Binding device with combined tensioning and welding assembly

Abstract

Various embodiments of the present disclosure provide a strapping device that includes a tensioning and welding plate, a tensioning and welding wheel, a rotatable welding actuator, and at least one motor. The tensioning and welding wheel is rotatable relative to the tensioning and welding plate and axially movable relative to the tensioning and welding plate between a first axial position and a second axial position. The welding actuator is operably connected to the tensioning and welding wheel such that rotation of the welding actuator forces the tensioning and welding wheel to move axially between the first axial position and the second axial position in a reciprocating motion. The at least one motor is operably connected to the tensioning and welding wheel to rotate the tensioning and welding wheel, and is operably connected to the welding actuator to rotate the welding actuator.

Description

priority

[0001] This application claims priority and benefit to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 589,097, filed October 10, 2023, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] This disclosure relates to strapping devices, and more specifically to strapping devices configured to tension a strap around a load and to attach overlapping layers of the strap to each other via friction welding to form a tensioned strap loop around the load. Background Technology

[0003] The strapping device is configured to tension the straps around a load and attach overlapping layers of the straps to each other to form a tensioned strap loop around the load. Handheld strapping tools are a common type of strapping device and can be electric, pneumatic, or manual. Some strapping tools (such as those configured for use with plastic or paper strapping) use friction welding to attach overlapping upper and lower layers of strapping to each other.

[0004] To form a tensioned strap loop around a load using one of these strapping tools, the operator first pulls the front end of the strap from the strap supply source, wraps the strap around the load, and positions the lower layer of strap (including the front end) below the upper layer. The operator introduces overlapping strap layers into the strapping tool such that they extend between the toothed tension wheel and toothed tension plate, and between the toothed weld shoes and toothed weld plates. The tension wheel and tension plate are typically positioned near the front of the strapping tool, while the weld shoes and weld plates are positioned behind them and aligned with them in the longitudinal direction of the strap. The tension wheel is spring-biased to force the strap layers against the tension plate, while initially the weld shoes do not contact the strap.

[0005] The operator presses a button to initiate the tensioning process, during which the tensioning wheel rotates to move the upper strap layer over the lower strap layer and tension the strap around the load. After the tensioning process is complete, the sealing process is initiated. During the sealing process, the welding shoes force the strap layers against the welding plate. As the welding shoes apply welding force to the strap layers, the motor causes the welding shoes to reciprocate at a high frequency. The reciprocating motion of the welding shoes causes the upper strap layer to reciprocate relative to the lower strap layer, which generates friction between the overlapping portions of the strap layers, causing these portions to melt locally. The motor stops reciprocating the welding shoes, but the welding shoes continue to apply welding force. The molten portions of the overlapping strap layers join together and solidify as they cool, thus attaching the upper and lower strap layers to form a tensioned strap loop.

[0006] Some known strapping tools that use friction welding to attach the strap layers to each other include separate components (and sometimes even a separate motor) for tensioning and locking the straps. This can make these devices relatively heavy. Since strapping tool operators may use handheld strapping tools hundreds of times a day, there is a need to make the strapping tools as light as possible (without sacrificing performance).

[0007] Some known strapping tools include a base plate that separates the tension plate and weld plate from the load and rests on the load during operation. Because the weld plate is behind the tension wheel and aligned with the tension plate, the base plate is relatively long. This hinders the operator from using the strapping tool to strap loads with relatively small radii of curvature, such as small bundles of metal pipe, because the length of the base plate prevents the strapping from maintaining sufficient tension after the strapping tool is removed from the load. Since this limits the potential applications of these strapping tools, there is a need for strapping tools with shorter base plates. Summary of the Invention

[0008] Various embodiments of this disclosure provide a strapping device including a tensioning and welding plate, a tensioning and welding wheel, a rotatable welding actuator, and at least one motor. The tensioning and welding wheel is rotatable relative to the tensioning and welding plate and axially movable relative to the tensioning and welding plate between a first axial position and a second axial position. The welding actuator is operatively connected to the tensioning and welding wheel such that rotation of the welding actuator forces the tensioning and welding wheel to move axially between the first axial position and the second axial position in a reciprocating motion. The at least one motor is operatively connected to the tensioning and welding wheel to rotate it, and is operatively connected to the welding actuator to rotate it. Attached Figure Description

[0009] Figure 1A This is a perspective view of an example embodiment of the strapping tool disclosed herein.

[0010] Figure 1B yes Figure 1A A block diagram of some components of a binding tool.

[0011] Figure 2A To Figure 2C is Figure 1A A diagram showing how a strapping tool secures a load to a tray.

[0012] Figure 2D It is by Figure 1A and Figure 1B A three-dimensional view of the friction-welded strap joint formed by the binding device.

[0013] Figure 3A and Figure 3B yes Figure 1A A three-dimensional view of the working components of the binding tool.

[0014] Figure 4A and Figure 4B Similar to Figure 3A and Figure 3B However, some components of the working components have been removed.

[0015] Figure 5A yes Figure 3A and Figure 3B A three-dimensional view of the tensioning and welding components of the working components.

[0016] Figure 5B yes Figure 5A Exploded 3D view of the tensioning and welding components.

[0017] Figure 5C yes Figure 5A The tensioning and welding components along Figure 5A A three-dimensional view of the cross-section taken from line 5C-5C.

[0018] Figure 6 yes Figures 5A to 5C Front view of the first retainer of the tensioning and welding assembly.

[0019] Figure 7 yes Figures 5A to 5C Front view of the second retainer of the tensioning and welding assembly.

[0020] Figure 8A and Figure 8B yes Figures 5A to 5C A three-dimensional view of the welding actuator of the tensioning and welding assembly.

[0021] Figure 8C yes Figure 8A and Figure 8B A side elevation view of the welding actuator.

[0022] Figure 8D yes Figure 8A and Figure 8B Front view of the welding actuator.

[0023] Figures 9A to 9E It is when the welding actuator rotates and the tensioning and welding wheel moves axially relative to the tensioning and welding plate. Figures 5A to 5C Tensioning and welding components and Figure 3A and Figure 3B The side elevation view of the tensioning of the support components of the working components and the welding plate. Detailed Implementation

[0024] While the systems, apparatuses, and methods described herein can be implemented in various forms, the accompanying drawings and the specification describe certain exemplary and non-limiting embodiments. Not all components shown in the drawings and described in the specification 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 specification 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, connected, etc. 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.

