Strapping tension assembly with self-energizing tensioner and strap size adjustment features

Abstract

Several different embodiments of this disclosure provide a strapping machine strapping tensioning assembly featuring a self-excited tensioning wheel and an adjustable strapping tensioning component for use with different strapping sizes.

Description

[0001] Priority requirements

[0002] This application claims priority and benefit to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 129,724, filed December 23, 2020, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 187,026, filed May 11, 2021, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure relates to strapping machines, and more particularly to strapping machine strapping tensioning assemblies featuring a self-excited tensioning wheel and an adjustable strapping tensioning assembly for use with different strapping sizes. Background Technology

[0004] Strapping machines form tensioned loops of plastic strapping (such as polyester or polypropylene strapping) or metal strapping (such as steel strapping) around a load. A typical strapping machine includes a support surface supporting the load, a strapping groove surrounding the support surface, a strapping head forming the strapping loop, a controller controlling the strapping head to strap the load, and a frame supporting these components. A typical strapping head includes: a strapping delivery assembly for feeding the strapping from a strapping feeder into and around the strapping groove, and for retracting the strapping so that it leaves the strapping groove and moves radially inward to contact the load; a strapping tensioning assembly for tensioning the strap around the load; and a strapping sealing assembly for cutting the strapping from the strapping feeder and attaching two areas of the strapping together to form a strapping loop. Each of these components includes a guide that defines the strap channel through which the strap moves as it passes through the component. The strap channel and the strap groove together define the strap path through which the strap moves.

[0005] To secure a load, the strapping conveyor propels the strapping tape (first the front end) from the strapping tape dispenser through the strapping tape tensioning assembly, through the strapping tape sealing assembly, into the strapping tape groove, and around the groove until the front end returns to the sealing assembly. As the sealing assembly holds the front end in place, the strapping tape conveyor retracts the strapping tape, pulling it out of the groove and placing it on and around the load. The strapping tape tensioning assembly then moves the tensioning wheel into contact with the strapping tape and actuates it to tension the tape to the specified tension. The strapping tape sealing assembly cuts the strapping tape from the dispenser to form a tail end and attaches the front and tail ends together to form a tensioned strapping loop around the load.

[0006] To ensure that the strapping delivery assembly can feed and retract the strapping without interference from the strapping tensioning assembly, the tensioning wheel is in the retracted position during strapping delivery and retraction. When strapping tensioning is required, the tensioning wheel must move from the retracted position to a position in contact with the strapping. Some known strapping tensioning assemblies include actuators operatively connected to the tensioning wheel to control its movement to and from its retracted position into and out of contact with the strapping. These actuators take up space, add weight, increase mechanical and programming complexity, and (like all mechanical parts) are susceptible to wear and eventual failure (requiring the purchase and installation of replacement parts).

[0007] Different applications require different sizes of strapping tape. For example, 8 mm wide and 0.3 mm thick strapping tape can be used for light applications, while 16 mm wide and 0.85 mm thick strapping tape can be used for heavy applications. Some known strapping machines are configured to operate using strapping tape of different widths and thicknesses. The strapping tape tensioning assembly of these machines (and in some cases, the strapping tape delivery assembly and / or the strapping tape sealing assembly) has guide members that define strapping tape channels of fixed width and fixed thickness, the size of which is determined to accommodate the widest and thickest strapping tape used with these strapping machines. When using smaller and / or thinner strapping tape, these fixed width and fixed thickness strapping tape channels can cause problems. Specifically, because there is more empty space in the strapping tape channels when using smaller and / or thinner strapping tape, the strapping tape tends to "wander" laterally and / or vertically in the strapping tape channels and may get stuck and jammed in the strapping tape channels. This can lead to poor strapping feed, requiring the strapping feed assembly to retract and refeed the strapping, resulting in unnecessary downtime. It can also damage the front end of the strapping, leading to material waste or (if not identified) suboptimal soldering. Summary of the Invention

[0008] Several different embodiments of this disclosure provide a strapping machine strapping tensioning assembly featuring a self-excited tensioning wheel and an adjustable strapping tensioning component for use with different strapping sizes.

[0009] Some embodiments of the strapping tensioning assembly include: a strapping tensioning assembly frame; a reverse roller assembly supported by the strapping tensioning assembly frame and including a reverse roller; a tensioning assembly supported by the strapping tensioning assembly frame and including: a tensioning wheel assembly including: a tensioning wheel assembly shaft defining an axis of rotation; and a tensioning wheel mounted on the tensioning wheel assembly shaft and rotatable about the axis of rotation, wherein the tensioning wheel assembly is rotatable from a retracted position and a tensioned position. The tensioning wheel is moved from a first distance from the reverse roller in the retracted position and from a smaller second distance from the reverse roller in the tensioned position; a tensioning wheel positioner is mounted on the shaft of the tensioning wheel assembly and is rotatable about the axis of rotation from the retracted rotational position to the tensioned rotational position to move the tensioning wheel assembly from its retracted position to its tensioned position; and a tensioning actuator is operably connected to the tensioning wheel to rotate the tensioning wheel about the axis of rotation in the tensioning rotation direction.

[0010] Some methods of tensioning a strapping band using a strapping band tensioning assembly include: rotating a tensioning wheel positioner about a rotation axis from a retracted rotation position to a tensioned rotation position to cause the tensioning wheel assembly, including the tensioning wheel, to move from the retracted position to the tensioned position to force the strapping band against a reverse roller; and rotating the tensioning wheel to apply tension to the strapping band.

[0011] Other embodiments of the cable tie tensioning assembly include: a cable tie tensioning assembly frame; and a tensioning assembly supported by the cable tie tensioning assembly frame and including: a tensioning wheel assembly comprising: a tensioning wheel assembly shaft defining an axis of rotation; a tensioning wheel support mounted to the tensioning wheel assembly shaft and rotatable about the axis of rotation; a tensioning wheel removably mounted to the tensioning wheel support and rotatable together with the tensioning wheel support about the axis of rotation; a tensioning wheel retainer mounted to the tensioning wheel support to hold the tensioning wheel in place on the tensioning wheel support and removable from the tensioning wheel support to allow the tensioning wheel to be removed from the tensioning wheel support; and a tensioning actuator operably connected to the tensioning wheel to rotate the tensioning wheel about the axis of rotation. Attached Figure Description

[0012] Figure 1 This is a schematic view of an exemplary embodiment of the strapping machine disclosed herein.

[0013] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the strapping tensioning assembly of a strapping machine, wherein the upper strapping guide assembly of the strapping tensioning assembly is in its closed position.

[0014] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A perspective view of a strap tensioning assembly, with the upper strap guide component of the strap tensioning assembly in its open position.

[0015] Figure 4A and Figure 4B yes Figure 2 Front and rear perspective views of the cable tie tensioning assembly frame.

[0016] Figure 5A yes Figure 2 A three-dimensional view of the lower strapping guide assembly of the strapping tensioning assembly.

[0017] Figure 5B yes Figure 5A An exploded perspective view of the lower strapping guide assembly.

[0018] Figure 5C yes Figure 5A A three-dimensional view of the strapping channel width adjuster of the lower strapping guide assembly.

[0019] Figure 5D It is along Figure 5A 5D-5D cut line Figure 5A A cross-sectional perspective view of the lower strapping guide assembly, showing the first guide member and the second guide member in the first (narrow) configuration.

[0020] Figure 5E It is along Figure 5A 5D-5D cut line Figure 5A A cross-sectional perspective view of the lower strapping guide assembly, showing the first guide member and the second guide member in the second (wide) configuration.

[0021] Figure 5F It is along Figure 5A The line cut off at 5F–5F Figure 5A A cross-sectional side view of the lower strapping guide assembly, and the retainer is shown.

[0022] Figure 6A This shows the removal from the cable tie tensioning assembly frame. Figure 5A A three-dimensional view of the lower strapping guide assembly.

[0023] Figure 6B and Figure 6C It shows the cable tie tensioning assembly frame being installed. Figure 5A A three-dimensional view of the lower strapping guide assembly.

[0024] Figure 6D It is along Figure 6CFigure 5 shows a cross-sectional view of the lower strapping guide assembly, taken from line 6D–6D and installed onto the strapping tensioning assembly frame.

[0025] Figure 7A and Figure 7B yes Figure 2 A perspective view of the upper strapping guide assembly of the strapping tensioning assembly, in which some parts have been removed.

[0026] Figure 8A and Figure 8B This is a three-dimensional view of one of the eccentric mounting pins in the upper strapping guide assembly.

[0027] Figure 8C yes Figure 8A and Figure 8B End view of the eccentric mounting pin.

[0028] Figure 8D It shows Figure 8A and Figure 8B A three-dimensional cross-section of a portion of the strap tensioning assembly with an eccentric mounting pin.

[0029] Figure 9A and Figure 9B yes Figure 2 An opposing perspective view of a cable tie tensioning assembly, wherein the cover of the cable tie tensioning assembly is removed to expose the tensioning assembly.

[0030] Figure 10 yes Figure 9A and Figure 9B A perspective view of the tensioning assembly, including the gearbox and tensioning wheel assembly.

[0031] Figure 11A and Figure 11B yes Figure 10 A perspective view of the tensioning wheel assembly.

