Log End Edge Gluing Device with Transverse Nozzle Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing gluing devices for the end edge of logs face limitations in speed, precision, and contamination, leading to suboptimal glue dispensing and distribution, which affects the quality of the logs and cutting process, and results in increased glue consumption and maintenance downtime.
Innovation Solution
A gluing device with an inclined feeding plane, handling rollers, and a transverse row of glue dispensing nozzles, along with linear actuators for axial alignment, ensures precise glue application and efficient handling of the log end edge, minimizing misalignment and excess glue usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If glue is dispensed through a nozzle moving parallel to the log, then glue can be applied to the end edge, but the machine speed is limited and glue spraying precision is poor
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of moving the nozzle parallel to the log as in conventional systems, the patent positions the nozzle transversely perpendicular to the log axis and moves the entire nozzle assembly axially along with the log. This inverted approach allows the nozzle to stay in constant contact with the end edge, eliminating the distance problem and enabling precise glue application at high speeds without transverse movement limitations
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a transverse carrier element that acts as an intermediary between the fixed nozzle and the moving log. The nozzle is mounted on this carrier which moves axially with the log, allowing the nozzle to follow the log's movement and maintain precise positioning at the end edge throughout the gluing process
2Productivity
If glue is dispensed by rolling the log on a slot or blade, then machine speed can be increased, but glue contamination occurs within the log windings
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the glue application location from the conventional slot/blade method where glue could penetrate into log windings. By using a transverse nozzle positioned at the very end edge and moving with the log, glue is applied only to the exposed end surface and immediately covered by the closing edge, preventing contamination of internal windings while maintaining high production speed
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary alignment of the nozzle with the log end edge through axial movement of the carrier, ensuring glue is deposited precisely where needed before the closing edge covers it. This preliminary positioning action prevents excess glue from entering the log structure
3Manufacturing precision
If the end edge is unwound and kept in phase with the glue dispenser, then glue can be applied, but the device becomes complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the nozzle movement with the log advancement by mounting the nozzle on a carrier that moves axially synchronously with the log. This combines the positioning function with the natural log movement, eliminating the need for separate phase-control mechanisms while maintaining precise glue placement accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The transverse carrier element serves multiple functions: it carries the nozzle, provides axial movement synchronization with the log, and enables constant contact between nozzle and end edge. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate complex phasing mechanisms
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 solution enables accurate, efficient, and cost-effective gluing with reduced glue consumption, improved log quality, and minimized downtime due to precise alignment and controlled glue dispensing, resulting in faster processing and lower maintenance needs.
Implementation Method 1
the log was made to rotate on itself through a pair of rollers to give consistency to the gluing of the paper
Implementation Method 2
dispense a predetermined amount of glue on the edge of the log open on the advancing plane through a nozzle of glue
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
A gluing device (10) for gluing an end edge (11') of a log (11) comprising, in succession, an introducing group (20) for introducing logs (11) into the gluing device (10), a handling group (30) for handling the log (11) associated with detection means for detecting the end edge (11') and comprising a pair of rollers (31, 32) selectively for advancing and for holding in rotation the log (11), a glue dispensing group (40) and a transferring group (50) for transferring the log (11) comprising a transferring plane (51) arranged downstream of the lower handling roller (32), between the lower handling roller (32) and the transferring plane (51) has a space (35) for the passage of the end edge (11'), the glue dispensing group (40) being arranged below the transferring plane (51) and comprising a transversal row of glue dispensing nozzles (41) are selectively disinsertable and directed towards the lower handling roller (32), and it comprises a transversal alignment device (23) for aligning the log (11) arranged upstream of the glue dispensing group (40). A related method of gluing the end edge is also part of the invention.