Fibrous Web Air Applicator With Self-Cleaning Distribution Plate
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for applying process air to fibrous webs face challenges in maintaining cleanliness and efficiency, leading to equipment build-up and manual cleaning that disrupts production.
Innovation Solution
An applicator with a cleaning device that automatically applies liquid to the distribution plate, removing accumulated fibers and particles, ensuring the applicator remains operational without shutdowns.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual cleaning of the distribution plate is performed, then particle buildup is removed, but machine shutdown is required which decreases productivity
Solution Approach 1:
The distribution plate is equipped with a cleaning device that automatically applies liquid to clean its own surface, enabling self-maintenance without requiring external manual intervention or machine shutdown. The cleaning device is integrated directly onto the distribution plate, allowing it to service itself continuously during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The cleaning device proactively removes particles and buildup from the distribution plate before they can accumulate to problematic levels. By continuously or periodically applying cleaning liquid, the system prevents rather than merely reacts to contamination, maintaining optimal performance without interruption.
2Reliability
If the machine is shut down for manual cleaning, then equipment cleanliness is restored, but production time is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The distribution plate performs its own cleaning function through an integrated cleaning device that applies liquid to its surface automatically. This eliminates the need for operators to manually clean the equipment, thereby restoring cleanliness without requiring production downtime.
Solution Approach 2:
The cleaning operation occurs continuously or periodically during machine operation, ensuring the distribution plate remains clean without interrupting the production process. The useful action of cleaning is maintained continuously rather than being paused for manual intervention.
3Productivity
If automatic cleaning is implemented, then productivity is maintained, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning device is integrated directly onto the distribution plate, creating a self-contained self-cleaning system. This minimizes external complexity by making the cleaning function intrinsic to the component itself rather than requiring separate external cleaning equipment and complex integration mechanisms.
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 cleaning device effectively maintains applicator cleanliness, preventing particle buildup and ensuring continuous production by automating the cleaning process.
Implementation Method 1
The applicator comprises a cleaning device extending along the envelope main extension, and being adapted to apply a liquid onto the distribution plate. By the cleaning device it is possible to clean the distribution plate. By the liquid cleaning, fibers accumulated and stuck on the distribution plate surfaces may be effectively removed.
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The invention relates to an applicator (7) for a machine for producing a fibrous web, for applying process air to a moving fibrous web manufactured by the machine, comprising an envelope (701) forming a cavity (702) adapted to receive the process air, the envelope being adapted to extend, with an envelope main extension, in a web width direction which is transverse to a direction of movement of the web, wherein the envelope comprises a distribution plate (703) presenting a plurality of distribution holes (704) to distribute the process air along the width of the web.