[0032] Figure 11C yes Figure 11A and Figure 11B An exploded perspective view of the tensioner assembly.

[0033] Figure 11D It is basically along Figure 11B The line 11D–11D intercepted Figure 11A and Figure 11B A three-dimensional cross-sectional view of the tensioner assembly.

[0034] Figure 11E yes Figure 11A and Figure 11B End view of the tensioner positioning cam of the tensioner assembly.

[0035] Figure 12A , Figure 13A and Figure 14A yes Figure 2 A side view of the strap tensioning assembly, with the cover of the strap tensioning assembly removed, showing the movement of various components of the tensioning assembly and the biasing assembly as the tensioning wheel moves from its retracted position to contact the strap and begins to tension the strap.

[0036] Figure 12B , Figure 13B and Figure 14B It corresponds to Figure 12A , Figure 13A and Figure 14A and basically along Figure 9B The section side view taken by line 12B–12B shows the position of the tension wheel positioner of the tensioning assembly relative to the cam follower.

[0037] Figure 12C , Figure 13C and Figure 14C It corresponds to Figure 12A , Figure 13A and Figure 14A and basically along Figure 9B The cross-sectional side view taken from line 12C–12C shows the position of the tensioning wheel relative to the reverse roller.

[0038] Figure 15A and Figure 15B yes Figure 2 A side view of the cable tie tensioning assembly, with the cover of the cable tie tensioning assembly removed, and showing the various components of the tensioning assembly. Detailed Implementation

[0039] While the systems, apparatuses, and methods described herein can be implemented in many different forms, the accompanying drawings and description illustrate certain exemplary and non-limiting embodiments. Not all components shown in the drawings and described in the description may be necessary, and some implementations may include additional, different, or fewer components. The arrangement and type of components, the shape, size, and material of components, and the manner in which components are connected may vary without departing from the spirit or scope of the claims. Unless otherwise stated, any orientation mentioned in the description reflects the orientation of the corresponding component shown in the drawings and does not limit the scope of this disclosure. Furthermore, terms relating to installation methods such as mounting and connecting are not intended to be limited to direct installation methods but should be broadly interpreted to include indirect and operatively mounted methods such as connecting. This specification is intended to be considered as a whole and interpreted in accordance with the principles of this disclosure and as understood by one of ordinary skill in the art.

[0040] Figure 1An exemplary embodiment of the strapping machine 1 and its components disclosed herein is shown clearly in a simplified manner. The strapping machine 1 is configured to form a tensioned strapping loop around a load and includes a strapping machine frame (not shown), a strapping groove CH, a load support LS, a strapping delivery assembly FM, a strapping tension assembly 10, a strapping sealing assembly SM, guides G1 and G2, and a controller C.

[0041] The strapping machine frame is configured to support some (or all) of the other components of the strapping machine 1 and can be formed by any suitable components arranged in any suitable configuration. A load support LS is configured to support a load, such as a pallet load L, as it is strapped by the strapping machine 1 and moves through the machine. The load support LS includes a support surface (not labeled) on which the load is positioned during strapping and moves across the support surface as it moves through the strapping machine 1. In this exemplary embodiment, the support surface includes a plurality of rollers that facilitate the movement of the load through the strapping machine 1. These rollers may be driven or undriven. In other embodiments, the support surface includes a driven conveyor instead of rollers.

[0042] The strapping groove CH surrounds the support surface of the load support LS and defines a strapping path along which the strap moves as it is fed through the strapping groove CH and is removed from the strapping path upon retraction. The strapping groove CH includes two spaced-apart first and second upright legs (unmarked), an upper connecting portion (unmarked) spanning the first and second legs, a lower connecting portion (unmarked) spanning the first and second legs and positioned in the load support LS, and an elbow (unmarked) connecting these portions. As is known in the art, the radially inward wall of the strapping groove CH is formed by a plurality of overlapping doors spring-biased to a closed position, allowing the strapping to traverse the strapping path as it is fed through the strapping groove CH. When the strapping delivery assembly FM applies tension to the strapping to retract it, the tension overcomes the biasing force of the spring and causes the gates to pivot to the open position, thereby releasing the strapping from the strapping groove CH and causing the strapping to move radially inward to contact the load L.

[0043] The strapping tape delivery assembly FM, strapping tape tensioning assembly 10, and strapping tape sealing assembly SM are configured together to form a tensioned strapping tape loop around the load L by feeding the strapping tape through the strapping tape groove CH, securing the front end of the strapping tape while retracting it to remove it from the strapping tape groove CH, bringing the strapping tape into contact with the load L, tensioning the strapping tape around the load L to a specified tension, cutting the strapping tape from the strapping tape feeder to form a strapping tape tail end, and connecting the front end and the tail end of the strapping tape to each other. In this exemplary embodiment, the strapping tape delivery assembly FM, strapping tape tensioning assembly 10, and strapping tape sealing assembly SM are different modules that can be individually attached to and removed from the strapping machine frame. A guide G1 extends between the strapping tape delivery assembly FM and the strapping tape tensioning assembly 10 and is configured to guide the strapping tape as it moves between these assemblies. Guide G2 extends between the strap tensioning assembly 10 and the strap sealing assembly SM, and is configured to guide the strap as it moves between these assemblies. In other embodiments, these assemblies form a strapping head that does not include a separately removable self-contained module.

[0044] Typically, the strapping tape delivery assembly FM is configured to feed the strapping tape from the strapping tape supplier (not shown) into the strapping tape groove CH and around the strapping tape groove, and to retract the strapping tape so that the strapping tape leaves the strapping tape groove CH and contacts the load L.

[0045] Typically, and as shown below Figures 2 to 14C As described in detail, the strap tensioning assembly 10 is configured to tension the strap around a load L. The strap tensioning assembly includes a tensioning wheel driven by a tensioning actuator. Once the strap delivery assembly FM retracts the strap to contact the load L, the tensioning actuator drives the tensioning wheel to tension the strap to a specified (typically preset) tension.

[0046] Typically, the strapping tape sealing assembly SM is configured to cut the strapping tape from the strapping tape supplier and attach the front and rear ends of the strapping tape to each other to form a strapping tape loop after the strapping tape tensioning assembly 10 tensions the strapping tape to a specified tension. The method of attaching the front and rear ends of the strapping tape to each other depends on the type of strapping machine and the type of strapping tape. Some strapping machines configured for plastic strapping tape include strapping tape sealing assemblies with friction welders, heated blades, or ultrasonic welders configured to attach the front and rear ends of the strapping tape to each other. Some strapping machines configured for plastic or metal strapping tape include strapping tape sealing assemblies with jaws that are mechanically deformed (referred to in the industry as "crimping") or have notches cut into the sealing elements positioned around the front and rear ends of the strapping tape (referred to in the industry as "notching") to attach them to each other. Other strapping machines configured for metal strapping include strapping sealing assemblies with punches and dies configured to form a set of mechanically interlocking cuts in the front and rear ends of the strapping to attach them to each other (referred to in the strapping industry as "no-seal" attachment). Further strapping machines configured for metal strapping include strapping sealing assemblies having spot welders, inert gas, or other welders configured to weld the front and rear ends of the strapping to each other.

[0047] Controller C includes a processing device (or multiple processing devices) communicatively connected to a memory device (or multiple memory devices). For example, the controller may be a programmable logic controller. The processing device may include any suitable processing device, such as, but not limited to, a general-purpose processor, a special-purpose processor, a digital signal processor, one or more microprocessors, one or more microprocessors associated with a digital signal processor core, one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), one or more field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), one or more integrated circuits, and / or a state machine. The memory device may include any suitable memory device, such as, but not limited to, read-only memory, random access memory, one or more digital registers, cache memory, one or more semiconductor memory devices, magnetic media such as integrated hard disks and / or removable memory, magneto-optical media, and / or optical media. The memory device stores instructions executable by the processing device to control the operation of the strapping machine 1. In some embodiments, the strapping machine 1 includes a single controller, while in other embodiments, the strapping machine 1 has multiple controllers operating together. In some embodiments, controller C is part of the strapping tape delivery assembly FM, the strapping tape tensioning assembly 10, and / or the strapping tape sealing assembly SM.

[0048] Returning to the strap tensioning assembly 10, the strap tensioning assembly 10 includes a tensioning wheel driven by a tensioning actuator to rotate the tensioning wheel and thus tension the strap. The tensioning wheel is self-excited because operation of the tensioning actuator moves the tensioning wheel from a retracted position to a tensioned position, in which the tensioning wheel is spaced apart from the strap, and in the tensioned position, the tensioning wheel contacts the strap to provide tension. The strap tensioning assembly 10 also includes features that allow it to be adjusted to accommodate different strap sizes (e.g., different strap widths and thicknesses). Figures 2 to 14C An exemplary embodiment of the cable tie tensioning assembly 10 and its components is shown. The cable tie tensioning assembly 10 includes a cable tie tensioning assembly frame 100, a lower (or first) cable tie guide assembly 300, an upper (or second) cable tie guide assembly 400, a tensioning assembly 500, and an offset assembly 900.

