Envelope Processing Apparatus Flap Length Calculation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing envelope processing systems face challenges in accurately calculating and utilizing envelope and flap lengths to ensure proper enclosure and sealing of folded sheets within envelopes of varying types and sizes, leading to inefficiencies and potential damage to the enclosed content.
Innovation Solution
The envelope processing apparatus employs conveyance rollers, flap openers, and controllers to calculate envelope and flap lengths, adjusting the conveyance path and sealing processes to precisely insert and seal folded sheets, regardless of envelope type or size, using a system of conveyance paths and sensors to determine optimal insertion and sealing positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If envelope length calculation is performed without considering flap opening state, then calculation process is simple, but enclosing precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the envelope length calculation adaptive to the flap state. The system dynamically switches between calculating envelope length in a closed state (when flap is closed) and open state (when flap is opened), based on real-time detection of flap position. This allows the calculation process to adapt to changing conditions, ensuring precise enclosing measurements regardless of flap configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter being measured based on flap state. When the flap is closed, the system measures the envelope length including the folded flap. When the flap is opened, the system measures the envelope length with the flap extended. This parameter change ensures that the calculated length always reflects the actual space required for proper enclosing, resolving the contradiction between simple calculation and precise enclosing.
2Reliability
If flap length is not accurately calculated, then processing speed is fast, but enclosing reliability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary detection of the flap state before initiating the enclosing operation. By detecting whether the flap is open or closed in advance, the controller can pre-calculate the appropriate envelope length parameter. This preliminary action ensures that the correct enclosing parameters are ready before processing begins, maintaining both high reliability and efficient processing speed without requiring complex real-time adjustments during enclosing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback by continuously monitoring the flap state and using this information to adjust the envelope length calculation. The system detects the actual flap position and feeds this information back to the controller, which then selects the appropriate calculation method. This feedback mechanism ensures accurate flap length calculation while maintaining processing efficiency through automated decision-making based on real-time conditions.
3Manufacturing precision
If envelope processing is performed without flap state detection, then device complexity is low, but enclosing precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by enabling the envelope processing system to automatically detect and adapt to its own state. The flap state detection mechanism allows the system to self-determine whether the flap is open or closed, and automatically adjusts the enclosing parameters accordingly. This self-service capability eliminates the need for external intervention or complex manual adjustment mechanisms, achieving high enclosing precision with minimal added complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
An envelope processing apparatus for enclosing an enclosure into an envelope conveyed to an enclosing position includes a conveyance roller that conveys the envelope to the enclosing position. A first envelope length calculator calculates a first envelope length of the envelope in an envelope conveyance direction in which the envelope is conveyed in a close state in which a flap of the envelope closes. A flap opener opens the flap while the conveyance roller conveys the envelope. A second envelope length calculator calculates a second envelope length of the envelope in the envelope conveyance direction in an open state in which the flap opens. A controller calculates a flap length of the flap in the envelope conveyance direction based on the first envelope length and the second envelope length. The controller controls enclosing of the enclosure into the envelope based on the flap length.