Flexible Ring Closing System for Large Bags
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for closing and opening flexible tubular objects, such as large capacity bags, often require manual positioning under the bag, which is inconvenient and inefficient, especially when handling large or heavy contents.
Innovation Solution
A closing and/or opening system comprising two identical filiform parts with guide pieces, such as loops or pulleys, that form a flexible ring of variable shape, allowing for remote operation by creating a ring outside the bag and using sheaths to manage the filiform parts, enabling easy opening and closing without manual positioning under the bag.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual positioning under the bag is used for closing and opening, then the operation can be performed, but it is inconvenient and inefficient especially when handling large or heavy contents
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism consisting of a flexible ring with filiform parts that can be positioned outside the bag opening. This intermediary structure transmits the closing force remotely without requiring manual positioning under the bag, thereby improving ease of operation and reducing time loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention moves the closing mechanism from a vertical position (under the bag) to a horizontal dimension (around the bag opening). The flexible ring is positioned circumferentially around the opening, allowing operation from the side rather than requiring positioning underneath the bag.
2Productivity
If the bag opening is left open for emptying, then contents can be discharged, but there is risk of contents spilling and accidental opening during lifting
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible ring is pre-positioned around the bag opening in a ready state. Before lifting occurs, the ring can be activated to close the opening, preventing accidental spilling. The system is prepared in advance to provide security while maintaining productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides feedback through the mechanical connection between the flexible ring and the bag opening. The ring's position and tension state indicate whether the opening is secured or open, allowing operators to verify the closing state before lifting 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
Facilitates efficient emptying of large capacity bags by allowing remote operation, reducing the risk of contents spilling and improving safety by preventing accidental opening during lifting, while ensuring secure closure during filling.
Implementation Method 1
Each of these elements is mainly constituted by a flexible filiform part (2, 3) with a loop (4, 5)... Pulling (9) on the two elements (2-5) together exerts a force on the ring
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
Figure 4
AI summary
The system has two identical-shaped elements including two flexible thread-like parts (2, 3) e.g. cords, comprising two guidance parts i.e. loops, guiding toward one of ends of the thread-like parts, respectively. One of the guidance parts is adapted and crossed by one of the thread-like parts of one of the elements. The guidance part includes a pulley that is fixed at the end of the thread-like part, so that the other thread-like part is slid in a passage, which is defined between a wheel of the pulley and the end of the former thread-like part. An independent claim is also included for an assembly including a closing and/or opening system and a bag.