Automatic Bale Binding Removal Mechanism

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Manual removal of connecting means from cylindrical or parallelepipedic bundles in machines is tedious and uncomfortable for operators, as it requires cutting and manual extraction, which can lead to machine malfunctions and operator strain.

Innovation Solution

A machine with a gripping and extraction device that moves from a remote position to the outer surface of the bundle to grasp and then extract the connecting means, allowing for automatic operation without operator intervention, using a combination of gripping and extraction mechanisms to remove the connecting means from the bundle.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If manual cutting and extraction of connecting means is used, then the connecting means can be removed from the bundle, but the operator experiences strain and the process is tedious

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of removing connecting meansVSAvoidefficiency of removal process
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The device enables automatic removal of the connecting means without requiring manual intervention. The gripping means automatically grasps the connecting means and the extraction means automatically extracts it from the bundle, making the system self-sufficient and eliminating operator strain while improving efficiency

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the manual mechanical operation with an automated mechanical system consisting of a gripping means and extraction means. This substitution eliminates the need for manual cutting and extraction tools, thereby improving both ease of operation and productivity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Reliability

If manual extraction of connecting means is performed, then the connecting means can be removed, but machine malfunctions may occur

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemachine reliability during operationVSAvoidease of removing connecting means
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The automated device performs the removal operation independently without requiring operator intervention that could lead to malfunctions. The system self-regulates the gripping and extraction processes, ensuring reliable operation while maintaining ease of use

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The device is designed to perform the extraction operation in a controlled preliminary manner, ensuring that the connecting means is properly gripped and extracted without causing damage to the machine or bundle. This preliminary controlled action prevents malfunctions during subsequent machine operation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Ease of operation

If the gripping means is positioned at the outer surface of the bundle, then the connecting means can be grasped, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of grasping connecting meansVSAvoidcomplexity of gripping and extraction device
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The device is divided into distinct functional segments: a gripping means for grasping the connecting means and an extraction means for removing it. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall simplicity. The gripping means can be positioned at the outer surface without requiring the entire device to be complex

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism that allows the gripping means to access the connecting means at the outer surface of the bundle. This intermediary structure enables easy grasping while keeping the main device body simple and manageable

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentEP4082328A1Method for gripping and removing the tie means from a bale and machine intended to load, shred, distribute and/or transform such a bale and fitted with a grip and a removal device
Publication Date: 2022.11.02 KUHN AUDUREAU SAS
  • EP4082328A1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4082328A1 patent drawingFigure 2~3
  • EP4082328A1 patent drawingFigure 4

AI summary

The invention relates to a method for gripping and extracting a binding means from a bale (B) and a machine for untying such a bale held in shape by a binding means (L) extending along its outer surface (S). The machine comprises a gripping means (1) configured to grasp the binding means, and extraction means configured to act on the binding means so as to extract it from the bale by separating it from its outer surface. The gripping means are moved above the receiving surface (P1) between a first position allowing it to be away from the outer surface and a second position allowing it to be positioned at the outer surface in order to grasp the binding means.