Height-Adjustable Forming Line for Multi-Layer Bundle Wrapping

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing bundle wrapping machines are limited to producing single- or double-layer packages and lack adjustable height, restricting their ability to accommodate various packaging configurations beyond two layers.

Innovation Solution

A bundle wrapping machine with a height-adjustable forming line and pusher rod mechanism, allowing for the production of multiple-layer bundles by varying the position and height of the forming line relative to the product supporting platform, facilitated by a lead nut and screw mechanism for easy adjustment.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the chain conveyor position is fixed relative to the elevator platform, then the machine structure is simple, but the machine can only accommodate single- or double-layer packages

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveability to accommodate various packaging configurationsVSAvoidmachine structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The forming line is made height-adjustable relative to the elevator platform through a screw mechanism, allowing the machine to dynamically adapt its configuration for single-, double-, or multi-layer packages. This dynamic adjustment capability resolves the contradiction by enabling versatility without permanently increasing structural complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The vertical position parameter of the forming line is made variable through the adjustment mechanism, allowing changes in the height parameter to accommodate different layer configurations. This parameter change approach enables the machine to handle various packaging configurations while maintaining a relatively simple base structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Adaptability or versatility

If the space between consecutive pushers is fixed, then the pusher rod mechanism is simple, but the space cannot accommodate more than two layers of superposed products

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveability to produce multiple layer bundlesVSAvoidpusher rod mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The spacing between pusher rods is made adjustable through the height-adjustable forming line mechanism, allowing the space between consecutive pushers to be dynamically changed to accommodate different numbers of product layers. This dynamic adjustment enables multi-layer bundle production without creating a permanently complex pusher mechanism.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If the forming line height is fixed, then the machine is easy to operate, but the machine is limited to single- or double-layer packages

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveflexibility in packaging configurationsVSAvoidease of height adjustment
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The adjustment mechanism is integrated into the forming line structure itself, allowing operators to adjust the height directly at the forming line location without requiring separate complex adjustment systems. This self-service approach maintains ease of operation while enabling flexibility in packaging configurations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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

Enables the production of bundles with any number of layers, from single to multiple layers, enhancing flexibility and efficiency in packaging configurations without increasing machine complexity.

Implementation Method 1

at least one height adjustment mechanism (16) designed to vary the vertical position of the forming line (6) relative to the raised position of the product supporting platform (14)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectScrew mechanism: Screw

Data Source

PatentEP1944240B1Machine for wrapping bundles of roll products
Publication Date: 2012.04.25 TMC SPA
  • EP1944240B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP1944240B1 patent drawingFigure 2~3

AI summary

A machine (1) for wrapping bundles (2) of roll products (3), where the products (3) are grouped together in piles (4) formed from superposed layers (5) of products (3), comprises a bundle (2) forming line (6), equipped with a chain conveyor (7), and a product (3) feed line (12) that serves the forming line (6). The feed line (12) has an elevator (13) which is equipped with a product (3) supporting platform (14) and which is vertically mobile under the forming line (6) between a lowered position where it receives the products (3) and a raised position where it delivers the products (3) to the forming line (6). The machine (1) comprises adjustment means (15) for adjusting the position of the forming line (6) in height relative to the raised position of the product (3) supporting platform (14).