Segmented Splicing Unit for Cord Tape Edge Alignment

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing devices struggle to accurately align and splice wide cord strips with small splicing angles, as edge correction is not possible with the desired precision due to the resistance from embedded steel or textile cords, which are inclined relative to the conveying direction.

Innovation Solution

A segmented splicing unit with pivotable splicing segments and actuating elements allows for precise edge alignment by pivoting the segments perpendicular to the cord plane, enabling edge correction even at small angles and large widths, using sensors to detect edge geometry and control the splicing segments for accurate overlap.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If a multi-part conveying device with individual conveyor belts and sensors is used for edge alignment, then edge leveling is possible for standard section widths (800-1000 mm) and splicing angles (90° +/- 20°), but edge correction becomes impossible with desired accuracy for larger section widths (up to 1500 mm) and smaller splicing angles (20°-70°) due to resistance from embedded cords

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveedge alignment precisionVSAvoidadaptability to different section widths and splicing angles
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The splicing unit is divided into multiple splicing segments (at least three) that can be independently pivoted relative to each other. Each segment can be adjusted individually to compensate for edge deformations, allowing the system to handle various section widths and splicing angles without the cords resisting the correction movement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The splicing segments are made pivotable about pivot axes perpendicular to the cord band plane, transforming a static splicing unit into a dynamic one. This allows the segments to be actively adjusted during the splicing process to follow the actual edge geometry, enabling edge correction for wide cord strips at small splicing angles where the cords would otherwise prevent accurate alignment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Manufacturing precision

If individual conveyor belts with individual drives are used to compensate for edge waviness, then edge alignment is achievable for standard configurations, but the system cannot adequately correct edges when cords are at very small angles to the conveying direction due to resistance from the embedded cords

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveedge straightnessVSAvoidresistance from embedded cords
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSForce

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of trying to pull the edge straight in the longitudinal direction (parallel to conveying direction), the invention pivots the splicing segments perpendicular to the cord band plane. This creates a corrective movement that is essentially perpendicular to the cord direction, allowing the edge to be pulled straight without the cords forming resistance, as the corrective force is applied in a direction where the cords do not oppose the movement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

3Device complexity

If a continuous one-piece splicing unit is used, then the structure is simple, but it cannot provide the precise local adjustments needed for edge correction across the entire width

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesplicing unit structureVSAvoidedge alignment accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The splicing unit is divided into multiple splicing segments (at least three) that can be independently pivoted relative to each other. Each segment can be adjusted individually to compensate for edge deformations, allowing the system to handle various section widths and splicing angles without the cords resisting the correction movement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentEP2695837B1Device and method for overlap splicing cord tape
Publication Date: 2016.09.07 FISCHER TIRETECH GERMANY GMBH
  • EP2695837B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2695837B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2695837B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

Device for overlap splicing of cord tape, comprising a first conveying device for conveying a cord tape strip, a second conveying device for conveying the spliced ​​cord tape, and a splicing unit with a vertically movable splice strip for overlapping splicing the leading edge of the conveyed cord tape strip to the trailing edge of the conveyed cord tape, characterized in that the splicing unit (14) has several splice segments (15a, 15b, 15c, 15d) arranged in a row, each with a splice strip segment (16a, 16b, 16c, 16d) designed for fixing an edge (45), wherein the splice segments (15a, 15b, 15c, 15d) are pivotable relative to each other and their position relative to each other can be changed by means of associated adjusting elements (26).