Foldable Container Folding Device Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for folding and unfolding foldable containers using reach stackers or forklifts are inefficient, prone to misalignment and damage, and require significant manpower and costly equipment.
Innovation Solution
A foldable container folding device and automatic folding system that includes a main body with an upper fixing unit, front and rear opening/closing units, and an elevation opening/closing unit, which allows for automated folding and unfolding of foldable containers with minimal manual intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a reach stacker or forklift is used to fold and unfold the foldable container, then the container can be handled, but misalignment and distortion occur causing parts damage
Solution Approach 1:
A specialized folding device acts as an intermediary between the container and the handling system. This device includes support units that properly position and support the container panels, and actuators that apply controlled forces through linkage mechanisms. The intermediary device ensures proper alignment and distribution of forces, preventing misalignment and distortion that would occur with direct handling by general-purpose equipment like reach stackers or forklifts.
2Ease of operation
If a skilled driver operates the reach stacker or forklift, then the container can be opened and closed, but the process takes a long time and costs are high
Solution Approach 1:
The folding device enables the container to be folded and unfolded automatically through its own structure. The support units position the panels, the actuators provide the necessary forces, and the linkage mechanisms guide the folding motion. This self-service capability eliminates the need for skilled operators and significantly increases folding speed, transforming a manual skill-dependent process into an automated efficient operation.
3Ease of operation
If a reach stacker or forklift is used for folding operations, then the container can be handled, but enormous costs are required
Solution Approach 1:
The folding device uses relatively simple, inexpensive components compared to expensive reach stackers or forklifts. The support units, actuators, and linkage mechanisms are designed as dedicated folding equipment rather than general-purpose material handling equipment. This specialized simpler equipment achieves the folding function at a fraction of the cost of using expensive logistics equipment.
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 system significantly improves the safety and efficiency of folding and unfolding operations, reduces the risk of container damage, and minimizes the need for expensive equipment and manual labor.
Implementation Method 1
a wire motor for winding or unwinding the wire
Implementation Method 2
an elevation opening/closing unit for elevating the upper panel and a side panel of the foldable container by elevating the upper fixing unit
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a foldable container automatic folding system including: a transfer unit on which the foldable container is mounted and which transfers the foldable containers; an introduction unit in which fasteners fastened to the foldable container are disassembled at a position where the transfer unit starts a folding operation; an operation unit which includes foldable container folding device that are disposed adjacent to the introduction unit and each located at front and rear surfaces of the foldable container to fold and unfold the foldable container; a locking unit which is disposed adjacent to the operation unit, stacks the foldable containers that are folded after the folding operation is completed by the operation unit, and performs a locking operation to make the folded foldable containers into one bundle unit; and a discharge unit in which a plurality of foldable containers wait to be transported and stored.