[0025] Figures 1A to 9E An example embodiment of the strapping device of this disclosure is shown, along with some of its components and parts, which takes the form of a battery-powered handheld strapping tool 50. (See also...) Figure 2A As shown in Figure 2C, the strapping tool 50 is configured to perform a strapping process to tension and lock the strap S (a plastic strap in this example embodiment) around a load L on the tray P, forming a tensioned strap loop that secures the load L to the tray P. The operator pulls the strap S from a strap supply source (not shown) and wraps the strap around the load L and through an opening in the tray P until the lower layer LL of the strap S (which includes the front end of the strap S) is positioned below the upper layer UL of the strap S, as shown. Figure 2A As shown. The operator then introduces the overlapping upper UL and lower LL of the strap S into the strapping tool 50 and actuates one or more buttons to initiate the strapping process. As... Figure 2B As shown, the strapping tool 50 first performs a tensioning process, during which the strapping tool 50 tensions the strap S around the load L. Once the preset tension is reached in the strap S, as shown in Figure 2C, the strapping tool 50 performs a sealing process, during which the strapping tool 50 connects the upper UL and lower LL of the strap S to each other via friction welding to form a strap joint SJ, as shown. Figure 2D As shown, the strap S is cut from the strap supply source.

[0026] The strapping tool 50 includes a housing 100, a working component 200, a display component 1300, an actuation component 1400, a power supply, a controller 1600, and one or more sensors 1700.

[0027] exist Figure 1AThe diagram shows that housing 100 is formed of multiple components that together at least partially enclose and / or support some or all of the other components and parts of the strapping tool 50. In this example embodiment, housing 100 includes a front housing section 110, a rear housing section 120, and a handle section 150. The front housing section 110 at least partially encloses and / or supports at least some of the components of the working assembly 200 and the actuation assembly 1400. The rear housing section 120 at least partially encloses and / or supports at least some of the components of the display assembly 1300 and defines a receiving seat 122 that is sized, shaped, and otherwise configured to receive and at least partially enclose and / or support the power supply and controller 1600. The housing handle section 150 extends between and connects the top and bottom of the front housing section 110 and the top and bottom of the rear housing section 120, and defines a handle usable by the operator. This is merely an example, and in other embodiments, the components of the strapping tool may be supported and / or enclosed by any suitable portion of the housing 100. The housing 100 may take any suitable shape and be formed from any suitable number of components connected together in any suitable manner. In this example embodiment, the housing 100 is formed of plastic, but in other embodiments, the housing may be made of any other suitable material.

[0028] exist Figure 1A and Figures 3A to 4B The working assembly 200, best shown in the diagram, includes most of the components of the strapping tool 50, which are configured to perform a strapping process to tension the straps around a load and attach overlapping layers of the straps to each other. The working assembly 200 includes a support 300, a tensioning and welding assembly 400, a transmission 500, a motor 600, and a manual lever 800.

[0029] exist Figures 3A to 4B The support member 300, best shown in the diagram, serves as a direct or indirect common mounting for the tensioning and welding assembly 400, the transmission device 500, and the motor 600. The support member 300 includes a base 310, a first mounting member 320a, a second mounting member 320b, a third mounting member 320c, a fourth mounting member 320d, a fifth mounting member 320e, and a tensioning and welding plate 330. The base 310 is generally rectangular, and the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth mounting members 320a, 320b, 320c, 320d, and 320e extend upward from the base 310 and are integrally formed with the base in this embodiment. The mounting member 320 serves as a mounting for various components of the working assembly 200, as described below. The tensioning and welding plate 330 includes concave, toothed tensioning and welding surfaces. This is only one example configuration of the support member 300, and other embodiments may be configured differently.

[0030] exist Figures 5A to 8DThe tensioning and welding assembly 400, best shown in the diagram, is configured to tension the strap around a load during the tensioning process and to locally melt and join overlapping portions of the strap together via friction welding during the sealing process to form a tensioned strap loop around the load. The tensioning and welding assembly 400 includes a driven shaft 405; a first collar 410a and a second collar 410b; a first spacer seat 412a and a second spacer seat 412b; a tensioning and welding wheel 415; a tensioning and welding wheel fastener 415f; a welding actuator housing 420; a first retainer 425; a first retainer fastener 425f; a first retainer locating pin 425p; a second retainer 430; a second retainer fastener 430f; a second retainer locating pin 430p; a first spacer 435; a second spacer 445; a welding actuator 450; and a bearing 450b.

[0031] The driven shaft 405 is sized, shaped, designed, positioned, and oriented, and otherwise configured to drively engage with the transmission 500, as described below, and around axis A. 415 Rotation, in this example embodiment, the axis is coaxial with the longitudinal axis of the driven shaft 405. In this example embodiment, the driven shaft 405 is a splined shaft.

[0032] The first collar 410a and the second collar 410b are fixedly mounted to the driven shaft 405 in a spaced-apart manner, such that the first collar 410a and the second collar 410b can rotate together with the driven shaft 405 around axis A. 415 Rotates, and can move along axis A together with driven shaft 405. 415 Axial movement. In this example embodiment, the first collar 410a and the second collar 410b include spline clamping collars, but in other embodiments they can be any suitable components.

[0033] The tensioning and welding wheel 415 includes an annular body that is substantially enclosed on one side by a mounting plate and has a toothed cylindrical outer surface. A tensioning and welding wheel fastener 415f attaches the tensioning and welding wheel 415 to the first collar 410a via the mounting plate. Once attached, the tensioning and welding wheel 415 can rotate around axis A together with the first collar 410a and the driven shaft 405. 415 Rotates, and can move along axis A together with the first ring 410a and the driven shaft 405. 415 Axial movement.

[0034] The welding actuator housing 420 is substantially tubular and serves as a mounting for the first retainer 425, the second retainer 430, and the welding actuator 450. The welding actuator housing 420 surrounds but does not contact the driven shaft 405 and is positioned between the first collar 410a and the second collar 410b.