[0049] Cable tie tensioning assembly frame 100 (in Figure 4A and Figure 4B Other components (best shown in the image) directly or indirectly support the strapping tensioning assembly 10 and can be formed by any suitable components in any suitable configuration. In this exemplary embodiment, the strapping delivery assembly frame 100 includes: a front (first) frame member 110, a rear (second) frame member 120, a feed-side (third) frame member 130, and a discharge-side (fourth) frame member 140; a first support member 150 and a second support member 160; first support member mounting elements 152, 154, 156, and 158; and second support member mounting elements 162, 164, 166, and 168.

[0050] The front frame member 110 and the rear frame member 120 are spaced apart from each other, and the feed-side frame member 130 and the discharge-side frame member 140 are spaced apart from each other. The feed-side frame member 130 extends between one end of the front frame member 110 and one end of the rear frame member 120, and the discharge-side frame member 140 extends between the other end of the front frame member 110 and the other end of the rear frame member 120. A first support member 150 extends adjacent to the feed-side frame member 130 between the front frame member 110 and the rear frame member 120, and is mounted to the front frame member 110 and the rear frame member 120 via first support member mounting elements 152, 154, 156 and 158, which are pins in this exemplary embodiment but can be any other suitable component (such as a threaded fastener). The second support member 160 is adjacent to the discharge side frame member 140 and extends between the front frame member 110 and the rear frame member 120. It is mounted to the front frame member 110 and the rear frame member 120 via second support member mounting elements 162, 164, 166 and 168, which are pins in this exemplary embodiment but may be any other suitable component (such as a threaded fastener).

[0051] Two covers 1000a and 1000b are removably attached to the strap tensioning assembly frame 100 to at least partially enclose certain parts of the lower strap guide assembly 300, tensioning assembly 500, and biasing assembly 900.

[0052] Lower strapping guide assembly 300 (in Figures 3 to 5F (Best shown in the image) Guide the strapping tape through the strapping tape tensioning assembly 10 (together with the upper strapping tape guide assembly 400) and adjust it to accommodate different strapping tape widths. Figure 5B As shown in the optimal configuration, the lower strapping guide assembly 300 includes: a first guide frame member 310 and a second guide frame member 320; a first outer guide member 330 and a second outer guide member 340; a first outer guide member guide 332, a second outer guide member guide 334, a third outer guide member guide 342, and a fourth outer guide member guide 344; a center guide member 350; a first strapping channel width adjuster 360a and a second strapping channel width adjuster 360b; a first spacer 370a, a second spacer 370b, a third spacer 370c, and a fourth spacer 370d; a first biasing element 380a, a second biasing element 380b, a third biasing element 380c, and a fourth biasing element 380d; a plurality of fasteners 390; a plurality of guide rollers 395; a plurality of strapping channel width adjuster retainers 398; and a plurality of lower strapping guide assembly retainers 399.

[0053] The first guide frame member 310 includes a body 312 having a first (feed) end 314 and a second (discharge) end 316. A mounting opening 314a is defined in the first (feed) end 314. The second (discharge) end 316 includes a foot 316a that includes a lower strap guide assembly retainer 399a. The second guide frame member 320 includes a body 322 having a first (feed) end 324 and a second (discharge) end 326. A mounting opening 324a is defined in the first (feed) end 324. The second (discharge) end 326 includes a foot 326a that includes a lower strap guide assembly retainer 399b. In other embodiments (not shown), the mounting opening is defined at the second (discharge) ends of the first and second guide frame members, and the lower strap guide assembly retainer is included in the first (feed) ends of the first and second guide frame members.

[0054] Lower cable tie guide assembly retainers 399a and 399b hold the lower cable tie guide assembly 300 on the cable tie delivery assembly frame 100, as described below. In this exemplary embodiment, the lower cable tie guide assembly retainer includes a spring plunger, but in other embodiments it may be any other suitable component. Figure 5F The lower cable tie guide assembly retainer 399a is shown (the lower cable tie guide assembly retainer 399b is identical and will not be shown or described separately for the sake of brevity). The lower cable tie guide assembly retainer 399a includes: a body 399a1, which is threadedly received in a foot 316a; a nose 399a2, which is securely received within a hole defined in the body 399a1; and a biasing element 399a3 (here, a compression spring) that biases the nose 399a2 toward the opening of the hole such that a portion of the nose 399a2 protrudes from the hole.

[0055] The first guide frame member 310, the second guide frame member 320, and the center guide member 350 (a plate in this exemplary embodiment) are fixedly connected to each other by spacers 370a to 370d and fasteners 390 to form a lower strapping guide assembly frame. In this exemplary embodiment, due to this fixed connection, there is a first fixed distance between the first guide frame member 310 and the second guide frame member 320, a second fixed distance between the first guide frame member 310 and the center guide member 350, and a third fixed distance between the second guide frame member 320 and the center guide member 350 (which is the same as the second fixed distance here). A first outer guide member 330 is slidably mounted between the first guide frame member 310 and the center guide member 350 to the spacers 370a to 370d (which extend through corresponding openings in the first outer guide member 330), such that the first outer guide member 330 can be positioned relative to the guide frame member and the center guide member in a first position adjacent to the first guide frame member 310. Figure 5E ) and the second position adjacent to the central guide member 350 ( Figure 5D The second outer guide member 340 is slidably mounted between the second guide frame member 320 and the center guide member 350 to spacers 370a to 370d (which extend through corresponding openings in the second outer guide member 340), such that the second outer guide member 340 can be in a first position adjacent to the second guide frame member 320 relative to the guide frame member and the center guide member. Figure 5E ) and the second position adjacent to the central guide member 350 ( Figure 5D Move between ).

[0056] like Figure 5AAs best shown, a first feed roller receiving opening 300a is formed between a first outer guide member 330 and a central guide member 350, and a second feed roller receiving opening 300b is formed between a second outer guide member 340 and a central guide member 350. Two guide rollers of guide rollers 395 are mounted to the first outer guide member 330 on the feed side and discharge side of the first feed roller receiving opening 300a and partially extend into the strapping channel SC. Similarly, two guide rollers of guide rollers 395 are mounted to the second outer guide member 340 on the feed side and discharge side of the second feed roller receiving opening 300b and partially extend into the strapping channel SC. In this exemplary embodiment, guide rollers 395 are rotatable relative to the outer guide members 330 and 340, whereas in other embodiments, guide rollers are not rotatable relative to the outer guide members 330 and 340. As the strapping tape moves through the strapping tape channel SC, it engages with guide rollers. The guide rollers help keep the strapping tape laterally centered in the strapping tape channel SC and limit contact between the strapping tape and the outer wall of the strapping tape channel SC, thereby reducing the possibility of debris formation and strapping tape damage.

[0057] First biasing element 380a and second biasing element 380b bias the first outer guide member 330 to its first position, and third biasing element 380c and fourth biasing element 380d bias the second outer guide member 340 to its first position. In this exemplary embodiment, biasing elements 380a to 380d are compression springs. Furthermore, in this exemplary embodiment: a first biasing element 380a surrounds a portion of the first spacer 370a between the first guide frame member 310 and the central guide member 350 and engages the first outer guide member 330 and the central guide member 350; a second biasing element 380b surrounds a portion of the fourth spacer 370d between the first guide frame member 310 and the central guide member 350 and engages the first outer guide member 330 and the central guide member 350; a third biasing element 380c surrounds a portion of the first spacer 370a between the second guide frame member 320 and the central guide member 350 and engages the second outer guide member 340 and the central guide member 350; and a fourth biasing element 380d surrounds a portion of the fourth spacer 370d between the second guide frame member 320 and the central guide member 350 and engages the second outer guide member 340 and the central guide member 350.

[0058] The first strapping channel width adjuster 360a and the second strapping channel width adjuster 360b control the position of the first outer guide member 330 and the second outer guide member 340, and thus control the width of the strapping channel partially defined by the lower strapping guide assembly 300, as described in detail below. In this exemplary embodiment, the first strapping channel width adjuster 360a and the second strapping channel width adjuster 360b are identical; therefore, only the first strapping channel width adjuster 360a is shown and described in detail. [Go to...] Figure 5C The first cable tie channel width adjuster 360a includes a head 362a, a neck 364a, a body 366a, and feet 368a. The head 362a is disc-shaped and has a toothed or knurled outer cylindrical surface to facilitate gripping and rotating the first cable tie channel width adjuster 360a (as described below). In other embodiments, the head is coated with or made of a high-friction material (such as rubber). The neck 364a extends from the head 362a, and in this exemplary embodiment, the head 362a is attached to the neck 364a via a fastener (not labeled). The neck 364a is cylindrical and defines a plurality of aligned, circumferentially spaced recesses 364a1 on its outer cylindrical surface. The body 366a extends from the neck 364a (and in this exemplary embodiment, is integrally formed with the neck 364a). A first helical width control groove 366a1 and a second helical width control groove 366a2 are defined on the outer cylindrical surface of the body 366a. The width control grooves 366a1 and 366a2 are mirror images of each other. For example, if the width control groove 366a1 is a right-handed helix, then the width control groove 366a2 is a left-handed helix, and vice versa. The foot 368a is cylindrical and extends from the body 366a (and in this exemplary embodiment, is integrally formed with the body 366a). The first strapping channel width adjuster 360a defines a rotation axis A. 360a The second cable tie channel width adjuster 360b has the same components, which are replaced by "b" in the element numbering of the corresponding element number of the first cable tie channel width adjuster 360a, which is "a".

