Mobile Storage Module for Folded Sheets
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current machines and systems for folding, stitching, and binding in the graphic design industry face inefficiencies in workflow and production time, particularly in the transport of folded sheets between machines, leading to errors and delays.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a machine with a delivery arm, a lifting module, and a mobile storage module that allows for horizontal and vertical movement of folded sheets, enabling efficient coupling and uncoupling between machines, reducing the need for manual intervention and increasing productivity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If folded sheets are transported between machines via stationary transport devices, then the transport path is fixed and simple, but production time increases and workflow efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by replacing stationary transport devices with mobile storage modules that can autonomously move between machines. The storage modules travel along rails to deliver folded sheets, transforming the transport system from static to dynamic, thereby reducing waiting times and improving workflow efficiency without significantly increasing overall system complexity.
2Productivity
If manual intervention is used for loading and unloading folded sheets, then device complexity is low, but production time increases and productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service through autonomous storage modules that automatically load folded sheets from one machine, transport them along rails, and unload at the destination machine without human intervention. This automation eliminates manual handling steps, significantly improving workflow efficiency while maintaining manageable system complexity through modular design.
3Adaptability or versatility
If folded sheets are stored on pallets in a stationary warehouse rack, then storage capacity is high, but the system lacks mobility and adaptability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms stationary warehouse racks into mobile storage modules that can autonomously navigate between machines via rails. This dynamic capability allows the storage system to adapt to different production needs and machine locations, significantly enhancing system flexibility while the coupling mechanisms remain standardized and manageable.
4Manufacturing precision
If multiple lifting devices are used in a movable carriage, then vertical positioning capability is improved, but construction complexity increases and manufacturing cost intensifies
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the lifting function from complex multi-device carriages and integrates it into single lifting devices mounted on mobile storage modules. This simplification maintains vertical positioning precision for folded sheets while dramatically reducing construction complexity and manufacturing costs through a more streamlined design.
Data Source
AI summary
A folding machine includes a delivery arm, a lifting module and a mobile storage module movable horizontally relative to the lifting module. The lifting module is downstream of the delivery arm and includes a vertically positionable lifting level for folded sheets. During the delivery, the storage module is downstream of the lifting module and includes at least two vertically disposed storage levels drivable separately for putting a plurality of folded sheets into storage. A mobile storage module of a machine for folded sheets includes vertically disposed storage levels being driven separately for the storage of folded sheets. The storage levels include a driven second coupling element of a coupling device. A first coupling element of the coupling device is part of a lifting module. The machine improves workflow for post press processing. A production system for the graphic design industry in the post-production of printed products is also provided.