A system for forming a rolled object and an associated method thereof

Abstract

A system (10, 56, 86, 114, 136, 158, 178) includes housing (12, 60, 90, 118, 140, 162, 182) and movable actuator (14, 58, 88, 116, 138). A motion transmission unit (44, 72, 99) is coupled to collar (26, 66, 96, 122, 144, 166, 186) and disposed inside housing (12, 60, 90, 118, 140, 162, 182) and coupled to inner portion (22, 62, 92) of movable actuator (14, 58, 88, 116, 138). A rotatable spindle (16, 36, 40, 68, 98, 124, 146, 168, 188) is disposed extending through collar (26, 66, 96, 122, 144, 166, 186) and at least partially protruding outwards from housing (12, 60, 90, 118, 140, 162, 182). A drive unit (30, 128, 150, 170, 190) is coupled to rotatable spindle (16, 36, 40, 68, 98, 124, 146, 168, 188) disposed proximate to plunger (18, 84, 112, 132, 154, 176, 192).

Description

[0001] A SYSTEM FOR FORMING A ROLLED OBJECT AND AN ASSOCIATED METHOD THEREOF

[0002] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0003] [1] The present disclosure generally relates to a system for forming a rolled object. More particularly, the disclosure relates to a quilling system and an associated method for forming a rolled object.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] [2] Paper quilling involves the use of strips of paper. Typically, the paper strips are rolled into coils or beads and glued to create an artistic work in two or three dimensions. A typical quilling work may require 20 to 100 coils or more.

[0006] [3] Over the years, several manual and semi-automated quilling systems have been used to make paper quills and beads. In both manual and semi-automated quilling systems, a user has to manually lift the formed object, using a hand. The manual lifting may lead to distortion and deformation of the already formed coils or beads due to several factors such as angle of lifting, force applied during lifting, rate of lifting etc. Specifically, the conventional quilling systems require more manual effort and thereby induce manual error in lifting the finished products from the quilling systems.

[0007] [4] Therefore, there is a need for a reliable and standardized method and system for lifting or ejecting a formed object from a system such as, for example, a quilling system.

[0008] SUMMARY

[0009] [5] This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts, in a simplified format, that is further described in the detailed description of the invention. This summary is neither intended to identify key or essential inventive concepts of the invention and nor is it intended for determining the scope of the invention.

[0010] [6] In accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, a system for forming a rolled object is disclosed. The system includes a housing and a movable actuator having an outer portion and an inner portion coupled to the outer portion. The outer portion is disposed outside the housing and the inner portion is disposed inside the housing. A motion transmission unit is disposed inside the housing and coupled to the inner portion of the movable actuator. A collar is disposed inside the housing and coupled to the motion transmission unit. A rotatable spindle is disposed extending through the collar and at least partially protruding outwards from the housing. A drive unit is disposed at least partially inside the housing and coupled to the rotatable spindle. A plunger is disposed outside the housing and proximate to the rotatable spindle.

[0011] [7] In accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, a method for operating a system for forming a rolled object is disclosed. The method includes receiving a strip between a rotatable spindle and a plunger. The rotatable spindle is disposed extending through a collar disposed inside a housing and at least partially protruding outwards from the housing. The plunger is disposed outside the housing. The method further includes driving, by a drive unit, the rotatable spindle to form the rolled object from the received strip. The drive unit is at least partially disposed inside the housing. Further, the method includes holding, by the plunger, the rolled object against the rotatable spindle. Additionally, the method includes receiving, by a movable actuator, an actuation force from a source. The movable actuator includes an outer portion and an inner portion coupled to the outer portion. The outer portion is disposed outside the housing and the inner portion is disposed inside the housing. The method further includes transmitting, by a motion transmission unit, a motion from the movable actuator to one of the collar and the rotatable spindle. The motion transmission unit is disposed inside the housing and coupled to the inner portion of the movable actuator and the rotatable spindle. Further, the method includes ejecting the rolled object outwards from the rotatable spindle due to the movement of the plunger.

[0012] [8] To further clarify the advantages and features of the present invention, a more particular description of the invention will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof, which are illustrated in the appended drawings. It is appreciated that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the invention and are therefore not to be considered limiting to its scope. The invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail with the accompanying drawings.

[0013] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] [9] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood when the following detailed description is read with reference to the accompanying drawings in which like characters represent like parts throughout the drawings, wherein:

[0015]

[0010] Figure 1 is a front view of a system for forming a rolled object in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0016]

[0011] Figure 2 is another front view of the system in accordance with the embodiment of figure 1 of the present disclosure;

[0017]

[0012] Figure 3A is a side view of a movable platform of a collar and a rotatable spindle in accordance with the embodiment of figure 2 of the present disclosure;

[0018]

[0013] Figure 3B is a side view of a movable platform and a rotatable spindle in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0019]

[0014] Figure 3C is a side view of a movable platform and a rotatable spindle in accordance with yet another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0020]

[0015] Figure 4 is a partial front view of the system in accordance with the embodiment of figure 2 of the present disclosure;

