Accumulator with Variable Pitch Cradles for Roll Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing accumulators for elongated products, such as tissue paper rolls, inefficiently utilize space due to fixed cradle distances, leading to partial exploitation of capacity and increased complexity in managing non-uniform load distribution, which can result in dynamic stresses.
Innovation Solution
The accumulator features a pair of parallel chains with cradles connected via constraining members allowing variable pitches, optimizing cradle spacing based on roll diameter, and includes a movable support to adjust the length of chain branches for accommodating varying log quantities, enabling flexible configuration and efficient use of space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If cradles are arranged at a constant reciprocal distance in the accumulator, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the storage capacity is inefficiently utilized when roll diameters vary
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the cradle spacing adjustable rather than fixed. The distance between consecutive cradles can be modified according to the diameter of the rolls being stored. This allows the accumulator to adapt its configuration dynamically, optimizing storage capacity for different roll sizes while maintaining a relatively simple base structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If cradles are arranged at variable reciprocal distances to optimize storage capacity, then the adaptability to different roll diameters is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by modifying the spacing parameter between cradles based on the roll diameter. Instead of creating a completely complex reconfigurable system, the invention adjusts this single critical parameter (cradle distance) to achieve optimal storage capacity for different product sizes, balancing adaptability with structural simplicity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If non-uniform load distribution occurs in the accumulator chains, then the adaptability to different storage configurations is achieved, but dynamic stresses and vibrations increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies homogeneity by ensuring uniform distribution of loads along the chain branches. By carefully arranging cradles at appropriate intervals and ensuring even spacing, the system achieves homogeneous load distribution on the chains, which prevents excessive dynamic stresses and vibrations while maintaining the ability to adapt to different storage configurations.
Data Source
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AI summary
The accumulator comprises at least one pair of chains (7 A, 7B) substantially parallel to each other to which cradles (21) are connected for receiving products (R) to be stored, the cradles being mutually spaced along said pair of chains. Each cradle (21) is connected to the pair of chains through constraining members (51). On each chain at least one intermediate constraining member (51) is arranged between two adjacent cradles (21) connected to said chains (7 A, 7B).