Adjustable Conveyance Curing Foam Induction Heating

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Solution Overview

Problem

Traditional heating methods for curing foam items, such as ovens, are inefficient and lack control over heating and timing, which can lead to suboptimal curing processes.

Innovation Solution

A dynamically adjustable conveyance mechanism integrated with modular induction heating assemblies and cooling mechanisms, allowing for precise temperature control and adaptability by strategically positioning induction heating assemblies and using removable rollers to optimize heat transfer and distribution.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Use of energy by moving object

If a traditional heating element such as an oven is used to heat and cure foam items, then the heating process can be performed continuously, but the energy efficiency deteriorates and control over heating and timing is limited

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveenergy efficiencyVSAvoidcontrol over heating and timing

Core Design Contradiction:

Use of energy by moving objectVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The heating system is divided into multiple independent induction heating zones (first induction heating assembly, second induction heating assembly) that can be independently controlled. Each zone can be activated or deactivated separately, allowing precise control over which areas are heated and for how long, thereby improving both energy efficiency and operational control.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The induction heating assemblies are controlled to operate intermittently rather than continuously. The system can activate heating only when needed for specific zones, and deactivate when not required, creating periodic action that significantly improves energy efficiency while maintaining precise timing control.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #19Periodic action

2Productivity

If induction heating assemblies are integrated into the conveyance mechanism, then heating control and efficiency improve, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveheating efficiencyVSAvoidsystem complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The induction heating assemblies are integrated with the conveyance mechanism, merging the heating function with the transport function. This combination allows the mold to be heated and conveyed in a unified system, improving heating efficiency while managing complexity through functional integration rather than separate systems.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The conveyance mechanism serves multiple functions: it transports the mold through the process and also houses the induction heating assemblies that provide heating. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate heating equipment, thereby improving productivity while controlling overall system complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Adaptability or versatility

If removable rollers are used in the conveyance mechanism, then adaptability and modularity improve, but the ease of manufacture deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovemodularityVSAvoidmanufacturing complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The conveyance mechanism incorporates removable and interchangeable rollers, transforming a static structure into a dynamic, reconfigurable system. This allows the system to adapt to different production needs by swapping rollers or heating assemblies, improving versatility while the modular design actually simplifies manufacturing through standardized components.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system allows changes in configuration parameters by removing and replacing rollers or heating assemblies. This modularity enables easy adjustment of system capabilities without redesigning the entire mechanism, improving adaptability while maintaining ease of manufacture through standardized, interchangeable parts.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

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

This solution enables efficient and controllable heating of foam items, ensuring consistent curing results while reducing energy consumption and allowing for flexibility in production processes.

Implementation Method 1

heating the mold to a first temperature utilizing a first induction heating assembly and heating the mold to a second temperature utilizing a second induction heating assembly

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

The heat is generated by magnetic fields of travelling waves and eddy currents directly in the mould using either flat electromagnetic energy convertor units or induction-heating-elements

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectEddy currents: Eddy Currents

Data Source

PatentEP3071385B1Adjustable conveyance curing method

Publication Date: 2018.08.29 NIKE INNOVATE CV

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AI summary

Adjustable system and methods are provided that are used in curing a foam item. Induction heating assemblies, cooling mechanisms and a dynamic conveyance mechanism may be used in combination to heat and cool a mold containing the foam item as it is conveyed. The dynamic conveyance mechanism may have removable rollers that allow for chambers, such as the induction heating assemblies, to be placed into areas where removable rollers have been removed. As such, utilizing a dynamic conveyance mechanism chambers to be placed into, taken out of, and moved around the dynamic conveyance mechanism. The flexibility of a dynamic conveyance mechanism allows for a curing process to be automated, adjusted, and customized.