[0016] Figure 5 is a partial front view of a system in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0021]

[0017] Figure 6 is a front view of a system for forming a rolled object in accordance with yet another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0022]

[0018] Figure 7A is a partial side view of a system for forming a rolled object in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0023]

[0019] Figure 7B is a partial side sectional view of the system in accordance with the embodiment of figure 7A of the present disclosure;

[0024]

[0020] Figure 7C is a top view of the system in accordance with the embodiment of figure 7A and 7B of the present disclosure;

[0025]

[0021] Figure 7D is a partial side view of a system for forming a rolled object in accordance with the embodiment of figures 7A, 7B, and 7C of the present disclosure;

[0026]

[0022] Figure 8A is a partial side view of a system for forming a rolled object in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0027]

[0023] . Figure 8B is a partial side sectional view of the system in accordance with the embodiment of figure 8A of the present disclosure;

[0028]

[0024] Figure 8C is a partial side sectional view of the system for forming a rolled object in accordance with the embodiment of figures 8 A and 8B of the present disclosure;

[0029]

[0025] Figure 9 is a partial internal front view of a system for forming a rolled object in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0030]

[0026] Figure 10 is a partial internal front view of a system for forming a rolled object in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0027] Figure 11 is a flow chart illustrating a method for operating the exemplary system for forming the rolled object in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0031]

[0028] Further, skilled artisans will appreciate that elements in the drawings are illustrated for simplicity and may not have necessarily been drawn to scale. Furthermore, the drawings may show only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the present invention so as not to obscure the drawings with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the description herein.

[0032] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES

[0033]

[0029] For the purpose of promoting an understanding of the principles of the present disclosure, reference will now be made to the various embodiments and specific language will be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the present disclosure is thereby intended, such alterations and further modifications in the illustrated system, and such further applications of the principles of the present disclosure as illustrated therein being contemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the present disclosure relates.

[0034]

[0030] It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are explanatory of the present disclosure and are not intended to be restrictive thereof.

[0035]

[0031] Whether or not a certain feature or element was limited to being used only once, it may still be referred to as “one or more features” or “one or more elements” or “at least one feature” or “at least one element.” Furthermore, the use of the terms “one or more” or “at least one” feature or element does not preclude there being none of that feature or element, unless otherwise specified by limiting language including, but not limited to, “there needs to be one or more...” or “one or more elements is required.”

[0032] Reference is made herein to some “embodiments.” It should be understood that an embodiment is an example of a possible implementation of any features and / or elements of the present disclosure. Some embodiments have been described for the purpose of explaining one or more of the potential ways in which the specific features and / or elements of the proposed disclosure fulfil the requirements of uniqueness, utility, and non-obviousness.

[0036]

[0033] Use of the phrases and / or terms including, but not limited to, “a first embodiment,” “a further embodiment,” “an alternate embodiment,” “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” “multiple embodiments,” “some embodiments,” “other embodiments,” “further embodiment”, “furthermore embodiment”, “additional embodiment” or other variants thereof do not necessarily refer to the same embodiments. Unless otherwise specified, one or more particular features and / or elements described in connection with one or more embodiments may be found in one embodiment, or may be found in more than one embodiment, or may be found in all embodiments, or may be found in no embodiments. Although one or more features and / or elements may be described herein in the context of only a single embodiment, or in the context of more than one embodiment, or in the context of all embodiments, the features and / or elements may instead be provided separately or in any appropriate combination or not at all. Conversely, any features and / or elements described in the context of separate embodiments may alternatively be realized as existing together in the context of a single embodiment.

[0037]

[0034] Any particular and all details set forth herein are used in the context of some embodiments and therefore should not necessarily be taken as limiting factors to the proposed disclosure.

[0038]

[0035] The terms “comprises”, “comprising”, or any other variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process or method that comprises a list of steps does not include only those steps but may include other steps not expressly listed or inherent to such process or method. Similarly, one or more devices or sub-systems or elements or structures or components proceeded by “comprises... a” does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of other devices or other sub-systems or other elements or other structures or other components or additional devices or additional sub-systems or additional elements or additional structures or additional components.

[0039]

[0036] Embodiments of the present disclosure will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0040]

[0037] Figure l is a front view of a system (10) for forming a rolled object such as but not limited to a paper bead in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The system (10) includes a housing (12), a movable actuator (14), a motion transmission unit (not shown in figure 1), a collar (not shown in figure 1), a rotatable spindle (16), a drive unit (not shown in figure 1), and a plunger (18). The movable actuator (14) is disposed at least partially protruding from the housing (12). The motion transmission unit and the collar are disposed inside the housing (12). The rotatable spindle (16) is disposed at least partially protruding outwards from the housing (12). In the illustrated embodiment, the drive unit is also disposed inside the housing (12). Further, in the illustrated embodiment, the plunger (18) is coupled to and disposed outside the housing (12). Furthermore, the plunger (18) is disposed proximate to the rotatable spindle (16). It may be noted herein that the system (10) is but not limited to a quilling system, capable of forming a rolled object from a strip of material.