[0059] The first cable tie channel width adjuster 360a and the second cable tie channel width adjuster 360b extend through openings defined in the first guide frame member 310 and the second guide frame member 320, the first outer guide member 330 and the second outer guide member 340, and the center guide member 350. The first cable tie channel width adjuster 360a and the second cable tie channel width adjuster 360b are fixed (e.g., via set screws, retaining clips or rings, or any other suitable means) such that these adjusters cannot be positioned relative to their respective axes of rotation A. 360a and A360b These components can move parallel or laterally, but can also move relative to their respective axis of rotation A. 360a and A 360b These components rotate. The first outer guide member guide 332 has a threaded body 332a and a protrusion 332b extending from the body 332a. The body 332a of the first outer guide member guide 332 is threadedly received in the first outer guide member 330, such that the protrusion 332b of the first outer guide member guide is received in the width control groove 366a1 of the body 366a of the first strapping tape channel width adjuster 360a. The second outer guide member guide 334 has a threaded body 334a and a protrusion 334b ​​extending from the body 334a. The body 334a of the second outer guide member guide 334 is threadedly received in the first outer guide member 330, such that the protrusion 334b ​​of the second outer guide member guide is received in the width control groove 366b1 of the body 366b of the second strapping tape channel width adjuster 360b. The third outer guide member guide 342 has a threaded body 342a and a protrusion 342b extending from the body 342a. The body 342a of the third outer guide member guide 342 is threadedly received in the second outer guide member 340, such that the protrusion 342b of the third outer guide member guide is received in the width control groove 366a2 of the body 366a of the first strapping tape channel width adjuster 360a. The fourth outer guide member guide 344 has a threaded body 344a and a protrusion 344b extending from the body 344a. The body 344a of the fourth outer guide member guide 344 is threadedly received in the second outer guide member 340, such that the protrusion 344b of the fourth outer guide member guide is received in the width control groove 366b2 of the body 366b of the second strapping tape channel width adjuster 360b.

[0060] like Figure 5A As shown in the optimal configuration, outer guide members 330 and 340 (together with the upper strapping guide assembly 400) define a strapping channel SC with a width W between these outer guide members. When the first outer guide member 330 and the second outer guide member 340 are in their respective second positions, referred to herein as the second (narrow) configuration, the width of the strapping channel SC is the minimum width W. MIN ( Figure 5D Conversely, when the first and second outer guide members are in their respective first positions, referred to herein as the first (wide) configuration, the width of the strapping channel SC is the maximum width W. MAX ( Figure 5E The width of the strapping channel SC can be adjusted to a minimum width W by rotating the first strapping channel width adjuster 360a and the second strapping channel width adjuster 360b. MIN With maximum width W MAXThe width of the strapping channel SC can be adjusted to accommodate different strapping sizes. In other words, the first strapping channel width adjuster 360a and the second strapping channel width adjuster 360b are operably connected to the first outer guide member 330 and the second outer guide member 340 to move the first and second outer guide members between their respective first and second positions, thereby adjusting the width of the strapping channel SC.

[0061] Specifically, as explained above, the protrusion of the outer guide member guide is received in the spiral width control groove of the strapping channel width adjuster. When the strapping channel width adjuster rotates, the protrusion moves along the groove and forces the outer guide members to move toward or away from each other (depending on the direction of rotation). Figure 5D and Figure 5E The second strapping channel width adjuster 360b is shown. Figure 5D In the middle, the first outer guide member 330 and the second outer guide member 340 are in a second (narrow) configuration (i.e., in their respective second positions), and the width of the strapping channel SC is W. MIN To move the first outer guide member 330 and the second outer guide member 340 away from each other and toward the first (wide) configuration, the operator moves clockwise (from...) Figure 5D and Figure 5E (From the angle shown) rotate the second strapping channel width adjuster 360b. Initially, the protrusions 334b ​​of the second guide position guide 334 and 344b of the fourth guide position guide 344 (received respectively in the first width control groove 366b1 and the second width control groove 366b2 of the body 366b of the second strapping channel width adjuster 366) are positioned at the ends of the grooves closest to the longitudinal center of the body. As the second strapping channel width adjuster 360b rotates, the walls defining the width control grooves force the protrusions to move outward, causing them to move along the grooves and toward the ends of the grooves furthest from the longitudinal center of the body. This, in turn, forces the first outer guide member 330 and the second outer guide member 340 to move toward the first configuration, as shown. Figure 5E As shown.

[0062] The cable tie channel width adjuster retainer 398 engages the cable tie channel width adjusters 360a and 360b to help hold the cable tie channel width adjusters 360a and 360b in their rotated positions by preventing rotation. In this exemplary embodiment, the cable tie channel width adjuster retainer 398 includes a spring plunger, but in other embodiments it may be any other suitable component. Figure 5FA cable tie channel width adjuster retainer is shown, engaging a second cable tie channel width adjuster 360b (another identical cable tie channel width adjuster retainer engaging a first cable tie channel width adjuster 360a, not shown for simplicity). The cable tie channel width adjuster retainer 398 includes: a body 398a threadedly received in a first guide frame member 310; a nose 398b securely received within a hole defined in the body 398a; and a biasing element 398c (here, a compression spring) biasing the nose 398b toward the opening of the hole such that a portion of the nose 398b protrudes from the hole. The cable tie channel width adjuster retainer 398 is positioned such that the nose 398b is adjacent to and received in a recess 364b1 of the neck 364a of the cable tie channel width adjuster 360. To rotate the cable tie channel width adjuster, a force must be overcome against the biasing element 398c. This prevents unnecessary rotation of the strapping channel width adjuster.

[0063] like Figures 6A to 6D As shown, the lower strapping guide assembly 300 is removably mounted to the strapping tensioning assembly frame 100, which is generally located above the tensioning assembly 500 (described below). Specifically, the lower strapping guide assembly 300 is removably mounted to a first (feed) and a second (discharge) lower strapping guide assembly support of the strapping tensioning assembly frame 100. In this exemplary embodiment, the first lower strapping guide assembly support includes first support member mounting elements 152 and 154, which are accessible via a first platform 150 ( Figure 6A Access is defined by openings 150a and 150b. The second lower strapping guide assembly support includes second support member mounting elements 162 and 164, which are accessible via a second platform 160 ( Figure 6A (Enter through the limited openings 160a and 160b.)

[0064] To mount the lower cable tie guide assembly 300 to the cable tie tensioning assembly frame 100, the lower portions of the first ends 314 and 324 of the first guide frame member 310 and the second guide frame member 320 are respectively inserted into openings 150a and 150b in the first platform 150, and positioned such that the first support member mounting elements 152 and 154 (i.e., the first lower cable tie guide assembly support in this exemplary embodiment) are received in their respective mounting openings 314a and 324a, as shown below. Figure 6BAs shown. The lower strapping guide assembly 300 then rotates about the first support member mounting elements 152 and 154 and toward the second platform 160 until: (1) the second end 316 of the first guide frame member 310 and the second end 326 of the second guide frame member 320 respectively lock onto the second support member mounting elements 162 and 164 (i.e., the second lower strapping guide assembly support in this exemplary embodiment); and (2) the noses 399a2 and 399b2 of the lower strapping guide assembly retainers 399a and 399b respectively engage the second support member mounting elements 162 and 164, as shown. Figure 6C and Figure 6D As shown.

[0065] Once the lower cable tie guide assembly 300 is in the operating position, the lower cable tie guide assembly retainers 399a and 399b hold the lower cable tie guide assembly in place. More specifically, the spring-biased noses 399a2 and 399b2 prevent the cable tie guide assembly 300 from rotating away from its operating position. To remove the lower cable tie guide assembly 300 from the cable tie tensioning assembly frame 100, the operator reverses the above sequence to ensure sufficient force is applied to overcome the force of the springs 399a3 and 399b3 of the lower cable tie guide assembly retainers 399a and 399b. Therefore, the operator does not require any tools to remove the lower cable tie guide assembly from the cable tie tensioning assembly frame (at least in this exemplary embodiment), making removal quick and easy.

[0066] In some embodiments, the second strapping guide assembly support defines an opening sized to receive a portion of the nose when the strapping guide assembly is in its operating position.

[0067] like Figure 3 As shown, the lower strapping guide assembly 300 (when mounted to the strapping tension assembly frame 100) is positioned such that the strapping engagement surface 840a of the tension wheel 840 extends into the first feed wheel receiving opening 300a, and the strapping engagement surface 840b of the tension wheel 840 extends into the second feed wheel receiving opening 300b, such that these surfaces can engage the strapping (when the strapping is received in the strapping channel SC).

[0068] Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figures 7A to 8D The upper strapping guide assembly 400, best shown in the diagram, cooperates with the lower strapping guide assembly 300 to form a strapping channel SC, and cooperates with the tensioning assembly 500 to tension the strapping. The upper strapping guide assembly 400 is adjustable to accommodate different strapping thicknesses and includes a housing 405, a strapping channel cover 410, a reverse roller assembly 420, and a reverse roller assembly mounting pin 430.

