Gripper Positioning Compensation for Registration Accuracy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for positioning thin flat objects in processing machines, such as those in the printing and packaging industry, often result in registration errors between printed images and cutting operations due to variations in the conveyor system's wear, shocks, and temperature changes, which are not adequately accounted for, leading to suboptimal production quality.
Innovation Solution
A method that calculates and accounts for variations in the positioning distance of gripper members using sensors and a controller to adjust the inserter's movement, incorporating factors like inertia and elastic deformations, and uses production marks to verify accuracy, allowing for systematic error correction and improved registration between operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If conventional positioning methods are used, then the structure remains simple, but registration accuracy deteriorates due to conveyor wear and shocks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent measures the actual positioning distance of each gripper member beforehand using sensors, calculates compensation values based on measured deviations, and stores these values for later use. This preliminary measurement and calculation phase enables the system to compensate for conveyor wear and shocks without adding complex real-time control mechanisms during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs sensors to detect the actual position of gripper members and feeds this information back to a controller. The controller compares measured positions with target positions, calculates deviations, and applies compensation values to correct positioning errors. This feedback loop continuously maintains registration accuracy despite conveyor wear and operational shocks.
2Manufacturing precision
If floating attachment systems are used, then positioning accuracy is improved, but device complexity and inapplicability to certain machines increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical floating attachment systems with a sensor-based measurement and calculation system. Instead of using elastic floating mechanisms to achieve positioning accuracy, the system uses sensors to measure actual positions, calculates compensation values, and applies corrections through the control system. This substitution maintains positioning accuracy while eliminating mechanical complexity and improving adaptability to different machine types including corrugated board handlers.
3Reliability
If conventional positioning without compensation is used, then device complexity remains low, but reliability deteriorates due to unaccounted wear and shocks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary measurements of gripper member positions using sensors and calculates compensation values before production runs. By establishing baseline deviation data in advance, the system creates a reliable compensation framework that accounts for existing conveyor wear and potential shock effects, thereby improving positioning reliability without requiring complex real-time adjustments.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where sensors continuously monitor gripper member positions and feed this data to the controller. The controller applies pre-calculated compensation values based on measured deviations, ensuring consistent positioning reliability. This feedback system reliably compensates for conveyor wear and shocks while maintaining manageable system complexity through automated calculation and application of correction values.
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
This method enhances the accuracy of positioning thin flat objects, reduces registration errors, extends the life of conveyor components, and eliminates the need for complex floating attachment systems, ensuring high-quality production and extending the working life of conveyor components.
Implementation Method 1
at least one sensor (8) making a reading of the position of at least one reference point (33) fixed to said gripper member (31)
Data Source
AI summary
Method of positioning thin flat objects within a processing machine comprising an inserter for positioning these objects in a plurality of gripper members belonging to a conveyor drawing them discontinuously through successive stations. This method consists in calculating, for each of the gripper members, variations in the positioning distance of these members relative to a reference position, assigning these variations to the respective gripper members, and incorporating them into a primary procedure of the controller to improve the positioning of the thin flat objects in the gripper members.