[0041]

[0038] Figure 2 is another front view of the system (10) in accordance with the embodiment of figure 1 of the present disclosure. As discussed herein, the movable actuator (14) is disposed at least partially protruding from the housing (12). The movable actuator (14) includes an outer portion (20) and an inner portion (22) coupled to the outer portion (20). The outer portion (20) is disposed outside the housing (12), and the inner portion (22) is disposed inside the housing (12). In one embodiment, the movable actuator (14) is configured to receive an actuating force from a source, for example, a user, and movable inwards or outwards along a longitudinal direction (24), relative to the housing (12).

[0039] The collar (26) is also disposed inside the housing (12). The rotatable spindle (16) is disposed extending through the collar (26) and at least partially protruding outwards from the housing (12). Further, the collar (26) is provided with a movable platform (28) disposed proximate to the rotatable spindle (16). The rotatable spindle (16) is configured to perform a rotary motion to form the rolled object from a received strip. Further, the collar (26) is configured to move outwards from the housing (12) such that the rolled object is ejected outwards along the longitudinal direction (24) from the rotatable spindle (16), using the movable platform (28).

[0042]

[0040] In the illustrated embodiment, the drive unit (30) is also disposed inside the housing (12) and coupled to the rotatable spindle (16). Specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, the drive unit (30) is a drive motor configured to drive the rotatable spindle (16). Further, in the illustrated embodiment, the plunger (18) is coupled to and disposed outside the housing (12). Furthermore, the plunger (18) is a pivotable plunger disposed proximate to the rotatable spindle (16). The plunger (18) is specifically provided with a biasing member (not shown) and configured to hold the received strip against the rotatable spindle (16). Further, in the illustrated embodiment, the system (10) includes a power source (32), such as but not limited to a battery, disposed inside the housing (12) and coupled to the drive unit (30). The power source (32) is configured to supply electric power to actuate the drive unit (30).

[0043]

[0041] Figure 3A is a side view of the movable platform (28) of the collar (26) and the rotatable spindle (16) in accordance with the embodiment of figure 2 of the present disclosure. As discussed herein, the rotatable spindle (16) is disposed extending through the collar (26) and at least partially protruding outwards from the housing (12). Further, the collar (26) is provided with the movable platform (28) disposed proximate to the rotatable spindle (16). In the illustrated embodiment, the movable platform (28) has a continuous circular profile disposed surrounding the rotatable spindle (16). In other embodiments, the profile of the movable platform (28) may vary depending on the application. Further, the collar (26) is configured to move outwards from the housing (12) such that the rolled object is ejected outwards along the longitudinal direction (24) from the rotatable spindle (16), using the movable platform (28).

[0044]

[0042] Figure 3B is a side view of a movable platform (34) and a rotatable spindle (36) in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure. The movable platform (34) is disposed proximate to the rotatable spindle (36). In the illustrated embodiment, the movable platform (34) has a discontinuous circular profile (for example, one or more plates or discontinuous fragmented disks) disposed surrounding the rotatable spindle (36). The functions of the movable platform (34) and the rotatable spindle (36) are similar to the functions of the movable platform (28) and the rotatable spindle (16) respectively of the previous embodiment.

[0045]

[0043] Figure 3C is a side view of a movable platform (38) and a rotatable spindle (40) in accordance with yet another embodiment of the present disclosure. The movable platform (38) is disposed proximate to the rotatable spindle (40). In the illustrated embodiment, the movable platform (38) has a two-prong fork configuration disposed substantially surrounding the rotatable spindle (40). The functions of the movable platform (38) and the rotatable spindle (40) are similar to the functions of the movable platform (28) and the rotatable spindle (16) respectively of the previous embodiment.

[0046]

[0044] Figure 4 is a partial front view of the system (10) in accordance with the embodiment of figure 2 of the present disclosure. As discussed herein, the movable actuator (14) is disposed at least partially protruding from the housing (12). The movable actuator (14) includes the outer portion (20) and the inner portion (22) coupled to the outer portion (20). The outer portion (20) is disposed outside the housing (12), and the inner portion (22) is disposed inside the housing (12). The movable actuator (14) is provided with a first biasing member (42), for example, a biasing spring, disposed within the housing (12). As discussed herein, the movable actuator (14) is configured to receive an actuating force from a source and movable inwards or outwards along the longitudinal direction (24), relative to the housing (12).

[0047]

[0045] The collar (26) is also disposed inside the housing (12). The rotatable spindle (16) is disposed extending through the collar (26) and at least partially protruding outwards from the housing (12). Further, the collar (26) is provided with the movable platform (28) disposed proximate to the rotatable spindle (16). In the illustrated embodiment, a motion transmission unit (44) is disposed inside the housing (12) and coupled to the inner portion (22) of the movable actuator (14). Specifically, the motion transmission unit (44) includes a first rack (46) coupled to the inner portion (22) of the movable actuator (14). The first rack (46) includes a first groove surface (48) disposed facing the collar (26). Further, a second rack (50) is coupled to the collar (26). The second rack (50) includes a second groove surface (52) disposed facing the first groove surface (48) of the first rack (46). A pinion (54) is disposed between and engaging the first groove surface (48) and the second groove surface (52). The motion transmission unit (44) is configured to transmit a motion from the movable actuator (14) to the collar (26). The collar (26) is movable inwards or outwards along the longitudinal direction (24), relative to the housing (12). The collar (26) is configured to move outwards if the movable actuator (14) is moved inwards, or vice versa.

