Adhesive Mixer Stroke Adjustment for Variable Cartridge Sizes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional adhesive and sealant mixers require manual configuration for different cartridge sizes, leading to operator errors and potential improper mixing, which can result in non-homogeneous mixtures and perceived malfunctions.
Innovation Solution
A mixer with automatic stroke length adjustment, utilizing a pressure sensitive housing, piston chambers, biasing elements, proximity sensors, and a reciprocating rod system that automatically adjusts the stroke length based on cartridge size and composition, ensuring consistent mixing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual configuration is used for different cartridge sizes, then operator flexibility is maintained, but operator errors occur leading to improper mixing
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically determines the required stroke length by sensing the cartridge position and dimensions, eliminating the need for manual operator input. The mixer self-configures based on the detected cartridge parameters, thereby preventing operator errors while maintaining ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses sensors to detect cartridge parameters and provides feedback to the control mechanism, which automatically adjusts the stroke length. This closed-loop feedback ensures accurate mixing by continuously monitoring and adapting to the actual cartridge configuration.
2Manufacturing precision
If automatic stroke length adjustment is implemented, then mixing consistency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical adjustment mechanisms with a sensor-based detection system and electronic control. Instead of manual mechanical configuration, the system uses optical or electronic sensors to detect cartridge parameters and automatically controls the stroke length, reducing mechanical complexity while improving precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces sensors as intermediary elements between the cartridge and the mixing mechanism. These sensors detect cartridge parameters and transmit information to the control system, which then adjusts the stroke length accordingly. This intermediary approach simplifies the direct mechanical coupling while maintaining precise control.
3Loss of time
If stroke length is manually selected, then setup time is reduced, but production reliability decreases due to operator error
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary detection of cartridge parameters before the mixing process begins. By pre-sensing the cartridge dimensions and position, the system automatically configures the stroke length in advance, eliminating both manual setup time and the risk of operator error during configuration.
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 automatic stroke length adjustment reduces operator mistakes, ensuring consistent mixing and improving the quality of adhesive and sealant applications by accurately detecting cartridge size and adjusting the mixing process accordingly.
Implementation Method 1
at least one proximity sensor mounted on the pressure sensitive housing structured and arranged to sense a position of the piston within the pressure sensitive housing
Implementation Method 2
an upper biasing element in the upper piston chamber; a lower biasing element in the lower piston chamber
Data Source
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AI summary
Mixers for adhesives and sealants that include automatic stroke length adjustment for different sizes and configurations of adhesive and sealant cartridges are disclosed. The mixers (10) include a sensor (35, 36) for detecting when a mixing impeller (66) reaches the top of a cartridge (60) and the bottom of a cartridge (60), which sends a signal to a main pressure cylinder (20) to reverse direction. The stroke length of the mixer (10) is automatically adjusted without the necessity of manual selection based upon a particular cartridge size.