[0069] The upper strapping guide assembly 400 is mounted to the strapping tension assembly frame 100 and is in a closed position relative to the strapping tension assembly frame 100, the lower strapping guide assembly 300, the tension assembly 500, and the offset assembly 900. Figure 2 ) and opening position ( Figure 3 It pivots about a pivot (not shown) between ) . Gas spring 60 ( Figure 3 (or other suitable components) facilitates the pivoting of the upper cable tie guide assembly 400 from its closed position to its open position and holds the upper cable tie guide assembly 400 in the open position (until the upper cable tie guide assembly is forced back to the closed position against the force of the gas spring). When the upper cable tie guide assembly 400 is in its closed position, locking pins 50 can be inserted through the two ears 105a and 105b of the upper cable tie guide assembly 400 and the cable tie tensioning assembly frame 100 to lock the upper cable tie guide assembly 400 in place and prevent it from pivoting from its closed position to its open position. The locking pins 50 must be removed before the upper cable tie guide assembly 400 can pivot to its open position (e.g., ...). Figure 3 (As shown).

[0070] The housing 405 supports some (or all) of the other components of the strapping guide assembly 400 and can be formed by any suitable components arranged in any suitable configuration. In this exemplary embodiment, the housing 405 includes a handle 405b to facilitate carrying the strapping tensioning assembly 10.

[0071] The strapping channel cover 410 covers the lower strapping guide assembly 300 when the upper strapping guide assembly 400 is in its closed position, and cooperates with the lower strapping guide assembly 300 to form a strapping channel SC. The strapping channel cover 410 includes a base comprising a first outer guide member 412a, a second outer guide member 412b, and a center guide member 414 extending along the lateral center of the base between the first and second outer guide members. Figure 7B As shown in the optimal configuration, a first reverse roller receiving opening 410a is formed between the first outer guide member 412a and the separator 414, and a second reverse roller receiving opening 410b is formed between the second outer guide member 412b and the separator 414.

[0072] The cable tie channel cover 410 is removably mounted to the housing 405 (hereinafter referred to as such) via a first eccentric mounting pin 470 and a second eccentric mounting pin 480. Figures 8A to 8D(Explanation to be provided). The eccentric mounting pins 470 and 480 are operable (rotatable in this example) to control the distance between the strapping channel cover 410 and the lower strapping guide assembly 300, and thus control the height of the strapping channel SC (not labeled). In this exemplary embodiment, the first eccentric mounting pin 470 and the second eccentric mounting pin 480 are identical; therefore, only the second eccentric mounting pin 480 is shown and described in detail. The second eccentric mounting pin 480 includes a head 482, a body 484, and a foot 486. The head 482 is cylindrical and defines a plurality of aligned, circumferentially spaced recesses 482a on the outer cylindrical surface of the head 482. The body 484 is cylindrical and extends from the head 482 (and in this exemplary embodiment, is integrally formed with the head 482). The foot 486 is cylindrical and extends from the body 484 (and in this exemplary embodiment, is integrally formed with the body 484). The head 482 and the foot 486 define a longitudinal axis A. 482 The body 484 is defined by the longitudinal axis A. 482 Lateral deviation of longitudinal axis A 484 ,like Figure 8C As best shown. In other words, the body 484 is eccentrically mounted on the head 482 and the feet 486. The first eccentric mounting pin 470 has the same components.

[0073] like Figure 8D As shown, the head 482 and foot 486 of the second eccentric mounting pin 480 are received in an opening (not labeled) in the housing 405, and the body 484 of the eccentric mounting pin 480 extends through openings (not labeled) in the first outer guide member 412a and the second outer guide member 412b of the base of the cable ties channel cover 410. Due to this mounting configuration, the second eccentric mounting pin 480 is oriented relative to the housing 405 and the cable ties channel cover 410 about a first longitudinal axis A. 482 Rotation. Due to the eccentric mounting of the body 484 to the head 482 and feet 486, the rotation of the second eccentric mounting pin 480 causes the body 484 to rotate around the first longitudinal axis A. 482 Rotation causes the strapping channel cover 410 to move further away from or closer to the lower strapping guide assembly 300, thereby increasing or decreasing the height of the strapping channel SC. Although not labeled for clarity, a spring-biased retainer (similar to the one described above) Figure 5F The cable tie channel width adjuster retainer 398 shown engages with recess 482a to prevent unnecessary rotation of the eccentric mounting pin 480.

[0074] Figure 7A and Figure 7BThe reverse roller assembly 420, best illustrated, includes a first reverse roller support 421a and a second reverse roller support 421b supporting a first reverse roller 422 and a second reverse roller 423. The first reverse roller 422 includes spaced-apart circumferential strapping engagement surfaces 422a and 422b and is mounted between the first reverse roller support 421a and the second reverse roller support 421b via mounting pins (not labeled). Similarly, the second reverse roller 423 includes spaced-apart circumferential strapping engagement surfaces 423a and 423b and is mounted between the first reverse roller support 421a and the second reverse roller support 421b via mounting pins (not labeled). The first reverse roller 422 and the second reverse roller 423 are freely rotatable relative to the reverse roller supports 421a and 421b about their respective mounting pins. In this exemplary embodiment, each reverse roller includes a bearing (not labeled) through which the mounting pin of the reverse roller extends.

[0075] The reverse roller assembly 420 is mounted to the housing 405 via a reverse roller assembly mounting pin 430. Specifically, the reverse roller assembly mounting pin 430 is received in and extends through a spacer (not labeled) extending between the first reverse roller support 421a and the second reverse roller support 421b. The end of the reverse roller assembly mounting pin 430 is supported by the housing 405. Once installed, the reverse roller assembly 420 is rotatable about the reverse roller mounting pin 430 relative to the rest of the upper strapping guide assembly 400 and relative to the tensioning wheel 840. Once installed, the strapping engagement surfaces 422a and 423a of the reverse rollers 422 and 423 extend into the first reverse roller receiving opening 410a, and the strapping engagement surfaces 422b and 423b of the reverse rollers 422 and 423 extend into the second reverse roller receiving opening 410b, such that these surfaces can engage the strapping (when the strapping is received in the strapping channel) to ensure proper tension.

[0076] Figures 9A to 14C The tensioning assembly 500 shown tensions the strapping around the load. The tensioning assembly 500 includes a tensioning actuator 600, a drive gear 610, a gearbox 700, and a tensioning wheel assembly 800.

[0077] The tensioning actuator 600 (here an electric motor, but any suitable actuator can be used) is mounted to the cable ties tensioning assembly frame 100. The tensioning actuator 600 has a defined longitudinal axis A. 605 The output shaft (unmarked) is to which the drive gear 610 is fixedly mounted (e.g., via a keyed connection, splined connection, or other suitable connection) such that the output shaft and the drive gear 600 can rotate together around axis A. 605 And rotate relative to the strap tensioning assembly frame 100.

[0078] Figure 10The transmission 700, best illustrated, includes a first transmission gear 710, a second transmission gear 720, a mounting collar 730, and a transmission shaft (not shown). The first transmission gear 710 has a first outer diameter, and the second transmission gear 720 has a second outer diameter smaller than the first outer diameter. The first transmission gear 710 is fixedly mounted (e.g., via a keyed connection, splined connection, or other suitable connection) to one end of the transmission shaft, and the second transmission gear 720 is fixedly mounted (e.g., via a keyed connection, splined connection, or other suitable connection) to the transmission shaft adjacent to the first transmission gear 710, such that the first transmission gear 710, the second transmission gear 720, and the transmission shaft can together revolve around the longitudinal axis A of the transmission shaft. 705 Rotation. A mounting collar 730 (described below) is used to mount the transmission 700 to the strap tensioning assembly frame 100. The mounting collar is slidably mounted to the transmission output shaft, such that the transmission shaft is rotatable relative to the mounting collar 730 (which includes a bearing in some embodiments).

[0079] Figures 11A to 11E The tensioner assembly 800 shown in the best embodiment includes a tensioner assembly shaft 805, a driven gear 810, a tensioner assembly support 815, a tensioner positioner 820, a first flywheel 825, a tensioner support 830, a second flywheel 835, a tensioner 840, and a tensioner retainer 850.

[0080] The tensioner assembly support 815 includes a spaced-apart first mounting element 815a and a second mounting element 815b connected by a connecting element 815c. The first mounting element 815a includes a body (not labeled) having a transmission mounting foot 815a1 defining a transmission mounting opening (not labeled) through the body. The body also includes an offset assembly mounting arm 815a2. The body defines a tensioner assembly mounting opening (not labeled) through the body, in which a bearing (not labeled) is received. The second mounting element 815b includes a body (not labeled) having a transmission mounting foot 815b1 defining a transmission mounting opening (not labeled) through the body. The body defines a tensioner assembly mounting opening (not labeled) through the body, in which a bearing (not labeled) is received. The body also defines a locking opening 815b2 extending through the body, the size of which is determined to receive the locking pin 50 to facilitate locking the tension wheel 840 to prevent rotation, as described below.