[0048]

[0046] The drive unit (30) is also disposed inside the housing (12) and coupled to the rotatable spindle (16). Further, in the illustrated embodiment, the plunger (18) is coupled to and disposed outside the housing (12). Furthermore, the plunger (18) is a pivotable plunger disposed proximate to the rotatable spindle (16).

[0049]

[0047] Figure 5 is a partial front view of a system (56) for forming a rolled object in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure. In the illustrated embodiment, a movable actuator (58) is disposed at least partially protruding from a housing (60). The movable actuator (58) includes an outer portion (60) and an inner portion (62) coupled to the outer portion (60). The outer portion (60) is disposed outside the housing (60) and the inner portion (62) is disposed inside the housing (60). The movable actuator (58) is configured to receive an actuating force from a source and movable inwards or outwards along a longitudinal direction (64), relative to the housing (60).

[0050]

[0048] A collar (66) is also disposed inside the housing (60). A rotatable spindle (68) is disposed extending through the collar (66) and at least partially protruding outwards from the housing (60). Further, the collar (66) is provided with a movable platform (70) disposed proximate to the rotatable spindle (68).

[0051]

[0049] In the illustrated embodiment, a motion transmission unit (72) (z.e. see-saw configuration) is disposed inside the housing (60) and coupled to the inner portion (62) of the movable actuator (58). Specifically, the motion transmission unit (72) includes a fulcrum member (74), a base member (76), and a second biasing member (78). The base member (76) is coupled to and mounted on the fulcrum member (74). Specifically, the inner portion (62) of the movable actuator (58) is coupled to a first portion (80) of the base member (76) relative to the fulcrum member (74). Further, the collar (66) is coupled to a second portion (82) opposite to the first portion (80) of the base member (76), relative to the fulcrum member (74). Furthermore, the second biasing member (78), for example, a biasing spring, is provided to the base member (76). The motion transmission unit (72) is configured to transmit a motion from the movable actuator (58) to the collar (66). Specifically, the collar (66) is movable inwards or outwards along the longitudinal direction (64), relative to the housing (60). The collar (66) is configured to move outwards if the movable actuator (58) is moved inwards, or vice versa.

[0052]

[0050] In the illustrated embodiment, a plunger (84) is coupled to and disposed outside the housing (60). Furthermore, the plunger (84) is a pivotable plunger disposed proximate to the rotatable spindle (68). It should be noted herein that the system (56) is similar to the system (10) of the previous embodiment, except that the configuration of the motion transmission unit (72) is different from the configuration of the motion transmission unit (44).

[0051] Figure 6 is a front view of a system (86) for forming a rolled object in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure. In the illustrated embodiment, a movable actuator (88) is disposed at least partially protruding from a housing (90). The movable actuator (88) includes an outer portion (91) and an inner portion (92) coupled to the outer portion (91). The outer portion (91) is disposed outside the housing (90), and the inner portion (92) is disposed inside the housing (90). The movable actuator (88) is configured to receive an actuating force from a source and movable inwards or outwards along a longitudinal direction (94), relative to the housing (90).

[0053]

[0052] A collar (96) is also disposed inside the housing (90). A rotatable spindle

[0054] (98) is disposed extending through the collar (96) and at least partially protruding outwards from the housing (90). In the illustrated embodiment, a motion transmission unit (99) is disposed inside the housing (90) and coupled to the inner portion (92) of the movable actuator (88). Specifically, the motion transmission unit

[0055] (99) includes a ratchet-based cam mechanism (100) and a base member (102). The inner portion (92) of the movable actuator (88) is coupled to the base member (102) via the ratchet-based cam mechanism (100). Specifically, the ratchet-based cam mechanism (100) includes an upper cam (102), a lower cam (104), and a guide tube (106) provided with a plurality of guides (108). Specifically, the upper cam (102) is coupled to the inner portion (92) of the movable actuator (88) and disposed partially in the guide tube (106). The lower cam (104) is coupled to the base member (102) and disposed partially in the guide tube (106). The base member (102) is provided with a second biasing member (110), for example, a compression spring.

[0056]

[0053] Further, in the illustrated embodiment, the collar (96) is held stationary inside the housing (90). Also, the rotatable spindle (98) is coupled to the base member (102). The motion transmission unit (99) is configured to transmit a motion from the movable actuator (88) to the rotatable spindle (98). Specifically, the movable actuator (88) and the rotatable spindle (98) are movable inwards or outwards along the longitudinal direction (94), relative to the housing (90), such that the rolled object is ejected outwards along a lateral direction (111) from the rotatable spindle (98), using a plunger (112). When the movable actuator (88) is pressed once, the upper cam (102) pushes the lower cam (104) past the plurality of guides (108) of the guide tube (106), resulting in rotation of the lower cam (104) due to the action of the second biasing member (110). Further, as a result, the rotatable spindle (98) is also moved downwards. Furthermore, when the movable actuator (88) is pressed once more, the upper cam (102) is pushed further, resulting in further rotation of the lower cam (104) resulting in pushing the rotatable spindle (98) upwards.

