Closed-Loop Strapping Head for Faster Stable Package Bundling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing strapping processes for packages require additional time and complexity due to the need for connecting closed strapping bands, leading to inefficiencies in production time and machine performance, especially in continuous processing.
Innovation Solution
A method and device using a closed strapping band that is applied by compressing articles with an application head, allowing the band to be temporarily fixed and released without connecting free ends, utilizing a cage with variable opening width to secure and release the band, reducing the need for additional fixing devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a closed strapping band is used and connected on the articles, then the package stability is improved, but the production time increases and machine performance decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The strapping band is pre-formed into a closed loop configuration before application to the articles. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for on-site connection operations, thereby reducing production time while maintaining package stability through the pre-configured closed structure
2Stability of the object's composition
If additional process steps are added to produce a stable connection, then the package stability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connection function is extracted from the main strapping application process. By using pre-formed closed strapping bands, the complex connection operations are separated out and eliminated from the primary packaging line, simplifying the device while maintaining connection stability through the pre-configured closed loop structure
3Stability of the object's composition
If the strapping band is stretched and connected at ends under pre-tension, then the package stability is improved, but the production speed decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The strapping band is pre-stretched and pre-tensioned during the band forming process before application. This preliminary action ensures the band is ready to provide immediate tension and stability upon application, eliminating time-consuming tensioning operations during the packaging process and thereby increasing production speed
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 method and device enhance the strapping process by making it cost-effective, safe, and rapid, eliminating the need for complex connections and reducing production time, while maintaining package stability.
Implementation Method 1
the cage of the application head contacts the grouped articles on the outer surface and at least slightly compresses the grouped articles
Implementation Method 2
positioning the strapping band at a provided position of the articles by lowering the application head, which is simultaneously compressing the articles
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates a method using an application head for grouping articles that are held together by a strapping band. The method includes: providing the at least two grouped articles; inserting a prefabricated closed strapping band into the application head, wherein the strapping band is fixed in a defined position. The application head has a variable opening width of a cage which surrounds the grouped articles. It is then lowered over the articles by a feed movement which runs approximately parallel to longitudinal central axes of the articles, wherein the cage contacts the grouped articles and slightly compresses the grouped articles. The strapping band is then positioned by lowering the application head. The opening width of the cage is then increased while the strapping band is simultaneously released. Then the application head is raised over the strapped article grouping and is removed therefrom.