Standardized Fibre Preparation Modules for Flexible Machine Expansion
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing designs of fiber preparation machines are inflexible and costly to construct, expand, or modify due to their tailored modular structures, which limits standardization and makes it difficult to adapt to changing production conditions or transport efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A self-supporting module design with standardized dimensions, featuring side walls connected by frames that allow for easy assembly, transportation, and modification, enabling a modular fiber preparation machine that can be adapted and expanded without complex reconfiguration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If fiber preparation machines are designed with tailored modular structures for specific functions, then the machines can be adapted to different production conditions, but the device complexity and manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a standardized module system where identical basic modules with standardized dimensions and connection interfaces can serve multiple functions through different arrangements and configurations. The frames and crossbeams form a universal structural system that can accommodate various machine functions without requiring custom-designed modules for each specific application.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the fiber preparation machine into discrete, interchangeable modules with standardized dimensions. Each module is a self-contained unit that can be independently manufactured, transported, and assembled. The segmentation allows complex machines to be built from simpler standard modules rather than custom-designed integrated structures.
2Adaptability or versatility
If fiber preparation machines are designed with tailored modular structures, then they can be adapted to different production conditions, but the ease of manufacture decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The standardized module design with uniform dimensions and connection elements enables a single manufacturing process to produce modules that can be used in multiple different machine configurations and production conditions, significantly simplifying manufacturing compared to custom-built modules.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses parameter changes by standardizing key dimensional parameters of the modules (length, width, height, connection point positions) to create a family of interchangeable components. This standardization allows manufacturers to produce modules using fixed jigs and tooling, improving manufacturing ease while maintaining adaptability through different module combinations.
3Ease of manufacture
If standardized wall elements joined with angle irons are used, then the machine construction is simplified, but the side walls cannot be replaced or modified without compromising machine stability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by creating discrete modular units with standardized connection interfaces (frames and crossbeams) that can be independently replaced or modified. Unlike rigid welded constructions, these segmented modules can be detached and reconfigured without compromising the overall structural stability of the machine.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies dynamics by designing a static structure with dynamic reconfigurability - the modules are rigidly constructed for stability during operation but can be easily reconfigured through standardized connections. This allows the machine to transition between different stable configurations as production needs change.
4Ease of operation
If fiber preparation machines are designed as ready-to-use units with rigid structures, then transport is simplified, but the dimensions exceed available container sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the complete fiber preparation machine into smaller modular units with standardized dimensions that fit within standard shipping containers. Each module is a complete functional unit that can be transported separately and assembled at the destination, solving the transport dimension problem while maintaining operational readiness.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-assembling complete functional modules in a ready-to-use state before transport. The modules arrive at the destination already configured and tested, requiring only connection to other modules rather than full assembly, thus maintaining ease of operation while reducing transport dimensions.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a module (1-19) for a fiber preparation machine, wherein the module (1-19) is cuboid and has a length (L), a width (B), and a height (H), and to a fiber preparation machine comprising a plurality of modules (1-19). The module (1-19) has at least two side walls (20, 22) spaced apart in width (B) and arranged in a plane, which are connected to each other by at least one crossbeam (24, 25), wherein the planes of the side walls (20, 22) are arranged parallel to each other and the side walls (20, 22) are each enclosed by a frame (21, 23). A first leg (28) of the (21, 23) is in the plane of the respective side wall (20, 22) and a second leg (29) of the frame (21, 23) is arranged perpendicular to the respective opposite side wall (20, 22).