Form-Fitting Joint for Fiber Web Ends Using Interlocking Flaps
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for joining fiber web ends, especially during parent roll changes in unwinders, are inefficient and costly, particularly for thick fiber webs like pulp, as they require adhesives or complex punching mechanisms that do not provide sufficient strength or are too expensive.
Innovation Solution
A joint and device that uses a cutting tool with a cutting edge to create a form-fitting joint by cutting through the fiber webs in an overlapping position, forming flaps that align with the web movement direction, eliminating the need for adhesives and reducing complexity, with the tool penetrating into a counter element's groove or elastic surface for secure attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If adhesive agents or complex punching mechanisms are used to join fiber web ends, then the joining strength is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts and eliminates the need for adhesive agents and complex punching mechanisms by using a simple cutting tool that creates interlocking flaps through basic cutting actions. The joining function is achieved through the geometric configuration of cuts rather than through adhesives or complex mechanical punching, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining joining strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The fiber web ends join themselves through the interlocking flap structure created by the cutting tool. The flaps naturally interlock when the webs are overlapped and tensioned, without requiring additional adhesive application or complex punching operations. The structure is self-joining through its geometric configuration.
2Strength
If adhesive agents are used to join fiber web ends, then the joining strength is improved, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces expensive adhesive agents with a simple, disposable cutting tool that creates permanent interlocking cuts. The cutting tool itself is simple and can be a basic blade or knife, eliminating the need for costly adhesive materials and their associated application equipment, thereby significantly reducing manufacturing costs.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts and eliminates the need for adhesive agents entirely, using only mechanical cutting to create the joining structure. This removal of the adhesive component directly reduces material costs and eliminates the need for adhesive application equipment and processes.
3Strength
If complex punching mechanisms are used to join fiber web ends, then the joining strength is improved, but the ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts and eliminates complex punching mechanisms, replacing them with a simple cutting tool that performs the joining function through basic cutting and overlapping operations. The operator simply needs to position the webs and make cuts, without dealing with complex punching equipment, thereby greatly simplifying operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The joining process is simplified to the point where the material itself (through its cutting and overlapping) performs the joining function. The operator's role is minimized to positioning and cutting, while the interlocking flap structure automatically provides the joining strength, making the operation intuitive and easy to perform.
4Strength
If adhesive agents are used to join fiber web ends, then the joining strength is improved, but the loss of time increases due to adhesive application and drying
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts and eliminates the time-consuming adhesive application and drying processes by using immediate mechanical interlocking through cuts. The joining is achieved instantly when the flaps are interlocked and tensioned, without any waiting time for adhesive to set or dry, thereby eliminating the loss of time associated with adhesive processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The joining structure is self-forming through the cutting and overlapping process, requiring no additional time for adhesive application or curing. The interlocking flaps provide immediate structural integrity as soon as they are positioned and tensioned, making the joining process instantaneous and eliminating time delays.
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 provides a strong, cost-effective, and efficient method for joining fiber web ends, capable of withstanding turns and tension, without requiring additional movement or equipment, and is particularly advantageous for thick fiber webs like pulp, ensuring secure bonding without delamination.
Implementation Method 1
A joint and device that uses a cutting tool with a cutting edge to create a form-fitting joint by cutting through the fiber webs in an overlapping position, forming flaps that align with the web movement direction
Data Source
AI summary
A joint for joining ends of at least two fiber webs together, the joint being formed of at least one cut provided to penetrate through the ends of the fiber webs in an overlapping position, which cut has at least one side part and from the side part extending at least one substantially straight part and which cut, which forms at least one flap, being configured to remain attached to the fiber webs by at least one folding line substantially aligned with the direction of the movement of the fiber webs.