[0035] exist Figure 6 The first retainer 425 shown in the best embodiment allows the first spacer 425 to be positioned parallel to axis A. 415 They move axially in the direction of [a certain direction], while preventing them from moving around axis A. 415 Rotation or falling off from the tensioning and welding assembly 400. The first retainer 425 includes an annular hub 425h and a plurality of circumferentially spaced arms 425a extending radially outward from the hub 425h. In this example embodiment, the arms 425a are generally circumferentially equidistant, but the spacing may be different in other embodiments. The hub 425h passes through which five cylindrical spacer receiving holes 425o are defined. The spacer receiving holes 425o are each sized and shaped to receive one of the first spacers 435, as described below. In this example embodiment, the center of each spacer receiving hole 425o is located at a radius R from the center of the hub 425h, the center of which is located on axis A. 415 Above. Additionally, in this example embodiment, the spacer receiving holes 425o are circumferentially equidistant, such that the center of each spacer receiving hole 425o is offset from the center of each adjacent spacer receiving hole 425o by an angle α, which is 72 degrees in this example embodiment. In other embodiments, this spacing may be different.

[0036] The first retainer 425 is securely attached to the end of the welding actuator housing 420 adjacent to the first collar 410a via a first retainer fastener 425f and a first retainer locating pin 425p, which extend through suitable holes, through the arm 425a and into the welding actuator housing 420. A first spacer seat 412a (an annular washer in this example embodiment, but can be any suitable component) surrounds the driven shaft 405 and is positioned between and separates the first collar 410a and the first spacer 435.

[0037] exist Figure 7 The second retainer 430, as shown in the diagram, is used to enable the second spacer 445 to be positioned parallel to axis A. 415 Move in the direction of, while preventing them from circumferentially around axis A. 415Rotation or falling off from the tensioning and welding assembly 400. The second retainer 430 includes an annular hub 430h and a plurality of circumferentially spaced arms 430a extending radially outward from the hub 430h. In this example embodiment, the arms 430a are generally circumferentially equidistant, but the spacing may be different in other embodiments. The hub 430h passes through which five cylindrical spacer receiving holes 430o are defined. The spacer receiving holes 430o are each sized and shaped to receive one of the second spacers 445, as described below. In this example embodiment, the center of each spacer receiving hole 430o is located at a radius R from the center of the hub 430h, the center of which is located on axis A. 415 Above. Additionally, in this example embodiment, the spacer receiving holes 430o are circumferentially equidistant, such that the center of each spacer receiving hole 430o is angularly offset from the center of each adjacent spacer receiving hole 430o by an angle α. In other embodiments, this spacing may be different.

[0038] The second retainer 430 is securely attached to the end of the welding actuator housing 420 adjacent to the second collar 410b via a second retainer fastener 430f and a second retainer locating pin 430p, which extend through suitable holes, through the arm 430a, and into the welding actuator housing 420. A second spacer seat 412b (an annular washer in this example embodiment, but can be any suitable component) surrounds the driven shaft 405 and is positioned between and separates the second collar 410b and the second spacer 445.

[0039] exist Figures 8A to 8D The welding actuator 450, as best shown, can be actuated by the transmission device 500 such that the tensioning and welding wheel 415 moves relative to the tensioning and welding plate 330 along axis A. 415 Axial movement. The welding actuator 450 includes: an annular driven portion 452; an annular first actuating portion 454 connected to the driven portion 452 (and integrally formed with the driven portion in this example embodiment) and coaxial with the driven portion; and an annular second actuating portion 456 connected to the driven portion 452 (and integrally formed with the driven portion in this example embodiment) and coaxial with the driven portion. The driven portion 452 includes teeth 452t extending around its outer surface, and these teeth are sized, shaped, positioned, and oriented, and otherwise configured to drively engage with the transmission 500, as described below.

[0040] The first actuating portion 454 includes an annular first actuating surface 454s. For example... Figure 8DAs shown, the center of the first actuating surface 454s is located at a radius R from the center of the first actuating portion 454. When the welding actuator 450 is installed in the welding actuator housing 420, the center of the first actuating portion corresponds to the axis A. 415 As described below. For example, in Figure 8A and Figure 8C As best shown, the first actuating surface 454s has a wavy profile defining alternating peaks 454p and valleys 454v (five of each, but any suitable number can be used). The first actuating surface 454s is furthest from the driven portion 452 at the peak 454p and closest to the driven portion 452 at the valley 454v. Figure 8D As shown, peaks 454p are circumferentially spaced apart, such that each peak 454p is offset from each adjacent peak 454p by an angle α, and valleys 454v are circumferentially spaced apart, such that each valley 454v is offset from each adjacent valley 454v by an angle α.

[0041] The second actuating portion 456 is identical to the first actuating portion 454, but offset at an angle from it. The second actuating portion 456 includes an annular second actuating surface 456s. The center of the second actuating surface 456s is located at a radius R from the center of the second actuating portion 456. When the welding actuator 450 is mounted to the welding actuator housing 420, the center of this second actuating portion corresponds to axis A. 415 As described below. For example, in Figure 8B and Figure 8C As best shown, the second actuating surface 456s has a wavy profile defining alternating peaks 456p and valleys 456v (five of each, but any suitable number can be used). The second actuating surface 456s is furthest from the driven portion 452 at the peaks 456p and closest to the driven portion 452 at the valleys 456v. The peaks 456p are circumferentially equidistant, such that each peak 456p is angularly offset from each adjacent peak 456p by an angle α, and the valleys 456v are circumferentially equidistant, such that each valley 456v is angularly offset from each adjacent valley 456v by an angle α. Figure 8C As best shown, the second actuating portion 456 is offset from the first actuating portion 454 at an angle of α / 2, such that the peak 454p of the first actuating portion 454 is substantially aligned with the valley 456v of the second actuating portion 456, and the valley 454v of the first actuating portion 454 is substantially aligned with the peak 456p of the second actuating portion 456.

