Automated Film Roll Connection System for Packaging Machines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing packaging machines lack efficient automation for exchanging and connecting film rolls, limiting the use of robots in the process and resulting in cumbersome operations.
Innovation Solution
A film processing method and system that utilizes a robot to automatically connect film rolls by cutting the old film, storing it, and then using the robot to position and connect the new film roll with adhesives, allowing for greater design flexibility and simplification of the process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a robot is used only for transferring film rolls between pallet and connecting device, then the robot's utility is limited, but the device complexity is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The robot is designed to perform multiple functions: transferring film rolls, supporting film rolls during connection, and moving cut film sections. This multi-functionality increases robot utility without requiring additional dedicated devices, as the same robot manipulator handles various operations throughout the film connection process
2Ease of operation
If automated film roll exchange is implemented, then operator burden is reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables automatic film roll exchange and connection where the robot performs all operations autonomously. The robot retrieves new film rolls, positions them, connects films, and manages waste film removal without operator intervention, making the system self-sufficient while reducing operational complexity through integrated automation
3Adaptability or versatility
If the storage section is located within robot movable range, then the robot can access all components, but the spatial layout becomes constrained
Solution Approach 1:
The storage section is positioned within the robot's three-dimensional movable range, utilizing vertical and lateral space efficiently. This spatial arrangement allows the robot to access both the storage section and connecting device through coordinated movement in multiple dimensions, optimizing space utilization while maintaining full accessibility
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
Enables efficient automation of film roll exchange and connection, reducing the need for additional devices and simplifying the spatial layout, while ensuring precise and secure film alignment and connection.
Implementation Method 1
The film terminal end of the first film roll and the film leading end of the second film roll may be connected by a connecting device
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for connecting the films of a first roll and a second roll in a packaging machine. The system includes a cutting device to cut the film of a first roll at a cutting position upstream side of a holding position with respect to a feeding direction toward a former while the film is held by a holding device. The system also includes a robot to move the second roll to a connecting position where a leading end of second roll film overlaps with a film terminal end of the first roll film. The system further includes a connecting device to connect the film leading end of the second roll film to the film terminal end of the first roll film. The robot to move the second roll from the connecting position to a set position after connecting the films, so that the second roll film is tensioned.