Adaptive Tape Closure Device for Variable Bag Neck Diameters

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Solution Overview

Problem

Prior art tape closure systems for plastic bags face challenges due to variations in bag neck diameter, leading to inconsistent tape leg lengths, which complicates printing and user experience.

Innovation Solution

A tape closure device with a guide rail, contact member, and cutting member, along with a tape feed and paper feed assembly, provides a continuous, linear-motion operation to consistently secure the bag neck with adhesive film and non-adhesive backing, allowing for adjustable tape lengths and easy printing.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If a preset amount of tape is applied to the bag neck, then the closure process is simple and fast, but variations in bag neck diameter cause inconsistent tape leg lengths

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveclosure application speedVSAvoidtape leg length consistency
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a dynamic tape dispensing system where the tape feed mechanism adjusts the amount of tape applied based on real-time detection of bag neck diameter. The system transitions from a static preset amount to a dynamic adaptive amount, allowing the tape legs to remain consistent in length despite variations in bag neck size. This is achieved through feedback control that modifies the tape feed rate or dispensing quantity during the closure process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If the bag neck diameter varies, then different bag sizes can be accommodated, but the tape leg lengths become inconsistent

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebag size accommodationVSAvoidtape leg length uniformity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback control system that detects the actual bag neck diameter and uses this information to adjust the tape dispensing parameters. A sensor measures the bag neck dimensions, and this measurement feeds back to the control system, which then modifies the tape feed amount accordingly. This closed-loop control ensures that tape leg lengths remain uniform across different bag sizes while maintaining versatility in accommodating various packaging dimensions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Device complexity

If inconsistent tape leg lengths are produced, then the closure process remains simple, but printing information on the tape becomes difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveclosure system simplicityVSAvoidtape printing quality
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

By implementing dynamic adjustment of tape dispensing based on detected bag neck diameter, the system ensures consistent tape leg lengths that are suitable for reliable printing. The dynamic control mechanism allows the tape application point and leg length to be precisely regulated, creating uniform surfaces that accommodate printing processes effectively while maintaining overall system simplicity through automated control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The device ensures a consistent and reliable tape closure that can be repeatedly opened and closed, improving user experience and enabling efficient high-speed packaging operations while allowing for variable tape lengths to accommodate different bag sizes.

Implementation Method 1

a tape closure device for securing the neck of a bag with an adhesive film and a non-adhesive backing

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAdhesion: Adhesive

Data Source

PatentUS7484342B2Apparatus and method for automated tape closure
Publication Date: 2009.02.03 BURFORD CORP
  • US7484342B2 patent drawing
  • US7484342B2 patent drawing
  • US7484342B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Disclosed is a tape closure device for securing the neck of a bag with an adhesive film and a non-adhesive backing. The device preferably includes a closure application assembly that has a guide rail, a contact member and a cutting member. The guide rail preferably includes a contact section, a gathering section and a staging section. The contact member preferably includes a contact surface adjacent the contact section of the guide rail. The tape closure device also preferably includes a tape feed assembly, a paper feed assembly and a bag feed assembly.