[0042] The welding actuator 450 is rotatably mounted to the welding actuator housing 420 between the first retainer 425 and the second retainer 430 via bearing 450b. Specifically, in this example embodiment, the outer race of the bearing 450b is mounted to the welding actuator housing 420 via an interference fit, and the inner race of the bearing 450b is mounted to the welding actuator 450 via an interference fit; however, in other embodiments, the welding actuator may be rotatably mounted to the welding actuator housing in any suitable manner. The first actuating surface 454s faces the first spacer seat 412a, and the second actuating surface 456s faces the second spacer seat 412b.

[0043] Each first spacer 435 is received in a different spacer receiving hole in the spacer receiving hole 425o of the first retainer 425, and is positioned and in contact with the first actuating surface 454s of the first actuating portion 454 of the welding actuator 450 due to the aforementioned shape, size, position, and orientation of the various components of the tensioning and welding assembly 400. While this embodiment includes five first spacers, other embodiments may have any suitable number or more of first spacers. Similarly, each second spacer 445 is received in a different spacer receiving hole in the spacer receiving hole 430o of the second retainer 430, and is positioned and in contact with the second actuating surface 456s of the second actuating portion 454 of the welding actuator 450 due to the aforementioned shape, size, position, and orientation of the various components of the tensioning and welding assembly 400. While this embodiment includes five second spacers, other embodiments may have any suitable number or more of second spacers.

[0044] Due to the wavy shape of the first actuating surface 454s and the second actuating surface 456s, and the tensioning and welding wheel 415 (together with the driven shaft 405, the first collar 410a and the second collar 410b, and the first spacer seat 412a and the second spacer seat 412b) along axis A 415 The axial movement capability allows the rotational position of the welding actuator 450 to control the tensioning of the longitudinal position of the welding wheel 415. When the welding actuator 450 is in... Figure 9A In the first rotational position shown, the first spacer 435 engages the valley 454v of the first actuating surface 454s, and the second spacer 445 engages the peak 456p of the second actuating surface 456s. When the welding actuator 450 is in the first rotational position, the tensioning and welding wheel 415 is in a first axial position relative to the tensioning and welding plate 330. In this example embodiment, when in the first axial position, the tensioning and welding wheel 415 is at the closest possible position to the welding actuator 450.

[0045] When the welding actuator 450 begins to rotate around axis A under the control of the transmission device 500 415 During rotation (as described below): (1) the portion of the first actuating surface 454s that engages with the first spacer 435 begins to transition from valley 454v toward peak 454p; and (2) the portion of the second actuating surface 456s that engages with the second spacer 445 begins to transition from peak 456p toward valley 456v, as Figure 9B As shown. These transitions cause the first actuating surface 454s to be aligned with and substantially parallel to axis A, pointing towards the first spacer seat 412a. 415 The aligned vector applies force to each of the first spacers 435. Because the welding actuator 450 cannot move along axis A... 415 Axial movement, therefore the force causes the first spacer seat 412a to move against the first collar 410a, and causes the first collar 410a, the first spacer seat 412a, and the tensioning and welding wheel 415 connected to the collar 410a to move along axis A. 415 And it moves axially away from the welding actuator 450 relative to the tension and welding plate 330. And since the first collar 410a and the second collar 410b are fixed to the driven shaft 405, this movement also causes the driven shaft 405, the second collar 410b and the second spacer seat 412b to move together with the first collar 410a, the first collar 410a, the first spacer seat 412a and the tension and welding wheel 415.

[0046] Finally, and in this example embodiment, after rotating by an angle α / 2 from the first rotational position, the welding actuator 450 reaches a second rotational position, at which the first spacer 435 engages the peak 454p of the first actuation surface 454s, and the second spacer 445 engages the valley 456v of the second actuation surface 456s, as... Figure 9C As shown. When the welding actuator 450 is in the second rotational position, the tensioning and welding wheel 415 is in a second axial position relative to the tensioning and welding plate 330. In this example embodiment, when in the second axial position, the tensioning and welding wheel 450 is at the furthest position that can be moved away from the welding actuator 450.

[0047] As the welding actuator 450 continues to rotate: (1) the portion of the first actuating surface 454s that engages with the first spacer 435 begins to transition from peak 454p toward valley 454v; and (2) the portion of the second actuating surface 456s that engages with the second spacer 445 begins to transition from valley 456b toward peak 456p, as Figure 9D As shown. These transitions cause the second actuating surface 456s to be aligned with and substantially parallel to axis A, pointing towards the second spacer seat 412b. 415The aligned vector applies force to each of the second spacers 445. Because the welding actuator 450 cannot move along axis A... 415 Axial movement, therefore the force causes the second spacer seat 412b to move against the second collar 410b, and causes the second collar 410b and the second spacer seat 412b to move along axis A. 415 Furthermore, it moves axially away from the welding actuator 450 relative to the tensioning and welding plate 330. Since the first collar 410a and the second collar 410b are fixed to the driven shaft 405, this movement also causes the driven shaft 405, the first collar 410a, the first spacer seat 412a, and the tensioning and welding wheel 415 to move together with the second collar 410a and the second spacer seat 412b. Specifically, the tensioning and welding wheel 415 begins to move back from the second axial position to the first axial position.

[0048] Finally, and in this example embodiment, after rotating an angle α / 2 from the second rotational position, the welding actuator 450 reaches the first rotational position, at which the first spacer 435 engages the valley 454v of the first actuation surface 454s, the second spacer 445 engages the peak 456p of the second actuation surface 456s, and is tensioned with the welding wheel in the first axial position, as shown. Figure 9E As shown.

[0049] exist Figures 3A to 4B The motor 600, best shown in the diagram, is mounted to the fourth mounting member 320d and the fifth mounting member 320e of the support member 300, and includes a motor housing and a rotatable motor output shaft extending from the motor housing. Figure 4B As shown, motor 600 is configured to rotate its output shaft in opposite tension rotation directions TD and blocking rotation directions SD to perform the tensioning and blocking processes, respectively, as explained below. In this example embodiment, motor 600 includes an electric motor, but in other embodiments it may include any suitable motor or other actuator.

