An automated tarp folding apparatus

Abstract

The present application relates to the technical field of flexible fabric automatic processing equipment, and discloses an automatic wide tarp folding device, which comprises a frame, one side of which is provided with a roller system; a middle tarp folding unit arranged on the upper part of the frame and used for completing the vertical folding operation of the tarp; a right tarp folding unit arranged on the lower part of the frame; and a left tarp folding unit arranged on the upper part of the frame and close to the middle tarp folding unit; the left tarp folding unit, the right tarp folding unit and the middle tarp folding unit complete the tarp folding operation in a cross operation mode; and a lower tarp folding fixing unit arranged on the lower part of the frame and below the middle tarp folding unit and used for pressing the lower part of the folded tarp after the middle tarp folding unit completes the folding operation. The present application realizes the full-process automation of the wide tarp from cloth feeding, tensioning, folding, cloth cutting to cloth conveying, effectively controls the folding thickness, improves the space utilization rate and folding efficiency, reduces the manufacturing cost and maintenance difficulty, and is suitable for the automatic production of large tarp finished products.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of automated processing equipment for flexible fabrics, and more specifically, to an automated wide-width tarpaulin folding device. Background Technology

[0002] As downstream sectors such as industrial production, logistics, and construction shift towards higher quality and customization, the market demand for wide-width, high-performance tarpaulins continues to rise, driving the industry towards intelligent and efficient upgrades. However, automation bottlenecks still exist in core processing steps.

[0003] In the basic processing stage, due to the limited production capacity of tarpaulin weaving machines, the current industry can only mass-produce tarpaulin fabric with a horizontal width of 2 to 6 meters and a vertical length of several kilometers. However, the market demand for finished tarpaulin sizes is diverse, with horizontal widths ranging from 2 meters to tens of meters and vertical lengths also covering 2 meters to tens of meters. Therefore, the splicing, cutting, and subsequent edge treatment of narrow fabrics have become the core processes in the processing of finished tarpaulins. Among them, the longitudinal heat-sealing splicing process has formed a mature mechanized processing system. During the processing, longitudinal edge heat-sealing and hemming, as well as the addition of edge ropes, can be completed simultaneously, effectively ensuring the roundness and durability of the tarpaulin edges and meeting the basic quality requirements of the finished product.

[0004] However, the industry as a whole still has significant technical shortcomings in the subsequent processing stages after longitudinal heat sealing. Specifically, processes such as longitudinal drilling and installation of aluminum rings, longitudinal folding, transverse cutting, transverse edge heat sealing, transverse side rope installation, transverse drilling and installation of aluminum rings, and transverse finished product folding still mainly rely on manual operation. This not only results in low processing efficiency but also makes it easy for human error to affect product quality stability, making it difficult to adapt to the needs of large-scale, high-standard production and becoming a significant factor restricting the high-quality development of the industry.

[0005] Existing automated tarpaulin folding devices use a horizontally staggered folding plate structure, which has gradually revealed many technical shortcomings in actual production applications. The specific limitations are as follows: First, the main problem with existing folding equipment is its insufficient adaptability to wide tarpaulins, resulting in poor folding performance. When wide tarpaulins are folded horizontally, multiple layers can easily lead to an excessive overall thickness, exceeding the space limitations of existing folding equipment. This hinders the smooth progress of the folding operation, and currently, it can only accommodate tarpaulins with a longitudinal width of ≤12m. More critically, when the longitudinal width of the tarpaulin reaches 20 meters or more, the longitudinal layer thickness of the tarpaulin increases significantly after folding with existing equipment. This can easily cause the tarpaulin to become disordered, irregularly folded, or even disrupt the already folded fabric, negatively impacting subsequent processing.

[0006] Secondly, there are obvious defects in the transmission and drive structure. The equipment adopts a screw-linkage transmission structure, which limits the folding speed, makes it difficult to improve folding efficiency, and has high manufacturing costs and high maintenance costs. The folding plate is driven by a ball screw, which not only has a slow operating speed, but the screw is also prone to wear, resulting in high replacement costs for parts, further increasing the operating cost of the equipment.

[0007] Third, the space utilization rate is low. The left and right folding panels of the device are arranged at the same height, resulting in a high degree of overlap in the space for folding operations, which directly leads to the overall size of the equipment being too large. At the same time, most of the folding components are concentrated in the upper area of ​​the equipment, and the lower space is not effectively utilized, further reducing the space utilization efficiency of the equipment.

[0008] To address the above issues, practical verification has shown that if the longitudinal layer thickness is to be reduced by increasing the folding width of the tarpaulin based on the existing folding method, the existing folding board needs to be lengthened. However, after lengthening the folding board, significant up-and-down swaying occurs during operation, and the increased weight severely weakens the folding accuracy and equipment structural stability, failing to meet the actual folding requirements of wide-width tarpaulins.

[0009] Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop an automated wide-width tarpaulin folding device to solve the technical pain points of existing equipment, such as excessive thickness, low space utilization, high manufacturing cost, and insufficient folding efficiency, so as to achieve efficient, stable, and automated folding of large-size wide-width tarpaulins. Summary of the Invention

[0010] The summary section introduces a series of simplified concepts, which will be further explained in detail in the detailed description section. The summary section of this invention is not intended to limit the key features and essential technical features of the claimed technical solution, nor is it intended to determine the scope of protection of the claimed technical solution.

[0011] To at least partially solve the above problems, the present invention provides an automated wide-width tarpaulin folding device, comprising: The frame has a roller system on one side; The folding unit, located at the top of the frame and close to the roller system, is used to complete the vertical folding of the tarpaulin. The right-folding fabric unit is located at the bottom of the frame and close to the roller system; The left folding unit is located at the top of the frame and close to the middle folding unit; the left folding unit, the right folding unit, and the middle folding unit complete the folding of the tarpaulin by working in a cross manner. The lower folding fabric fixing unit is located at the bottom of the frame and below the middle folding fabric unit. It is used to press down the bottom of the folded tarpaulin after the middle folding fabric unit has completed the folding operation.