[0081] The tensioner positioner 820 is best shown in Figure 11EThe device includes a sleeve 821 and a cam 822 extending radially from the sleeve 821. The cam 822 includes convex angles 822a, 822b, and 822c, separated by recesses 822d, 822e, and 822f, respectively. Each of the convex angles 822a, 822b, and 822c has a convex (constant or variable radius) perimeter with a peak of radius R1, and each of the recesses 822d, 822e, and 822f has a concave perimeter with a valley of radius R2 less than R1. In this exemplary embodiment, the valleys of the recesses 822d, 822e, and 822f are generally flat, although in other embodiments these valleys may be curved. Cam surface 822s ( Figure 11C The perimeter of the cam 822 is defined.

[0082] Driven gear 810 is fixedly mounted (e.g., via a keyed connection, splined connection, or other suitable connection) to one end of tensioner assembly shaft 805, such that driven gear 810 and tensioner assembly shaft 805 can rotate together around the longitudinal axis A of tensioner assembly shaft 805. 805 Rotation. The tensioner assembly shaft 805 extends through a bearing in the tensioner assembly support 815 to mount the tensioner assembly support 815 to the tensioner assembly shaft 805, such that the tensioner assembly shaft 805 can rotate relative to the tensioner assembly support 815 about axis A. 805 Rotation. The first flywheel 825 is mounted to the tensioner assembly shaft 805 located between the first mounting element 815a and the second mounting element 815b of the tensioner assembly support 815. The tensioner positioner 820 (via sleeve 821) is mounted to the first flywheel 825, so the tensioner positioner 820 and the first flywheel 825 can rotate together around axis A. 805 Rotation. In this exemplary embodiment, the first flywheel 825 is configured to: (1) rotate when the tensioner assembly shaft 805 is in the positioning (or first) rotation direction P ( Figure 11C During rotation, it rotates together with the tensioner assembly shaft 805 around axis A. 805 Rotation; and (2) when the tensioning wheel assembly shaft 805 rotates in a tensioning (or second) rotation direction T opposite to the positioning rotation direction P. Figure 11C When rotating, it does not rotate together with the tensioner assembly shaft 805.

[0083] The second flywheel 835 and the second mounting element 815b of the tensioner assembly support 815 are mounted adjacent to the tensioner assembly shaft 805, and the tensioner support 830 is mounted to the second flywheel 835. Therefore, the tensioner support 830 and the second flywheel 835 can rotate together around axis A. 805Rotation. In this exemplary embodiment, the second flywheel 835 is configured to: (1) not rotate with the tensioner assembly shaft 805 when the tensioner assembly shaft 805 rotates along the positioning rotation direction P; and (2) rotate with the tensioner assembly shaft 805 around the axis A when the tensioner assembly shaft 805 rotates along the tensioning rotation direction T. 805 Rotation. In other embodiments, the tensioner assembly 800 does not include a second flywheel 835, and the tensioner support 830 is fixedly attached (via key connection, spline connection or other suitable connection) to the tensioner assembly shaft 805 to rotate with it.

[0084] A tensioning pulley 840, having spaced-apart circumferential strapping engagement surfaces 840a and 840b, is removably mounted to a tensioning pulley support 830, so that the tensioning pulley 840 and the tensioning pulley support 830 can rotate together around axis A. 805 Rotation. (e.g.) Figure 15A As shown, they are circumferentially spaced (around axis A). 805 The locking opening 840o is defined by the tensioner 840 near its periphery. As described below, the locking opening 840o is sized to receive the locking pin 50 to facilitate locking the tensioner 840 and preventing rotation. In this exemplary embodiment, the tensioner support 830 includes three radially spaced (relative to axis A) 805 Mounting stud 832 ( Figure 11C and Figure 11D These mounting studs are received in the corresponding mounting openings 842 defined in the tensioner 840. Figure 11C and Figure 11D This ensures that the tensioner 840 and the tensioner support 830 rotate together around axis A. 805 Rotation. The tensioner retainer 850 is removably mounted to the tensioner support 830 to hold the tensioner 840 in place.

[0085] Although not shown for clarity, in this exemplary embodiment, the tensioner retainer 850 may be screwed onto a thread defined on the tensioner support 830. To remove the tensioner 840 (e.g., for cleaning or replacement), the operator moves the tensioner 840 about axis A, if necessary. 805 Rotate to align one of the locking openings 840o of the tensioner 840 with the locking opening 815b2 of the tensioner assembly support 815 (e.g., Figure 15A (As shown). Then, the operator inserts the locking pin 50 through these locking openings, as shown. Figure 15B As shown, this prevents the tensioner 840 from rotating around axis A. 805Rotate. Then, the operator removes the tensioner retainer 850 from the tensioner support 830 (here by loosening the tensioner retainer from the tensioner support 830) and slides the tensioner 840 out of the tensioner support 830. The operator reverses the process to install the tensioner 840 back into the tensioner support 830. In this embodiment, the operator does not need to reinsert the locking pin 50 into the locking opening 840o because the second flywheel 835 secures the tensioner support 830 to prevent rotation around axis A when the operator screws the tensioner retainer 850 back onto the tensioner support 830. 805 Rotation. The screw-in connection between the tensioner retainer 850 and the tensioner support 830, and the locking pin 50 of the strap tensioning assembly to lock the tensioner 840 to prevent rotation, means that the operator does not need any tools to remove the tensioner 840 from the tensioner support 830, making removal quick and easy.

[0086] Accordingly, when the tensioning wheel assembly shaft 805 rotates around axis A in the positioning rotation direction P... 805 During rotation, the driven wheel 810 and the tensioner positioner 820 rotate together with the tensioner assembly shaft 805, while the tensioner support 830, the tensioner 840, and the tensioner retainer remain stationary. When the tensioner assembly shaft 805 rotates around axis A... 805 When rotating in the tensioning rotation direction T, the driven wheel 810, tension wheel support 830, tension wheel 840 and tension wheel retainer 850 rotate together with the tension wheel assembly shaft 805, while the tension wheel positioner 820 remains stationary.

[0087] The tensioner assembly 800 is mounted to the transmission 700 such that the tensioner assembly 800 can be positioned relative to the transmission 700 (and most other components of the cable tie tensioner assembly 10) around the axis A of the transmission shaft. 705 Rotation. Specifically, and as... Figure 10 As shown, the transmission shaft extends through a transmission mounting opening defined in a foot 815a1 of the first mounting element 815a and a transmission mounting opening defined in a foot 815b1 of the second mounting element 815b (which may include a bearing) to mount the tensioner assembly 800 to the transmission shaft A. 705 This allows the tensioner assembly 800 to rotate about the gearbox shaft. The mounting collar 730 is clamped between feet 815a1 and 815b1 and is securely attached to the strap tensioner frame 100 via suitable fasteners (or any other suitable method). Figure 9B and Figure 10 As shown in the best embodiment, the drive gear 610 is driven to engage with the first transmission gear 710 of the transmission 700, and the second transmission gear 720 of the transmission 700 is driven to engage with the driven gear 810 of the tensioner assembly 800.

[0088] The tensioning assembly 800 can rotate around the axis A of the transmission shaft. 705 Rotate between the following positions: (1) Retracted position ( Figure 12C In the retracted position, the strapping engagement surfaces 840a and 840b of the tensioning wheel 840 are spaced apart from the strapping (when the strapping extends through the strapping channel SC); and (2) the tensioned position ( Figure 13C In this tensioned position, the strapping engagement surfaces 840a and 840b contact the strapping and force it against the reverse rollers 422 and 423 in preparation for tensioning (as the strapping extends through the strapping channel SC). And as described in detail below, during the strapping tensioning process, the tensioning assembly 800 continues to rotate around axis A. 705 Rotate away from the tensioned position and the retracted position.

[0089] exist Figure 12A , Figure 13A and Figure 14A The biasing assembly 900, best shown in the embodiment, biases the tension wheel assembly 800 away from its retracted position and toward its tensioned position. The biasing assembly 900 includes a body 910 having a head 910a and a foot 910b, a retainer 920 mounted to the foot 910b of the body 910, and a biasing element 930. In this exemplary embodiment, the body 910 is cylindrical and extends through a hole (not shown) defined by a biasing assembly support 190 of the strap tensioning assembly frame 100. The head 910a of the body 910 is fixedly attached to a biasing assembly mounting arm 815a2 of a first mounting element 815a of the tension wheel assembly 800. The biasing element 930, in this exemplary embodiment, is a spring that defines the body 910 and extends between the retainer 920 mounted to the foot 910b of the body 910 and the biasing assembly support 190. This configuration causes the biasing assembly 900 (and in particular the biasing element 930) to bias the tensioning wheel assembly 800 away from its retracted position and toward its tensioned position.

