Integrated Cutting and Transfer of Elastically Stretched Tape Segments
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for producing elastically stretched tape segments in absorbent sanitary articles face issues with positioning errors and malfunctions due to separate cutting and transfer units, and the inability to apply glue before cutting, complicating the process and reducing precision.
Innovation Solution
An integrated apparatus that combines cutting, stretching, and application operations on the same transfer element, allowing for precise application of elastically stretched tape segments directly onto a composite web while applying glue beforehand, eliminating the need for separate units and reducing transfer errors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate cutting unit and transfer unit are used, then the cutting and stretching functions are independent, but positioning errors and malfunctions occur due to multiple transfer operations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the cutting unit and transfer unit into a single integrated unit that performs both cutting and transverse stretching functions. The cutting device is positioned within the transfer unit, allowing tape segments to be cut and immediately stretched by the same mechanical system, eliminating transfer errors between separate units while maintaining functional independence through modular design
2Ease of manufacture
If glue is applied after cutting, then the cutting process is simple, but the glue application becomes complex and less precise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies glue to the continuous elastic tape before it enters the cutting unit. The glue application device is positioned upstream of the cutting device, allowing adhesive to be applied to the entire continuous tape in advance. When the tape is cut into segments, each segment retains its pre-applied glue, simplifying the overall process and improving precision by eliminating the need for separate glue application after cutting
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple transfer operations are performed, then cutting and stretching can be done separately, but the risk of malfunctions increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the cutting device within the transfer unit structure, creating a single operational system that performs cutting and stretching in one continuous motion. This integration eliminates the intermediate transfer step between separate units, reducing the number of potential failure points while maintaining the flexibility to perform cutting and stretching operations sequentially within the same mechanical framework
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 integrated solution enhances precision and reduces the risk of malfunctions by ensuring accurate placement and application of elastically stretched tape segments, improving the production efficiency and quality of absorbent sanitary articles.
Implementation Method 1
elastically stretching the tape segments in the transverse direction
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for cutting and applying elastically stretched tape segments includes a transfer unit including a plurality of transfer elements, each of which has two gripping elements movable between a close position and a distant position; a plurality of anvil elements carried by the transfer unit and moving together with the transfer elements; and a rotary knife cooperating with the anvil elements to transversely cut successive end portions of a continuous elastic tape held by the transfer elements.