method described herein. In addition, any combination of two or more such features, systems, articles, materials and / or methods (if such features, systems, articles, materials and / or methods are not mutually contradictory) is included within the scope of the present invention.

[0049] All definitions, as defined and used herein, should be understood to control over dictionary definitions, definitions in documents incorporated by reference, and / or ordinary meanings of the defined terms.

[0050] The indefinite articles "a" or "an" as used in the specification and claims should be understood to mean "at least one" unless clearly indicated to the contrary.

[0051] The phrase "and / or" used in the specification and claims should be understood to mean "either or both" of the elements so combined, i.e., the elements are present in combination in some cases and separately in other cases. In addition to the elements specifically identified by the "and / or" clause, other elements may also be optionally present, whether related or unrelated to those elements specifically identified, unless clearly indicated to the contrary.

[0052] All references, patents and patent applications, and publications cited or referred to in this application are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

Claims

1. A penetrating hot air device for drying or bonding paper or non-woven products, the penetrating hot air device comprising: a penetrating hot air roller configured to rotate about a first axis, wherein the penetrating hot air roller has a cylindrical surface having a plurality of openings configured for air flow to pass through; an air distribution pipe positioned within the through-type hot air roller, the air distribution pipe having a cylindrical surface, a first end and a second end, the cylindrical surface of the air distribution pipe having a plurality of openings configured for air flow therethrough; A first adjustable paper stabilizing frame is associated with the air distribution duct, the first adjustable paper stabilizing frame is configured to change the air flow passing through the air distribution duct, and the first adjustable paper stabilizing frame includes: a first floating plate configured to selectively cover a first portion of the plurality of openings in the air distribution duct; and a first stabilizing frame wall, wherein the first stabilizing frame wall is movable on the first floating plate independently of the first floating plate, and wherein the movement of the first floating plate is initiated by the movement of the first stabilizing frame wall, Wherein, the penetrating hot air device is configured to allow air to pass from the outside of the penetrating hot air roller through the opening in the cylindrical surface of the penetrating hot air roller.

2. The penetrating hot air device according to claim 1, wherein: The first floating plate can selectively move together with the first paper stabilizing frame wall.

3. The penetrating hot air device according to claim 1, wherein: The first adjustable paper stabilizing frame is positioned at the first end of the air distribution duct.

4. The penetrating hot air device according to claim 3, further comprising: A second adjustable paper stabilizing frame is associated with the air distribution pipe, the second adjustable paper stabilizing frame is configured to change the air flow passing through the air distribution pipe, and the second adjustable paper stabilizing frame includes: a second floating plate configured to selectively cover a second portion of the plurality of openings in the air distribution duct; and A second paper stabilizing frame wall, wherein the second paper stabilizing frame wall is movable independently of the second floating plate.

5. The penetrating hot air device according to claim 4, wherein: The second floating plate can selectively move together with the second paper stabilizing frame wall.

6. The penetrating hot air device according to claim 4, wherein: The second adjustable paper stabilizing frame is positioned at the second end of the air distribution duct.

7. The penetrating hot air device according to claim 6, wherein: The first adjustable paper stabilizing frame and the second adjustable paper stabilizing frame can both move together between a minimum paper stabilizing frame position and a maximum paper stabilizing frame position, so that the distance between the first paper stabilizing frame wall and the second paper stabilizing frame wall can be determined based on the width of the product to be positioned on the through-type hot air device.

8. The penetrating hot air device according to claim 4, wherein: Both the first floating plate and the second floating plate also include a lock positioned at each end of the floating plate, wherein each lock on the first floating plate is configured to limit the movement of the first paper stabilizing frame wall, and each lock on the second floating plate is configured to limit the movement of the second paper stabilizing frame wall.

9. The penetrating hot air device according to claim 1, wherein: The air distribution pipe is concentric with the penetrating hot air roller.

10. The penetrating hot air device according to claim 1, further comprising: A tube is positioned along the first axis, and wherein the air distribution tube is radially supported by the tube.

11. The penetrating hot air device according to claim 1, wherein: The first floating plate has a cylindrical surface having a plurality of openings therethrough, and wherein the first floating plate is configured to alter air flow through the air distribution duct.

12. The penetrating hot air device according to claim 1, wherein: The first floating plate has a cylindrical solid surface, and wherein the first floating plate is configured to reduce air flow through a first portion of the air distribution tube.

13. The penetrating hot air device according to claim 4, wherein: The first floating plate and the second floating plate each have a cylindrical surface, the cylindrical surface of each of the first floating plate and the second floating plate having a plurality of openings therethrough, and wherein the first floating plate and the second floating plate are configured to alter air flow through the air distribution duct.