[0050] exist Figure 4A and Figure 4B The transmission device 500 shown in the best embodiment is driven by a motor 600 and is operatively connected to the tensioning and welding assembly 400, and is configured to cause the tensioning and welding assembly 400 to: (1) during the tensioning process, cause the tensioning and welding wheel 415 to revolve around axis A 415 (2) To rotate to tension the belt around the load; and (3) during the sealing process by tensioning the welding wheel 415 along axis A. 415The band is partially melted by friction welding through axial movement in a reciprocating motion. For this purpose, the transmission device 500 is configured to: (1) transmit the output from the motor 600 to the driven shaft 405 when the motor 600 rotates the motor output shaft in the tensioning rotation direction RD; and (2) transmit the output from the motor 600 to the welding actuator 450 when the motor 600 rotates the motor output shaft in the blocking rotation direction SD. The transmission assembly 500 includes a first transmission gear assembly 510 and a second transmission gear assembly 520.

[0051] The first transmission gear assembly 510 operably connects the motor 600 to the driven shaft 405 of the tensioning and welding assembly 400, such that the motor 600 can rotate the driven shaft 405, and thus the tensioning and welding wheel 415 rotates with the driven shaft 405 via its connection to the first collar 410a, which itself is rotationally fixed with the driven shaft 405. Specifically, the first transmission gear assembly 510 includes a suitable gear mechanism (such as one or more planetary gear reducers) and other components (such as one or more freewheels) operably connecting the motor output shaft of the motor 600 to the driven shaft 405, so that the first transmission gear assembly 510: (1) transmits rotational movement of the motor output shaft in the tensioning rotation direction to the driven shaft 405, causing the driven shaft 405 to rotate in the tensioning rotation direction; and (2) does not transmit rotational movement of the motor output shaft in the blocking rotation direction to the driven shaft 405. For example, in this exemplary embodiment, the first gear assembly 510 includes a splined hub 512 comprising a hub portion 512h and a shaft portion 512s integrally formed with each other. A portion of the driven shaft 405 adjacent to the second collar 410b is received in and drivenly engaged by the shaft portion. In operation, the remaining components of the first gear assembly 510 rotate the splined hub 512, and the splined hub 512 transmits this rotational movement to the driven shaft 405. This is one example configuration of the first gear assembly 510, and in other embodiments, the first gear assembly 510 may take any other suitable configuration.

[0052] The second transmission gear assembly 520 operably connects the motor 600 to the welding actuator 450 of the tensioning and welding assembly 400, such that the motor 600 can rotate the welding actuator 450 and move the tensioning and welding wheel 415 axially, as described above. The second transmission gear assembly 520 includes a drive gear 522, a drive gear freewheel, a driven shaft 524, a first driven gear 526, a second driven gear 528, a first connector 520b1, and a second connector 520b2.

[0053] The drive gear freewheel is mounted to, engages with, and surrounds the motor output shaft of motor 600. Drive gear 522 (a gear pulley in this example embodiment) is mounted to, engages with, and surrounds the drive gear freewheel. The drive gear freewheel is configured to: (1) transmit rotational movement of the motor output shaft in the blocking rotational direction to drive gear 522, such that drive gear 522 and the motor output shaft are about axis A in the welding rotational direction. 415 (2) Rotate together; and (3) Do not transmit the rotational movement of the motor output shaft in the tensioning rotation direction to the drive gear 522, so that the motor output shaft rotates around axis A in the tensioning rotation direction. 415 Rotates relative to drive gear 522.

[0054] Driven shaft 524 is rotatably mounted (e.g., via suitable bearings) to and extends between first mounting members 320a, second mounting members 320b, and third mounting members 320c of support member 300, such that driven shaft 524 can rotate about driven gear shaft axis A. 524 Rotation relative to support member 300. In this example embodiment, the driven gear shaft rotates along axis A. 524 Parallel to axis A 415 However, in other embodiments these axes may be transverse to each other. A first driven gear 526 (a gear pulley in this example embodiment) is fixedly mounted to the driven shaft 524 near one end of the driven shaft 524 and the second driven gear 528. The second driven gear, also a gear pulley in this example embodiment, is fixedly mounted to the driven shaft 524 near the opposite end of the driven shaft 524, such that the driven shaft 524 and the first driven gear 526 and the second driven gear 528 rotate about the driven gear axis A. 524 They rotate together.

[0055] The first connector 520b1 is operatively connected to the drive gear 522 and the first driven gear 524. In this example embodiment, the first connector is a toothed belt, but it can be any suitable connector. The second connector 520b2 is operatively connected to the second driven gear 528 and the driven portion 452 of the welding actuator 450. In this example embodiment, the second connector is a toothed belt, but it can be any suitable connector.

[0056] When the motor 600 rotates the motor output shaft in the tensioning rotation direction TD, the first transmission gear assembly 510 transmits this rotational movement to the driven shaft 405 of the tensioning and welding assembly 400, causing the driven shaft 405 and the tensioning and welding wheel 415 to rotate around axis A in the tensioning rotation direction TD. 415 Rotation. The drive gear freewheel does not transmit rotational movement of the motor output shaft to drive gear 522, which remains stationary.

[0057] Conversely, when motor 600 rotates the motor output shaft in the blocking rotation direction SD, the drive gear freewheel transmits this rotational movement to drive gear 522, which rotates around axis A in the blocking rotation direction SD. 415 Rotation. The first connector 520b1 transmits the rotational movement of the drive gear 522 to the first driven gear 526, which begins to rotate. Because the driven shaft 524, the first driven gear 526, and the second driven gear 528 are rotationally fixed, this rotation of the first driven gear 526 causes the driven shaft 524 and the second driven gear 528 to rotate together with the first driven gear 526 around the driven shaft axis A. 524 Rotation. The second connector 520b2 transmits the rotational movement of the second driven gear 528 to the driven portion 452 of the welding actuator 450, thereby causing the welding actuator 450 to rotate around axis A. 415 Rotation. The first transmission gear assembly 510 does not transmit the rotational movement of the motor output shaft to the driven shaft 405 of the tensioning and welding assembly 400.

