Compact Folding Device Using Movable Frames to Reduce Floor Area
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing industrial folding devices for laundries that perform both length-wise and cross-wise folding, as well as stacking, occupy a large floor area, making them inefficient in terms of space usage.
Innovation Solution
A folding device with a compact design that allows for length-wise and cross-wise folding, as well as stacking, by using movable frames and conveyor loops that can be positioned close together or farther apart for easy access and efficient operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a folding device performs both length-wise and cross-wise folding with stacking operations, then the functionality and versatility are improved, but the floor area occupied increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the cross-wise folding housing with the stacking function by integrating the stacker modules within the same housing structure. The stacked linen sheets are positioned directly within the cross-wise folding housing, eliminating the need for separate stacking equipment and reducing overall floor area while maintaining full functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes vertical space by stacking linen sheets in the vertical dimension within the housing. The stacker modules arrange folded linen sheets vertically one on top of another, transforming horizontal floor space requirements into vertical stacking space, thereby reducing the footprint of the device
2Area of stationary object
If frames are positioned close together for compact design, then the footprint is reduced, but operator access for maintenance and removing stock becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs movable frames that can be shifted between operational positions (close together for compact footprint) and maintenance positions (farther apart for operator access). This dynamic positioning allows the device to adapt its configuration based on whether it is in use or being maintained, resolving the contradiction between compact design and accessibility
3Productivity
If multiple length-wise folding stations are provided for simultaneous processing, then productivity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the folding operation into multiple independent length-wise folding stations that can operate simultaneously or independently. Each folding station is a separate module that can process linen sheets in parallel, increasing overall productivity while maintaining manageable complexity through modular design
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a folding device for forming folded linen sheets, with a housing having opposite side walls, a rear side and a front side, a first conveyor defining a conveying surface for introducing linen sheets, wherein in operation of the folding device said linen sheets are cross-wise folded defining fold lines parallel and length-wise folded defining fold lines perpendicularly thereto, at least one length-wise folding station for forming length-wise folded linen sheets, wherein in a conveyor loop arranged in said housing below said length-wise folding station(s) and advancing said length-wise folded linen sheets to a housing part, said housing part including a number of cross-wise folding stations for cross-wise folding said length-wise folded linen sheets and including a number of secondary conveyor loops, said secondary conveyor loops carrying and advancing said folded linen sheets.