[0057]

[0054] In the illustrated embodiment, the plunger (112) is coupled to and disposed outside the housing (90). Furthermore, the plunger (112) is a pivotable plunger disposed proximate to the rotatable spindle (98).

[0058]

[0055] Figure 7A is a partial side view of a system (114) for forming a rolled object in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 7B is a partial side sectional view of the system (114) in accordance with the embodiment of figure 7A of the present disclosure. Referring to figures 7A and 7B, a movable actuator (116) is disposed at least partially protruding from a housing (118). In one embodiment, the movable actuator (116) is configured to receive an actuating force from a source, for example, a user, and movable inwards or outwards along a longitudinal direction (120), relative to the housing (118).

[0059]

[0056] A collar (122) is also disposed inside the housing (118). A rotatable spindle (124) is disposed extending through the collar (122) and at least partially protruding outwards from the housing (118). The rotatable spindle (124) is configured to perform a rotary motion to form the rolled object from a received strip. Specifically, the collar (122) includes a chamfered top portion (126) disposed proximate to the rotatable spindle (124).

[0060]

[0057] In the illustrated embodiment, a drive unit (128) is also disposed inside the housing (118) and coupled to the rotatable spindle (124) via a spindle pin (130). Further, in the illustrated embodiment, a plunger (132) is coupled to and disposed outside the housing (118). Furthermore, the plunger (132) is a pivotable plunger disposed proximate to the rotatable spindle (124). The plunger (132) is specifically provided with a biasing member (not shown) and configured to hold the received strip against the rotatable spindle (124).

[0061]

[0058] Figure 7C is a top view of the system (114) in accordance with the embodiment of figure 7A and 7B of the present disclosure. Figure 7D is a partial side view of a system (114) for forming a rolled object in accordance with the embodiment of figures 7A, 7B, and 7C of the present disclosure. Referring to figures 7C and 7D, the collar (122) is configured to move outwards if the movable actuator (116) is moved inwards, and vice versa, with reference to the housing (118), such that the rolled object is ejected outwards along the longitudinal direction (120) from the rotatable spindle (124), using the plunger (132).

[0062]

[0059] Figure 8A is a partial side view of a system (136) for forming a rolled object in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 8B is a partial side sectional view of the system (136) in accordance with the embodiment of figure 8A of the present disclosure. Referring to figures 8A and 8B, a movable actuator (138) is disposed at least partially protruding from a housing (140). In one embodiment, the movable actuator (138) is configured to receive an actuating force from a source, for example, a user, and movable inwards or outwards along a longitudinal direction (142), relative to the housing (140).

[0063]

[0060] A collar (144) is also disposed inside the housing (140). A rotatable spindle (146) is disposed extending through the collar (144) and at least partially protruding outwards from the housing (140). The rotatable spindle (146) is configured to perform a rotary motion to form the rolled object from a received strip. Specifically, the collar (144) includes a flat top portion (148) disposed proximate to the rotatable spindle (146).

[0064]

[0061] In the illustrated embodiment, a drive unit (150) is also disposed inside the housing (140) and coupled to the rotatable spindle (146) via a spindle pin (152). Further, in the illustrated embodiment, a plunger (154) is disposed outside the housing (140) and disposed proximate to the rotatable spindle (146). Specifically, the plunger (154) is coupled to the flat top portion (148) of the collar (144). The plunger (154) is specifically provided with a biasing member (not shown) and configured to hold the received strip against the rotatable spindle (146).

[0065]

[0062] Figure 8C is a partial side sectional view of the system (136) for forming a rolled object in accordance with the embodiment of figures 8 A and 8B of the present disclosure. Referring to figure 8C, the collar (144) and the plunger (154) are configured to move outwards if the movable actuator (138) is moved inwards, and vice versa, with reference to the housing (140), such that the rolled object is ejected outwards along the longitudinal direction (142) from the rotatable spindle (146), using the plunger (154).

[0066]

[0063] Figure 9 is a partial internal front view of a system (158) for forming a rolled object in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. A movable actuator (not shown) is disposed at least partially protruding from a housing (162). In one embodiment, the movable actuator is configured to receive an actuating force from a source, for example, a user, and movable inwards or outwards along a longitudinal direction (164), relative to the housing (162).

[0067]

[0064] A collar (166) is also disposed inside the housing (162). A rotatable spindle (168) is disposed extending through the collar (166) and at least partially protruding outwards from the housing (162). The rotatable spindle (168) is configured to perform a rotary motion to form the rolled object from a received strip.