[0090] The rotational position of the tensioner positioner 820 partially controls the tensioning assembly 800 about axis A of the transmission shaft. 705 The rotational position. For example... Figure 12B , Figure 13B and Figure 14B As shown in the optimal configuration, the cam follower 1000 is fixedly mounted to the strapping tensioning assembly frame 1000. When the tensioning wheel positioner 820 is in the retracted rotation position ( Figure 12BWhen the tensioner assembly 800 is in its retracted position, the peak of one of the lobes 822a, 822b, and 822c of the cam 822 engages the cam follower 1000. The geometry of the cam 822 and the position of the cam follower 1000 cause the tensioner assembly 800 to be in its retracted position, in which the strapping engagement surfaces 840a and 840b of the tensioner 840 are spaced apart from the strapping S. Figure 12C When the tensioning wheel positioner 820 rotates away from its retracted rotation position and toward its tensioning rotation position ( Figure 13B When the convex angles 822a, 822b, or 822c rotate, the peaks disengage from the cam follower 1000. When this occurs, the biasing assembly 900 pulls the tensioner assembly 800 away from its retracted position, forcing the cam surface 822s to remain in contact with the cam follower 1000. As the distance between the cam surface 822s and the cam follower 1000 decreases, the tensioner assembly 800 rotates around axis A. 705 Rotate toward the reverse rollers 422 and 423.

[0091] When the tensioning wheel positioner 820 reaches its tensioned rotation position, the strapping engagement surfaces 840a and 840b of the tensioning wheel 840 engage the strapping S and force the strapping S against the reverse rollers 422 and 423. Figure 13C This prevents the tensioner assembly 800 from rotating around axis A. 705 Rotation. At this point, the valley of one of the recessed portions 822d, 822e, and 822f is adjacent to (but not in contact with) the cam follower 1000. This space between the valley and the cam follower allows the tensioning wheel assembly 800 to rotate further during tensioning to increase the force applied to the strapping by the tensioning wheel 840, as described in detail below.

[0092] Now combine Figures 12A to 14C The description describes the operation of the cable tie tensioning assembly 10 to tension the cable tie S around the load L. Initially, as... Figures 12A to 12C As shown, the tensioner positioner 820 is in its retracted rotational position, meaning that the tensioner assembly 800 and the tensioner 840 are in their respective retracted rotational positions. The strapping delivery assembly FM delivers the strapping to the inlet IN, through the strapping channel SC, out of the outlet OUT, into and through the sealing assembly SM, into the strapping groove CH, and around the strapping groove. After the sealing assembly grips the front end of the strapping, the strapping delivery assembly FM retracts the strapping from the strapping groove CH and places it onto the load L.

[0093] After the strapping has retracted from the strapping groove CH and is positioned on the load L, the strapping tensioning assembly 10 tensions the strapping S to a specified tension (which can be preset by the operator). Specifically, the controller C controls the tensioning actuator 600 to cause the output shaft and drive gear 610 to rotate around axis A.605 The transmission 700 rotates along the positioning rotation direction P (counterclockwise in this exemplary embodiment). The transmission 700 (particularly the first transmission gear 710 and the second transmission gear 720) transmits this driving motion to the driven gear 810 of the transmission wheel assembly 800, causing the drive gear 810 to rotate along the positioning rotation direction P, which in turn causes the transmission wheel assembly shaft 805 to rotate along the positioning rotation direction P. When this occurs, the tensioner positioner 820 rotates together with the transmission wheel assembly shaft 805 along the positioning rotation direction P, while the tensioner support 830 and the tensioner 840 do not rotate together with the transmission wheel assembly shaft 805 along the positioning rotation direction P.

[0094] When the tension wheel positioner 820 reaches its tensioned rotation position, the biasing assembly 900 pulls the tension wheel assembly 800 and the tension wheel 840 to their respective tensioned rotation positions. In these tensioned rotation positions, the strapping engagement surfaces 840a and 840b of the tension wheel 840 engage the strapping S and force the strapping S against the reverse rollers 422 and 423, as shown. Figures 13A to 13C As shown. After the tensioner positioner 820 reaches its tensioned rotational position (which can be detected by a sensor), the controller C controls the tension actuator 600 to rotate the output shaft and drive gear 610 in the tensioning rotation direction T (clockwise in this exemplary embodiment). The transmission 700 (specifically the first transmission gear 710 and the second transmission gear 720) transmits this driving motion to the driven gear 810 of the transmission wheel assembly 800, causing the drive gear 810 to rotate in the tensioning rotation direction T, which in turn causes the transmission wheel assembly shaft 805 to rotate in the tensioning rotation direction T. When this occurs, the tensioner positioner 820 does not rotate in the tensioning rotation direction T with the transmission wheel assembly shaft 805, and the tensioner support 830 and the tensioner 840 rotate in the tensioning rotation direction T with the transmission wheel assembly shaft 805.

[0095] The rotation of the tensioning wheel 840 along the tensioning direction T causes the tensioning wheel to apply tension to the strapping S to tension the strapping S around the load L. Due to the geometry and positioning of the components and the space between the cam follower and the valley of the cam recess, as the tensioning wheel 840 tensions the strapping, the tensioning wheel assembly 800 slightly creeps further away from the retracted rotational position and the tensioning rotational position, as... Figures 14A to 14C As shown. This reduces the space between the cam follower 1000 and the valley of the cam 822. This also increases the pressure applied to the strapping S by the tensioner 840, which reduces the likelihood that the strapping will slip during tensioning. The higher the strapping tension, the greater this pressure.

[0096] Once the specified tension is reached in the strapping (which can be determined by monitoring the current consumption of the tensioning actuator 600), the sealing assembly SM cuts the strapping from the strapping supply to form the strapping tail and attaches the strapping front and tail to each other. After the sealing assembly forms and holds the strapping tail (or after the sealing assembly holds the strapping which will become part of the strapping tail), the controller C controls the tensioning actuator 600 to cause the output shaft and drive gear 610 to rotate around axis A. 605 The drive gear 700 rotates in the positioning rotation direction P (counterclockwise in this exemplary embodiment). The transmission 700 (particularly the first transmission gear 710 and the second transmission gear 720) transmits this driving motion to the driven gear 810 of the transmission wheel assembly 800, causing the drive gear 810 to rotate in the positioning rotation direction P, which in turn causes the transmission wheel assembly shaft 805 to rotate in the positioning rotation direction P. When this occurs, the tensioner positioner 820 rotates together with the transmission wheel assembly shaft 805 in the positioning rotation direction P, while the tensioner support 830 and the tensioner 840 do not rotate together with the transmission wheel assembly shaft 805 in the positioning rotation direction P. When this occurs, the cam 822 engages the cam follower 1000 when its peak reaches the cam follower 1000, ultimately forcing the tensioner assembly 800 to move to its retracted position in preparation for the next strapping tensioning process.

[0097] This strapping tensioning assembly improves upon existing strapping tensioning assemblies in several ways. First, it allows the operator to quickly and easily (and in some embodiments, without tools) adjust the width and height of the strapping channel to accommodate strapping of different widths and / or thicknesses. Specifically, as described in more detail above, by simply manipulating the strapping channel width adjuster and the eccentric mounting pin, the operator can ensure that these components are in the optimal position for the specific strapping being used. Second, the use of a self-excited tensioning wheel eliminates the need for additional actuators and the complexity of additional control procedures, which reduces costs and eliminates potential points of failure. Third, the use of a self-excited tensioning wheel prevents fragile (e.g., thinner) strapping from being pressed too hard against the reverse roller and thus damaged. Such damage can occur in some existing strapping tensioning assemblies that include actuators that use the same force to press the strapping against the reverse roller, regardless of the strapping size.

[0098] Although exemplary embodiments of the strap tensioning assembly described above include: (1) a lower strap guide configured to allow an operator to adjust the width of the strap channel; (2) an upper strap guide configured to allow an operator to adjust the height of the strap channel; and (3) a self-excited tensioning wheel, in other embodiments, the strap tensioning assembly includes any two or only one of these features, rather than all three.

[0099] In other embodiments, the lower strapping guide assembly includes only one movable outer guide member that partially defines the strapping channel (together with another stationary outer guide member and / or the strapping guide assembly frame). In this embodiment, rotation of the strapping channel width adjuster moves the movable outer guide member as described above.

[0100] In other embodiments, the lower strapping guide assembly includes only one strapping channel width adjuster or more than one strapping channel width adjuster.

[0101] In other embodiments, the strap tensioning assembly includes an actuator operably connected to the strap channel width adjuster (or to the outer guide member) and configured to manipulate the strap channel width adjuster to move the outer guide member. In yet another embodiment, the strap channel width adjuster includes an actuator directly connected to the outer guide member and configured to move the outer guide member.

[0102] In several different embodiments, the strapping tensioning assembly includes only one of the following: (1) the lower strapping guide assembly includes one or more outer guide members movable to change the width of the strapping channel; and (2) the upper strapping guide assembly includes eccentric mounting pins actuated to change the distance between the reverse roller and the feed roller. In some embodiments, one or more of other components of the strapping machine (such as the strapping tensioning assembly and / or the strapping sealing assembly) include the lower strapping guide assembly and / or the upper strapping guide assembly.

[0103] In other embodiments, the strapping tensioning assembly includes a mechanical stop positioned to engage a portion of the tensioning wheel assembly to prevent the tensioning wheel from contacting the reverse roller in the absence of strapping between these components. In some embodiments, the mechanical stop is positioned such that the distance between the tensioning wheel and the reverse roller is less than the thickness of the thinnest strapping to which the strapping tensioning assembly is configured to tension.