[0012] Preferably, it also includes: The folding platform, located in the middle of the frame, provides a flat working surface for folding the tarpaulin. The fabric conveying unit, located near the fabric folding platform, is used to convey tarpaulins; The fabric cutting unit, located near the fabric folding platform, is used to complete the cutting of the tarpaulin.

[0013] Preferably, the folded fabric unit includes: A first synchronous belt module is set on the frame, and a folding auxiliary roller is provided thereon. The first synchronous belt module is used to drive the folding auxiliary roller to move up and down reciprocally. The second synchronous belt module is mounted on the frame and has a movable support. A linear discrete folding fabric plate is connected to a moving bracket via a folding fabric plate mounting beam. The second synchronous belt module is used to drive the linear discrete folding fabric plate to reciprocate up and down.

[0014] Preferably, the lower folded fabric fixing unit includes: The synchronous belt assembly is set on the frame, and pressure plate mounting beams are connected to it via connecting columns. Discrete pressure plates are installed on the pressure plate mounting beam. The movement of the discrete pressure plates is driven by synchronous belt components to achieve the fixing operation under the tarpaulin.

[0015] Preferably, the right-folded fabric unit includes: Two third synchronous belt modules are mounted on the frame and connected by the first transmission link. The first horizontal synchronous belt transmission unit is connected to two third synchronous belt modules at its two ends respectively. The first L-shaped discrete folding board is mounted on the first horizontal synchronous belt conveyor element via the first folding board column. The folding support roller is set on the frame through the roller horizontal motion component. Driven by the roller horizontal motion component, the folding support roller runs before the first L-shaped discrete folding plate, forming auxiliary support for the tarpaulin.

[0016] Preferably, the left-folded fabric unit includes: Two fourth synchronous belt modules are mounted on the frame and connected by a second transmission link. The second horizontal synchronous belt transmission unit is connected to two fourth synchronous belt modules at both ends; The second L-shaped discrete folding fabric plate is mounted on the second horizontal synchronous belt conveyor unit via a second folding fabric plate column; the second L-shaped discrete folding fabric plate and the first L-shaped discrete folding fabric plate of the right folding fabric unit are arranged in a staggered, layered layout.

[0017] Preferably, the folding platform includes: An L-shaped discrete plate assembly is set on the frame, with one end of its horizontal part connected to the left column of the frame, and its vertical part extending downward and set close to the right folding unit. The gap filling mechanism includes a cylinder mounted on a frame. The cylinder's telescopic end is equipped with a discrete plate. The cylinder drives the discrete plate to reciprocate up and down. The discrete plate is used to fill the gaps in the L-shaped discrete plate assembly and forms a continuous folding working plane with the L-shaped discrete plate assembly.

[0018] Preferably, the fabric cutting unit includes: The third horizontal synchronous belt conveyor unit is set on the middle crossbeam of the frame and is located on the side of the left folding unit away from the middle folding unit. The fabric pressing conveyor is installed on the third horizontal synchronous belt conveyor unit, and the fabric pressing conveyor is located above the fabric folding platform; The fabric pressing body is located at one end of the fabric pressing conveyor rod, and its bottom is provided with a fabric pressing groove; The cutting component is located below the folding platform and works with the pressing groove to cut the tarpaulin.

[0019] Preferably, the fabric delivery unit includes: The fourth horizontal synchronous belt conveyor unit, set on the frame, is located below the folding platform; The upper clamping plate is set on the fourth horizontal synchronous belt to transmit components via the first drive column; The lower clamping plate is set on the fourth horizontal synchronous belt to transmit components via the second drive column.

[0020] Preferably, the roller system includes: a roller group, a third roller, a tensioning roller, and a fourth roller arranged along the tarpaulin conveying direction; The roller assembly includes a first roller and a second roller arranged vertically. The first roller, the second roller, the third roller, and the tensioning roller are mounted on the right column of the frame, and the fourth roller is mounted on the middle crossbeam of the frame.

[0021] The automated wide-width tarpaulin folding device of the present invention, through its structural and operational design, has the following advantages over existing technologies: Effectively solves the problem of excessive folding thickness: The middle folding unit adopts a vertical folding design, which transforms the traditional horizontal stacking method of wide tarpaulins into horizontal and vertical folding. This can effectively control the overall thickness of the tarpaulin after folding, break through the space size limitations of existing equipment, and ensure the smooth operation of wide tarpaulin folding.

[0022] Significantly improves equipment space utilization: The left and right folding units adopt a staggered layout design with upper and lower layers to avoid spatial overlap of folding actions. At the same time, the equipment adopts a four-quadrant classification and combination layout. The roller system and the middle folding unit are arranged above the right folding unit, and the fabric conveying unit and the fabric cutting unit are arranged below the left folding unit. This makes full use of the space in each area of ​​the equipment, effectively reduces the overall size of the equipment, and significantly improves space utilization.

[0023] Significantly improves tarpaulin folding efficiency: The synchronous belt module replaces the traditional screw-connecting rod transmission structure. The synchronous belt module has a faster transmission speed and more sensitive action response, which shortens the tarpaulin folding cycle by more than 30% and greatly improves the folding efficiency of wide tarpaulins.

[0024] Effectively reduces equipment manufacturing costs and maintenance difficulty: Synchronous belt modules have a simple structure and are easy to process and assemble, which can significantly reduce equipment manufacturing costs; at the same time, the later maintenance of synchronous belt modules is simple and the maintenance cost is low, and it can ensure the accuracy and stability of folding action.

[0025] Achieving fully automated operation: The device completes the fully automated operation from tarpaulin feeding, tensioning, folding, cutting to transporting. The entire process only requires manual intervention in the initial feeding stage, which greatly reduces the labor intensity of operators and reduces labor costs.

[0026] Highly adaptable and with high folding quality: The number of upper and lower columns and synchronous belt modules can be adjusted according to the needs of tarpaulin with different widths to ensure that the folding plate is evenly stressed and the folding action is stable and reliable; the tarpaulin after folding can achieve a neatness of over 95%, and the folding cycle is ≤10 seconds / layer, meeting the quality and efficiency requirements of large-scale production.