[0068]

[0065] In the illustrated embodiment, a drive unit (170) is also disposed at least partially inside the housing (162) and coupled to the rotatable spindle (168). Specifically, the drive unit (170) is a manual drive unit. Specifically, the drive unit (170) includes a handle wheel (172) and a main wheel (174) engaged to the handle wheel (172). The main wheel (174) is disposed inside the housing (162) and coupled to the rotatable spindle (168). The handle wheel (172) is disposed partially protruding from the housing (162) and actuatable by a user. Further, in the illustrated embodiment, a plunger (176) is coupled to and disposed outside the housing (162). Furthermore, the plunger (176) is a pivotable plunger disposed proximate to the rotatable spindle (168). The plunger (176) is specifically provided with a biasing member (not shown) and configured to hold the received strip against the rotatable spindle (168).

[0069]

[0066] Figure 10 is a partial internal front view of a system (178) for forming a rolled object in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. A movable actuator (not shown) is disposed at least partially protruding from a housing (182). In one embodiment, the movable actuator is configured to receive an actuating force from a source, for example, a user, and movable inwards or outwards along a longitudinal direction (184), relative to the housing (182).

[0070]

[0067] A collar (186) is also disposed inside the housing (182). A rotatable spindle (188) is disposed extending through the collar (186) and at least partially protruding outwards from the housing (182). The rotatable spindle (188) is configured to perform a rotary motion to form the rolled object from a received strip.

[0071]

[0068] In the illustrated embodiment, a drive unit (190) is also at least partially disposed inside the housing (182) and coupled to the rotatable spindle (188). Specifically, the drive unit (190) is a spring-based manual drive unit actuatable by a user. The drive unit (190) includes a handle zip (189) and a spring wheel (191) coupled to the handle zip. Further, in the illustrated embodiment, a plunger (192) is coupled to and disposed outside the housing (182). Furthermore, the plunger (192) is a pivotable plunger disposed proximate to the rotatable spindle (188). The plunger (192) is specifically provided with a biasing member (not shown) and configured to hold the received strip against the rotatable spindle (188).

[0072]

[0069] Figure 11 is a flow chart (194) illustrating a method for operating the exemplary system for forming the rolled object in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure. The method includes receiving a strip between a rotatable spindle and a plunger as represented by step (196). The method further includes driving, by a drive unit, the rotatable spindle to form the rolled object from the received strip as represented by step (198). Further, the method includes holding, by the plunger, the rolled object against the rotatable spindle as represented by step (200). Additionally, the method includes receiving, by a movable actuator, an actuation force from a source as represented by step (202). Further, the method includes transmitting, by a motion transmission unit, a motion from the movable actuator to the rotatable spindle as represented by step (204). Furthermore, the method includes ejecting the rolled object outwards from the rotatable spindle due to the movement of the plunger as represented by step (206).

[0073]

[0070] In accordance with the embodiments disclosed herein, at least one of the collar and the plunger of the exemplary system, are used to eject the formed object from the rotatable spindle. Hence, there is no requirement for a user to manually lift the formed object, using a hand. As a result, there is no distortion and deformation of the already formed coils or beads.

[0074]

[0071] In this application, unless specifically stated otherwise, the use of the singular includes the plural and the use of “or” means “and / or.” Furthermore, use of the terms “including” or “having” is not limiting. Any range described herein will be understood to include the endpoints and all values between the endpoints. Features of the disclosed embodiments may be combined, rearranged, omitted, etc., within the scope of the invention to produce additional embodiments. Furthermore, certain features may sometimes be used to advantage without a corresponding use of other features.

Claims

We Claim:

1. A system (10, 56, 86, 114, 136, 158, 178) for forming a rolled object, comprising: a housing (12, 60, 90, 118, 140, 162, 182); a movable actuator (14, 58, 88, 116, 138) comprising an outer portion (20, 60, 91) and an inner portion (22, 62, 92) coupled to the outer portion (20, 60, 91), wherein the outer portion (20, 60, 91) is disposed outside the housing (12, 60, 90, 118, 140, 162, 182) and the inner portion (22, 62, 92) is disposed inside the housing (12, 60, 90, 118, 140, 162, 182); a motion transmission unit (44, 72, 99) disposed inside the housing (12, 60, 90, 118, 140, 162, 182) and coupled to the inner portion (22, 62, 92) of the movable actuator (14, 58, 88, 116, 138); a collar (26, 66, 96, 122, 144, 166, 186) disposed inside the housing (12, 60, 90, 118, 140, 162, 182) and coupled to the motion transmission unit (44, 72, 99); a rotatable spindle (16, 36, 40, 68, 98, 124, 146, 168, 188) disposed extending through the collar (26, 66, 96, 122, 144, 166, 186) and at least partially protruding outwards from the housing (12, 60, 90, 118, 140, 162, 182); a drive unit (30, 128, 150, 170, 190) disposed at least partially inside the housing (12, 60, 90, 118, 140, 162, 182) and coupled to the rotatable spindle (16, 36, 40, 68, 98, 124, 146, 168, 188); and a plunger (18, 84, 112, 132, 154, 176, 192) disposed outside the housing (12, 60, 90, 118, 140, 162, 182) and proximate to the rotatable spindle (16, 36, 40, 68, 98, 124, 146, 168, 188).

