Hot Melt Adhesive Supply System with Segmented Containers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Hot melt adhesive systems face issues with unmelted adhesive pieces sticking together due to temperature and time, leading to clumping and blockages in pneumatic transfer systems, which disrupt the flow of adhesive to the melter and cause operational disruptions.
Innovation Solution
A hot melt adhesive supply system with a dispensing mechanism that includes rotating members and a gating mechanism to regulate the flow of adhesive pieces, along with a transfer conduit and level sensors to manage the flow and prevent clumping, ensuring consistent delivery to the melter.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If pneumatic transfer systems are used to move hot melt adhesive pieces, then adhesive pieces can be transferred from supply to melter, but adhesive pieces stick together and form clumps that block the transfer system
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the adhesive supply into two separate containers (first container and second container) to segment the adhesive flow paths. This prevents clumps formed in one container from blocking the transfer system, as each container operates independently with its own transfer conduit to the melter.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism (the dual-container system with selective gating) that mediates between the adhesive supply and the melter. When clumps form in one container, the system can switch to the other container, allowing continuous operation without direct blockage of the transfer system.
2Duration of action of stationary object
If adhesive pieces are stored in a supply container for extended periods, then continuous supply is maintained, but pieces stick together due to temperature and time
Solution Approach 1:
The adhesive supply is segmented into two separate containers, each capable of independent operation. This segmentation allows the system to switch between containers, preventing prolonged storage in a single container that would lead to sticking and clumping.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements periodic switching between the first and second containers. By alternately using each container and allowing them to rest, the system prevents continuous storage conditions that cause adhesive pieces to stick together, thereby maintaining flowability over extended operational periods.
3Device complexity
If a single container is used to supply adhesive, then system simplicity is maintained, but clumps block the transfer conduit and disrupt operation
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses two separate containers instead of one, segmenting the supply function. This additional component prevents blockages by providing an alternative supply path when one container develops clumps, thereby maintaining productivity despite increased complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operational parameter of container usage by switching between the first and second containers based on their respective conditions. This dynamic parameter change allows the system to maintain continuous operation by selecting the container with better adhesive flow properties at any given time.
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 effectively breaks up clumps, prevents sticking, and ensures a continuous flow of adhesive to the melter, reducing operational disruptions and maintaining efficient dispensing operations.
Implementation Method 1
one or more rotating members configured to rotate to move the unmelted hot melt adhesive pieces through a gap defined between the base plate and the bottom aperture of the inner container
Implementation Method 2
air-driven, or pneumatic, transfer systems use the force of flowing air to move hot melt adhesive pieces from an adhesive supply to a melter
Data Source
AI summary
A hot melt adhesive supply system is disclosed. The hot melt adhesive supply system includes an outer container defining an upper cavity and a lower cavity. The upper cavity includes an inner container having a top opening to receive unmelted hot melt adhesive pieces and a bottom aperture. The system also includes a dispensing mechanism between the upper cavity and the lower cavity. The dispensing mechanism regulates the dispensing of the unmelted hot melt adhesive pieces from the upper cavity to the lower cavity. The dispensing mechanism includes a base plate and one or more rotating members that rotate to move the unmelted hot melt adhesive pieces through a gap defined between the base plate and the bottom aperture. The system also includes a transfer conduit that communicates the unmelted hot melt adhesive pieces from the lower cavity to a hot melt adhesive melter.