[0027] Effective protection of tarpaulin surface quality: Each folding unit is equipped with a protective roller structure, which can support and protect the tarpaulin before the folding plate moves, preventing the folding plate from scratching the tarpaulin and ensuring the processing surface quality of the tarpaulin.

[0028] Other advantages, objectives and features of the present invention will become apparent in part from the following description, and in part from those skilled in the art through study and practice of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0029] The accompanying drawings are provided to further illustrate the invention and form part of the specification. They are used in conjunction with embodiments of the invention to explain the invention and do not constitute a limitation thereof. In the drawings: Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the automated wide-width tarpaulin folding device described in this invention; Figure 2This is a detailed structural diagram of the middle folding unit and the lower folding unit of the automated wide-width tarpaulin folding device described in this invention; Figure 3 This is a detailed structural diagram of the right folding unit and the left folding unit of the automated wide-width tarpaulin folding device described in this invention; Figure 4 This is a detailed structural diagram of the roller system, folding platform, fabric conveying unit, and fabric cutting unit in the automated wide-width tarpaulin folding device of the present invention.

[0030] In the attached diagram, 1 represents the frame, 11 the left column, 12 the right column, 13 the upper crossbeam, 14 the lower crossbeam, 15 the upper column, 16 the middle crossbeam, 17 the lower column, 2 the roller system, 21 the first roller, 22 the second roller, 23 the third roller, 24 the tension roller, 25 the fourth roller, 3 the right folding unit, 31 the third synchronous belt module, 32 the first transmission link, 33 the first horizontal synchronous belt transmission component, 34 the first L-shaped discrete folding plate, 35 the first folding plate column, 36 the folding support roller, 37 the roller horizontal movement component, 4 the middle folding unit, 41 the first synchronous belt module, 42 the folding auxiliary roller, 43 the second synchronous belt module, 44 the movable support, 45 the folding plate mounting beam, and 46 the straight section. 5 is a discrete fabric folding plate, 5 is a lower fabric folding fixing unit, 51 is a synchronous belt component, 52 is a connecting column, 53 is a pressure plate mounting beam, 54 is a discrete pressure plate, 6 is a left fabric folding unit, 61 is a fourth synchronous belt module, 62 is a second transmission link, 63 is a second horizontal synchronous belt conveyor component, 64 is a second L-shaped discrete fabric folding plate, 65 is a second fabric folding plate column, 7 is a fabric folding platform, 71 is an L-shaped discrete plate assembly, 72 is a cylinder, 73 is a discrete plate, 8 is a fabric cutting unit, 81 is a third horizontal synchronous belt conveyor component, 82 is a fabric pressing conveyor rod, 83 is a fabric pressing body, 831 is a fabric pressing groove, 84 is a cutting knife assembly, 9 is a fabric conveying unit, 91 is a fourth horizontal synchronous belt conveyor component, 92 is an upper clamping plate, 93 is a first drive column, 94 is a lower clamping plate, and 95 is a second drive column. Detailed Implementation

[0031] The present invention will now be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments, so that those skilled in the art can implement it based on the description.

[0032] It should be understood that terms such as “having,” “comprising,” and “including” as used herein do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other elements or combinations thereof.

[0033] like Figure 1 As shown, the present invention provides an automated wide-width tarpaulin folding device, comprising: Frame 1, with a roller system 2 on one side; The folding unit 4 is located on the upper part of the frame 1 and close to the roller system 2, and is used to complete the vertical folding operation of the tarpaulin. The right folding unit 3 is located at the lower part of the frame 1 and close to the roller system 2; The left folding unit 6 is located on the upper part of the frame 1 and close to the middle folding unit 4; the left folding unit 6, the right folding unit 3 and the middle folding unit 4 complete the folding of the tarpaulin by working in a cross manner. The lower folding fabric fixing unit 5 is located at the lower part of the frame 1 and below the middle folding fabric unit 4. It is used to press down the bottom of the folded tarpaulin after the middle folding fabric unit 4 has completed the folding operation.

[0034] Each fabric folding unit is driven by a synchronous belt module or synchronous belt component.

[0035] After the device is started, the roller system 2 transports the tarpaulin to be folded to the folding station in the middle of the frame 1. The folding operation is carried out according to the following process: The left folding unit 6 acts first, pressing down to fix the left side of the tarpaulin. Then, the roller system 2 tensions the drooping tarpaulin to prevent wrinkles and positional shifts. The middle folding unit 4 then performs a vertical folding action, folding the middle of the tarpaulin downwards in the vertical direction, partially transforming the traditional horizontal stacking method into vertical layering. Next, the lower folding unit 5 presses down the lower layer of the vertically folded tarpaulin to prevent it from springing back. The right folding unit 3 performs a horizontal folding action, folding the right side of the tarpaulin horizontally to the left. Then, the left folding unit 6 performs a horizontal folding action to complete the horizontal folding of the left side of the tarpaulin. The left folding unit 6 and the right folding unit 3 are arranged in a staggered, layered manner. The two units, together with the middle folding unit 4, work in a cyclical manner to complete the continuous folding of the wide tarpaulin. The entire process realizes the automated linkage of feeding, tensioning, and folding.

[0036] By adding the middle folding unit 4, the tarpaulin can be folded vertically, transforming the traditional horizontal stacking method of wide tarpaulins into horizontal and vertical layered folding. This effectively controls the overall thickness of the tarpaulin after folding, solving the space size limitation of existing equipment for the excessive folding thickness of wide tarpaulins. When the longitudinal width of the tarpaulin is 20 meters or more, it can avoid the tarpaulin from being messed up or folded irregularly during the folding process, thus ensuring folding efficiency. The left folding unit 6 and the right folding unit 3 are arranged in a staggered, layered layout, which avoids the overlap of the left and right folding actions, effectively reduces the overall size of the equipment, and greatly improves the space utilization of the equipment. The device only requires manual intervention in the initial fabric feeding stage. Subsequent fabric feeding, tensioning, folding and other operations are all completed automatically, which greatly reduces the labor intensity and labor costs of operators. Each folding unit is driven by a synchronous belt module or synchronous belt component, replacing the traditional screw-linkage transmission structure. This results in faster transmission speed and more sensitive action response, significantly improving folding efficiency while reducing manufacturing costs and post-maintenance difficulty.

