Deflectable Lifting Device for Paper Jam Prevention
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing paper and fiber product manufacturing processes face issues with jamming and snagging of sheets or webs during transfer across presses, dies, or other equipment, leading to manufacturing downtime and material loss due to sagging and unsupported areas causing incomplete stripping or blanking operations.
Innovation Solution
A deflectable lifting device with an elastically deformable member, comprising a curved bendable arm and a securing base, is attached to the conveyance system to elevate sheets above edges and recesses, preventing jamming by deflecting under applied forces and maintaining a clear path for smooth material flow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If sheets are conveyed over open recesses of blank or die areas, then the stripping and blanking operations can be performed, but the sheets dip or sag into the recesses causing edges of material to catch on exposed edges leading to jamming
Solution Approach 1:
A bridge rule member is introduced as an intermediary element between the sheet material and the open recesses. This member spans across the recesses and provides continuous support to the sheet, preventing it from sagging into the recesses and catching on edges, thus eliminating jamming while allowing the stripping and blanking operations to proceed
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure is changed from discrete frame edges to a continuous bridge rule member. This changes the physical parameter of support distribution from point-supported to continuously-supported, preventing the sheet from dipping into recesses and maintaining consistent material flow through the system
2Reliability
If bridge rules are attached to support sheets over recesses, then jamming is prevented, but the attachment, orientation, leveling, and maintenance of bridge rules are time consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The bridge rule system is segmented into modular components that can be independently installed and maintained. The frame members are divided into sections with standardized interfaces, allowing individual bridge rules to be quickly attached and detached without affecting the entire structure, significantly reducing maintenance time
Solution Approach 2:
The bridge rule members are designed with universal attachment mechanisms that can be applied to multiple locations on the frame. The standardized clamps and mounting interfaces allow the same component design to be used throughout the system, simplifying maintenance procedures and reducing the time required for repairs and adjustments
3Strength
If metal bridge rules are used to support sheets, then support strength is provided, but they are subject to damage from bending, metal fatigue, misalignment, or accidental detachment
Solution Approach 1:
The bridge rule system employs composite construction combining rigid support elements with flexible coupling mechanisms. This composite structure maintains the necessary support strength to prevent sheet sagging while the flexible components absorb stresses that would otherwise cause metal fatigue, bending damage, or detachment
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates stress-distributing features and flexible mounting elements that cushion against misalignment and accidental impacts before they can cause damage to the metal components. The design anticipates potential harmful factors and builds in protective elements that prevent damage before it occurs
4Productivity
If male stripping or blanking members apply pressure against sheets supported only at margins, then the stripping or blanking action is performed, but the sheet sags causing the tool to strike unsupported areas resulting in jams and hang-ups
Solution Approach 1:
The bridge rule members serve as intermediary support structures between the sheet margins and the stripping/blanking tools. These members extend the support area from just the margins to include the areas between recesses, preventing sheet sagging during tool application and eliminating jams and hang-ups while maintaining operation productivity
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 solution effectively reduces jamming and snagging, minimizes manufacturing downtime, and extends the service life of equipment by ensuring consistent material flow and reducing wear and tear, while allowing for precise control and alignment of sheets during processing.
Implementation Method 1
A deflectable lifting device with an elastically deformable member, comprising a curved bendable arm
Data Source
AI summary
A deflectable lifting device can be mounted to a frame, work surface, or other member of a material conveying system. The deflectable lifting device can have a base that mounts into a mounting slot of a frame, and a bendable arm arranged in the pathway of a material conveying system, such as a paper stripping or paper blanking work station. When a sheet of material travels over the deflectable lifting device, the bendable arm can bend and deflect downwardly, but still contacts the sheet of material to provide a small margin of elevation or lift to the sheet of material. The sheet of material can therefore be elevated above edges, holes, or other obstructions in the pathway, which could otherwise jam or snag the delivery of the sheet of material.