Elastomeric Stop With Air Channels For Flexible Pouch Depressurization

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Solution Overview

Problem

The manufacturing of laminated glass processing ladles with flexible walls is complex and time-consuming, requiring multiple assembly steps and increasing costs and the risk of errors due to the use of metal springs and elastomeric materials, which complicates the integration of depressurization means.

Innovation Solution

A cylindrical abutment with air circulation channels is introduced, allowing for easier assembly and integration of depressurization means without the need for additional metal components, facilitating the manufacturing process by providing a support surface for the edge of the coin and forming a longitudinal vacuum channel in fluid communication with the air circulation channels.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If metal springs and elastomeric materials are used for depressurization means, then the depressurization function is achieved, but the manufacturing complexity and assembly time increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedepressurization functionVSAvoidmanufacturing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the support function and depressurization function into a single integrated stop component. The stop includes air circulation channels built-in during manufacturing, eliminating the need for separate metal springs and elastomeric materials. This merging of functions reduces the number of components and simplifies the manufacturing process while maintaining reliable depressurization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The stop serves multiple functions simultaneously: it supports the edge of the part introduced into the bag, provides air circulation channels for depressurization, and acts as a structural element of the bag. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate depressurization mechanisms, reducing manufacturing complexity while achieving reliable depressurization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Strength

If metal components are used in air circulation openings, then structural support is provided, but the manufacturing steps and risk of error increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural supportVSAvoidmanufacturing ease
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The stop is made entirely of elastomeric material, creating a homogeneous structure that is consistent with the rest of the bag material. This eliminates the need to assemble different materials (metal and elastomer) and reduces manufacturing complexity. The homogeneous elastomeric structure provides sufficient structural support while simplifying the manufacturing process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #33Homogeneity

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses elastomeric material with integrated air circulation channels to create a composite structure that combines structural support and fluid circulation functions. This composite approach eliminates metal components while maintaining structural integrity and providing the necessary support for the bag's operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

3Reliability

If multiple assembly steps are used for integrating depressurization means, then the depressurization system is assembled, but the manufacturing time and costs increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedepressurization system assemblyVSAvoidmanufacturing speed
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The air circulation channels are built into the stop during its manufacturing process, before the stop is assembled into the bag. This preliminary action eliminates the need for additional assembly steps to install depressurization components, as the channels are already formed and ready for operation. The stop is manufactured independently with channels integrated, then simply assembled into the bag.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

4Reliability

If care is taken to avoid blocking air circulation openings during cross-linking, then the depressurization function is preserved, but the manufacturing process becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveair circulation functionVSAvoidassembly complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The stop is made of elastomeric material that can be cross-linked together with the bag material in a single process. The air circulation channels are built-in and protected by the elastomeric structure itself, eliminating the need for separate protective measures like metal combs. The material itself serves to protect and maintain the channel openings during cross-linking.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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

This solution simplifies the manufacturing process, reduces costs, and enhances the reliability of the laminated glass processing ladle by eliminating the need for complex assembly steps and metal components, while ensuring efficient air circulation and depressurization.

Implementation Method 1

air circulation channels between the first longitudinal surface and the second longitudinal surface

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAir circulation: Convection

Data Source

PatentEP3478498B1Abutment for pouch with flexible walls and pouch with flexible walls
Publication Date: 2021.12.29 SIMMTECH
  • EP3478498B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3478498B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3478498B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The present invention relates to a stop (1) for a pouch with flexible walls, the pouch being configured to be depressurised by means of a longitudinal depressurisation means in fluid communication with an interior volume of the pouch. The stop has a longitudinal shape and comprises at least: - a first longitudinal surface (4) intended to delimit or be in contact with at least a portion of the depressurisation means, - a second longitudinal surface (6) remote from the first longitudinal surface (4) and being intended to form a bearing surface for the edge of the workpiece inserted into the pouch, and - air circulation channels (12) between the first longitudinal surface (4) and the second longitudinal surface (6). The present invention also relates to a pouch with flexible walls comprising such a stop, as well as methods of manufacturing a corresponding stop and pouch.