[0037] like Figure 1 As shown, in one embodiment, it further includes: The folding platform 7 is located in the middle of the frame 1 and is used to provide a flat working surface for folding the tarpaulin. Fabric conveying unit 9, located near fabric folding platform 7, is used to convey tarpaulins; The fabric cutting unit 8 is located near the fabric folding platform 7 and is used to complete the cutting operation of the tarpaulin.

[0038] The folding platform 7 is used to support the tarpaulin during the folding process; The fabric conveying unit 9 is located near the fabric folding platform 7. After the tarpaulin folding operation is completed, the fabric conveying unit 9 moves to the folding station, clamps the folded tarpaulin, and conveys it to the fabric cutting station. The fabric cutting unit 8 is also located near the fabric folding platform 7. After the folded tarpaulin is conveyed to the fabric cutting station by the fabric conveying unit 9, the fabric cutting unit 8 first presses down to fix the tarpaulin, and then completes the cutting operation of the tarpaulin. During cutting, the left folding unit 6 can be used to press the tarpaulin. After cutting, the fabric conveying unit 9 conveys the folded and cut finished tarpaulin to the designated storage location or the next processing station, realizing the fully automated operation of folding, cutting and conveying.

[0039] like Figure 2 As shown, in one embodiment, the folded fabric unit 4 includes: A first synchronous belt module 41 is set on the frame 1, and a folding auxiliary roller 42 is provided thereon. The first synchronous belt module 41 is used to drive the folding auxiliary roller 42 to move up and down reciprocally. The second synchronous belt module 43 is mounted on the frame 1, and a movable bracket 44 is provided on it. The linear discrete folding plate 46 is connected to the movable bracket 44 via the folding plate mounting beam 45, and the second synchronous belt module 43 is used to drive the linear discrete folding plate 46 to reciprocate up and down.

[0040] When the middle folding unit 4 performs vertical folding operation, the first synchronous belt module 41 starts first, driving the folding auxiliary roller 42 to move downward to the position above the middle of the tarpaulin, forming support and protection for the tarpaulin, and preventing the linear discrete folding plate 46 from directly contacting and scratching the surface of the tarpaulin during the movement. Then, the second synchronous belt module 43 starts, driving the moving bracket 44, the folding plate mounting beam 45 and the linear discrete folding plate 46 to move downward synchronously, folding the middle of the tarpaulin downward in the vertical direction, and completing the vertical folding operation of the tarpaulin. After the vertical folding action is completed, the folding auxiliary roller 42 moves upward and returns to its original position under the drive of the first synchronous belt module 41. The linear discrete folding plate 46 keeps pressing the tarpaulin, and can only move upward and return to its original position after the lower folding fixing unit 5 presses the lower layer of the tarpaulin, thus providing working conditions for the subsequent horizontal folding process. Through the above-mentioned vertical folding design, the traditional horizontal stacking method of wide tarpaulins is partially transformed into vertical layering, which effectively reduces the total thickness of the tarpaulin after folding. It solves the technical problem of excessive thickness caused by multi-layer stacking under the traditional horizontal folding method, and enables the device to adapt to the folding needs of large tarpaulins with a longitudinal width of more than 12 meters or even 20 meters. The protective design of the folding auxiliary roller 42 moving before the linear discrete folding plate 46 effectively avoids scratches that may be caused by the rigid folding plate directly contacting the tarpaulin, ensuring the surface quality of the tarpaulin. Two independent synchronous belt modules are used to drive the folding auxiliary roller 42 and the linear discrete folding plate 46 respectively. The structure is simple and the transmission is stable. The synchronous belt modules have fast running speed and sensitive response, which can effectively improve the efficiency of vertical folding.

[0041] like Figure 2 As shown, in one embodiment, the lower folded fabric fixing unit 5 includes: A timing belt assembly 51 is set on frame 1, and a pressure plate mounting beam 53 is connected to it via a connecting column 52. Discrete pressure plate 54 is set on pressure plate mounting beam 53. The discrete pressure plate 54 is driven to move by synchronous belt component 51 to achieve the fixing operation under the tarpaulin.

[0042] After the linear discrete folding plate 46 of the folding unit 4 completes vertical folding and presses the middle of the tarpaulin, the lower folding fixing unit 5 begins to perform the action of pressing the tarpaulin. When the synchronous belt component 51 starts, it drives the connecting column 52 and the pressure plate mounting beam 53 to move, which in turn moves the discrete pressure plate 54 mounted on the pressure plate mounting beam 53 to a position near the bottom of the tarpaulin. The plate then moves to the left to press and fix the bottom of the tarpaulin folded down from the middle folding unit 4 onto the right side of the folding platform 7 (the gap between the plate of the discrete pressure plate 54 and the straight discrete folding plate 46 corresponds to the gap, so that the discrete pressure plate 54 can be used to press the tarpaulin onto the folding platform 7). After the discrete pressure plate 54 has firmly pressed the bottom of the tarpaulin, the straight discrete folding plate 46 of the middle folding unit 4 can be retracted to make way for the subsequent right folding unit 3 and left folding unit 6 to perform horizontal folding operations. The lower folding cloth fixing unit 5 presses the bottom of the vertically folded tarpaulin tightly through the discrete pressure plate 54, effectively preventing the tarpaulin from springing back and shifting during subsequent horizontal folding operations, and ensuring the regularity and stability of the folded shape. The synchronous belt component 51 is used as the drive mechanism. It has a simple structure, reliable operation, and transmission speed that is better than the traditional screw structure. It can quickly complete the pressing and releasing actions, shortening the folding time. The discrete pressure plate 54 adopts a discrete design, which can press the tarpaulin before the linear discrete folding plate 46 is retracted, thus avoiding the interference of the integral pressure plate on the process. The lower folding fabric fixing unit 5 and the middle folding fabric unit 4 form a precise pressing fit, ensuring the smooth operation of each unit and improving the overall folding efficiency.