[0058] like Figure 3A and Figure 3B As shown, the first housing 710 and the second housing 720 house and support certain components of the tensioning and welding assembly 400 and the first transmission assembly gear device 510, and enable the tensioning and welding assembly 400 to rotate about the driven gear shaft axis A. 524 Pivot between the tensioned and welded position and the strap insertion position. Specifically, housings 710 and 720 are pivotally mounted to driven shaft 524 and configured to rotate axis A about driven gear shaft under the control of manual lever 800 or a motor (depending on the embodiment). 524 It pivots relative to the support 300, and particularly relative to the base 310 and the tensioning and welding plate 330. When the tensioning and welding assembly 400 is in the tensioning and welding position, as Figures 3A to 4B and Figures 9A to 9E As shown, the outer surface of the tensioning and welding wheel 415 is adjacent to (and in this embodiment contacts) the toothed surface of the tensioning and welding plate 330 (or, if the strap has been inserted into the strapping tool 50, the upper surface of the upper layer of the strap). When the tensioning and welding assembly 400 is in the strap insertion position, the tensioning and welding wheel 415 and the toothed surface of the tensioning and welding plate 330 are spaced apart so that the two overlapping layers of the strap can be inserted between the tensioning and welding wheel 450 and the toothed surface. One or more springs or other biasing elements (not shown) bias the tensioning and welding assembly 400 into the tensioning and welding position.

[0059] Figure 1AThe manual lever 800 shown is operatively connected to the tensioning and welding assembly 400 (directly or via a suitable linkage, gear mechanism, and / or other component) and configured to move the tensioning and welding assembly 400 relative to the support 300 from a tensioning and welding position to a strap insertion position. Specifically, the manual lever 800 can be moved from its initial position spaced apart from the handle section 150 of the housing 100 of the strapping tool 50 (in... Figure 1A (As shown in the diagram) Pivot to an actuated position (not shown) closer to the handle section 150 to move the tensioning and welding assembly 400 from the tensioning and welding position to the strap insertion position. In other embodiments, a motor is operatively connected to the tensioning and welding assembly via suitable gearing devices, linkages, and / or other components and is configured to pivot the tensioning and welding assembly from the tensioning and welding position to the strap insertion position. In these embodiments, the strapping tool includes a suitable input device, such as a manual lever, trigger, or button supported by the handle portion of the housing, which is actuated to cause the motor to pivot the tensioning and welding assembly from the tensioning and welding position to the strap insertion position.

[0060] exist Figure 1A and Figure 1B The display assembly 1300 shown includes a suitable display screen 1310 with a touch panel 1320. The display screen 1310 is configured to display information about the strapping tool 50 (at least in this embodiment), and the touch screen 1320 is configured to receive operator input, such as desired strap tension and desired welding cooling time. A display controller (not shown) can control the display screen 1310 and the touch panel 1320, and in these embodiments, the display controller is communicatively connected to the controller 1600 to send signals to and receive signals from the controller 1600. Other embodiments of the strapping tool do not include a touch panel. Still other embodiments of the strapping tool do not include a display assembly. Some embodiments of the strapping tool include a separate button panel instead of a touch panel located below or integrated with the display screen.

[0061] exist Figure 1A and Figure 1B The actuation component 1400 shown is configured to receive operator input to initiate the tensioning and locking processes. In this example embodiment, the actuation component 1400 includes a first button actuator 1410 and a second button actuator 1420, which initiate the tensioning and / or locking processes according to the operating mode of the strapping tool 50, as described below. Other embodiments of the strapping tool 50 do not have the actuation component 1400, but instead integrate the functionality of the actuation component into the display component 1300. For example, in one of these embodiments, two areas of the touch panel define virtual buttons that function identically to the mechanical button actuators.

[0062] exist Figure 1B The controller 1600 shown includes one or more processing devices communicatively connected to one or more memory devices. For example, the controller may be a programmable logic controller. The processing devices may include any suitable processing devices, such as, but not limited to, general-purpose processors, special-purpose processors, digital signal processors, 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 state machines. The memory devices may include any suitable memory devices, 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 devices store instructions executable by the processing devices to control the operation of the strapping tool 50. The controller 1600 is communicatively and operatively connected to the motor 600, display assembly 1300, actuation assembly 1400, and one or more sensors 1700, and is configured to receive signals from and control these components. The controller 1600 can also be communicatively connected to an external device, such as a computing device, to send information to and receive information from the external device (e.g., via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, near field communication or other suitable wireless communication protocols).

[0063] The controller 1600 is configured to operate the strapping tool in one of three operating modes (as set by the operator): (1) manual operation mode; (2) semi-automatic operation mode; and (3) automatic operation mode. In manual operation mode, in response to the actuation of the first button actuator 1410 and its actuation state, the controller 1600 operates the motor 600 to cause the tensioning and welding wheel 415 to rotate. The controller 1600 operates the motor 600 in response to the actuation of the second button actuator 1420 to cause the tensioning and welding wheel 415 to move axially in a reciprocating motion to perform the sealing process. In semi-automatic operation mode, in response to the actuation of the first button actuator 1410 and its actuation state, the controller 1600 operates the motor 600 to cause the tensioning and welding wheel 415 to rotate. Once the controller 1600 determines that the tension in the strap has reached the (preset) desired strap tension, the controller 1600 automatically operates the motor 600 to cause the tensioning and welding wheel 415 to move axially in a reciprocating motion to perform the sealing process (no additional input from the operator is required). In automatic operation mode, in response to the actuation of the first button actuator 1410, the controller 1600 operates the motor 600 to cause the tensioning and welding wheel 415 to rotate. Once the controller 1600 determines that the tension in the strap has reached the (preset) desired strap tension, the controller 1600 automatically operates the motor 600 to cause the tensioning and welding wheel 415 to move axially in a reciprocating motion to perform the sealing process (no additional input from the operator is required).

[0064] Sensor 1700 includes any suitable sensor, such as a microswitch, optical sensor, ultrasonic sensor, magnetic position sensor, etc., configured to detect the position of certain components of the strapping tool 50 and send appropriate signals to the controller 1600. Sensor 1700 may include, for example, one or more rocker position sensors configured to detect when the tensioning and welding assembly 400 is in its tensioning and welding position and / or its strap insertion position, and one or more actuation component sensors configured to detect actuation of the first button actuator 1410 and the second button actuator 1420.

