Folding Device with Detachable Magnetic Elements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing folding devices for outer packaging require significant labor and time to change the spacing between folding fingers, necessitating the use of special tools and complex mechanisms for adjusting pitches, which is inefficient and prone to malfunctions.
Innovation Solution
A folding device with a conveyor chain featuring detachable folding elements that utilize a combination of positive locking and magnetic connections, allowing for tool-free adjustment of folding sections, ensuring secure attachment and easy reconfiguration without special tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional screw connections and coupling rods are used to attach folding fingers to the conveyor chain, then the attachment is secure, but the process requires special tools and significant time for pitch changes
Solution Approach 1:
The folding finger is divided into a base section (6a) that remains attached to the conveyor chain and an upper section (6b) that can be detached and repositioned. This segmentation allows the upper section to be quickly removed and reattached at different positions on the chain without affecting the base connection, enabling rapid pitch adjustments during operation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the attachment mechanism from permanent screw connections to a detachable magnetic coupling system. By using magnetic attraction forces that can be easily engaged and disengaged, the system allows for quick repositioning of folding fingers along the conveyor chain without requiring tools or complex assembly procedures
2Adaptability or versatility
If individual folding fingers are dismantled at their pivot bearings using hexagonal screw connections, then the pitch can be changed, but the process is very time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a dynamic attachment system where the upper section of the folding finger can be quickly detached and repositioned during operation. The magnetic coupling allows for easy engagement and disengagement, enabling the operator to dynamically adjust the pitch by moving folding fingers to different positions on the moving conveyor chain without stopping the machine
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic coupling system is designed to be self-aligning and tool-free. The upper section of the folding finger automatically aligns with the appropriate chain link when brought near, and the magnetic force secures it in place without requiring tools or complex alignment procedures, making the pitch adjustment process simple and rapid
3Manufacturing precision
If the conveyor chain is stopped to change pitch, then accurate repositioning is possible, but production continuity is interrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The conveyor chain is designed with pre-defined attachment positions at regular intervals along its length. These positions are prepared in advance during chain assembly, creating a ready-made grid of possible locations for the folding fingers. When pitch adjustment is needed, the operator simply moves the folding finger to the next appropriate pre-prepared position on the moving chain, ensuring both accuracy and continuity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical screw-and-nut attachment system with a magnetic coupling system. The magnetic force provides sufficient holding strength to secure the folding finger to the moving chain while allowing for easy detachment and repositioning. This substitution eliminates the need to stop the chain for adjustments, maintaining production continuity while achieving accurate repositioning through the magnetic attraction and pre-defined chain positions
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 rapid and reliable adjustment of folding finger positions without tools, reducing operational errors and increasing efficiency in changing pitches, thus facilitating flexible packaging configurations without compromising stability during operation.
Implementation Method 1
at least one ferromagnetic section which interacts with a permanent magnet that is arranged in the carrier section
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4a~4b
AI summary
A folding device (20) for folding over a section or flap of outer packaging for articles such as beverage containers is disclosed. The folding device (20) comprises at least one conveying, pushing, and/or closing chain (22) having several spaced-apart pushing or folding elements (24), each fixed to the chain (22) at defined intervals from one another and having a pushing or folding section (28) projecting beyond a conveying plane of the chain (22). It also comprises a coupling device (36) for pivoting the pushing or folding section (28) of the respective pushing or folding elements (24) in connection with a change of direction and/or deflection of the conveying, pushing, and/or closing chain (22).Each push or fold element (24) has a support section (34) connected to the chain (22) and pivotable relative to the chain direction (30) via the coupling element (36), as well as the push or fold section (28) anchored to it and detachable from it without tools.