[0043] like Figure 3 As shown, in one embodiment, the right-folded fabric unit 3 includes: Two third synchronous belt modules 31 are mounted on frame 1 and are connected by a first transmission link 32. The first horizontal synchronous belt transmission element 33 is connected to two third synchronous belt modules 31 at its two ends respectively. The first L-shaped discrete folding plate 34 is mounted on the first horizontal synchronous belt conveyor element 33 via the first folding plate column 35. The folding support roller 36 is mounted on the frame 1 via the roller horizontal motion component 37. Driven by the roller horizontal motion component 37, the folding support roller 36 runs before the first L-shaped discrete folding plate 34, providing auxiliary support for the tarpaulin.

[0044] When the folding and fixing unit 5 presses the bottom of the vertically folded tarpaulin with the discrete pressure plate 54, and the right-side horizontal folding operation needs to be performed, the roller horizontal motion unit 37 starts first, driving the folding support roller 36 to move to the upper right side of the tarpaulin before the first L-shaped discrete folding plate 34, forming auxiliary support for the tarpaulin and avoiding scratches that may be caused by the rigid folding plate directly contacting the tarpaulin. Then, the two third synchronous belt modules 31 are linked by the first transmission link 32 (the first transmission link 32 is connected to the first drive motor, and the first drive motor drives the first transmission link 32 to move, synchronously driving the two third synchronous belt modules 31), thereby driving the first horizontal synchronous belt conveyor unit 33 to move up and down. The first horizontal synchronous belt conveyor unit 33 drives the first folding plate column 35 and the first L-shaped discrete folding plate 34 installed on it to move horizontally, folding the right side of the tarpaulin to the left horizontally. After the first L-shaped discrete folding plate 34 presses the tarpaulin, the folding support roller 36 is driven by the roller horizontal movement unit 37 to retract, making room for the operation and entering the folding process of the left folding unit 6. The right folding unit 3 and the left folding unit 6 cycle back and forth in a cross operation manner to complete the horizontal folding of the tarpaulin.

[0045] The two third synchronous belt modules 31 move synchronously through the first transmission link 32, ensuring that the two ends of the first horizontal synchronous belt transmission element 33 move synchronously, so that the first L-shaped discrete folding plate 34 is subjected to uniform force and moves smoothly during the horizontal folding process, avoiding the tilting of the folding plate caused by unilateral drive and ensuring folding accuracy. The folding support roller 36 moves before the first L-shaped discrete folding plate 34 under the drive of the roller horizontal motion component 37, thus avoiding hard contact between the rigid folding plate and the tarpaulin. The right folding unit 3 is located at the lower part of the frame 1 and close to the roller system 2. It is arranged in a staggered layered layout with the left folding unit 6 located at the upper part, making full use of the space of each area and avoiding spatial overlap of the folding action.

[0046] like Figure 3 As shown, in one embodiment, the left-folded fabric unit 6 includes: Two fourth synchronous belt modules 61 are mounted on frame 1 and are connected by a second transmission link 62. The second horizontal synchronous belt transmission element 63 is connected at both ends to two fourth synchronous belt modules 61 respectively. The second L-shaped discrete folding board 64 is mounted on the second horizontal synchronous belt conveyor element 63 via the second folding board column 65; the second L-shaped discrete folding board 64 and the first L-shaped discrete folding board 34 of the right folding unit 3 are arranged in a staggered, layered layout.

[0047] In the initial stage of the folding operation, the second horizontal synchronous belt conveyor unit 63 can be driven to move downward by the two fourth synchronous belt modules 61. At the same time, the second horizontal synchronous belt conveyor unit 63 drives the second folding plate column 65 and the second L-shaped discrete folding plate 64 on it to move horizontally, pressing the left side of the tarpaulin. Then the middle folding unit 4, the lower folding fixing unit 5 and the right folding unit 3 operate in sequence as described in the previous embodiment. When the first L-shaped discrete folding plate 34 of the right folding unit 3 presses the tarpaulin tightly, and the left horizontal folding operation needs to be performed, the left folding unit 6 can return to its initial position and no longer press the tarpaulin tightly. Then, the two fourth synchronous belt modules 61 are linked by the second transmission link 62 (the second transmission link 62 is connected to the second drive motor, and the second drive motor drives the second transmission link 62 to move, synchronously driving the two fourth synchronous belt modules 61), thereby driving the second horizontal synchronous belt conveyor unit 63 to move up and down. The second horizontal synchronous belt conveyor unit 63 drives the second folding plate column 65 and the second L-shaped discrete folding plate 64 on it to move horizontally, folding the left side of the tarpaulin horizontally to the right. The second L-shaped discrete folding plate 64 and the first L-shaped discrete folding plate 34 of the right folding unit 3 are arranged in a staggered, layered manner, meaning that their movement planes are not on the same height layer. They complete the folding operation in a cyclical manner through cross-operation. The plate body of the second L-shaped discrete folding plate 64 corresponds to the gap of the first L-shaped discrete folding plate 34, so that the two can press the tarpaulin simultaneously or individually. The middle folding unit 4, the right folding unit 3, and the left folding unit 6 alternately fold, realizing the continuous and efficient folding of the wide tarpaulin.

[0048] The staggered layout of the left folding unit 6 and the right folding unit 3 avoids spatial interference and overlap when the left and right folding units are in operation, allowing the two units to quickly alternate folding operations, which greatly improves the space utilization and folding efficiency of the equipment. The two fourth synchronous belt modules 61 are linked by the second transmission link 62 to ensure that the two ends of the second horizontal synchronous belt transmission element 63 move synchronously and ensure that the folding plate is subjected to uniform force. The left folding unit 6 is located on the upper part of the frame 1 and close to the middle folding unit 4. Together with the middle folding unit 4 and the right folding unit 3, it forms a three-unit collaborative folding effect. Through the combination of vertical folding and horizontal folding, as well as the cross-cycle of left and right horizontal folding, the wide tarpaulin is folded efficiently and neatly, improving the neatness of the folding.