[0065] A power supply (via suitable wiring and other components) is electrically connected to and configured to power several components of the strapping tool 50, including a motor 600, a display assembly 1300, an actuation assembly 1400, a controller 1600, and one or more sensors 1700. In this example embodiment, the power supply is a rechargeable battery (such as a lithium-ion or nickel-cadmium battery), but in other embodiments, the power supply can be any other suitable power supply. The power supply is sized, shaped, and otherwise configured to be received in a housing 122 defined by a rear housing section 120 of the housing 100. The strapping tool 50 includes one or more battery securing devices (not shown) to releasably lock the power supply in place when it is received in the housing. Actuation of a release device of the strapping tool 50 or the power supply unlocks the power supply from the housing 100 and allows the operator to remove the power supply from the housing 122.

[0066] The following describes the strapping process performed using strapping tool 50, which includes: (1) a tensioning process, wherein strapping tool 50 tensions the strap around a load; and (2) a sealing process, wherein strapping tool 50 attaches two overlapping portions of the strap to each other via friction welding. For the purposes of this example, strapping tool 50 is in automatic mode.

[0067] The operator first pulls the front end of the strap from the strap supply source (not shown), wraps the strap around the load, and positions the front end of the strap S below another layer of straps to form an upper and lower strap layer. The operator then pulls the manual lever 800, moving the tensioning and welding assembly 400 from its tensioning and welding position to its strap insertion position. With the tensioning and welding assembly 400 in its strap insertion position and while continuing to pull the manual lever 800, the operator introduces the overlapping upper and lower strap layers between the tensioning and welding wheel 415 and the tensioning and welding plate 330. The operator then releases the manual lever 800, allowing a suitable biasing element to force the tensioning and welding assembly 400 back towards its tensioning and welding position. Finally, the outer surface of the tensioning and welding wheel 415 engages the top surface of the upper strap layer, and forces the bottom surface of the lower strap layer against the toothed surface of the tensioning and welding plate 330.

[0068] The operator then actuates the first button actuator 1410 to initiate the strapping process. In response, the controller 1600 initiates the tensioning process by controlling the motor 600 to begin rotating its output shaft in the tensioning rotation direction TD. As explained above, the drive unit 500 transmits this rotational movement to the driven shaft 405 of the tensioning and welding assembly 400, which in turn causes the tensioning and welding wheel 415 to rotate. As the tensioning and welding wheel 415 rotates, it pulls the upper layer of the strap over the lower layer, thereby tensioning the strap around the load. When this occurs, the drive unit 500 does not transmit rotational movement of the motor output shaft to the welding actuator 450. Throughout the tensioning process, the controller 1600 monitors the current drawn by the motor 600. When this current reaches a preset value related to the preset desired strap tension for the strapping process, the controller 1600 stops the motor 600, thus completing the tensioning process.

[0069] The controller 1600 then automatically initiates the sealing process by controlling the motor 600 to rotate its output shaft in the sealing rotation direction SD. As explained in detail above, the transmission 500 transmits this rotational movement to the welding actuator 450, causing the welding actuator 450 to rotate. Again, as explained above, this rotation of the welding actuator 450 causes tension to be applied to the welding wheel 415 along axis A. 415 Furthermore, it moves axially relative to the tensioning and welding plate 330 in a reciprocating motion. The combination of the downward pressure applied to the belt by the tensioning and welding wheel 415 and the rapid reciprocating motion of the tensioning and welding wheel 415 partially melts a portion of the upper and lower layers of the belt together. After a preset time period or a preset number of revolutions of the motor output shaft, the controller 1600 controls the motor 600 to stop rotating the motor output shaft, thereby completing the sealing process. After a certain time period, the controller 1600 stops the motor 600, thereby completing the sealing process. The molten portions of the overlapping belt layers join together and solidify upon cooling, thereby attaching the upper and lower layers of the belt to form a tensioned belt loop.

[0070] The strapping tool of this disclosure solves the aforementioned problems. First, the use of tensioning and welding wheels to tension and weld the straps eliminates the need for separate tensioning and welding components (and, in some embodiments, separate tensioning and welding motors), making the tool lighter and easier to use for extended periods compared to conventional strapping tools with different components. Second, eliminating the separate welding components allows the base of the support to be shorter in the longitudinal direction than the base of conventional strapping tools, enabling the strapping tool of this disclosure to be used in a wider range of applications (e.g., strapping bending loads with relatively small radii) than many conventional strapping tools.

[0071] In the example embodiments described above, a single motor is used to drive the driven shaft during the tensioning process and also to drive the welding actuator during the sealing process. In other embodiments, the strapping tool includes separate tensioning and sealing motors. In these embodiments, the tensioning motor is operatively connected to the tensioning and welding assembly to rotate the driven shaft during the tensioning process, and the sealing motor is operatively connected to the welding actuator and configured to rotate the welding actuator during the sealing process. For example, in one such embodiment, a first drive gear assembly operatively connects the tensioning motor to the driven shaft of the tensioning and welding assembly such that the tensioning motor can rotate the driven shaft, and a second drive gear assembly operatively connects the sealing motor to the welding actuator of the tensioning and welding assembly such that the sealing motor can rotate the welding actuator. In this embodiment, there is no connector / freewheel assembly connecting the first and second drive assemblies to allow selective driving of these components based on the rotation direction of the output shaft of the single motor.

[0072] In the above example embodiments, the tensioning and welding assembly can move relative to the tensioning and welding plate, particularly pivoting, to make room for the insertion of the strap. In other embodiments, the tensioning and welding assembly is stationary, and the tensioning and welding plate can move away from the tensioning and welding assembly (e.g., pivoting) to make room for the insertion of the strap.

[0073] Other embodiments of the strapping tool may include fewer components, parts, and / or features than those included in the strapping tool 50 shown above and in the accompanying drawings. In other words, while the strapping tool 50 includes all of the aforementioned components, parts, and features, they are independent of each other and can be independently included in other strapping tools.

[0074] In the example embodiments described above, the working component is used as part of a portable handheld strapping tool. The working component can be incorporated into any other type of strapping device, such as the strapping head of a general-purpose strapping machine or a special-purpose strapping machine.