Claims

1. A cable tie tensioning assembly, comprising: Cable tie tensioning assembly frame; A reverse roller, which is supported by the strapping tensioning assembly frame; Tensioning assembly, supported by the strapping tensioning assembly frame and comprising: The tensioner assembly includes: Tensioner assembly shaft, the tensioner assembly shaft defining a rotation axis; A tensioning wheel, mounted on the shaft of the tensioning wheel assembly and rotatable about the axis of rotation, wherein the tensioning wheel assembly is movable from a retracted position and a tensioned position, wherein in the retracted position the tensioning wheel is at a first distance from the reverse roller, and in the tensioned position the tensioning wheel is at a smaller second distance from the reverse roller; and A tensioner positioner, the tensioner positioner being mounted on the shaft of the tensioner assembly and capable of rotating about the axis of rotation from a retracted rotational position to a tensioned rotational position, thereby moving the tensioner assembly from the retracted position to the tensioned position; and A tensioning actuator, operably connected to the tensioning wheel assembly shaft, is used to rotate the tensioning wheel assembly shaft in a tensioning rotation direction and in a positioning rotation direction opposite to the tensioning rotation direction. Wherein, the tensioning wheel and the tensioning wheel positioner are mounted to the tensioning wheel assembly shaft, such that: When the tensioner assembly shaft rotates about the rotation axis in the tensioning rotation direction, the tensioner rotates together with the tensioner assembly shaft, and the tensioner positioner does not rotate with the tensioner assembly shaft. When the tension wheel assembly shaft rotates around the rotation axis in the positioning rotation direction, the tension wheel positioner rotates together with the tension wheel assembly shaft, and the tension wheel does not rotate together with the tension wheel assembly shaft.

2. The strapping tensioning assembly as described in claim 1, wherein, The tension wheel positioner is mounted to the tension wheel assembly shaft via a flywheel. When the tension actuator rotates the tension wheel assembly shaft in the positioning rotation direction, the flywheel operably connects the tension actuator to the tension wheel positioner. When the tension actuator rotates the tension wheel assembly shaft in the tensioning rotation direction, the flywheel does not operably connect the tension actuator to the tension wheel positioner.

3. The strapping tensioning assembly as described in claim 2, wherein, The flywheel is configured such that the tension wheel positioner rotates together with the tension wheel assembly shaft in the positioning rotation direction, and therefore the tension wheel positioner does not rotate together with the tension wheel assembly shaft in the tensioning rotation direction.

4. The strapping tensioning assembly as described in claim 3, wherein, The tensioner assembly further includes a tensioner support, the tensioner support being mounted to the tensioner assembly shaft for rotation with the tensioner assembly shaft, wherein the tensioner is removably mounted to the tensioner support for rotation with the tensioner support.

5. The strapping tensioning assembly as described in claim 3, wherein, The flywheel includes a first flywheel, wherein the tension wheel is mounted to the tension wheel assembly shaft via a second flywheel, wherein the second flywheel operably connects the tension actuator to the tension wheel when the tension actuator rotates the tension wheel assembly shaft in the tension rotation direction, and does not operably connect the tension actuator to the tension wheel when the tension actuator rotates the tension wheel assembly shaft in the positioning rotation direction.

6. The strapping tensioning assembly as described in claim 5, wherein, The second flywheel is configured such that the tension wheel rotates together with the tension wheel assembly shaft in the tensioning rotation direction, and therefore the tension wheel does not rotate together with the tension wheel assembly shaft in the positioning rotation direction.

7. The strapping tensioning assembly as described in claim 3, wherein, The tension actuator includes an output shaft. The tensioning assembly further includes a drive gear fixedly connected to the output shaft to rotate together with the output shaft; The tensioner assembly further includes a driven gear, which is fixedly connected to the tensioner assembly shaft to rotate together with the tensioner assembly shaft; and The tensioning assembly further includes a transmission that operatively connects the drive gear to the driven gear.

8. The strapping tensioning assembly as described in claim 7, wherein, The transmission includes one or more transmission gears fixedly mounted to a transmission shaft for rotation with the transmission shaft, wherein the one or more transmission gears operatively connect the drive gear to the driven gear, and wherein the tensioner assembly is mounted to the transmission shaft and is rotatable about the transmission shaft from the retracted position to the tensioned position.

9. The strapping tensioning assembly of claim 8, further comprising an offsetting assembly that offsets the tensioning wheel assembly toward the tensioning position.

10. The strapping tensioning assembly as claimed in claim 9, wherein, The tension wheel positioner includes a cam with a convex angle and a concave region. The convex angle includes a peak positioned at a third distance from the axis of rotation, and the concave region includes a valley positioned at a smaller fourth distance from the axis of rotation. When the tension wheel positioner is in the retracted rotational position, the convex angle engages a cam follower supported by the strap tensioning assembly frame, and the valley is adjacent to the cam follower when the tension wheel positioner is in the tensioned rotational position.

11. The strapping tensioning assembly as claimed in claim 10, wherein, When the tension wheel positioner is in the tensioning rotation position, the valley is spaced apart from the cam follower.

12. The strapping tensioning assembly as described in claim 5, wherein, The tensioner assembly further includes a tensioner support mounted to the tensioner assembly shaft via the second flywheel, wherein the tensioner is removably mounted to the tensioner support to rotate together with the tensioner support.

13. A strapping tensioning assembly, comprising: Cable tie tensioning assembly frame; A reverse roller, which is supported by the strapping tensioning assembly frame; Tensioning assembly, supported by the strapping tensioning assembly frame and comprising: The tensioner assembly includes: Tensioner assembly shaft, the tensioner assembly shaft defining a rotation axis; A tension wheel support is mounted on the shaft of the tension wheel assembly and is rotatable about the axis of rotation, wherein the tension wheel assembly is movable from a retracted position and a tensioned position, wherein in the retracted position the tension wheel is at a first distance from the reverse roller, and in the tensioned position the tension wheel is at a smaller second distance from the reverse roller; A tensioner positioner, mounted on the tensioner assembly shaft and rotatable about the axis of rotation from a retracted rotational position to a tensioned rotational position, to move the tensioner assembly from the retracted position to the tensioned position, wherein the tensioner positioner includes a cam, the cam including a convex angle and a concave region, the convex angle including a peak positioned at a third distance from the axis of rotation, and the concave region including a valley positioned at a smaller fourth distance from the axis of rotation, wherein when the tensioner positioner is in the retracted rotational position, the convex angle engages a cam follower supported by the strap tensioner assembly frame, and wherein when the tensioner positioner is in the tensioned rotational position, the valley is spaced apart from the cam follower; and A tensioning actuator is operably connected to the tensioning wheel to rotate the tensioning wheel about the axis of rotation in the direction of tensioning rotation.

14. The strapping tensioning assembly as claimed in claim 13, wherein, The tensioning actuator is operably connected to the tensioning wheel assembly shaft to rotate the tensioning wheel assembly shaft in both the tensioning rotation direction and the positioning rotation direction, wherein the tensioning wheel and the tensioning wheel positioner are mounted to the tensioning wheel assembly shaft such that: When the tensioner assembly shaft rotates about the rotation axis in the tensioning rotation direction, the tensioner rotates together with the tensioner assembly shaft, and the tensioner positioner does not rotate with the tensioner assembly shaft. When the tension wheel assembly shaft rotates around the rotation axis in the positioning rotation direction, the tension wheel positioner rotates together with the tension wheel assembly shaft, and the tension wheel does not rotate together with the tension wheel assembly shaft.

15. The strapping tensioning assembly as claimed in claim 14, wherein, The tension wheel positioner is mounted to the tension wheel assembly shaft via a flywheel. When the tension actuator rotates the tension wheel assembly shaft in the positioning rotation direction, the flywheel operably connects the tension actuator to the tension wheel positioner. When the tension actuator rotates the tension wheel assembly shaft in the tensioning rotation direction, the flywheel does not operably connect the tension actuator to the tension wheel positioner.

16. The strapping tensioning assembly as claimed in claim 15, wherein, The flywheel is configured such that the tension wheel positioner rotates together with the tension wheel assembly shaft in the positioning rotation direction, and therefore the tension wheel positioner does not rotate together with the tension wheel assembly shaft in the tensioning rotation direction.

17. The strapping tensioning assembly as claimed in claim 16, wherein, The tensioner assembly further includes a tensioner support, the tensioner support being mounted to the tensioner assembly shaft for rotation with the tensioner assembly shaft, wherein the tensioner is removably mounted to the tensioner support for rotation with the tensioner support.

18. The strapping tensioning assembly as claimed in claim 16, wherein, The flywheel includes a first flywheel, wherein the tension wheel is mounted to the tension wheel assembly shaft via a second flywheel, wherein the second flywheel operably connects the tension actuator to the tension wheel when the tension actuator rotates the tension wheel assembly shaft in the tension rotation direction, and does not operably connect the tension actuator to the tension wheel when the tension actuator rotates the tension wheel assembly shaft in the positioning rotation direction.

19. The strapping tensioning assembly as claimed in claim 18, wherein, The second flywheel is configured such that the tension wheel rotates together with the tension wheel assembly shaft in the tensioning rotation direction, and therefore the tension wheel does not rotate together with the tension wheel assembly shaft in the positioning rotation direction.

20. The strapping tensioning assembly of claim 13, further comprising a biasing assembly that biases the tensioning wheel assembly toward the tensioning position.

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