[0049] like Figure 4 As shown, in one embodiment, the folding platform 7 includes: The L-shaped discrete plate assembly 71 is set on the frame 1. One end of its horizontal part is connected to the left column 11 of the frame 1, and its vertical part extends downward and is set close to the right folding unit 3. The gap filling mechanism includes a cylinder 72 mounted on a frame 1. The telescopic end of the cylinder 72 is provided with a discrete plate 73. The cylinder 72 drives the discrete plate 73 to move up and down reciprocally. The discrete plate 73 is used to fill the gap of the L-shaped discrete plate assembly 71 and forms a continuous folding working plane with the L-shaped discrete plate assembly 71.

[0050] The folding platform 7 is used to support the tarpaulin during the folding process. During operation, the cylinder 72 drives the discrete plate 73 to rise to the gap position of the L-shaped discrete plate assembly 71, which together with the L-shaped discrete plate assembly 71 forms a continuous folding operation plane, providing a flat and stable bearing surface for the tarpaulin during the folding process, ensuring that both the left folding unit 6 and the right folding unit 3 can press the tarpaulin tightly, and ensuring that the folded tarpaulin is neat and tidy. When the tarpaulin folding operation is completed, and the fabric conveying unit 9 needs to enter the folding station to pick up the folded tarpaulin, the cylinder 72 drives the discrete plate 73 to descend, making room for the passage between the L-shaped discrete plate assembly 71, so that the fabric conveying unit 9 can smoothly enter the folding station to pick up the tarpaulin; after the fabric conveying unit 9 picks up the tarpaulin and conveys it to the fabric cutting station, the discrete plate 73 rises again under the drive of the cylinder 72, restoring the continuous working plane, waiting for the next round of folding operation. The horizontal part of the L-shaped discrete plate assembly 71 provides compression support for horizontal folding, while the vertical part, in conjunction with the lower folding cloth fixing unit 5, forms compression support under the tarpaulin after vertical folding. The L-shaped structural design provides a support surface for both horizontal and vertical folding of the tarpaulin, taking into account the operational needs of both folding methods.

[0051] like Figure 4 As shown, in one embodiment, the fabric conveying unit 9 includes: The fourth horizontal synchronous belt conveyor element 91, which is set on frame 1, is located below the folding platform 7; The upper clamping plate 92 is set in the fourth horizontal synchronous belt transmission element 91 via the first drive column 93; The lower clamping plate 94 is set in the fourth horizontal synchronous belt transmission element 91 via the second drive column 95.

[0052] After the tarpaulin folding operation is completed, the discrete flat plate 73 on the folding platform 7 is lowered under the drive of the cylinder 72 to make way for the tarpaulin transport channel; the fourth horizontal synchronous belt conveyor unit 91 is started, driving the upper clamping plate 92 (connected by the first drive column 93) and the lower clamping plate 94 (connected by the second drive column 95) on it to move as a whole to the folding station, with the upper clamping plate 92 and the lower clamping plate 94 located above and below the folded tarpaulin, respectively; Then, the upper clamping plate 92 and the lower clamping plate 94 move downward and upward respectively under the drive of the first drive column 93 and the second drive column 95, and the two cooperate to clamp the folded tarpaulin; then, the fourth horizontal synchronous belt conveyor unit 91 moves away from the folding station and horizontally transports the clamped tarpaulin to the cutting station. After the cutting is completed, the fabric conveying unit 9 transports the tarpaulin to the designated storage location; after the next process removes the tarpaulin, the fabric conveying unit 9 returns to the initial position, and the discrete plate 73 rises to restore the continuous operation plane, waiting for the next round of folding operations.

[0053] The fabric conveying unit 9 works in conjunction with the fabric folding platform 7 and the fabric cutting unit 8 to complete the final cutting and conveying process of the automated production line. This achieves fully automated operation from fabric feeding, folding, cutting to fabric conveying, reducing the labor intensity and labor costs of operators.

[0054] like Figure 4As shown, in one embodiment, the fabric cutting unit 8 includes: The third horizontal synchronous belt conveyor element 81 is set on the middle crossbeam 16 of the frame 1 and is located on the side of the left folding unit 6 away from the middle folding unit 4. The fabric pressing conveyor 82 is set on the third horizontal synchronous belt conveyor unit 81, and the fabric pressing conveyor 82 is located above the fabric folding platform 7. The pressing body 83, which is set at one end of the pressing conveyor rod 82, has a pressing groove 831 at its bottom. The cutting blade assembly 84 is located below the folding platform 7 and works in conjunction with the pressing groove 831 to cut the tarpaulin.

[0055] The L-shaped discrete plate assembly 71 of the folding platform 7 is provided with a cutting gap at the corresponding position of the cutter assembly 84. The cutting gap is arranged perpendicular to the tarpaulin conveying direction and passes through the L-shaped discrete plate assembly 71, so that the cutter assembly 84 can cut the tarpaulin.

[0056] After the folded tarpaulin is transported to the cutting station by the fabric conveying unit 9, the fabric cutting unit 8 begins to perform the cutting operation. The third horizontal synchronous belt conveyor unit 81 starts, driving the pressing fabric conveyor rod 82 and the pressing fabric body 83 installed on it to move horizontally above the position where the tarpaulin is to be cut. Then, the pressing body 83 moves downward under the action of the drive mechanism, and the pressing groove 831 at its bottom presses the tarpaulin tightly and fixes it on the cutting station to prevent the tarpaulin from shifting during cutting. The recessed part of the pressing groove 831 corresponds to the cutting gap of the L-shaped discrete plate assembly 71. At this time, the cutting blade assembly 84 set below the folding platform 7 starts to cut the tarpaulin pressed by the pressing groove 831 (during cutting, the cutting blade assembly 84 moves from one side of the tarpaulin along the cutting gap to the other side of the tarpaulin to cut), and completes the cutting in cooperation with the pressing groove 831. The tarpaulin is cut; after cutting, the cutter assembly 84 stops immediately, waiting for the next reverse cutting (the cutter assembly 84 is a double-blade design, which can cut the tarpaulin in both forward and reverse movements. When the cutter assembly 84 is in the waiting position on both sides of the tarpaulin, it will not affect the conveying of the tarpaulin); the pressing body 83 rises, and the third horizontal synchronous belt conveyor unit 81 drives the pressing conveyor rod 82 and the pressing body 83 back to the initial position, waiting for the next cutting operation. The cut finished tarpaulin is then conveyed by the fabric conveying unit 9 to the designated storage location.

