Flexible Pipe Wrapper Machine with Automated Film Coil Replacement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wrapper machines for packaging flexible pipes require manual replacement of stretch film coils, leading to prolonged downtime and reduced productivity.
Innovation Solution
A wrapper machine with an automated coil replacement system, utilizing a single drive device to synchronize gripper jaws and a rotary clamp, enabling seamless film wrapping and allowing for automatic coil changes without machine stoppage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual replacement of stretch film coil is used, then device complexity is reduced, but productivity decreases and loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables automatic self-service through the automated coil replacement mechanism where the rotary clamp and gripper jaws work together to load and unload coils without manual intervention, allowing the machine to service itself and eliminating downtime associated with manual operations
Solution Approach 2:
The new coil is pre-loaded onto the support shaft in advance, and the automated system is configured to automatically engage and position the coil before the machine requires operation, ensuring continuous productivity without waiting for manual preparation
2Productivity
If automated coil replacement system is implemented, then productivity increases, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges the functions of the rotary clamp and gripper jaws into a single coordinated automated mechanism that handles both clamping and coil handling operations, reducing the number of separate components needed while maintaining high productivity through integrated operation
3Manufacturing precision
If gripper jaws are synchronized by single drive device, then manufacturing precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The single drive device is designed with multi-functionality to control both gripper jaws independently while maintaining synchronization, allowing one component to perform multiple control functions that ensure homogeneous wrapping without requiring separate drive mechanisms for each jaw
Data Source
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AI summary
A wrapper machine has a coiling station (5) for forming a coil (6) of a flexible article (2) with an elongated shape, a packaging station (7) for wrapping a stretch film (3) around the coil (6) of flexible article, a transfer unit (10) for transferring the coil (6) of flexible article from the coiling station (5) to the packaging station (7), where the coil (6) of flexible article is rotated intermittently to be wrapped in a stretch film (3), and a roll-replacement unit (58) to replace a roll (54) of stretch film mounted in the packaging station (7).