[0075] The relative positions of the tensioning and welding wheel and its pivotable driven axis of rotation cause the tensioning and welding wheel to exert an increased force on the tensioning and welding plate and the strap between them during the tensioning process, as the strap tension increases. In some cases, if this force is excessive, it may negatively affect the sealing process, for example by making axial movement of the tensioning and welding wheel difficult or impossible. In some embodiments, the strapping device includes a mechanical stop that is shaped, sized, oriented, and positioned, and otherwise configured to prevent further downward movement of the tensioning and welding wheel once it reaches a certain height above the tensioning and welding plate. This also prevents the tensioning and welding wheel from exerting any force exceeding the maximum force on the tensioning and welding plate and the strap between the tensioning and welding wheel and the tensioning and welding plate. This height is chosen such that the maximum force is not so large as to negatively impact the sealing process.

Claims

1. A strapping device, comprising: Tensioning and welding plates; Tensioning and welding wheel, wherein the tensioning and welding wheel: It can rotate relative to the tensioning and welding plate; as well as It is capable of axial movement relative to the tensioning and welding plate between a first axial position and a second axial position; A rotatable welding actuator, operably connected to the tensioning and welding wheel, such that rotation of the welding actuator forces the tensioning and welding wheel to move axially between a first axial position and a second axial position in a reciprocating motion. as well as At least one motor is operatively connected to the tensioning and welding wheel to rotate the tensioning and welding wheel and to the welding actuator to rotate the welding actuator.

2. The binding device as described in claim 1, wherein, The at least one motor includes a single motor operably connected to the tensioning and welding wheel to rotate the tensioning and welding wheel and connected to the welding actuator to rotate the welding actuator.

3. The binding device as described in claim 1, wherein, The at least one motor includes a first motor and a second motor, the first motor being operatively connected to the tensioning and welding wheel to rotate the tensioning and welding wheel, and the second motor being operatively connected to the welding actuator to rotate the welding actuator.

4. The binding device as described in claim 1, wherein, The tensioning and welding wheel can rotate about the axis of rotation and can move axially along the axis of rotation.

5. The binding device as described in claim 1, wherein, The complete rotation of the welding actuator causes the tensioning and welding wheel to move at least once between the first axial position and the second axial position.

6. The binding device as claimed in claim 1, further comprising a driven shaft, wherein, The tensioning and welding wheel is rotatably fixed together with the driven shaft, wherein the at least one motor is operably connected to the driven shaft to rotate the driven shaft, thereby causing the tensioning and welding wheel to rotate, wherein the welding actuator is operably connected to the driven shaft to move the driven shaft axially in a reciprocating motion, thereby causing the tensioning and welding wheel to move axially in a reciprocating motion between the first axial position and the second axial position.

7. The binding device of claim 6, further comprising a spaced-apart first collar and a second collar, the first collar and the second collar being attached to the driven shaft and movable together with the driven shaft, wherein... The tensioning and welding wheel surrounds the driven shaft and is positioned between the first collar and the second collar.

8. The binding device of claim 7, further comprising a first spacer and a second spacer, the first spacer being between the first collar and the first actuating surface of the welding actuator, and the second spacer being between the second collar and the second actuating surface of the welding actuator.

9. The binding device as claimed in claim 8, wherein, The first actuating surface has a first wavy profile including a first peak and a first valley, wherein the second actuating surface has a second wavy profile including a second peak and a second valley, wherein the first actuating surface and the second actuating surface are opposite to each other and offset in a rotational sense, such that the first peak is substantially aligned with the second valley and the first valley is substantially aligned with the second peak.

10. The binding device as claimed in claim 9, wherein, When the first spacer is near the first valley and the second spacer is near the second peak, the tensioning and welding wheel is in the first axial position; when the first spacer is near the first peak and the second spacer is near the second valley, the tensioning and welding wheel is in the second axial position.

11. The binding device as claimed in claim 10, wherein, The welding actuator is rotatable relative to the first spacer and the second spacer.

12. The binding device of claim 11, further comprising a first retainer fixed in rotation relative to the welding actuator and a second retainer fixed in rotation relative to the welding actuator, wherein, The first retainer passes through and defines a first hole, and the second retainer passes through and defines a second hole, wherein the first spacer is received in the first hole and is axially movable through the first hole, and wherein the second spacer is received in the second hole and is axially movable through the second hole.

13. The strapping device of claim 12, further comprising a housing, the first retainer and the second retainer being fixedly mounted to the housing, and the welding actuator being rotatably mounted to the housing.

14. The binding device as claimed in claim 12, wherein, The rotation of the welding actuator causes the first spacer and the second spacer to move axially simultaneously.

15. The binding device as claimed in claim 14, wherein, When the first spacer is adjacent to the first valley and the second spacer is adjacent to the second peak, the rotation of the welding actuator causes the first actuation surface to apply a force on the first spacer, which causes the first spacer to move axially along the first collar, the second collar, the driven shaft, and the tensioning and welding wheel.

16. The binding device as claimed in claim 15, wherein, When the first spacer is near the first peak and the second spacer is near the second valley, the rotation of the welding actuator causes the second actuation surface to apply a force to the second spacer, which causes the second spacer to move axially along the first collar, the second collar, the driven shaft, and the tensioning and welding wheel.

17. The binding device as claimed in claim 16, wherein, The tensioning and welding wheel can rotate about the axis of rotation and can move axially along the axis of rotation.

18. The strapping device of claim 17, further comprising a first spacer seat between the first collar and the first spacer and a second spacer seat between the second collar and the second spacer, wherein, When the welding actuator rotates to cause the tensioning and welding wheel to move axially between the first axial position and the second axial position in a reciprocating motion, the size of the first spacer and the second spacer are determined and positioned to engage the first spacer seat and the second spacer seat, respectively.

19. The binding device as claimed in claim 17, wherein, The complete rotation of the welding actuator causes the tensioning and welding wheel to move at least once between the first axial position and the second axial position.

20. The strapping device as claimed in claim 1, further comprising: A first transmission gear assembly operatively connects the at least one motor to the tensioning and welding wheel to rotate the tensioning and welding wheel; as well as A second transmission gear assembly operatively connects the at least one motor to the welding actuator to rotate the welding actuator.

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