[0057] The fabric cutting unit 8 works in conjunction with the folding and fabric conveying processes to automatically cut the folded tarpaulin, avoiding manual transfer between processes, shortening the overall processing cycle, and improving production efficiency. The bottom of the fabric pressing body 83 is provided with a fabric pressing groove 831. The fabric is first pressed firmly by the fabric pressing groove 831, and then cut by the cutting blade assembly 84. This ensures that the fabric is flat and will not move during cutting, and ensures that the cut edges are neat.

[0058] like Figure 4 As shown, in one embodiment, the roller system 2 includes: a roller group arranged along the tarpaulin conveying direction, a third roller 23, a tension roller 24, and a fourth roller 25; The roller assembly includes a first roller 21 and a second roller 22 arranged vertically. The first roller 21, the second roller 22, the third roller 23 and the tension roller 24 are mounted on the right column 12 of the frame 1, and the fourth roller 25 is mounted on the middle crossbeam 16 of the frame 1.

[0059] The roller system 2 is responsible for the automatic conveying and dynamic tensioning of the tarpaulin. During operation, the tarpaulin to be folded is drawn out from the roll and passes through the first roller 21 and the second roller 22 arranged vertically. Then the tarpaulin is further conveyed to the tensioning roller 24 through the third roller 23. The tension roller 24 is mounted on the right column 12 of the frame 1 and can move up and down under the action of the drive mechanism to achieve the tensioning effect; or the tension roller 24 is connected to the right column 12 through a connecting rod, and the connecting rod is elastically hinged to the right column 12, so that when the tension roller 24 is subjected to a downward force, it provides elastic recovery support through the elastic hinge point to achieve the tensioning effect. The tension roller 24 applies or releases tension on the hanging tarpaulin during the folding operation to achieve dynamic tension of the tarpaulin and prevent wrinkles and positional shifts in the tarpaulin before conveying and folding. After being further guided by the fourth roller 25 (set on the middle crossbeam 16), the tarpaulin is transported to the folding station on the folding platform 7, where it is pressed by the left folding unit 6 for subsequent folding operations. The five rollers are arranged in sequence along the tarpaulin conveying direction, together completing the continuous and stable conveying and tensioning of the tarpaulin from unrolling to the folding station.

[0060] like Figure 4 As shown, in one embodiment, the frame 1 includes a left column 11 and a right column 12, which are connected above and below by an upper crossbeam 13 and a lower crossbeam 14, respectively. The upper crossbeam 13 is provided with multiple upper columns 15, three of which are used to fix the first synchronous belt module 41, the second synchronous belt module 43 and two fourth synchronous belt modules 61. A middle crossbeam 16 is provided between the upper column 15 near the right column 12 and the left column 11. The lower crossbeam 14 is provided with two lower columns 17. A fourth horizontal synchronous belt transmission element 91 is provided between one of the lower columns 17 and the left column 11, which is located near the left column 11. The other lower column 17 and the right column 12 are used to fix two third synchronous belt modules 31 respectively.

[0061] Frame 1 serves as the rigid support skeleton of the entire device, providing installation foundation and working space for each functional unit. Frame 1 is a basic skeleton formed by connecting left column 11, right column 12, upper crossbeam 13 and lower crossbeam 14. Multiple upper columns 15 are provided on the upper crossbeam 13. Among them, three upper columns 15 are used to fix the first synchronous belt module 41 and the second synchronous belt module 43 of the middle folding unit 4 and the two fourth synchronous belt modules 61 of the left folding unit 6, so that the middle folding unit 4 and the left folding unit 6 can obtain stable installation support on the upper part of frame 1. A middle crossbeam 16 is provided between the upper column 15 and the left column 11 near the right column 12. The middle crossbeam 16 is used to install the fourth roller 25 and the third horizontal synchronous belt conveyor component 81 of the fabric cutting unit 8. The fabric limiting roller on the middle crossbeam 16 can also limit and guide the tarpaulin. The lower crossbeam 14 is provided with two lower columns 17. A fourth horizontal synchronous belt conveyor unit 91 (the track of the fabric conveying unit 9) is provided between the lower column 17 near the left column 11 and the left column 11. The other lower column 17 and the right column 12 are used to fix the two third synchronous belt modules 31 of the right folding fabric unit 3 respectively. The entire frame 1 distributes the roller system 2, the middle folding unit 4, the right folding unit 3, the left folding unit 6, the lower folding unit 5, the folding platform 7, the cutting unit 8, and the conveying unit 9 in various areas of the equipment, making reasonable use of space, ensuring that they do not interfere with each other, and effectively reducing the overall size of the equipment; The entire frame 1 is welded from Q235 steel, ensuring that the frame 1 has sufficient rigidity and structural stability, providing a foundation for the stable operation of each functional unit.

[0062] In one embodiment, based on the aforementioned multiple embodiments, the device structure can be adaptively adjusted to meet the folding requirements of ultra-wide tarpaulins: the number of upper columns 15 and lower columns 17 can be increased, and the number of synchronous belt modules of each folding unit can be increased or decreased accordingly to ensure the uniformity of the force on the folding plate and to ensure the stability and reliability of the folding action. This device can achieve a folding neatness of over 95% for wide-width tarpaulins, with a folding cycle of ≤10 seconds per layer, meeting the needs of large-scale automated production of ultra-wide-width tarpaulins.

[0063] In one embodiment, based on the aforementioned embodiments, all rollers of the roller system 2 are coated with an anti-slip and wear-resistant coating, and the edges of each folding plate are rounded and polished to further improve the stability of the tarpaulin conveying, avoid hard contact between the folding plate and the tarpaulin and scratches, and effectively ensure the processing surface quality of tarpaulins of different materials.

[0064] This embodiment is applicable to the folding of wide tarpaulins made of various materials such as canvas, waterproof cloth, and Oxford cloth, making it more adaptable.