14. The penetrating hot air device according to claim 4, wherein: The first floating plate and the second floating plate each have a cylindrical solid surface, and wherein the first floating plate and the second floating plate are configured to reduce air flow through the first portion and the second portion of the air distribution tube.

15. A penetrating hot air device for drying or bonding paper or nonwoven products, the penetrating hot air device comprising: a penetrating hot air roller configured to rotate about a first axis, wherein the penetrating hot air roller has a cylindrical surface having a plurality of openings configured for air flow to pass through; an air distribution pipe positioned within the through-type hot air roller, the air distribution pipe having a cylindrical surface, a first end and a second end, the cylindrical surface of the air distribution pipe having a plurality of openings configured for air flow therethrough; A first adjustable paper stabilizing frame is associated with the air distribution duct, the first adjustable paper stabilizing frame is configured to change the air flow passing through the air distribution duct, and the first adjustable paper stabilizing frame includes: a first floating plate configured to selectively cover a first portion of the plurality of openings in the air distribution duct; and a first paper stabilizing frame wall, wherein the first paper stabilizing frame wall can move independently of the first floating plate on the first floating plate, wherein the first adjustable paper stabilizing frame has a multi-plate configuration, wherein the first floating plate includes a first floating plate portion and a second floating plate portion, each of the first floating plate portion and the second floating plate portion being movable and configured to selectively cover a portion of the plurality of openings in the air distribution duct, Wherein, the penetrating hot air device is configured to allow air to pass from the outside of the penetrating hot air roller through the opening in the cylindrical surface of the penetrating hot air roller.

16. A penetrating hot air device for drying or bonding paper or nonwoven products, the penetrating hot air device comprising: a penetrating hot air roller configured to rotate about a first axis, wherein the penetrating hot air roller has a cylindrical surface having a plurality of openings configured for air flow to pass through; an air distribution pipe positioned within the through-type hot air roller, the air distribution pipe having a cylindrical surface, a first end and a second end, the cylindrical surface of the air distribution pipe having a plurality of openings configured for air flow therethrough; A first adjustable paper stabilizing frame is associated with the air distribution duct, the first adjustable paper stabilizing frame is configured to change the air flow passing through the air distribution duct, and the first adjustable paper stabilizing frame includes: a first floating plate configured to selectively cover a first portion of the plurality of openings in the air distribution duct; and a first paper stabilizing frame wall, wherein the first paper stabilizing frame wall can move independently of the first floating plate on the first floating plate, The first floating plate of the first adjustable paper stabilizing frame further comprises a lock positioned at each end of the first floating plate, wherein each lock is configured to limit movement of the first paper stabilizing frame wall. Wherein, the penetrating hot air device is configured to allow air to pass from the outside of the penetrating hot air roller through the opening in the cylindrical surface of the penetrating hot air roller.

17. A method of using a through-air hot air apparatus for drying or bonding paper or nonwoven products, the method comprising: providing a through-type hot air roller configured to rotate about a first axis, wherein the through-type hot air roller has a cylindrical surface having a plurality of openings configured for air flow to pass through; providing an air distribution duct positioned within the through-type hot air roller, the air distribution duct having a first end and a second end and a cylindrical surface having a plurality of openings configured for air flow therethrough; and and moving a first floating plate of a first adjustable stabilizing frame relative to the air distribution duct to change the air flow through the air distribution duct, wherein the first floating plate is configured to selectively cover a first portion of the plurality of openings in the air distribution duct; and wherein the movement of the first floating plate is initiated by movement of a first stabilizing frame wall of the first adjustable stabilizing frame, wherein the first stabilizing frame wall is movable on the first floating plate independently of the first floating plate, Wherein, the penetrating hot air device is configured to allow air to pass from the outside of the penetrating hot air roller through the opening in the cylindrical surface of the penetrating hot air roller.

18. The method of claim 17, further comprising: A second floating plate of a second adjustable paper stabilizing frame is moved relative to the air distribution duct to change the air flow through the air distribution duct, wherein the second floating plate is configured to selectively cover a second portion of the plurality of openings in the air distribution duct; and wherein movement of the second floating plate is initiated by movement of a second paper stabilizing frame wall of the second adjustable paper stabilizing frame, wherein the second paper stabilizing frame wall can move independently of the second floating plate.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein: Both the first adjustable paper stabilizing frame and the second adjustable paper stabilizing frame can move between a minimum paper stabilizing frame position and a maximum paper stabilizing frame position, so that the distance between the first paper stabilizing frame wall and the second paper stabilizing frame wall can be positioned based on the width of the product to be positioned on the through-type hot air device.

20. The method of claim 17, wherein: The first floating plate can selectively move together with the first paper stabilizing frame wall.

Images