Device, method and system for folding a moving article of clothing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automated fabric folding machines are inefficient, complex, and limited in handling articles of varying widths and types, often resulting in poor folding quality and increased mechanical complexity.
Innovation Solution
A folding system comprising a driven contact device with elongated fingers that continuously engages and folds articles moving on a conveyor, using a holding member to define a fold line and accommodate articles of different widths, enabling simultaneous continuous folding and conveyance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional stationary folding mechanisms are used, then folding can be performed on articles, but the folding process is slow and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of moving the folding mechanism over a stationary article, the patent inverts the approach by keeping the folding mechanism stationary and moving the article through it on a conveyor belt. This continuous motion approach dramatically increases folding speed compared to traditional stationary folding methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements continuous folding action by having the article constantly move through the folding mechanism on a conveyor belt, eliminating idle time between folding operations. The folding mechanism continuously engages with the moving article, maintaining useful action throughout the process.
2Adaptability or versatility
If size adjustability is added to handle articles of different widths, then versatility improves, but mechanical and electrical complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic elements including adjustable conveyor belt width, variable speed control, and flexible folding fingers that can adapt to different article widths. These dynamic adjustments allow the mechanism to handle various article sizes without requiring complete mechanical reconfiguration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes operational parameters such as conveyor belt speed, folding finger position, and engagement force to accommodate different article widths and types. By adjusting these parameters rather than changing the fundamental mechanism structure, versatility is improved without excessive complexity.
3Productivity
If continuous motion folding is implemented, then productivity increases, but folding precision and quality may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The folding mechanism is segmented into multiple independent folding fingers that can engage with different portions of the moving article simultaneously. This segmentation allows precise control over the folding action at multiple points, maintaining fold accuracy even during continuous high-speed operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms including sensors that detect article position, width, and folding progress in real-time. This feedback allows the control system to continuously adjust conveyor speed and folding finger positioning to maintain precise fold quality during continuous operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A folding device (14′, 14″) includes a driven contact device (15′, 15″) configured for continuously creating a fold in a moving article (12) during an operative folding mode of the folding device. In the operative folding mode, the article moves along a base plane in a motion direction (MD). The folding device includes a support structure (54) connected to, and configured for supporting, the contact device. The contact device includes a peripheral surface (48) which extends at least partially about at least one rotation axis. The peripheral surface includes multiple fingers (44) which protrude outwardly away therefrom. In the operative folding mode, the fingers consecutively and incrementally engage and fold the article starting at an edge (28) defining an outline thereof.