2. The system (10, 56, 86, 114, 136, 158, 178) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the movable actuator (14) is provided with a first biasing member (42) disposed within the housing (12), and wherein the movable actuator (14) is configured to receive an actuating force from a source and movable inwards or outwards along a longitudinal direction (24), relative to the housing (12).

3. The system (10, 56, 86, 114, 136, 158, 178) as claimed in claim 2, wherein the motion transmission unit (44) comprises: a first rack (46) coupled to the inner portion (22) of the movable actuator (14), wherein the first rack (46) comprises a first groove surface (48) disposed facing the collar (26); a second rack (50) coupled to the collar (26), wherein the second rack (50) comprises a second groove surface (52) disposed facing the first groove surface (48) of the first rack (46); and a pinion (54) disposed between and engaging the first groove surface (48) and the second groove surface (52), wherein the motion transmission unit (44) is configured to transmit a motion from the movable actuator (14) to the collar (26), wherein the collar (26) is movable inwards or outwards along the longitudinal direction (24) relative to the housing (12), and wherein the collar (26) is configured to move outwards if the movable actuator (14) is moved inwards or vice versa.

4. The system (10, 56, 86, 114, 136, 158, 178) as claimed in claim 3, wherein the collar (26, 66) is provided with a movable platform (28, 70) disposed proximate to the rotatable spindle (16, 68), wherein the rotatable spindle (16, 68) is configured to perform a rotary motion to form the rolled object from a received strip, and wherein the collar (26, 66) is configured to move outwards such that the rolled object is ejected outwards along the longitudinal direction (24, 64) from the rotatable spindle (16, 68), using the movable platform (28, 70).

5. The system (10, 56, 86, 114, 136, 158, 178) as claimed in claim 4, wherein the movable platform (28) comprises a continuous circular profile disposed surrounding the rotatable spindle (16).

6. The system (10, 56, 86, 114, 136, 158, 178) as claimed in claim 4, wherein the movable platform (34) comprises a discontinuous profile disposed surrounding the rotatable spindle (36).

7. The system (10, 56, 86, 114, 136, 158, 178) as claimed in claim 4, wherein the movable platform (38) comprises a two-prong fork configuration disposed substantially surrounding the rotatable spindle (40).

8. The system (10, 56, 86, 114, 136, 158, 178) as claimed in claim 2, wherein the motion transmission unit (72) comprises: a fulcrum member (74); a base member (76) coupled to and mounted on the fulcrum member (74), wherein the inner portion (62) of the movable actuator (58) is coupled to a first portion (80) of the base member (76) relative to the fulcrum member (74), and wherein the collar (66) is coupled to a second portion (82) opposite to the first portion (80) of the base member (76), relative to the fulcrum member (74); and a second biasing member (78) provided to the base member (76), wherein the motion transmission unit (72) is configured to transmit a motion from the movable actuator (58) to the collar (66), wherein the collar (66) is movable inwards or outwards along the longitudinal direction (64), relative to the housing (60), and wherein the collar (66) is configured to move outwards if the movable actuator (58) is moved inwards or vice versa.

9. The system (10, 56, 86, 114, 136, 158, 178) as claimed in claim 8, wherein the collar (66) is provided with a movable platform (70) disposed proximate to the rotatable spindle (68), wherein the rotatable spindle (68) is configured to perform a rotary motion to form the rolled object from a received strip, and wherein the collar (66) is configured to move outwards such that the rolled object is ejected outwards along the longitudinal direction (64) from the rotatable spindle (68), using the movable platform (70).

10. The system (10, 56, 86, 114, 136, 158, 178) as claimed in claim 2, wherein the motion transmission unit (99) comprises: a ratchet-based cam mechanism (100); a base member (102), wherein the inner portion (92) of the movable actuator (88) is coupled to the base member (102) via the ratchet-based cam mechanism (100), wherein the collar (96) is held stationary, and wherein the rotatable spindle (98) is coupled to the base member (102); and a second biasing member (110) provided to the base member (102), wherein the motion transmission unit (99) is configured to transmit a motion from the movable actuator (88) to the rotatable spindle (98), and wherein the movable actuator (88) and the rotatable spindle (98) are movable inwards or outwards along the longitudinal direction (94), relative to the housing (90), such that the rolled object is ejected outwards along a lateral direction (111) from the rotatable spindle (98), using the plunger (112).

11. The system (10, 56, 86, 114, 136, 158, 178) as claimed in claim 2, comprising a motion transmission unit coupled to the inner portion of the movable actuator (138) and the collar (144) and configured to transmit a motion from the movable actuator (138) to the collar (144), wherein the collar (144) comprises a flat top portion (148) disposed proximate to the rotatable spindle (146), and wherein the rotatable spindle (146) is configured to perform a rotary motion to form the rolled object.

