Encoder-Controlled Drag Chain Strapping for Precise Strap Length
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing strapping devices for large-sized goods lack accuracy in controlling the extension length of the drag chain, leading to manual adjustments and inefficiencies due to excessive or insufficient strap lengths, increasing operator workload and time wastage.
Innovation Solution
A strapping device with a protective shell containing a first and second fixation plate, equipped with motors, sprockets, encoders, and a control module, which uses encoders to precisely control the extension length of upper and lower drag chains through a deflection assembly and limiting posts to ensure accurate strap length, and includes features like triangular blocks and pulleys to facilitate smooth operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If operators visually estimate the required drag chain length before bundling goods, then the operation process is simple, but the manufacturing precision of strap length is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual visual estimation method with an automated control system that uses encoders to detect sprocket rotation and calculate drag chain extension length precisely. The control module automatically controls the extension based on encoder feedback, eliminating the need for operator visual estimation while maintaining simple operation through automated control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where encoders detect the rotation of sprockets and provide signals to the control module. The control module uses this feedback information to calculate the actual extension length of the drag chain and adjusts the extension accordingly, ensuring precise strap length control through continuous monitoring and adjustment.
2Length of moving object
If the drag chain is extended excessively, then the strap length increases, but the loss of time increases due to manual adjustment required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the system to automatically control and adjust the drag chain extension length based on encoder feedback and control module calculations. The system self-adjusts the strap length to the required precision without requiring manual intervention, eliminating the time loss associated with manual adjustment while maintaining accurate strap length.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual adjustment operations with an automated control system that precisely controls drag chain extension. The control module receives encoder signals, calculates the required extension length, and automatically adjusts the sprocket rotation to achieve the exact strap length needed, eliminating manual adjustment time.
3Length of moving object
If the drag chain is too short, then the strap length decreases, but the loss of time increases due to manual restart required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses encoder feedback to continuously monitor the drag chain extension length during the bundling process. The control module compares the actual extension with the required length and adjusts the sprocket rotation in real-time, preventing the drag chain from being too short and eliminating the need for manual restarts.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent calculates and controls the drag chain extension length in advance based on the required strap length and encoder feedback. The control module ensures the drag chain reaches the precise required length before the bundling operation completes, preventing insufficient length that would require manual restart.
4Manufacturing precision
If automated control system with encoders is implemented, then the manufacturing precision of strap length is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a control system where the encoder serves multiple functions: detecting sprocket rotation, providing feedback signals to the control module, and enabling precise calculation of drag chain extension length. The control module performs multiple tasks including receiving encoder signals, calculating required extension, and controlling sprocket rotation, reducing the need for separate dedicated components.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present disclosure discloses a strapping device for packaging goods, belonging to the field of strapping devices and including a protective shell (1) composed of a first fixation plate (11) and a second fixation plate (12); a lower drag chain (4) and an upper drag chain (5) are movably installed inside the protective shell; a first motor (2) is installed inside the first fixation plate, and a first sprocket (21) is installed at the output end of the first motor; a second motor (3) is installed inside the first fixation plate on a side adjacent to the first motor. When the first motor (2) of the present disclosure drives the first sprocket (21) to rotate, the lower drag chain (4) is driven to perform extension motion; when the second motor (3) drives the second sprocket (31) to rotate, the upper drag chain (5) is driven to perform extension motion; two encoders are provided to respectively record the number of rotations of the first sprocket (21) and the second sprocket (31) at the output ends of the first motor and the second motor; the encoders feed signals back to the control module, and then the control module is used to control the extension motion of the upper drag chain and the lower drag chain as well as to set the length of extension.