Fabric Machine Reel with Switchable Drag Element Constraining Device
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing fabric treating machines require complex and time-consuming operations to remove and replace drag elements, leading to prolonged downtimes and decreased productivity due to the need for dismounting the reels.
Innovation Solution
A reel design with independent constraining devices that allow drag elements to be quickly and simply removed and replaced without dismounting the reel, using a mechanism with a first and second condition for the constraining device to securely hold or release the drag elements, facilitating easy maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If drag elements are constrained to the reel by means of two parallel rods welded to the axial ends of the reel and forced into the housing, then the drag elements remain securely in position during operation, but removing and replacing the drag elements requires complex operations and prolonged downtime
Solution Approach 1:
The constraining device is divided into independent components: a first rod fixed to the reel, a second rod that can move relative to the first rod, and a fastening member that connects them. This segmentation allows the drag element to be quickly released by simply moving the second rod, eliminating the need for complex disassembly operations while maintaining secure constraint during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The constraining device transitions from a static welded structure to a dynamic mechanism where the second rod can move between a first position (constraining the drag element) and a second position (releasing the drag element). This dynamic capability enables rapid replacement of drag elements by simply changing the position of the second rod, significantly reducing downtime while maintaining reliability during operation.
2Ease of repair
If the reel is dismounted from the machine to replace drag elements, then the drag elements can be accessed and replaced, but machine productivity decreases due to prolonged downtime
Solution Approach 1:
The constraining device is segmented into movable and fixed parts, allowing the drag element to be accessed and replaced while the reel remains mounted on the machine. The second rod can be moved to release the drag element without requiring dismounting of the reel, enabling maintenance operations to be performed in-place and minimizing machine downtime.
Solution Approach 2:
The constraining device is designed to be self-operating through the movement of the second rod, which can be manually or automatically positioned to release or constrain the drag element. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for complex disassembly and reassembly operations, allowing rapid maintenance while the reel remains installed on the machine, thus maintaining productivity.
3Loss of time
If a simple constraining mechanism is used for drag elements, then removal and replacement is quick and simple, but the drag elements may not remain securely constrained during operation
Solution Approach 1:
The constraining device uses a dynamic mechanism where the second rod can be positioned in a first position to securely constrain the drag element during operation, and moved to a second position for quick removal. The fastening member ensures reliable constraint when engaged, while the ability to quickly disengage provides rapid replacement capability, balancing both reliability and ease of maintenance.
Solution Approach 2:
The permanent welded mechanical connection is replaced with a controllable mechanical linkage system involving the first rod, second rod, and fastening member. This substitution allows the constraint to be actively controlled and quickly released through simple movement of the second rod, providing both secure constraint during operation and rapid replacement capability without requiring complex operations.
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 enables rapid and efficient replacement of drag elements, reducing downtime and maintaining machine productivity by allowing drag element removal and replacement without dismounting the reel, thus simplifying the treatment process.
Implementation Method 1
Such drag elements generate the necessary friction between the reel and the fabric, so that the latter can be effectively pulled by the turning reel.
Data Source
AI summary
Reel for fabric treating machines, said reel comprising: a substantially cylindrical main body (110) having a side surface (111), a first axial end (112) and a second axial end (113); first and second flanges (114, 115), respectively mounted to the first and second axial ends (112, 113) of said main body (110); at least one drag element (120) mounted, in the operating position, externally to said side surface (111), at least one constraining device (130), associated with said drag element (120) to hold said drag element (120) in said operating position. The constraining device (130) can be switched between a first condition, in which it holds said drag element (120) in said operating position, and a second operating condition, in which it allows said respective drag element (120) to be removed.