[0065] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "length," "width," "thickness," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," "outer," "clockwise," "counterclockwise," "axial," "radial," and "circumferential" indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are used only for the convenience of describing this invention and simplifying the description, and are not intended to indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this invention.

[0066] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection, an electrical connection, or a connection that allows communication between them; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components, unless otherwise explicitly limited. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention according to the specific circumstances.

[0067] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been disclosed above, they are not limited to the applications listed in the specification and embodiments. They can be applied to various fields suitable for the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other modifications can be easily made. Therefore, without departing from the general concept defined by the present invention, the present invention is not limited to the specific details and illustrations shown and described herein.

Claims

1. An automated wide-width tarpaulin folding device, characterized in that, include: A frame (1) with a roller system (2) on one side; The folding unit (4) is located on the upper part of the frame (1) and close to the roller system (2) to complete the vertical folding operation of the tarpaulin; The right folding unit (3) is located at the bottom of the frame (1) and close to the roller system (2). The left folding unit (6) is located on the upper part of the frame (1) and close to the middle folding unit (4); the left folding unit (6), the right folding unit (3) and the middle folding unit (4) complete the folding of the tarpaulin by working in a cross manner; The lower folding cloth fixing unit (5) is set at the lower part of the frame (1) and below the middle folding cloth unit (4). It is used to press the bottom of the folded tarpaulin after the middle folding cloth unit (4) has completed the folding operation.

2. The automated wide-width tarpaulin folding device according to claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: The folding platform (7) is set in the middle of the frame (1) to provide a flat working surface for folding the tarpaulin; The fabric conveying unit (9) is located near the fabric folding platform (7) and is used to convey tarpaulins; The fabric cutting unit (8) is set near the fabric folding platform (7) and is used to complete the cutting of the tarpaulin.

3. The automated wide-width tarpaulin folding device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The folded fabric unit (4) includes: The first synchronous belt module (41) is set on the frame (1), and a folding auxiliary roller (42) is provided on it. The first synchronous belt module (41) is used to drive the folding auxiliary roller (42) to move up and down reciprocally. The second synchronous belt module (43) is set on the frame (1) and has a movable bracket (44) on it. The linear discrete folded fabric plate (46) is connected to the movable bracket (44) via the folded fabric plate mounting beam (45), and the second synchronous belt module (43) is used to drive the linear discrete folded fabric plate (46) to move up and down reciprocally.

4. The automated wide-width tarpaulin folding device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The lower folded fabric fixing unit (5) includes: A timing belt assembly (51) is set on the frame (1), and a pressure plate mounting beam (53) is connected to it via a connecting column (52). Discrete pressure plate (54) is set on pressure plate mounting beam (53). The discrete pressure plate (54) is driven to move by synchronous belt component (51) to realize the fixing operation under the tarpaulin.

5. The automated wide-width tarpaulin folding device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The right-folded fabric unit (3) includes: Two third synchronous belt modules (31) are mounted on the frame (1) and are connected by a first transmission link (32); The first horizontal synchronous belt transmission unit (33) is connected at both ends to two third synchronous belt modules (31); The first L-shaped discrete folding plate (34) is set on the first horizontal synchronous belt conveyor element (33) through the first folding plate column (35); The folding support roller (36) is set on the frame (1) through the roller horizontal motion component (37). The folding support roller (36) runs before the first L-shaped discrete folding plate (34) under the drive of the roller horizontal motion component (37), forming an auxiliary support for the tarpaulin.

6. The automated wide-width tarpaulin folding device according to claim 5, characterized in that, The left-folded fabric unit (6) includes: Two fourth synchronous belt modules (61) are set on the frame (1) and are connected by a second transmission link (62); The second horizontal synchronous belt transmission unit (63) is connected at both ends to two fourth synchronous belt modules (61); The second L-shaped discrete folding board (64) is set on the second horizontal synchronous belt conveyor unit (63) by the second folding board column (65); the second L-shaped discrete folding board (64) and the first L-shaped discrete folding board (34) of the right folding unit (3) are arranged in a staggered upper and lower layered layout.

7. The automated wide-width tarpaulin folding device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The folding platform (7) includes: The L-shaped discrete plate assembly (71) is set on the frame (1), with one end of its horizontal part connected to the left column (11) of the frame (1), and its vertical part extending downward and set close to the right folding unit (3). The gap filling mechanism includes a cylinder (72) mounted on a frame (1). The telescopic end of the cylinder (72) is provided with a discrete plate (73). The cylinder (72) drives the discrete plate (73) to move up and down reciprocally. The discrete plate (73) is used to fill the gap of the L-shaped discrete plate assembly (71) and forms a continuous folding working plane with the L-shaped discrete plate assembly (71).

8. The automated wide-width tarpaulin folding device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The fabric cutting unit (8) includes: The third horizontal synchronous belt transmission unit (81) is set on the middle crossbeam (16) of the frame (1) and is located on the side of the left folding unit (6) away from the middle folding unit (4). The pressing conveyor rod (82) is set on the third horizontal synchronous belt conveyor unit (81), and the pressing conveyor rod (82) is set above the folding platform (7); The pressing body (83) is set at one end of the pressing conveyor rod (82), and the bottom of the pressing body is provided with a pressing groove (831). The cutting assembly (84) is located below the folding platform (7) and works with the pressing groove (831) to cut the tarpaulin.

9. The automated wide-width tarpaulin folding device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The fabric delivery unit (9) includes: The fourth horizontal synchronous belt conveyor unit (91) is set on the frame (1) and is located below the folding platform (7); The upper clamp (92) is set in the fourth horizontal synchronous belt transmission element (91) via the first drive column (93). The lower clamp (94) is set in the fourth horizontal synchronous belt transmission element (91) via the second drive column (95).

10. The automated wide-width tarpaulin folding device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The roller system (2) includes: a roller group arranged along the tarpaulin conveying direction, a third roller (23), a tension roller (24), and a fourth roller (25); The roller assembly includes a first roller (21) and a second roller (22) arranged vertically. The first roller (21), the second roller (22), the third roller (23) and the tension roller (24) are mounted on the right column (12) of the frame (1), and the fourth roller (25) is mounted on the middle crossbeam (16) of the frame (1).

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