12. The system (10, 56, 86, 114, 136, 158, 178) as claimed in claim 11, wherein the plunger (154) is coupled to the flat top portion (148) of the collar (144), wherein the plunger (154) is configured to hold a received strip used for forming the rolled object, against the rotatable spindle (146), and wherein the collar (144) and plunger (154) are configured to move outwards if the movable actuator is moved inwards, and vice versa, such that the rolled object is ejected outwards along a longitudinal direction (142) from the rotatable spindle (146), using the plunger (154).

13. The system (10, 56, 86, 114, 136, 158, 178) as claimed in claim 2, comprising a motion transmission unit coupled to the inner portion of the movable actuator (116) and the collar (122) and configured to transmit a motion from the movable actuator (116) to the collar (122), wherein the collar (122) comprises a chamfered top portion (126) disposed proximate to the rotatable spindle (124), and wherein the rotatable spindle (124) is configured to perform a rotary motion to form the rolled object.

14. The system (10, 56, 86, 114, 136, 158, 178) as claimed in claim 13, wherein the plunger (132) is a pivotable plunger coupled to the housing (118) and configured to bias the pivotable plunger (132) to hold a received strip used for forming the rolled object, against the rotatable spindle (124), and wherein the collar (122) is configured to move outwards if the movable actuator is moved inwards, and vice versa, such that the rolled object is ejected outwards along a longitudinal direction (120) from the rotatable spindle (124), using the pivotable plunger (132).

15. The system (10, 56, 86, 114, 136, 158, 178) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the drive unit (30, 128, 150, 170, 190) is a drive motor configured to drive the rotatable spindle (16, 36, 40, 68, 98, 124, 146, 168, 188).

16. The system (10, 56, 86, 114, 136, 158, 178) as claimed in claim 1, comprising a power source (32) disposed inside the housing (12) and coupled to the drive unit (30), wherein the power source (32) is configured to supply electric power to actuate the drive unit (30).

17. The system (10, 56, 86, 114, 136, 158, 178) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the drive unit (170) is a manual drive unit.

18. The system (10, 56, 86, 114, 136, 158, 178) as claimed in claim 17, wherein the manual drive unit (170) comprises:a handle wheel (172); and a main wheel (174) engaged to the handle wheel (172) and coupled to the rotatable spindle (168).

19. The system (10, 56, 86, 114, 136, 158, 178) as claimed in claim 17, wherein the manual drive unit (190) is a spring-based manual drive unit.

20. The system (10, 56, 86, 114, 136, 158, 178) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the system (10, 56, 86, 114, 136, 158, 178) is a quilling system.

21. A method for operating a system (10, 56, 86, 114, 136, 158, 178) for forming a rolled object, the method comprising: receiving a strip between a rotatable spindle (16, 36, 40, 68, 98, 124, 146, 168, 188) and a plunger (18, 84, 112, 132, 154, 176, 192), wherein the rotatable spindle (16, 36, 40, 68, 98, 124, 146, 168, 188) is disposed extending through a collar (26, 66, 96, 122, 144, 166, 186) disposed inside a housing (12, 60, 90, 118, 140, 162, 182) and at least partially protruding outwards from the housing (12, 60, 90, 118, 140, 162, 182), and wherein the plunger (18, 84, 112, 132, 154, 176, 192) is disposed outside the housing (12, 60, 90, 118, 140, 162, 182); driving, by a drive unit (30, 128, 150, 170, 190), the rotatable spindle (16, 36, 40, 68, 98, 124, 146, 168, 188) to form the rolled object from the received strip, wherein the drive unit (30, 128, 150, 170, 190) is at least partially disposed inside the housing (12, 60, 90, 118, 140, 162, 182); holding, by the plunger (18, 84, 112, 132, 154, 176, 192), the rolled object against the rotatable spindle (16, 36, 40, 68, 98, 124, 146, 168, 188); receiving, by a movable actuator (14, 58, 88, 116, 138), an actuation force from a source, wherein the movable actuator (14, 58, 88, 116, 138) comprises an outer portion (20, 60, 91) and an inner portion (22, 62, 92) coupled to the outer portion (20, 60, 91), and wherein the outer portion (20, 60, 91) is disposed outside the housing (12, 60, 90, 118, 140, 162, 182) and the inner portion (22, 62, 92) is disposed inside the housing (12, 60, 90, 118, 140, 162, 182);transmitting, by a motion transmission unit (44, 72, 99), a motion from the movable actuator (14, 58, 88, 116, 138) to one of the collar (26, 66, 96, 122, 144, 166, 186) and the rotatable spindle (16, 36, 40, 68, 98, 124, 146, 168, 188), wherein the motion transmission unit (44, 72, 99) is disposed inside the housing (12, 60, 90, 118, 140, 162, 182) and coupled to the inner portion (22, 62, 92) of the movable actuator (14, 58, 88, 116, 138) and the rotatable spindle (16, 36, 40, 68, 98, 124, 146, 168, 188); and ejecting the rolled object outwards from the rotatable spindle (16, 36, 40, 68, 98, 124, 146, 168, 188) due to the movement of the plunger (18, 84, 112, 132, 154, 176, 192).

Images